RECOGNITION OF A LIFE OF COMMITMENT AND SURRENDER TO CHRIST
A few days ago, LifeWay Church lost one of its dear church members, Elgin Taylor. Elgin and Dorothy Taylor came into our church family about 9 years ago, and this was his final earthly church to be part of. This coming Monday, August 23, at 1 p.m. at LifeWay Church, we will be holding a celebration of his life and a “glory to God” memorial service. Everyone is invited to attend.
But let me give you a little insight into why this is such a “glory to God” service. Elgin was known by many titles:
He was an amazing Athlete Elgin Taylor in baseball, basketball, and track.
He was very proud Marine Elgin Taylor who served faithfully for many years.
In response to a Billy Graham evangelism film, God got ahold of his heart and he became a changed man who dedicated his life to following Jesus as Disciple Elgin Taylor.
Soon he fell in love with Dorothy and became loving Husband Elgin Taylor.
In the progressing years, he become “Dad” Elgin Taylor to four children.
His calling by God led him to take on the title of Missionary Elgin Taylor as the first fully appointed African American missionary sent to Asia.
He served overseas in roles that led him to be Pastor Elgin Taylor.
Through seminary degrees attained over the years, he then became known at Dr. Elgin Taylor.
Because of the amazing influence he had in his global missionary service in more than 90 countries, he became the Missions Director and Overseer Elgin Taylor.
In one important country where they served—Ghana, West Africa—he even was appointed the title of King Elgin Taylor because of the greater influence and relationships he developed there (Dorothy was appointed a queen also!). You can read their amazing story in the book, Taking Giant Steps in World Missions, by Elgin and Dorothy Taylor.
While at LifeWay Church these last few years, our church family appointed him to the role of Elder Elgin Taylor.
I cannot tell you what an honor it is that Elgin and Dorothy strolled into LifeWay one Sunday morning, looking for a good community church where they could serve. Out of all the churches they have been part of over their 82 years of life and 62 years of ministry leadership, I am humbled that this was Elgin’s last stop.
I often think of people that I would like to model my life after, not just because they were gifted personally but because of their faithfulness to the calling of Jesus Christ in their lives. My Brother Elgin Taylor is one of those.
Acts 13:36 says, “When King David had served God’s purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep.” I find this to be an amazing testament of a life willing to be used by God for a period, which then went home to be the Lord. This is Elgin Taylor’s testimony. I am convinced that God will bless the footprints where Elgin has been and use that foundation for generations to come, for his glory.
To God be the glory!
Celebration of the Life of Elgin Taylor
Monday, August 23 at 1 p.m.
LifeWay Church
5015 SW Dash Point Road, Federal Way