I eat lunch with him often, and he refreshes my soul.
He took my awkward teenage self and taught me what it means to love people.
Many miles separate us, yet I know he prays for me continually.
I've only known him a short time, and I'm glad he's in my life.
Sunday's sermon has been on my mind all week. The passage was Genesis 13, and the practical tip was to "get an Abraham in your life!" A faithful, encouraging, old guy with a heart for God.
Fortunately for me, I've got five old guys to make fun of....ummm....to "enjoy" in my life.
Chuck Swindoll is a preacher at a church in California. His radio show, Insight for Living, is on at 12:05pm each day on the local Christian station. As much as I can, I try to take my lunch break at 11:55am so I can get my lunch heated or ready to go and head to my car in the parking lot. Especially on pleasant days when I can roll down the windows. I tune in to hear the next in his sermon series. Most recently he's been walking us through all the books of the Bible, sharing highlights of each, giving background, and always including a practical tip for the day. His powerful words are encouraging. His laughter is contagious (he always has a great story!). And he has influenced my spiritual life without even knowing it.
Work is an expression of what God can do through me. Purpose is as important to me as anything, and the work I do at Standard Publishing is very fulfilling--getting incredible resources into the hands of church leaders who will share Jesus with others. All the details of "work" become fun and exciting for me each day, and I find it enjoyable to eat my lunch while working. Occasionally, however, I need a break from the routine. On those days, I am honored to enjoy a lunch out with my friend, Mark Taylor. He's one of my favorite "old guys" to hang out with. He enjoys people, good food, and a hearty laugh! By the time we get together, I'm always in the mood to chat and he's always there to listen. Best of all, he's wise. He's lived far longer than I, and I respect his careful words, encouraging spirit, and "normal-ness." I am myself and he's okay with that. He certainly refreshes my soul.
I was a dorky teen. Skinny, pimply, and introverted. Fortunately, Dan Baker took the time to get to know me. He was my youth group leader. And what I remember most is just hanging out. Going places, laughing, babysitting his kids, playing video games, and having fun. Not sure if it's a spiritual gift, but God definitely bestowed ENERGY upon Dan, and he is awesome at sharing it! He is my complete opposite: outgoing, outgoing, outgoing! I thank God that he came into my life at such an important time. He saw "me" and drew me out of the shell I was hiding in. Since then, we have had multiple opportunities to have lunch, laugh, and hang out. His love for people is contagious, and he changed my life for the better.
Love has no boundaries. Good thing, because this guy is one of my favorites and he lives many, many miles away. My dad, John Faust, is a patient, caring, follower of Christ. As I grow older, his example reminds me of multiple Scripture verses about family (Deuteronomy 6, Joshua 24:15), marriage (Ephesians 5), living on this earth (Philippians 4:4-9), and staying focused (Mark 12:29-31, Romans 12:10). He taught me about Jesus through his life, his marriage, and his work. And now that I'm a dad, he continues to teach me. I hear his words of encouragement, and I see "him" in me when I react a certain way. He was a faithful prayer warrior when I was young. And I know he prays for me now. He showed Jesus to me then. And his legacy continues through his prayers, my life, and through our family in multiple ways.
Most recently, I have had the privilege of knowing Tom Van Meter. I call him "old guy" and he calls me "young kid." He and his wife, Joann, know my grandparents. They actually have a very funny story about Pop and Gramma...a story I love to remember because I chuckle every time. Tom is a great guy! Though he retired from Standard Publishing, I was able to work with him for a little while. His focus was on the Biblical Choices Christian school curriculum and our paths crossed when he traveled to events that promoted it. Since then we work together under different circumstances. He works as an independent contractor for Standard, and I coordinate his activities. He calls me "boss." I call him "crazy old guy." He's old, and he's fun. (proven by the picture below!) Among his many positive traits, I have found a great listener and friend. He is careful with his words. I am quick to let my tongue roll. He enjoys getting to know people and is easy to talk to. I struggle to stay focused on one person at a time and really listen. His life mirrors Christ. And I find that I grow closer to Christ when I spend time with Tom.
Give it up for the old guys! "Old Guy" and "Young Kid" in Nashville, TN
for a Christian School Convention
