Last month our family traveled to the great state of Texas to attend a convention in The Woodlands. Along the way, we made a stop in the Cincinnati area to visit Uncle Denny. He joined us as we spent a day to visit “The Ark Encounter” in Florence, Kentucky. Quite an experience and one we plan to enjoy again in the future. Our time with Uncle Denny is always a delight. With a heart fervent for the Lord, he is an encouragement to be around. He attends church twice on Sunday. Once in the morning at an apartment complex nearby and again in the afternoon at the nursing home care center which is also a short walk from his apartment. The morning session is held twice a month by an itinerant pastor in the Wesley tradition who stops by to share the word of God and sing hymns with the willing tenants. Recently, the pastor asked Uncle Denny to consider picking up his mantle to share the word of God on one of those two Sundays when the pastor is not able to be there. It was not a surprise to hear that he had been asked. Uncle Denny has a passion for Christ and it shows. He delights in sharing the Word of God with those he meets; friends and strangers alike. Well, Uncle Denny accepted the mantle and began his first sharing of the Word in June. While we were with him, he was focused on preparing to share his next message on John 14:6, where Jesus stated that, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Those who hear will be blessed! Uncle Denny just turned 85 earlier this month.
At a breakfast this past month my dear friend, Steve, shared that his world as a grandfather was going to be expanding very soon. His second and third grandchild were to arrive during the third quarter this year. He was excited and I was excited with him. Or as a friend from Australia shared last year, “I was upcited!” With emphasis on the “up”! It provides a better mental picture! My friend had a prayer verse posted in his home that provided guidance for him in his role as a grandfather. It was Psalm 71:18 – “Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come.” Steve’s desire was to not only spend time with his grandchildren, but to invest in them spiritually.
Both Uncle Denny and Steve’s examples were encouraging. These men are making a difference. Investing in others. It reminded me of the phrase, “The best defense, is a great offense.” A term historically associated with military campaigns but used more frequently today in the world of sports. A good offense keeps the enemy off guard and less capable to attack. It also focuses on taking new ground. Playing offense is something we should do our entire life. There may be times when limitations surface in our lives, but the Lord will be faithful to provide new opportunities to guide our steps. We need to remain faithful to follow His lead.
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