Mark Darling – Story 100

When thinking about Pastor Mark Darling, it’s a little daunting to write down my thoughts. He was my pastor for 14 years. There is A LOT that happens in 14 years!!! Especially since I was a single girl living in the city most of that time! There were many opportunities for me to need pastoral counsel from Mark in my trials and life circumstances during the time he was my pastor. Mark gave God inspired messages at The Rock that God used to speak to my heart. Mark took time to answer my phone calls, email me and even meet with me and one of my friends when I had questions, concerns or just really big, hard circumstances happening in my life. He has always been ready with encouragement and truth, even if the truth was something I did not want to hear. Even though it was sometimes hard for me to hear the truth he shared with me, Mark would share this truth with love and concern. I was a therapist in my career before becoming a mother. As a therapist, and now mother, I appreciate how much Mark cares for people. He is willing to go the extra mile with people who bring their brokenness to him in search of God’s truth and redemption. In 2007, I went through many trials. I was injured on the 35W Bridge Collapse. My boyfriend and I broke up. My dad was diagnosed with cancer. It was a pretty terrible time in my life. Mark helped me process and heal in each of those circumstances. He offered advice on care for my back injury since he knew lots of information on back injuries from personal experiences. He encouraged me with scripture and reminded me of my worth in Christ. He helped me process the survivor guilt I faced after the bridge collapse. I have always felt cherished as a daughter when talking to Mark. He is compassionate, sincere and kind. I know when I seek out Mark for counsel nothing is sugar-coated. He is committed to give wisdom in love. I will always consider Mark as my pastor, spiritual father, brother in Christ and friend. I’m excited for see how God continues to use Mark to shine light in the brokenness people face in their lives.

Shared by Erica