Rick Long
Pastor/Elder
I trusted Jesus Christ when I was 8 years old at a prophecy conference in Boulder, Colorado. Shelley and I have been married since 1985 and have four wonderful children: Jordan, Brittany, Brooklyn and Jared, as well as my son-in-law Chad, my daughter-in-law Kym and our four precious grandchildren, Kinzlee, Zoey, Jace and Calvin. My passion is to make Christ known to everyone and share God’s purposes so that lives can be changed by living for these eternal purposes. Grace Church is the greatest church in the world and I am privileged to be a part of God’s global work through this amazing body of believers.
What is your favorite season & why?
Fall is my favorite time of year because it has the beauty of summer sunshine with comfortable temperatures. There are always changing colors with the possibility of an early snow storm. It just seems like Fall represents a time of transition and unexpected surprises.
What or who inspires you most?
My greatest inspiration has always come from the life of Jesus. I know this sounds like a cliché since I am a pastor, but I mean it with my whole heart. The combination of strength and humility Jesus displayed during his earthly ministry motivates me, while the love he demonstrated for everyone raises a standard for me to strive for in my own life. I love the fact that Jesus controlled his destiny and never allowed any other person to trap him or cause him to get off course. There are really too many more examples to list; but Jesus is the most inspiring person in my life. However, I have a few more mortals I have been inspired by like: Michael Jordan, Indiana Jones, Martin Luther, Rick Warren and Mother Theresa.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was young, I wanted to be Evil Knievel, but after multiple injuries and accidents (which almost made my mother crazy) I gave up that dream. After becoming a believer in Jesus at age 8, I went to a concert by a musician named Dallas Holmes - when I heard him sing and preach, I knew exactly what I wanted to do. I had the same struggles through high school thinking I could play professional basketball or be a star quarterback; but I realized there was only one thing I was placed on earth to do - and it was to share the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ and ask everyone I possibly could, whenever and wherever I could. That’s all I can do.
One thing people don’t know about you?
I wanted to start a worm farm and a “Bait on Wheels” business - taking worms and other live bait to fisherman who fish surrounding lakes in my area!
What is your biggest challenge?
Saying “no” - I really want to help anyone I can. I want to pick up every check, help every child learn to love the Lord and play basketball and have as much fun living as you possibly can - this means sleep is a premium and saying “no” is a must.
What is your favorite quote?
“He is no fool to give what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.”