Tribute to Big Dog

I grew up as a pastor’s son my entire life. My dad and mom showed me what it truly means to lay your life down for Christ daily. However, growing up, I never once thought about becoming a pastor myself.

In the summer of 1993, I felt God calling me into the ministry. All I knew in that moment was that I was surrendering my life to full-time ministry.

Shortly after putting my “Yes, Lord” on the altar, I received a phone call from a man with the deepest voice I had ever heard. He said something like, “Hey, young fella, I was told some good things about you. I was wondering if you might be interested in becoming our church’s youth pastor?”

I replied, “But I’ve never been one, and I don’t even know how to be one. I’ve never even taught Sunday School before.”

He answered in that deep, unforgettable voice, “Well, little puppy, you’ll learn. From what I’ve been told, I believe in your calling into the ministry.”

I couldn’t deny that God was opening a door soon after my full surrender to Him.

Pastor Fritz Young took me completely under his wings. He called me “Little Puppy,” and I called him “Big Dog.” Throughout my college years, he showed me what it looks like to love God and love people passionately. We made so many home visits together, and I soaked up every moment. He didn’t just show me how to work for God. He showed me how to walk with God.

I thank God deeply for Pastor Fritz Young believing in me and pouring into me. He sought not only to preach the gospel but to live it. God used him to plant many eternal seeds that will continue to bear fruit long after his earthly life.

Thank you, Big Dog, for officiating our wedding, continually praying for us, and always keeping in touch no matter how far we moved away.

Big Dog, I know I’ll see you again one day, and I will forever be grateful for your mentorship.

I thank my God every time I remember you.” Philippians 1:3 NIV