Shepherd-Elder
tlambert@smokyvalley.org
I was raised on a farm north of Smith Center, Kansas and four miles from the Nebraska line. I grew up riding horses and doing farm chores - the best way for a young boy to grow up. I was the second of four boys and one girl. All five of us were born within ten years of each other so there was hardly ever a dull moment in the Lambert home.
My father and mother raised us in the faith, and their faith was real. We could see their commitment to Christ and to His church from the beginning. I was blessed to have had the parents I had. I do not remember a time when I did not believe in Jesus and understand that I was a sinner and Jesus was the Savior of sinners. However, when I was ten, I attended a Youth for Christ rally and heard a sermon on hell. The Preacher spoke graphically and drove home the reality of hell and the consequences of sin. After that night, I became serious about placing my trust in Christ alone for salvation. After many sleepless nights and numerous talks with my parents, the Lord was gracious to me and I experienced peace.
My struggle with sin did not end there. My awareness of my sin was only heightened. I desperately needed salvation from someone outside of myself. The Lord has been slowly and sometimes violently sanctifying my life ever since.
I have been a head high school football coach for 32 years and appreciate the discipline and toughness required to play the game. Sports are a great classroom for life but should not be an end in themselves.
My wife, Roxie, and I have been married for 33 years. We have six children (four girls and two boys) and three grandchildren. My wife and I love our family and spending time with each other.
I am passionate about the Christian family and how God uses it to save people by His grace. I am passionate too for the local church and greatly indebted to my brothers in Christ who have poured their wisdom into my life.
I am an avid reader of theology, some history, and some fiction. I love the Puritan writers as well as R.C. Sproul, J.I. Packer, and Charles Spurgeon. Some of my favorite works of fiction are the Lord of the Rings series, A Tale of Two Cities, and The Brothers Karamazov.