07/07/21 – Pastor Brian’s Blog –
This past Sunday was the 4th of July. Over the years our church has done different things to reflect on the 4th and the history of our country. We would pledge alliance to the flag, at times we will take a trivia quiz to see how much of our American history we can remember from elementary school. We will sing patriotic songs and then take the time to remember and honor those that have served us and those currently serving us, so that we can continue to have the freedom to hold a worship service on a July 4th Sunday!
A couple of weeks ago one of my best friends called me and we spent an hour on the phone reflecting on the many years we have known each other. We talked about our families, what God is doing in our lives and His presence in the craziness of our world. My friend reminded me that he still listens to my sermons every week on line. Now, I never said that he was smart, I just said that he has been one of my best friends for a long time!
I was reminded of the many people God has brought into my life. If it were possible to shine a light on my life, one would see thousands of finger prints of people that have impacted me. Some for many years, some for a moment, but all of them God has used to help me become who I am today. As a matter of fact, some of you that are reading my blog today, are very likely some of those who have impacted my life.
This Sunday after church, Judy and I will be heading out to meet up with our family to spend 2 weeks camping at Word of Life. I love going back there to visit because there are so many memories for us. You see this is where Judy and I got our start in ministry. Our oldest children grew up there, and I received many “finger prints” on my life there. One person whose finger prints are deeply embedded into my life was Harry Bollback. Sadly to say, he will not be there this year, because he recently went to heaven where he is enjoying the rewards of investing in people like me.
Yet as I reflect on the many finger prints on my life, apart from God, the one that has had the greatest impact, is my wife Judy. We will be celebrating our 48th anniversary next month and I could not afford the ink it would take to print off the pages upon pages needed to tell you how she has affected my life. Over the years we have had thousands of people walk into our lives, but without exception she is the Godliest person I know.
I have watched her life and I have watched her raise our children. I have watched her interact with her grandchildren and I have watched as she has walked the path of ministry with me, the good times as well as the not so good times. I have watched her as she spends time with God at the beginning of each day (that is after she makes her cup of coffee!!) and as I watch her and live life with her, I am convinced beyond a shadow of a doubt that God created Judy with me in mind!
There are many things I could write about Judy but as always, the Bible says it best…. He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the LORD. (Proverbs 18:22) Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: “Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.” (Proverbs 31:28-29)
Finding time to reflect in this busy world can be hard to do, but, can I encourage you to take the time to do it? Don’t wait until the 4th of July comes, don’t wait until that good friend gives you a call, or you see a friend on vacation. But take a few moments, maybe even now, and reflect on those that have impacted your life and if they are still alive, drop them a note and thank them for the investment they made in you. You’ll make their day!!
And when you reflect, don’t forget the One who has orchestrated your life, who brought these people into your life, the One who has written (and continues to write) your story and who makes it all happen:
Shout with joy to God, all the earth! Sing the glory of his name; make his praise glorious! Say to God, “How awesome are your deeds! So great is your power that your enemies cringe before you. All the earth bows down to you; they sing praise to you, they sing praise to your name.” Selah Come and see what God has done, how awesome his works in man’s behalf! (Psalm 66:1-5)
Our Reflections can be part of our tribute to God…
