This gift is the ability to share the Gospel of Christ publicly or privately with unbelievers in such a way that people respond to become disciples of Jesus Christ.
All Christians are called to evangelize. (Matthew 28:19,20; Acts 5:42; II Timothy 4:5)
It is an office of the New Testament church. (Acts 21:8)
This gift not only evangelizes but also equips others to do it as well. (Ephesians 4:11)
There are two aspects of this gift:
Public: Philip (Acts 8:5-13); Paul (Acts 17:19-34)
Private: Philip (Acts 8:26-39); Paul (Acts 16:25-33)
It provides growth for existing churches and helps establish newly planted churches. (II Timothy 4:5; Acts 17:10-15)
It normally does not include cross-cultural evangelism.
Biblical Examples:
Acts 8:5-13; 26-39 — Philip
Acts 16: 25-33; 17:19-34 — Paul
Possible Characteristics of this Gift:
Your prayer life reveals a burden for those who do not know Christ.
Your prayers contain the names of many people who are not Christians or those you are training to share Christ.
You have an inner unrest at the thought of people dying and going to hell.
You enjoy meeting people and make new friends easily.
You feel comfortable with strangers and talk easily about many different subjects.
You are able to articulate your faith easily and people respond positively.
You have a burden to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ publicly or with individuals.
When with non-Christians, their position with Christ inevitably comes up.
You have the ability to move conversations in a direction of the other person’s relationship with Christ.
You are able to persuade or help people reach decisions to commit their lives to Christ.
You are not satisfied with “superficial commitments;” you want people to become fully devoted followers of Christ.
People enjoy being trained by you to share their faith.
You have the ability to motivate and train others to share their faith effectively.
Common Support Gifts:
Discernment, Prophecy, Wisdom
Possible Ministries:
Creative Arts Team (Social Media Moderator)
Guest Services Team (all positions)
Online Church
Life Groups (Life Group Leader, Young Pros Life Group Leader, College Age Life Group Leader)
This gift is the ability to counsel, model, and encourage people through your personal testimony, life, and scripture so that people are comforted and encouraged to action. If you have the gift of encouragement, you:
The major way through which God works in the Body to encourage each of us to live practical Christian lives.
Admonish people to pursue some specific course in the future (I Thessalonians 4:1).
Comfort with the comfort you have received from God.
Are able to encourage someone for something they are going to face in the future.
Biblical Examples:
Barnabas – “Son of Encouragement”
Acts 4:36, 37 — Helped needy saints
Acts 9:27 — Endorsed an unwelcome convert
Acts 11:19-24 — Accepted alien behavior
Acts 11:25, 26 — Enlisted a promising teacher
Acts 13:2, 13 — Developed gifted assistant
Acts 15:39 — Restored a youthful deserter
Possible Characteristics of this Gift:
You find yourself spontaneously encouraging or affirming people.
You enjoy sharing aspects of your life with others believing God will use it to help them.
You feel free to counsel others into certain courses of action.
You enjoy sharing a life-changing verse of scripture with others.
You have personally faced many different situations in your life that God has used to help you grow in specific areas.
You are able to identify with the feelings and emotions of another.
You accompany biblical truth with practical steps of action.
You can see how God is using difficulties in people’s lives to produce new levels of maturity.
You find yourself emotionally drained after ministering to someone because of your ability to identify with another’s difficulties.
People are drawn to you to receive help with problems with which they are wrestling.
People like to be around you because you tend to cheer up people.
Common Support Gifts:
Shepherd, Mercy, Discernment, Wisdom
Possible Ministries:
Guest Services (Greeters, Hosts, Café)
Online Church
Life Groups (Life Group Leader, Young Pros Life Group Leader, College Age Life Group Leader)
Missions (Local Missions Volunteers, Short Term Missions Trip Team, BRIDGES Missionary Care Team)
This gift is the ability to perceive the motives of others and the sincerity within relationships concerning the Body of Christ. Or in other words, it is the ability to know if something is from God, a demonic source, or if it simply reflects human opinion.
All Christians should be able to distinguish between right and wrong (Hebrews 5:14; I John 4:1).
This gift involves insight into circumstances which ordinarily could not be known, so that motives may be ascertained (Acts 5:1-10).
At times, this gift will reveal a person’s sincerity in the course of a conversation (Acts 8:23).
Satan easily counterfeits this gift (Luke 4:33, 34: Acts 16:17).
Biblical examples include Matthew 9:4.
Possible Characteristics of this Gift:
Your prayers often consist of asking God what you should do with your intuitions.
You are very observant to what people say.
You tend to notice “body language” that is not consistent with what the person is saying.
You almost have a sixth sense about what is being said or is happening which cannot always be explained.
Your intuitions are often correct.
You hesitate to speak to others of their motives because they may not be receptive.
You sometimes gossip about a “feeling” you have with regard to a person rather than confront the person involved.
Certain events often confirm a premonition you have had.
You have an analytical mind.
People see you as a very perceptive person.
Common Support Gifts:
Wisdom, Leadership, Prophecy, Encouragement
Possible Ministries:
Creative Arts Team (Brainstorming Teams, Social Media Moderator)
This gift is the ability and calling of God to be sent as a messenger to bring the Gospel to places where it has previously not been acculturated.
Jesus was the ultimate apostle. (Hebrews 3:1)
The word APOSTLE means “one sent,” and refers to a special emissary who goes with the full authority of the one who sent him.
The Bible mentions two kinds of apostles:
The Apostles with a capital A (the 12 plus Paul) along with the prophets laid the foundation of the church by receiving and conveying to us the direct revelations from God which eventually became scripture. To be an Apostle with a big A you had to be an “eyewitness to the resurrection” (Acts 1:22) and demonstrate the “signs of an apostle” (2 Cor. 2:12), which was a special spiritual gifting to heal and do miracles.
The apostle – with a small “a” are called the apostles of the church. Men like Barnabas and Silas sent out as missionaries, to preach the Gospel and plant new churches.
Biblical Examples of Other Apostles:
Romans 1:1; I Corinthians 1:1 — Paul
Acts 14:4, 14 — Barnabas
Galatians 1:19; I Corinthians 15:7 — James (Jesus’ half-brother)
1 Thessalonians 1:1; 2:6 — Silas and Timothy
Possible Characteristics of this Gift:
Your prayers often include requests for people groups who have little or no exposure to the Gospel.
You have the ability to share Christ with people in terms they can understand and relate to.
You sometimes become frustrated with others’ apparent lack of burden for lost souls all around you and the world.
You enjoy learning from people vastly different from you.
You have an unusual ability to survive difficult situations.
You have a real burden for sharing the Gospel in places that it has not permeated. (Romans 15:20).
You have the ability to learn other languages easily.
You feel at ease with others despite vast cultural differences with them.
You can live with situations which are uncertain.
You easily adapt to other cultures.
Being separated from extended family and friends does not inhibit your ministry.
Your family also survives well in other cultures.
Common Support Gifts:
Wisdom, Prophecy, Evangelism, Faith
Possible Ministries:
Missions (Global Missionary, Domestic Missions Volunteer, Local Missions Volunteer, Short Term Mission Trip Team)
This gift is the ability to develop, articulate, and execute effective and specific plans in the accomplishment of the long– and short-range goals of the Body of Christ.
The word for this gift is derived from “captain” or “pilot” of a ship. (Acts 27:11, Revelations 18:17). It implies keeping the ship on a predetermined course, not determining the course).
This gift is implementing plans and programs consistent with the purpose and goal of the Body.
This gift is not necessary for leaders, but they must have someone with this gift close by to execute plans. (Acts 15:40)
This gift if often used to continue ministries started by others. (Acts 17:15)
Biblical Examples:
Acts 15:22-35; 17:14-15 — Silas
Acts 17:14-15, I Thessalonians 3:1 — Timothy
Possible Characteristics of this Gift:
You enjoy working with intricate details to make everything work together.
Your prayers often consist of asking for God to bring many different factors together to accomplish a given task for His kingdom.
You are a very organized person and use outlines or flow charts to develop a plan.
You often work from a list.
You are a logical thinker and able to keep several projects on target.
You enjoy working with people to enable them to work together smoothly toward a common objective.
Others see you as a very pragmatic person.
You enjoy working on and within systems.
You may feel comfortable working with or around computers.
You are very loyal to your goals.
You tend to be a perfectionist and often expect the same of others.
Common Support Gifts:
Service, Giving, Wisdom
Possible Ministries:
Tech (Broadcast Operator, Camera Operator, Video Switch Director)
Guest Services (Finance Ministry Team)
KIDS (Classroom Preparation, Curriculum, Tech)
Online Church
Administrative Support (Ministry Assistant, Office Assistant, Office Technology Assistant)
Worship Arts (CG Operator, Sound Operator, Lighting Operator)
The “Disciple’s Pathway” is Legacy Christian Church’s definition of a “True Disciple.” It is a journey not only for new believers, but for all of us who are in a continuing pursuit to grow deeper in our faith.
As you journey on the Disciple’s Pathway, your faith will mature as you grasp the meaning of the five steps and grow deeper in each area. The overarching goal of this multi-dimensional growth is to be transformed into the likeness of Christ, allowing you to be a True Disciple, Living the Word.
Calling All Men: Dads, husbands, sons, and grandpas
The Legacy Men’s Ministry exists to create a comfortable place where men can connect with each other, share with each other, and grow together spiritually. Invite your friends and join us to explore what it means to live in Christian community with other men.
Join us at 8:00am Saturday mornings at the Olathe campus. We recommend ages 16+ for Men’s Breakfast for content advisory. Thanks!
May 18
Men’s Breakfast Topics
Saturday May 18, 2024 – Greater Than: Francis Chan
Next Step partnered with Francis Chan, acclaimed speaker and author of Crazy Love, to produce the Greater Than film series. Francis walks us through his own difficult childhood to help us understand that God is greater than any pain, sin or hardship that we might encounter in this life. Watch the videos and follow along with the study guide, and you too will realize that God is greater than any obstacle standing in your way. https://app.rightnowmedia.org/content/details/306248
PREVIOUS TOPICS
Men’s Breakfast Topics
Saturday, April 20th 2024 – Breakfast together and then serving at Mission Southside.
Legacy’s local missions partners help meet the physical needs of the community. We will distribute food to communities and work in the warehouse of Mission Southside. Many people cannot open their hearts to Christ until the weight of their physical needs has been lifted. We look for opportunities to have meaningful conversations that can lead to spiritual conversations. We have a heart that loves Jesus Christ and one that genuinely cares about the needs of others.
The cost is $5.00. You can pay online in registration or bring cash when you arrive.
Saturday, May 18th 2024 – Parenting: Paul Tripp (very short/will play 7 or 8 of them)
What is your calling as a parent? In the midst of folding laundry, coordinating carpool schedules, and breaking up fights, many parents get lost. Feeling pressure to do everything “right” and raise up “good” children. It’s easy to lose sight of our ultimate purpose as parents in the quest for practical tips and guaranteed formulas. In his life-giving book, Paul Tripp offers parents much more than a to-do list. Instead, he presents us with a big-picture view of God’s plan for us as parents. Outlining fourteen foundational principles centered on the gospel, he shows that we need more than the latest parenting strategy or list of techniques. Rather, we need the rescuing grace of God-grace that has the power to shape how we view everything we do as parents. https://app.rightnowmedia.org/content/details/303205
For more information or if you have any questions, contact Dakota Varland.
Saturday, March 16th 2024 – Crazy Making – why we keep doing what we don’t want to do (overcoming sin)
Have you ever kept doing something you don’t want to do? We all have these patterns in our lives that we just can’t seem to shake. No matter how disciplined we are, how much willpower we drum up, or how many times we seek accountability, eventually we find ourselves sucked back into repeating the same patterns again. It’s crazy-making! Everyone’s struggle is different. For you, it might look like criticizing, substance abuse, over-working, sexual sin, people-pleasing, or hundreds of others. Jesus has given all of us a way out of these crazy-making cycles, and it has nothing to do with white-knuckling our way to freedom. Join us in this four-week study as we explore where these patterns come from, why we keep repeating them, and how to stop the crazy and live in the freedom Jesus makes possible. https://app.rightnowmedia.org/content/details/568069
Saturday, October 21st 2023 – God’s Uncommon Man: Tony Dungy and James Brown
Do you ever wonder what it looks like to be a man of faith? In this three-session series, sportscaster James Brown and former NFL coach Tony Dungy will teach us what it means to be an ”uncommon man“—a man who follows God faithfully. Are you ready to take the next step in your life of faith? Learn what it takes in God’s Uncommon Man. https://app.rightnowmedia.org/content/details/770970
Saturday, November 18th 2023 – Be a Godly man: Joby Martin
God has created men to have incredible strength. But today’s culture has hijacked masculinity, distorting strength into passivity and abuse. In this video Bible study series, pastor Joby Martin invites men to embrace God’s definition of masculinity and to step into His calling upon their lives to wield their strength on behalf of others. God has designed men to be protectors, providers, and defenders. When men act like men, everyone flourishes. https://app.rightnowmedia.org/content/details/257960
Saturday, December 16th 2023 – Ruthless Elimination of Hurry – John Mark Comer
We are all busy. Some of us can’t remember the last time we rested or even had free time. Our busyness can feel productive but it is a toxic distraction, sapping our spiritual, physical, and emotional vitality. It may seem like we have no choice but to live at a frantic pace, but God has a better path for us. Join pastor and author John Mark Comer in this five-part series as he addresses one of the greatest threats to our spiritual lives: hurry. Instead of allowing our calendars and screens to control our lives, Jesus offers us a new rhythm of life, overflowing with grace, peace, and beauty. https://app.rightnowmedia.org/content/details/729101
Saturday, January 20th 2024 – The Crazy Cycle – Emerson Eggerichs
We know that divorce is a major issue in our culture today, both inside and outside the church. Despite our best attempts at love, couples find themselves paralyzed by dysfunction and mired in conflict. Why do we face so many seemingly insurmountable problems today? Is there hope for the struggle? What are we missing? In this 4-part series, Dr. Emerson Eggerichs sheds light on an often overlooked, yet indispensable element of a healthy marriage—respect. Combining biblical instruction with scientific expertise, Emerson provides insight into the unique ways in which God has designed both men and women and how they can rightly embrace their differences in marriage. https://app.rightnowmedia.org/content/details/225912
Please check your email for a Planning Center invite request from your team leader! If you have questions, or if you did not receive the request, please email your Campus Pastor, Zach!
Beginning with Genesis 12, walk alongside the fathers of our faith – Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Joseph – to discern Jesus in the stories of His people. Over ten sessions, discover how God orchestrates everything for His glory and the good of His people, and see how the God of creation and covenant is the same yesterday, today and forever.
Books alone, or books with video access, can be purchased, or you can reserve a book by February 16 in registration.
It is with a heavy heart that I inform you that our Senior Pastor, Dr. Reggie L. Epps passed away this morning. The Epps family loves all of you and they know how much we love them. The best way we can express this love right now is to provide them with the space they need to process and grieve.
It has been our prayer that God would restore Pastor Reggie’s health on this side of heaven. We have great confidence in knowing that he is now free of sickness and suffering and is resting in the arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
The worship center at every Legacy Campus will be open today, Thursday, July 6, from 7:00-8:00pm for anyone who would like to spend time in this space reflecting and praying together. We are also planning a special worship service at every Legacy campus this Sunday at 9:00 and 10:45am where we will worship God together and continue ministering to one another.
My prayer is that we all find hope in these words that Pastor Reggie prayed when he recently preached through a biblical study on heaven: “Lord, for me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. May your will be done in my life.” (Philippians 1:21)
In Christ, Jamie Schools, Executive Pastor
July 3, 2023
Dear Legacy Family,
On behalf of The Epps Family, Legacy’s Staff and Administrative Elders, I want to provide you with an update on Pastor Reggie. As I communicated in my letter last week, Pastor Reggie experienced difficult setbacks due to GVHD (Grafts Versus Host Disease) caused by the treatment he received for cancer. While we all had hopes that he would hit certain health milestones so he could leave the hospital and recover, Reggie has undergone an unexpected, sudden decline in his health.
The Epps family has started meeting with a care team to determine the best plan for Pastor Reggie’s comfort while his health declines. The goal now for Pastor Reggie has shifted from focusing on recovery milestones to spending intentional time with his family. Please allow the Epps family to have space as they spend these meaningful moments together.
We are so thankful for your faithfulness and your prayers for Pastor Reggie, the Epps family, and for Legacy Christian Church. With Pastor Reggie’s blessing, our leadership teams will continue to execute the interim and long-term plans that have been established. In the meantime, Legacy’s staff will continue to support our church and we will remain on mission to Live the Word and Make Disciples. Please continue praying for Pastor Reggie, the Epps family, and Legacy Christian Church. As we navigate this upcoming season, we are all leaning into Proverbs 3:5-6:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Do not depend on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
We will continue to provide updates as available and appropriate.
Craig Casey, Chairman of the Elders
June 23, 2023
Dear Legacy Family,
On behalf of Pastor Reggie, Legacy’s Staff and Administrative Elders, I want to provide an update regarding Pastor Reggie and the Lord’s faithfulness to Legacy during his recovery. As you may know, Pastor Reggie was diagnosed with two different kinds of blood cancer. His current journey began in the fall when he underwent a bone marrow transplant from his brother, Jack. There are praises that the bone marrow transplant has been successful in battling both cancers. However, there have been some setbacks due to GVHD (Grafts Versus Host Disease) caused by the transplant. The past two months have presented challenges as Pastor Reggie manages various symptoms. Despite the difficulties, he remains in good spirits and continues to receive excellent care from the hospital team. On behalf of the Epps family, I ask that you continue to go before the Lord and battle with them in daily prayer! “TEAM REGGIE” bracelets have been ordered for everyone who would like to have this reminder to pray for Reggie and his family and are available at every Legacy campus starting this Sunday, June 25.
Despite these circumstances, the Lord continues to bless Legacy.
People are coming each Sunday to hear the Gospel. Across all of Legacy’s campuses, we are currently averaging 200 more people onsite than at this time last year. Additionally, we are grateful to God for the 107 individuals who have decided to make Legacy their church home so far this year.
Kids Week was fantastic! Over 600 kids heard about Jesus’ love for them, thanks to the dedication of hundreds of adults who volunteered their time across Legacy’s campuses to make this event possible. And even more students will hear of Jesus’ love for them as they attend camps throughout the summer.
Legacy continues to remain strong financially. Our fiscal year ends on July 31, and we are on track to hit our budget. The Legacy staff is doing a great job of practicing faithful stewardship with the tithes and offerings you bring to the Lord’s storehouse weekly.
I am thankful for our very talented Legacy staff, as many have led well beyond their job descriptions. They have been steadfast and have sacrificed in many ways to minister to the Legacy Family in this season. I am extremely grateful for those who have filled the pulpit in Pastor Reggie’s absence. Everyone has done a great job preaching the Word of God! Pastor Reggie eagerly anticipates returning to the pulpit in the next couple of months to preach a sermon series on II Timothy that the Lord has placed on his heart during this season. However, should Pastor Reggie be delayed in returning, we have worked closely with him to develop alternate plans that minimize disruptions to our campuses while ensuring the bold preaching of God’s Word.
Legacy Family, we truly are a Biblical Community Living the Word, who are on mission to make disciples. As we move forward, focusing on that vision, we want to assure you that our Leadership Team continues to seek the Lord to guide us every step of the way. We are confident that God has great plans in store for Legacy, and we are committed to following His leading. God has faithfully blessed Legacy for over 50 years, and we can all be confident that He will continue to lead, love, and protect us.
I take great comfort knowing Legacy is in good hands with our Executive Pastor, Jamie Schools, and our Executive Director of Operations, Tim Wilks. They are both strong leaders who daily guide the staff team and our church. Together, these men have over 40 years of leadership experience at Legacy. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to either of them. Additionally, for any specific ministry needs your family may have, please continue to contact your Campus Pastor or your Shepherding Elder.
I personally want to thank you for your patience, prayers, and grace as the Leadership Team of Legacy works to navigate through our current season. May the Lord bless you!
Craig Casey, Chairman of the Elders
April 10, 2023
Dear Legacy,
As some of you may have heard, I hit a little bump in the road and checked into the hospital this past Thursday. I recently began running a low-grade fever in the evenings and experiencing fatigue, shortness of breath, and gastric-intestinal issues. The doctors ruled out many viral and bacterial infections. They are now pretty sure I have GVHD (Grafts Versus Host Disease) resulting from the Lymphocyte infusion from my brother Jack last month.
Basically, GVHD is caused by Jack’s cells trying to attack everything they don’t recognize. The silver lining of a little GVHD is that we know the infusion worked and his cells are probably attacking the cancer cells. But unchecked it can attack and damage healthy cells and organs.
My treatment plan is 3-fold:
First, I am now receiving a regimen of IV steroids.
Second, they’ve resumed many of the immuno-suppressant drugs and accompanying prophylactic antibacterial and antiviral drugs I took immediately after my transplant. Each of these have their own fun side effects, but should cool down the war between Jack’s cells and my healthy ones while giving me some protection against other infections.
Third, intense refocus on nutrition. Right now because my stomach is being upset by all the meds, I am unable to absorb any nutrition from my food. So I am now, for a few days resting my stomach and receiving all my medication and all my nutrition through a trifold PICC line. Then they will slowly begin re-introducing solid foods.
Please pray for the following:
1). Pray for my continued healing.
2). Pray that I and our staff, through daily trusting Him, will build all the endurance and gain all the wisdom God wants to impart to us through this trial.
3). Pray that nothing will be allowed to hinder the special work that God is right now doing in and through his people here at Legacy.
Grateful and Blessed, Pastor Reggie
January 6, 2022
Dear Legacy,
Today is Day 100 of my 100 Days of Transplant Isolation. This week I underwent yet another Bone Marrow Biopsy and began a battery of tests which will assess where we are and what’s next in my battle with cancer. We’ve already begun tapering-off many of the drugs I’ve been taking to prevent engraftment rejection or any other life-threatening infections. If all goes well with these tests, over the next 100 days there will be a gradual lifting of restrictions and my doctors will shift their focus to the task of rebuilding a healthy immune system, which will include getting again all my “baby shots.” Please keep us in your prayers, as January 19 is the day we will meet with our doctor to review the results of all the tests.
Shara and I continue to trust in the Lord’s unwavering love and sovereign will for our lives. We continue to daily give thanks for all the prayers and expressions of love and support we’ve received both from our Legacy church family and other family and friends around the world. We are both looking forward to my return to the pulpit, worshipping in-person with God’s people, face-to-face time with family and friends, attending granddaughters’ basketball games, and eating out at our favorite restaurants.
In the last 100 days the Lord has taught me a lot about who I am and all that I can and cannot do. More importantly, He has taught me a lot about who He is and that “He can do all things.” This week, in a moment of anxiety the Lord ministered to my heart through an old hymn I hadn’t heard for many years. I would challenge all of you to listen and reaffirm its truth in light of whatever might today be tempting you to be anxious.
November 4, 2022
Dear Legacy,
Today is Day 37 post-transplant! It is good to be home with Shara and of course our golden doodle Ruby. It is very good to be sleeping in my own bed. I’ve had a few rough days with GI issues, but for the most part I am feeling a little better and a little stronger each day.
About 3 days a week, I travel to the Cancer Clinic for labs and treatments. These typically take 4 to 6 hours each day. I am so thankful to Joe Greenhaw who has driven me and hung out with me on most of these trips. I realize I am not always good company as I’ve been known to fall asleep in the clinic chair or his car mid-sentence. Every day I am taking between 35 to 40 pills. Most of these are prophylactic meds designed to support my compromised immune system and prevent various fungal, viral, and bacterial infections. Ironically, the rest of the meds are immunity suppression, or anti-rejection drugs designed to keep my body from attacking my brother’s stem cells as they are now engrafting and beginning to produce new – hopefully cancer-free – blood, or to keep his cells from being too aggressive and attacking my healthy organs.
Every other day the doctors run their tests and then prescribe infusions of blood, fluids, minerals or new medications and doses, understanding all of these different meds impact and interact with each other. I am reminded while the scientific data is helpful and amazing, my doctors are practicing the Art of Medicine as they search for the best plan and treatment for me.
Now as I think about all the complex, interconnected systems that must all be functioning properly and in perfect harmony for a person to have health, I am reminded of Psalm 139:14, “I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.” And that verse reminds me of the main lesson God has been teaching me these days: He is “The Great Physician” and while I so appreciate and strongly believe in the wisdom and hard work of my doctors and their team, my life is exactly where it has always been in the strong, all-knowing hands of my Creator and Redeemer.
Again, we are so thankful for all of your encouragement and support. Please continue to pray that: 1) I can avoid any serious expression of Graft Versus Host Disease. 2) I can avoid catching any other life-threatening bugs or viruses. 3) Both Shara and I can remain patient and diligent in our isolation as we march toward that 100-day mark where some of the restrictions could be lifted.
Grateful and Blessed,
Reggie
October 21, 2022
Dear Legacy,
“I thank my God in all my remembrance of you.” Philippians 1:3
Reggie and I continue to be overwhelmed with gratitude by God’s provision for us along every step of this journey. We know it is your prayers that continue to carry us through each day, and some days each hour.
Reggie was released from the hospital one week ago today, but what we have come to know is that though he is no longer an “inpatient,” most days are spent at either the KU Cancer Center or KU Med Center for blood draws, transfusions, drips, and various procedures, whatever he may need while he remains in his present “no man’s land.” Though his cells are dying, and his brother’s cells have begun to engraft, they are still trying to find and feel at home in Reggie’s bone marrow. This last week, Reggie had some really rough days, but we have been repeatedly told he should begin to feel better each day over the next few weeks.
We are especially thankful for our lifelong friends, Joe and Shannon Greenhaw, who have also entered into isolation so they can support me as Reggie’s caregiver. Joe has already accompanied Reggie on many of his day trips to the cancer clinic, allowing me to continue my hip therapy and healing from my surgery. I am doing well. We are also very thankful for our sweet neighbors, Gina and Matt McBride, who have helped coordinate the wonderful meals many members of the church have provided in compliance to all the restrictive immune-compromised protocols.
Please continue to pray that: 1) Engraftment would continue to take place. 2) We would avoid any life-threatening infections. 3) We would continue to daily rest in the Lord’s strong hands.
With a very humble and grateful heart,
Shara
October 14, 2022
Dear Legacy Family,
I am writing to you from my parents’ living room with my mom, dad, and their Golden doodle Ruby Mae! It has been a miraculous couple days. On Monday October 10th, Dad was having a BRUTAL week. Nearly all the symptoms that come with chemotherapy were weighing him down. These symptoms, paired with a literal unmeasurable white blood count, were a deep valley in our family’s journey. Dad had shared with us that he was learning what it meant to truly die to his flesh and trust the Lord for the fundamental and basic provisions that we often take for granted in life.
Tuesday and Wednesday there were moments of psychological relief as his blood count improved significantly even while he continued to battle nausea and other symptoms. Thursday at roughly 9:30am my mom got a call from Dad that he was breaking out and he needed a ride 😉 (Actually-he was officially discharged!🙌). This was a surprise for us and brought some apprehension as we were anticipating him to be in the hospital for several more days.
I picked up Mom on Thursday afternoon, we fueled up with a Freddy’s cheeseburger and went to the hospital to receive the education and instructions for the next chapter of this journey. We have packets of homework regarding medication and regular procedures for a new normal as Dad navigates the remaining 85 days of a 100-day isolation.
On the way home we pulled into the driveway to be greeted by some dancing grandchildren (social distanced), a happy pup, a comfortable chair, a dinner cooked by a Legacy family, and a newly equipped remote home office set up by our Legacy IT team.
God is faithful and our church has showered our family with blessing! Our morale is up, phase one is crushed and conquered, but we also know there is another hard chapter that awaits.
Here is how you can continue to pray for our family:
Please pray that a successful engraftment process would continue in Pastor Reggie’s body.
Please pray that Pastor Reggie and Shara can adjust to an isolated rhythm with joy and discipline. There are many round trips to the clinic, medication plans to follow, and daily do’s and don’ts to lifestyle in isolation (example: no going outside, food restrictions, etc.)
Please pray for our family to be wise and discerning as we care for him. We know we need to walk a careful line of offering our presence while protecting his still fragile immune system.
Dad specifically asked me to thank YOU for your faithful prayers and many kind words and expressions of encouragement.
God bless,
Zach
September 30, 2022
Hey Church Family,
I write from my dad’s (Pastor Reggie) hospital room. I am receiving my post-game coaching from this past sermon series “Desiring the Kingdom” and we are also discussing how important the next few weeks are for our church family as we deal with some “elephants in the room.” I can report he wants you in church this Sunday 😊.
On Thursday, September 22 my dad accompanied my mom to St. Luke’s hospital where she underwent a hip replacement. The surgery went well and she is now doing physical therapy at home. Her goal is to fully recover before dad is released from the hospital.
The very next day on September 23, dad checked in to the KU Medical Center and began 5 days of intense chemotherapy designed to eradicate his bone marrow and cancer. On day three, he took a fall and needed 6 stitches in his head. He has a beautiful black eye; his story was something of 4 nurses knocking him around (his sense of humor is still intact). Subsequent tests revealed a small fracture in his neck. Dad has actually had neck pain for several weeks and it is inconclusive if the neck fracture was from the fall in the hospital or an older injury. Nonetheless, he is in a neck brace for the next 8 weeks which adds some discomfort as he continues down a tough road ahead.
The big win for our family is that early Wednesday morning my uncle Jack, Pastor Reggie’s brother, successfully donated 6.2 million stem cells. The goal was to harvest 2-3 million, so my uncle Jack was deemed an over achiever by medical staff and has already reminded our family of this several times 😉. Those stem cells were transplanted into dad later that afternoon.
The next couple of weeks, dad will continue to recover in the hospital. The recovery will be difficult and we can expect him to battle the worst of the chemotherapy symptoms. However, our family understands and believes in the Lord’s providence and we have felt the support and prayers of our church family. Here are Pastor Reggie’s two specific prayer requests:
Please pray that there will be a successful engraftment of Jack’s stem cells into his bone marrow.
Please pray that he can avoid any other infections or complications as he rebuilds his immune system over the next 100 days.
Please also pray for physical relief, and emotional and mental fortitude. Pray for our family as we seek to stay rooted in Jesus.
God Bless, Zach
September 16, 2022
Dear Legacy,
After weeks of learning patience in God’s waiting room, the last few days have been a whirlwind of activity. Following our initial meeting with the KU Bone Morrow Transplant Team the search began for the all-important “perfect match,” the most critical factor for a successful transplant. Miraculously, out of the 120 million people in the worldwide donor database the one and only 100% match, and the doctors’ dream scenario, was a guy who lives just a few minutes from my house named Jack Epps. This news was a great blessing, but definitively refuted the theory I’ve occasionally floated that my brother was adopted. In all seriousness, we just praise God and smile as once again we see His providential hand. I am so thankful for my brother and his willingness to in his own words, “be the hero who saves your life.”
Both Jack and I are now going through a flurry of consultations, tests, and procedures. On September 23, I am scheduled to enter the hospital and begin one week of chemotherapy designed to kill all my bone marrow. If all goes well, I will receive Jack’s stem cells on September 28. After the transplant, I will begin at least 100 days of isolation with at least two or three weeks in the hospital.
When I leave the hospital, as the doctors and new stem cells attempt to rebuild in me a new, healthy and hopefully cancer-free immune system, my wife, Shara will have a critical role as my primary caregiver. Last Friday, we were shocked to learn that Shara needs a hip replacement ASAP. But again with providential alacrity she has been scheduled for surgery on September 22, giving her 3 to 4 weeks to rehab before I come home from the hospital to begin my recovery.
Last Sunday night, I shared with Legacy’s elders my honest conviction that we now have one of the most talented and unified church staffs and elderships I’ve ever seen. Each one of them are highly competent and eager to serve. I know God’s flock at Legacy will be well shepherded and continue to grow as I seek to learn all the lessons and glorify the Lord on the path He has now set before me. My prayer is to soon recover and return to my post.
Once again, let me say how humbled and grateful we are for all of your prayers and kind words and deeds of encouragement. Shara and I truly feel like we are just floating through all this adversity on a great cloud of prayer. Please join us in praising the Lord that He gave me a special brother “for such a time as this.” Please note the plans and dates above and continue praying that God would bring healing and life through this strangely familiar story of a helpless, broken, and dying man being fully restored by the life-giving blood of another.
Grateful and Blessed,
Reggie
August 12, 2022
Dear Legacy,
This week, after six weeks on my new medication, I had new lab work, followed by a meeting with my oncologist and several members of his team. The lab work yielded mixed results. The good news is the medication has alleviated many of the Systemic Mastocytosis (SM) symptoms. I have re-gained about 12 pounds, and have less fatigue and G.I. distress. Also, my abnormally low red blood cell count was slightly elevated. The bad news is my liver tests were also elevated and my white blood and platelet counts have fallen to “critical levels,” leaving me extremely vulnerable to other infections, medication-related bleeds, and most concerning “waking up the Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia (CMML).”
In our meeting, Dr. Yacoub emphasized again that we are fighting two different cancers. He chose initially to ignore the CMML because my SM is so aggressive. But we do not want the CMML to get out of control because treating the SM symptoms has so compromised my immune system. A positive from the meeting is that my most recent bone marrow biopsy shows no sign of bone decay. This is good as SM often creates tumors on bones causing them to hollow out and then break. This is a major concern because of the lesions on my spine and hips. Dr. Yacoub informed me that I will need to have frequent bone marrow biopsies for the foreseeable future.
So, the three action points from the meeting are: 1) Instead of increasing the dosage of 100 mgs a day to the standard dosage of 200, we must now cut back to 50. Regrettably, this could cause some of the SM symptoms to return. We will monitor and adjust in six weeks. 2) I have a new bone marrow biopsy scheduled for September. 3). Dr. Yacoub is going to have the stem cell transplant team call and begin that process ASAP. It will take several months to prepare, find an acceptable donor, and recover from the procedure. The stem cell transplant is the only way to cure CMML and could possibly also resolve the SM. The good news is it will all be done in town at the KU Medical Center.
I again want to thank all of you for your prayers and countless messages of support and encouragement. Shara and I are resting at peace in the “hallow of His hands” and feeling much loved by God’s people.
Reggie
June 24, 2022
Dear Legacy,
On Monday, June 20, Shara and I met for the first time with my new oncologist, Dr. Yacoub, at KU Medical and were greatly encouraged.
While he did order all new blood work and another bone marrow biopsy, he confirmed that I do have both advanced Systemic Mastocytosis (SM) and Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia (CMML). Both cancers must be addressed, and he explained how sometimes when you attack one it diminishes the other, but sometimes it makes “the other angry.” CMML is perhaps the more life threatening of the two cancers, but because of the advanced state of the SM it must be attacked first and now.
My particular form of SM is located in the bone marrow and caused by a genetic mutation. In the past, this mutation resisted all the drugs that had been used to treat SM. However, in June of 2021, a new drug specifically designed to inhibit the C-KIT mutation was approved. In clinical trials, this drug helped many patients achieve a remission in which the bone marrow ceased to make too many mass cells, and existing tumors and lesions shrank.
As there is no cure for the mutation, I will need to take this drug for the rest of my life, or until new treatments are developed. Dr. Yacoub is confident this new drug will help me. In fact, he believes within a few months my existing symptoms will disappear. His goal over the next six months is to get the SM in remission and get me strong enough to undergo a stem cell transplant, which is the only way to cure CMML. We know we have battles ahead, but clearly see God’s hand in the availability of this new drug and the aggressiveness and confidence of our new doctor and his team. I was thrilled to hear Dr. Yacoub say, “I’m not interested in small wins; I want a big win.”
When we left the oncologist Monday, we were told that this new drug is unbelievably expensive, and it might take some time to cut through all the red tape and get approved for it. We were told that KU Med has a special team that would be advocating for us with the insurance company, drug manufacturer, charitable foundations, and pharmacies to try to get the daily pill at a reasonable price. To our utter shock, Wednesday morning I received the amazing news that all those barriers had fallen, and that I would be taking my first dose on Friday, June 24.
I would ask all of our prayer warriors to specifically give thanks and ask God’s blessing on both the medical and administrative teams at KU that God has used to get this treatment and new hope to us. Then continue to pray that I would be able to tolerate the drugs’ side effects well and that the new drug would be effective for me.
Thank you so much for your continuing prayers and for walking beside us through this trial.
Grateful and blessed! Reggie
June 10, 2022
Dear Legacy,
Let me begin by expressing how utterly overwhelmed my family and I have been by the countless cards, calls, texts, and messages of encouragement from our Legacy family, ministry partners, and old friends from literally all over the world. Your expressions of love and commitments to faithfully pray for us in the days ahead have humbled our hearts, strengthened our faith, and buoyed our resolve to walk by faith and honor the Lord in whatever lies ahead.
Tuesday we met with our oncologist, and he confirmed for us a diagnosis of advanced Systemic Mastocytosis with Associated Hematological Neoplasm (SM-AHN). Further, they have identified the AHN as Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia (CMML). Our doctor at Saint Luke’s Hospital has accepted a new position at the Cleveland Clinic, and so on his recommendation we have been referred to a new oncologist at KU Medical Center who is experienced in treating these two rare conditions. So, in a way, we are back in God’s waiting room, hoping to meet soon with our new oncologist and hear his treatment plan. It is our understanding that while serious, the CMML is in the early stages. It is at least for now of less concern than the advanced SM, which causes most of the symptoms I am now experiencing. We remain confident and comforted by the truth that my health and life is safely in the hands of the Great Physician, and we ask for your continued prayers on our behalf.
My plan is to be in the pulpit to preach Ecclesiastes 3 this Sunday, June 12. I encourage you all to read that chapter this week before we study it. I marvel at God’s providential timing. Months ago when this Scripture text was placed on the calendar, I could not have imagined how relevant it would be today to my personal life and to all of us living in this cultural moment. My voice is weak, but today I understand as never before the words in Jeremiah 20:9: “His Word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot.”
Let me challenge you all to be in your place at Legacy this Sunday with your Bible and a friend.
Grateful and Blessed, Pastor Reggie
May 20, 2022
As many of you know, I have been struggling for several months with some diverse, seemingly unrelated health issues. After several weeks of testing, CT-scans, biopsies and a pet-scan, we met yesterday for the first time with an oncologist who ordered more tests and blood work. Next week I have a colonoscopy, endoscopy and another biopsy scheduled. We were hoping yesterday would give us some clarity about our diagnosis, prognosis and plan of action, but once again my family and I find ourselves in God’s waiting room. It is a place I do not particularly like, but also a place where many times in my past God has powerfully revealed Himself and taught me incredibly important life-lessons.
As of today, I know I have some kind of very rare and serious form of blood cancer. If my doctor’s suspicions are confirmed, it is incurable. However, new and very promising treatments that minimize its symptoms and manage its progress have been developed even in the last two years. While I greatly appreciate all the medical advances and the incredible professionalism and personal care we have seen in our medical team, we know my life and health is right where it has always been in the hand of our Lord and Savior who is the Great Physician.
For the next few weeks, until I have a better understanding of what treatments will look like and how I am going to feel, I am trying some reduced hours to continue handling all my leadership and staff management responsibilities. However, I have asked several members of our staff – all of whom are great Bible Students and great communicators – to fill the pulpit for me for the next few weeks. Interestingly, the last few weeks as I’ve reflected on all the things I feel I would have to do, and say to my family and Legacy if I knew for certain my time on earth was short, I believe God has given me three very specific sermons series or studies which I plan on preaching at the beginning of next year.
For now, I would ask every member and friend of Legacy to be faithful in your prayers and encouragement of our young preachers. I would also ask each of you to pray specifically three things for me and my family. First, pray in full faith for my healing, but not that our will but that God’s will would be done. Second, pray for God to provide wisdom and skill to all the medical professionals that will be ministering to me and my family. Thirdly, pray that me and my family would rest in the Lord, and both grow strong spiritually and glorify God in this trial and upon the platform for witness which He has allowed into our lives at this time.
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