Thank You Verla Brandt!

I wish I could accurately describe it for you, but on my desk, sitting right in front of me is a picture of Jesus in an old scuffed up cardboard frame.  It was a gift to me from my fourth grade Sunday School teacher, Verla Brandt.  Did she even think her simple, inexpensive gift would stay with me for fifty plus years?  Her gift motivates me today.
 
The year was 1959.  I was ten years old.  My Grandparents gave me the gift of a Bible for Christmas.  Within it, they wrote memorable words for me to treasure throughout my life.  Indeed I do!  This Bible is one of my earthly treasures.  Grandpa and Grandma’s gift still motivates me every day.
 
As a freshman in high school, grades were not that important to me.  Mom and Dad went to a parent/ teacher conference with Mr. Patterson.  I was invited along.  That was an ominous sign. J  Though I dreaded the confrontation, I left with something Mr. Patterson said about me.  “He really works hard at it.”  Those words motivated me throughout my whole career.
 
I look around my office at some of my personal affects.  A clock, a John Wesley inscription, family pictures, a box of personal treasures, a rotating picture frame, family heirloom ink wells, and yes, even a real cannon, and more---all remind me of days gone by.  Each item with its own personal story.  Each story from the past, propels me into the unknown future of which I’m not certain.  Maybe the unknown motivates me forever forward to see what’s over the next hill.
 
As I reminisce about people in the past, I realize it’s the small things they did for me that have the greatest impact on my life.  A fifty cent picture of Jesus, kind words spoken, the gift of a Bible, and all the other small stuff speak volumes down the corridor of time.  Each small thing leaving a memorable impression.
 
Lord, in some small way, may my words and actions echo down the hallway of time.  May they motivate and lead someone to Christ.  If you’re reading these words, that is my gift to you.
 
AMEN……
 
Pastor Allan
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