Yes, I’m a day late and most people have already seen this post from Justin Taylor on Pastor John’s call 30 years ago yesterday. But if you missed it, you simply must read it. And if you saw it yesterday, read it again.
The clothes have changed, the huge cross is gone, and the voice has taken on a richer, sweeter quality, (if you wonder what I mean, listen to this Piper Candidacy Sermon Excerpt January 27, 1980) but the passion for God and his word remains.
Because of the giftings that God gave and sustained through Pastor John, many of us understand that dependence on God in the midst of hard things is a wonderful, hope-filled reality. And we rejoice with Paul:
For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. Romans 8:18
Thank you, God, for giving us Pastor John and helping him show us who you really are. And thank you for letting us join him in wanting to spread a passion for your supremacy in all things for the joy of all peoples through Jesus Christ.
The Works of God 
Wow! that doesn’t even sound like Pastor John. I agree. He is much sweeter sounding now. His words always strike me in the heart, but never in a way that is insensitive. I thank God for using him in my life so tremendously.