The Rector's Sons

Samuel Wesley spent forty years as the rector of Epworth, a small parish in the marshlands of Lincolnshire, England. He labored faithfully, wrote theological treatises few people read, and dreamed of accomplishing something lasting for God. When fire destroyed his rectory in 1709, he rebuilt it with his own hands, determined to leave behind a legacy of brick and mortar and steady parish ministry.

God had other plans for the house of Wesley.

It was not through Samuel's writings or his rebuilt rectory that the Almighty chose to work, but through his sons. John Wesley would ride 250,000 miles on horseback, preach 40,000 sermons, and spark a revival that swept two continents. Charles Wesley would compose over 6,000 hymns, giving the church songs it still sings three centuries later. The movement their father never imagined would grow into a global family of 80 million believers.

Samuel wanted to build something for God. God wanted to build something through Samuel — a legacy far grander than any rectory.

This is the heart of God's promise to David in 2 Samuel 7. David longed to construct a house for the Lord, but the Most High reversed the offer entirely: "I will establish your house. I will be a father to your offspring. Your throne will endure forever." The Almighty does not need our buildings. He builds dynasties of faithfulness — and His construction always outlasts ours.