Examples
July 14th, 2012
Jim O Hara (Harper Memorial)
(1 Thessalonians 1:7 ESV) ‘ so that you became an example to all the believers ‘
There are many men and women who have helped shape our Christian lives. Possibly Christian parents or grandparents, or maybe a work colleague or neighbour, someone who stands out for the depth of their life through having a living trust in our Lord and Saviour.
I recall some of the people who have helped and shaped me; Jack Speirs, Rev Wayne Swindall, Rev Jim Clarke, Rev Ronald Sewell, and in more recent times, Rev Craig Dyer and the staff of the Cornhill College in Glasgow. These people are unlikely to know how they helped ground and shape my life, but as with many others my life has benefitted through shared times together. I would like to make mention of two people who touched my life and I am sure touched many more lives as well.
My parents were both committed Christians, and my father served in the leadership of Gorgie Baptist in Edinburgh. Occasionally, when he was doing his home visits to the friends and members of the fellowship, I would go with him. One particular lady, was an elderly widow who lived in a single room just off Dalry Road. This lady never missed a church service, midweek meeting or anything else that was going on and was there regardless of the weather and her own frailty. She was always there helping out where ever she could. This dear soul had little or no earthly possessions. Her home was a single room with a bed and a well-scrubbed table with a couple of wooden chairs. The floor boards showed through the worn linoleum that almost covered the floor. She had a heart for her Saviour and this dear lady helped to teach me humility and faithfulness.
The other person had been a successful businessman, who had retired some years before we met. Whilst he was not as physically fit as he once was, he was mentally very agile and seemed to understand all that was happening around him, both good and bad. This dear brother kept the name of our Lord and Saviour and would not allow anyone to be in anyway disrespectful, or take anything to do with our Lord in any way for granted. He would interrupt conversations to gently but firmly guide you to choose your words carefully when speaking of our God. This dear brother taught me a greater depth of honour and respect towards our Lord & Saviour.
I am sure on reflection, you will have similar friends and acquaintances, who have helped to guide and shape you and your walk as Christ’s own? I would encourage you to reflect on these dear friends and praise our Lord for the blessing they have been to our lives as we grow in Him day by day.
