Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Rick Spurlock
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. Today, we gather to celebrate the life of Rick Spurlock, a man who deeply loved the Lord and lived a life full of faith, service, and joy. Rick's life was a testament to his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. He loved to worship, play music, and share the love of Jesus with everyone he met. Rick's life was marked by his genuine relationships, his dedication to his family, and his commitment to his church community. He was a faithful servant, always ready to help and give, whether it was his time, talents, or resources.
Rick's journey was not without its challenges, but he faced them with a strong faith and a positive spirit. He overcame many obstacles, including wars and personal struggles, yet he remained steadfast in his faith. Rick figured out early in life what truly mattered—his relationship with Jesus. This relationship filled the void that many of us try to fill with other things. Rick's life teaches us the importance of having a genuine relationship with Jesus, loving others, and living a life of service and worship.
Rick's name itself is a reflection of his character. "Richard" means powerful, hardy, brave, and strong ruler, which perfectly describes his strong faith and leadership. "Thomas" means twin, and Rick was a twin to Jesus in his actions and character. "Spurlock" means a harbor near an estuary, symbolizing how Rick, filled with the Holy Spirit, poured out his love and faith to others, touching and changing lives.
As we remember Rick, we are reminded of the lessons he taught us through his life. We can learn to love, grow, smile, live, continue, give, and worship by following his example. Rick's life was a gift, and his legacy will continue to inspire us. Though we will miss him, we take comfort in knowing that he is in the presence of the Lord, having crossed the finish line and heard the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant."
### Key Takeaways
1. The Importance of Genuine Relationships: Rick Spurlock understood that genuine relationships with God and others are what truly matter in life. He loved God with all his heart and shared that love with everyone he met. This genuine connection filled the void that many try to fill with other things. We should strive to build and nurture genuine relationships, especially with Jesus, as they bring true fulfillment. [01:14:54]
2. Facing Life's Challenges with Faith: Rick's life was not without challenges, but he faced them with unwavering faith. He overcame wars, personal struggles, and many obstacles, yet he remained steadfast in his faith. This teaches us that with God, all things are possible, and we can face any challenge with faith and trust in Him. [01:15:41]
3. Living a Life of Service and Worship: Rick was a faithful servant who loved to worship the Lord. He dedicated his time, talents, and resources to serving God and others. His life reminds us of the importance of living a life of service and worship, always ready to give and help those in need. [01:21:16]
4. Learning and Growing Continuously: Rick was always learning and growing in his relationship with God and in his talents. He was not stagnant but continually sought to improve and grow. This teaches us the importance of lifelong learning and growth, both spiritually and personally. [01:18:49]
5. Emulating Christ in Our Lives: Rick's name, Thomas, means twin, and he was a twin to Jesus in his actions and character. He showed the love, compassion, generosity, and kindness of Jesus in his life. We should strive to emulate Christ in our lives, reflecting His love and character in all that we do. [01:24:48]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[45:01] - A Day of Celebration and Mourning
[45:48] - Rick's Love for the Lord
[46:21] - Celebrating Rick's Life and Legacy
[46:59] - Rick's Faithfulness and Joy
[01:10:44] - Natasha's Tribute
[01:11:49] - Rick's Long Life and Overcoming Challenges
[01:12:44] - Rick's Genuine Relationships
[01:14:18] - Rick's Work Ethic and Values
[01:16:28] - Rick's Creativity and Entrepreneurship
[01:17:16] - Rick's Unique Identity
[01:18:15] - Lessons from Rick's Life
[01:20:24] - Learning to Celebrate and Continue
[01:21:16] - Rick's Life of Giving and Worship
[01:22:11] - Rick's Faith and Scripture Sharing
[01:23:09] - The Significance of Rick's Name
[01:27:01] - Rick's Legacy and Presence
[01:28:22] - Psalm 23 and Rick's Eternal Home
[01:29:07] - Closing Prayer and Blessings
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Hebrews 9:27 - "It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this, the judgment."
2. 2 Corinthians 5:8 - "To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord."
3. Psalm 23 - "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want..."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Hebrews 9:27 say about the inevitability of death and what follows it? How does this relate to Rick Spurlock's life and faith? [01:11:49]
2. According to 2 Corinthians 5:8, what happens when a believer is absent from the body? How does this provide comfort in the context of Rick's passing? [45:48]
3. In Psalm 23, what are some of the ways the Lord provides and cares for His people? How might these verses have been a source of comfort for Rick? [01:28:22]
4. How did Rick Spurlock demonstrate his faith through his actions and relationships, as described in the sermon? [01:14:54]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the certainty of judgment after death, as mentioned in Hebrews 9:27, influence the way we live our lives today? [01:11:49]
2. What does it mean to be "present with the Lord" according to 2 Corinthians 5:8, and how does this promise affect our perspective on life and death? [45:48]
3. Psalm 23 describes the Lord as a shepherd. In what ways did Rick Spurlock's life reflect the care and guidance of the Lord as his shepherd? [01:28:22]
4. Rick's life was marked by genuine relationships and service. How do these aspects of his life illustrate the teachings of Jesus about loving God and loving others? [01:14:54]
#### Application Questions
1. Rick Spurlock understood the importance of genuine relationships with God and others. How can you cultivate more genuine relationships in your own life? What steps can you take this week to deepen your relationship with Jesus? [01:14:54]
2. Rick faced many challenges with unwavering faith. Think about a current challenge you are facing. How can you apply Rick's example of steadfast faith to your situation? [01:15:41]
3. Rick lived a life of service and worship. Identify one way you can serve others in your community or church this week. How can you incorporate worship into your daily routine? [01:21:16]
4. Continuous learning and growth were important to Rick. What is one area in your spiritual or personal life where you feel stagnant? What specific action can you take to foster growth in that area? [01:18:49]
5. Rick emulated Christ in his actions and character. Reflect on one aspect of Jesus' character that you admire. How can you intentionally practice this characteristic in your interactions with others this week? [01:24:48]
6. Rick's life was a testament to the power of a genuine relationship with Jesus. Is there a void in your life that you have been trying to fill with other things? How can you seek fulfillment through a deeper relationship with Jesus? [01:14:54]
7. Rick was known for his kindness and generosity. Think of a specific person in your life who could benefit from an act of kindness or generosity. What can you do this week to show them the love of Jesus? [01:19:33]
Devotional
### Day 1: Building Genuine Relationships
Rick Spurlock understood that genuine relationships with God and others are what truly matter in life. He loved God with all his heart and shared that love with everyone he met. This genuine connection filled the void that many try to fill with other things. We should strive to build and nurture genuine relationships, especially with Jesus, as they bring true fulfillment. Rick's life exemplifies the importance of these connections, showing us that they are the foundation of a meaningful and joyful life.
Rick's relationships were marked by authenticity and love. He didn't just go through the motions; he invested deeply in the lives of those around him. His relationship with Jesus was the cornerstone of his life, and it influenced every other relationship he had. By following Rick's example, we can learn to prioritize our relationship with Jesus and let it transform our interactions with others. This genuine love and connection can fill the void that many of us try to fill with other things, bringing true fulfillment and joy. [01:14:54]
Bible Passage: "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." (Hebrews 10:24-25, ESV)
Reflection: Think of one person in your life with whom you can deepen your relationship. How can you show them the love of Jesus today?
### Day 2: Facing Life's Challenges with Faith
Rick's life was not without challenges, but he faced them with unwavering faith. He overcame wars, personal struggles, and many obstacles, yet he remained steadfast in his faith. This teaches us that with God, all things are possible, and we can face any challenge with faith and trust in Him. Rick's journey reminds us that our faith can be a source of strength and resilience, helping us to overcome even the most difficult circumstances.
Rick's faith was a beacon of hope in times of trouble. He didn't allow his challenges to define him; instead, he let his faith in God guide him through. By trusting in God's plan and relying on His strength, Rick was able to navigate life's storms with grace and courage. This example encourages us to lean on our faith when we face our own challenges, knowing that God is with us and will help us overcome. [01:15:41]
Bible Passage: "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." (James 1:2-4, ESV)
Reflection: What is one challenge you are currently facing? How can you trust God more deeply in this situation?
### Day 3: Living a Life of Service and Worship
Rick was a faithful servant who loved to worship the Lord. He dedicated his time, talents, and resources to serving God and others. His life reminds us of the importance of living a life of service and worship, always ready to give and help those in need. Rick's example shows us that true fulfillment comes from serving others and worshiping God with all our hearts.
Rick's life was a testament to the joy and fulfillment that comes from serving others. He didn't hold back his time, talents, or resources; he gave generously and joyfully. His worship was not confined to Sunday mornings but was a daily expression of his love for God. By following Rick's example, we can learn to live lives of service and worship, finding joy in giving and helping those in need. [01:21:16]
Bible Passage: "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen." (1 Peter 4:10-11, ESV)
Reflection: How can you use your gifts and talents to serve others this week? What specific act of service can you commit to today?
### Day 4: Learning and Growing Continuously
Rick was always learning and growing in his relationship with God and in his talents. He was not stagnant but continually sought to improve and grow. This teaches us the importance of lifelong learning and growth, both spiritually and personally. Rick's example encourages us to never stop seeking to grow in our faith and abilities, always striving to become more like Christ.
Rick's commitment to growth was evident in every aspect of his life. He didn't settle for mediocrity but pursued excellence in his relationship with God and in his talents. This continuous growth allowed him to make a greater impact on those around him. By following Rick's example, we can embrace a mindset of lifelong learning and growth, seeking to deepen our faith and develop our God-given abilities. [01:18:49]
Bible Passage: "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen." (2 Peter 3:18, ESV)
Reflection: What is one area of your spiritual life where you want to grow? What steps can you take this week to pursue that growth?
### Day 5: Emulating Christ in Our Lives
Rick's name, Thomas, means twin, and he was a twin to Jesus in his actions and character. He showed the love, compassion, generosity, and kindness of Jesus in his life. We should strive to emulate Christ in our lives, reflecting His love and character in all that we do. Rick's life serves as a powerful reminder of the impact we can have when we live like Jesus.
Rick's actions and character were a reflection of Jesus' love and compassion. He didn't just talk about his faith; he lived it out in tangible ways. By following Rick's example, we can strive to emulate Christ in our own lives, showing His love and kindness to those around us. This not only brings glory to God but also has the power to touch and change lives. [01:24:48]
Bible Passage: "Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God." (Ephesians 5:1-2, ESV)
Reflection: In what specific ways can you reflect the love and character of Jesus in your daily interactions? How can you be more intentional about living like Christ today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "So here's the good news. He's not in that box. That's just the house that he lived in while he was on this earth. The Bible says to be absent from the body. Is to be present with the Lord. And if you knew Rick. You knew that he loved the Lord Jesus. He loved the Lord with all of his heart. He loved to tell people about him. He loved to worship him." [45:48] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Rick Spurlock figured out what mattered. Oh, you missed that. Rick Spurlock figured it out. He figured out what mattered in life. So many times we go through life looking and searching in all the wrong places. He figured it out early. He had a relationship. He had a relationship with God, a relationship with others. He loved God. He had a genuine relationship with Jesus Christ. He figured it out." [01:14:54] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "You see, there's a void that's in all of us that can only be filled with the right relationship with Jesus. You see, there's a void that's in all of us that can only be filled Rick figured that out early on and invited Jesus to be the Lord of his life, and when he did that, everything changed. It didn't mean he didn't have problems. It didn't mean that he didn't have struggles in life." [01:15:41] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We can learn to love because Rick loved people. He loved God. He loved Natasha. He loved the family, the kids, the grandkids. He loved this church. He loved people. He loved to share the love of Jesus everywhere he went, and we can learn from him because he learned how to love. We can learn to love if we emulate what he did." [01:18:49] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We can learn to live. And these nearly 70 years, he learned how to live. He enjoyed living. He enjoyed the fullness of life. He enjoyed the outdoors. Natasha talked about. The garden that they make every year and every week in the summer, they bring us fruits and vegetables and tomatoes. We eat more tomato sandwiches and probably anybody in town every night we get a fresh tomato sandwich and I love it with fresh bread and mayonnaise, but I've been able to do that because of Rick." [01:19:33] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "When I think about Rick Spurlock, I think about his work ethic and the values that he had in his life. They were so notable, as already been said by his granddaughter. He didn't talk about other people. He showed up when he was supposed to. He had been married to Natasha 28 years. You don't even hear that much anymore these days. And when I think of Rick and his work ethic and his values and how notable they were, I think about how creative he was." [01:15:41] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Rick was happy. He was not a sad guy. He was not a depressed guy. He was always happy. He was always joyful. He was always talking about the Lord. He loved the Lord. Let me say this. Rick Spurlock figured out what mattered. Oh, you missed that. Rick Spurlock figured it out. He figured out what mattered in life. So many times we go through life looking and searching in all the wrong places." [01:14:18] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Rick Spurlock would call me from the road when he was out of town, when he was on the road, at least a couple of times every month, he would call me. Sometimes it would be late at night. He would call me and we would just talk and he would tell me what was going on and he would tell me where he was. I would say, where are you right now? And he said, well, I'm in Washington or Oregon or wherever he was." [01:21:16] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Rick is an amazing gift that we have and I'm thankful for the years that we had. I've shared some of these things and probably most of you knew a lot of these things if you knew him. But I want to share a couple of things. That maybe you don't know about Rick Spurlock. In the Bible, we learned that names are very important. They're more than just a title that we call somebody by. But names are significant in the scriptures and they have to do with the character of a person." [01:22:11] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "So summing up his name, we celebrate the man, Richard. Hardy, brave, strong. Thomas, twin like Jesus. Spurlock, empty in his fresh touch of living water of Jesus to others. And mixing with them. So that they also would know Christ. Natasha, we're going to miss him. I know you're going to miss him. This family is going to miss him. But here's the good news. He's everywhere. Look around. He left a piece of himself in every person that's in this room." [01:27:01] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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