100 Days to 50: Day 95 – The Most Influential Men in My Life

6. Marty Duren, Friend and Co-Author

I met Marty Duren in December 1986 when I went to worked for Pastor Malone Cochran. Marty was a few months older than I, and was a member of the church. I had no idea he would become a lifetime friend. He has been a true friend for over half of my life. His intellect, integrity, and walk of faith have always inspired me.

He’s the first person I knew who had a blog. He’s the first person I ever heard use the word “blog”. Today he serves as the Social Media Specialist at LIFEWAY headquarters in Nashville, TN. And partly because of him, today I blog on a regular basis and have moved into the world of social media. 

He has challenged me to grow in weaker areas. He has encouraged me through times of failure. He has cheered me in times of success. One of our highlights together was when we co-authored and published the book: JOURNEYS: Transitioning Churches to Relevance. It was the fulfillment of a dream that would not have become a reality without him.

Marty has inspired me to walk by faith.

Marty has inspired me to expand into social media.

Marty has inspired me to truly “think” about theological, social, and missional issues. 

I am more aware of the world issues of today because of Marty. I am more connected to the world through social media because of Marty. I’m adding more value to more people around the world because of Marty. I’m thankful!

Join me from the start of my “100 Days to 50” journey by clicking here!