One of my grandsons sometimes gets his action verbs confused. Instead of saying, "I don’t like spinach," he will say, "I don’t love it." If Earlene and I see a bad movie or eat a poorly prepared meal we will smile at each other and say, ‘We don’t love it." What words would you use to describe your feelings about Cooperative Baptist Fellowship?

Cecil Sherman, the founding Coordinator of CBF, has a way of using words to clarify reality. I remember hearing him describe a person as "having a life wish for CBF" and thinking that was an excellent way to express how I feel. Chuck Poole, a respected pastor friend, told me recently of an experience at a Mississippi CBF meeting by describing the racial, gender, economic and theological diversity in the room. He said, "I know CBF isn’t the biggest or richest organization, but in Mississippi it’s like a tree under which a number of folk can find shade." I like those words.

Just last week I brought greetings at the 46th annual session of the Progressive National Baptist Convention in Washington, D.C. I was inspired, and a bit envious, as the delegates expressed appreciation and affection when they talked about their convention. A sense of community and commitment to core values was reflected as they talked and prayed.

For me CBF has been a significant part of my spiritual, theological and ministry formation for the past 17 years. So when I speak of it I use words like gift, movement, renewal, missional. These words express real feelings of gratitude and purpose. You might choose other words.

Within this matrix of differing attitudes and words a towering figure emerges. Jack Snell in many ways embodies CBF. His contribution cannot be measured by anybody’s words. As a pastor he showed courage in teaching Baptist principles and leading his church to make funding and identity decisions. He helped birth CBF and served as chair of the Global Missions and Ministry Group in our earlier years. He and Anita then left their comfortable place to become CBF missionaries where they served effectively. They were then invited to join the Global Missions staff, and when Barbara Baldridge resigned as Coordinator, Jack became Interim Coordinator.

Since the coming of Rob Nash and the diagnosis that Jack has pancreatic cancer, Jack’s devotion and dedication has only increased. In a recent conversation I was reminded again how much his influence is stamped upon this fellowship. He has a self-effacing humor and disarming humility. He bears his sacrifice and suffering with grace and dignity. And he continues to have an unwavering commitment to the missionary enterprise of CBF.

The words that describe this dear friend are integrity, loyalty, faithfulness. I’ve never known anyone with a greater work ethic and more Christian character. His life and love speak with eloquence and beauty. Thank God for Jack Snell.

Daniel Vestal has served as CBF's coordinator since December 1996.