goin'-to-church -meetin'- reflections

reckon: to count; to esteem or consider, depend on or rely
reckon with: to include in consideration or planning; to deal with

Some people are forces to be reckoned with. Such a man, Ford Reynolds shared at last night's meeting.

Twenty-five years ago, when I was a college student, Ford was already a respected teacher and elder at the church. He taught Sunday School, shared informally from the pulpit, belted out the old hymns, and always, always prayed for anyone in need. I have kept my note-filled journals from his classes on faith, healing, and basic Christian doctrine; they have served me well. His belly-laugh, replete with shaking shoulders and sparkling eyes, have the same effect as a public yawn: a like-response from all around him. God's word is his credo, unshaking and unapologetic.

He carrys his 78 years like a badge of honor. Although his speech is steeped in memories, he lives in the anticipation of tomorrow. "What will God do next?" he booms, laughing with wonder. "I think God wants to move, how about you?" he asks rhetorically as he flips through his Bible with practiced purpose.

I am grateful for a man like Ford Reynolds. Anybody say Amen?