For pastor, true joy found in fellowship with God

Editor’s note: The following is one in a series in which we profile religious leaders in Roosevelt County.

Steve Smith has been the pastor at University Baptist Church in Portales for almost 21 years. Smith’s first pastorate was at First Baptist Elida 31 years ago, where he was ordained into the ministry.

What are some hobbies and activities you enjoy doing outside of work?

A new thing I am enjoying is playing Bejeweled and other games on my smartphone as I wait in places. I also enjoy reading and binge-watching television series’, but mostly spending time with my family.

link Steve Smith

Outside of the church, where is your favorite place to go in Portales?

Home. As Dorothy said, “There’s no place like home! There’s no place like home!”

What is your favorite holiday and why?

My favorite holiday would have to be Easter because it represents Jesus Christ’s victory. Celebrating with “He is risen!”, declaring Jesus’ victory over death and that through him, our sins may be removed.

What do you think is a common misconception about Christianity?

A common misconception is that Christianity is religion full of “No!” Christianity is about a relationship between God and each individual, and a God that says “Yes!” when you come to him through Jesus.

What is a topic or issue in today’s culture that impacts or distresses you the most and why?

The manner in which people seek happiness and joy. In the United States, it has become all about satisfying “me.” This selfishness continues to grow in society, but more saddening is that it is taking over the church in the United States. American Christians are seeking for how God can serve them, how can they be ministered to and how God should do things their way. They should be seeking how they can honor and serve God whom they owe everything to, including their very existence and their soul. True joy that is sought by everyone will only be found when we quit the selfishness and become who God created us to be, which is a person in fellowship with him and seeking to glorify him.

—Compiled by Staff Writer

Jackie Johnson