Snapped on Election Day in Nashville. L-R: Our friends Sarah & Rick Lowe (Sarah heads NDP for the southeastern states, Rick headed a 12-man, 24/7 prayer-shield for me throughout the 50 days), Rick White (our friend and pastor), me, Ricky Skaggs (even sweeter than he is gifted) and Deanna

A letter from our pastor, Rick White

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, 

My friend, Tom Demaree, just returned from a 28,000-mile prayer-mission across America, where he led on-site prayer gatherings at every Capitol across our nation in the 50 days leading up to Election Day. Most of us cannot fathom the faith and fortitude it must have taken to complete such an arduous journey. Tom's calling is definitely unique. His willingness to take on...by faith...what others would never attempt, is not just commendable; it's inspiring. 

Speaking of faith, I happen to be personally aware of the faith-investment he and Deanna made to embark on this CapitalWalk mission. With only a few weeks to prepare, they had no choice but to invest their own money up front. And their investment was substantial (drawn from limited funds set aside to re-build their house from a water damage catastrophe last spring).  

I'm writing you today to ask you to consider a special "thank you" gift for their mission accomplished. As their friends and prayer-partners, such post-mission support is the least we can do.     

A week ago on Election Day, I had the the honor of emceeing Tom's final CapitalWalk up in Nashville. It was a joy to watch him in action, effortlessly shepherding folks from so many varying streams of church life in a transformational spirit of unity, in genuine humility. It was obvious to all that God was on the move!  

During my remarks, I shared publicly what I'd told Tom privately, when he told me about his 50-day CapitalWalk vision: "God could call 1,000 guys to do what you're about to do and 1,000 guys would say 'no,' but you said 'yes.' And that's what sets you apart; that's what makes you the man of faith I know you to be. I admire you, Tom. You inspire me."

I look forward to hearing more about what God showed him on this spiritual odyssey. I think all of us, as the body of Christ in America, will benefit from the insights Tom will share from this amazing journey. But first, I'm praying he gets some rest! 

Let's pray for Tom and Deanna, for a God-ordained reprieve from the day-to-day pressures of their faith-mission...so they might have the time and resources necessary for the due diligence of waiting upon the Lord for their next steps. 

I believe God has called them forth for "such a time as this." Through our generosity, we have the opportunity to help them fulfill that calling. 

As Tom's friend and also as his pastor, I commend him to you...not only because of what he just accomplished, not only because of what lays ahead, but because of how I've watched he and Deanna gladly lay down their lives for the Church, without reservation. 

I invite you to bless this couple in return, by investing generously in their mission...for the Kingdom's sake. 

Your brother in grace,

Rick  

Rick White

Senior Pastor

The People's Church, Franklin, TN

A postscript from Tom

It is uncomfortably humbling to be honored this way. Deanna and I thank you, Rick, for your kind and affirming words. And to our beloved friends and prayer-partners, we thank you in advance for your response to Rick's invitation. To give a gift to Pentecost Walk today, please click here.  

I have MUCH to share in the days ahead. This short-term mission was a glorious game changer. Deanna and I appreciate your prayers and support more now than ever before. My blog will be updated within days, and Deanna and I will be announcing some very exciting "next steps" very soon. Much love from us both.