In just one meeting, I was convinced. This man who had recently taken on the role of the Dean of Men at Christ for the Nations Institute was the right choice for the job. He was a man of deep wisdom whose heart was steadfast for the Lord. Just days before this scheduled meeting in his office, I had proposed to a fellow classmate at CFNI. Now he sat across from us at his desk to discuss our recent engagement.
His eyes spoke volumes as he listened intently to every word. His body language said, “I’m listening to every word spoken and not spoken.” He was engaged. He asked thoughtful questions. As he listened to our responses to his questions, I couldn’t help but think about Proverbs 1:6, “Let the wise hear and increase in learning,” even though we were the ones present to draw upon his wisdom.
We shared with him how we felt the Lord was directing us. When he was not intensely listening, he generously poured out wisdom for us to apply in our engagement as we walked towards the marriage covenant.
As we left his office that day, I remember thinking something to this effect, “What a remarkable man-of-God who is a conduit of life-giving wisdom that ministers to the heart.”
My respect quotient for this man grew leaps and bounds in just one meeting. However, it continued to solidify as I observed him in action during the rest of my time as a student at CFNI.
The following semester I was able to enroll in his class on biblical leadership. Again, the wisdom that he shared from the Bible was palpable for all to partake in. Each day he came prepared with a clear message from the heart of God. Over the course of my time at CFNI, my respect for this man grew.
Who was this remarkable man?
Dean of Men, Joe Temte. I learned so much from him during my short time at CFNI. One of the more memorable moments came when he was on the stage with other faculty members during chapel service. It was quite warm during that particular service.
Perspiration dripped down his forehead. As he stood on the stage, he grabbed a tissue to wipe off the sweat. However, tissues are not ideal for wiping off such perspiration as it tends to leave behind flaky white bits and pieces of tissue on one’s sweaty face.
A few days later in class he was able to laugh about that moment as he told us what not to do in such a situation.
Today, July 15, is his birthday. Let’s take a moment to give thanks to God for this CFNI graduate who returned to serve at CFNI for well over a decade. Many, many lives were touched through this man’s ministry. Please take a moment to share your appreciation for Joe Temte in the comments below.
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