Rev. Gilbert Dilley passed away Saturday. He was a great man of God who saw many come into the kingdom of God and get filled with the Spirit. I first met Gilbert back in 1971. I had recently received the Baptism of the Holy Spirit and, like a drug addict, was craving any spiritual experience I could get.

I was invited to attend a revival meeting at the Helmer United Methodist Church. The place was packed and there was excitement in the air. Gilbert preached a fiery message and received an altar call for people who wanted to receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. About 15-20 people, including several teenagers, responded and were escorted to a side room where they were prayed for.

One of those who responded and received the Holy Spirit that night was my wife, Anita. Although I didn’t know her then, that was a dramatic turning point in her life and I’ll always be grateful to Gilbert for boldly proclaiming that message in a United Methodist Church. Well done, good and faithful servant.

What will you remember about Gilbert Dilley?

Tags: Remembering