The highly respected author and conference speaker – who is also the pastor-teacher of Grace Community Church in Southern California – sounded frail as he addressed his annual Shepherds Conference by video last week.
"I haven't had such a speedy recovery as I hoped to have," he explained. "I feel great, I just lost a lot of strength by being seven weeks in the hospital."
During the two-and-a-half-minute video, he said he's working hard at getting his strength back so he can get back in the pulpit. "I'm seeing physical therapists and trainers and trying to get back as soon as possible," he shared.
MacArthur told the conference that he's actually two for two in recoveries. "It's the hospital they can kill you. If you can survive the illness, if you can survive the hospital, then you've won on every level."
The 85-year-old pastor acknowledged that his time on earth will soon be over – but clearly is grateful for the ministry the Lord has allowed him to lead through the years.
"I realize I'm on the last lap. That takes on a new meaning when you know you're on the short end of the candle," said MacArthur. "But I am all thanks and praise to God for everything He's allowed me to be a part of and everything He's accomplished by His Word in these years of ministry."
MacArthur has led Grace Community Church since 1969, during which time he has delivered thousands of sermons and authored more than 400 books and study guides. His "Grace to You" radio program reaches major population centers on every continent of the world.
Image source: Pastor MacArthur's video address to Shepherds Conference.
