NOT A MINUTE, NOT ONE SECOND

Around 14 months ago he sat in my office having completed his ordination exam. He came, not intending to take the test, but did so after riding to our offices with a fellow pastor and friend. The fact was that Brian Brantley didn’t even know the test was being given on that day. He had things far more intense going on in his life at that point; things like terminal lung cancer at thirty four years of age, a wife and two boys, and a church he was helping to turn around.

After listening to his heart about God’s faithfulness despite suffering and the enduring love of our Father, we wept and prayed together. I can’t really remember how long he said the doctors had given him that day but being moved by his circumstance and my need to help (and I believe the Holy Spirit), I told him that we would Ordain him at the next District Council to be held the first week of May. Although, that decision was not one that I could make, and the time frame made it nearly impossible, our Secretary-Treasurer, Phil Wall, and Dr. James Bradford, our General Secretary, made it happen. I’m so glad they did. The Council was a great one for Brian. He was able to preach our Wednesday night Vesper service, receive the Courage and Church Revitalization awards and become Ordained, which was a hallmark accomplishment in his own eyes.

Yesterday, I attended his home going celebration at the church he labored so diligently for in Eastman, Georgia. Two young pastors and a Praise Team (all of whom Brian was so proud) led the Celebration. Sitting on the front row of the church were at least six young men who would carry their pastor to his final place of rest. It was very obvious to me by the expressions on their faces, that particular task was for them, a work of love and devotion. The building on which he had labored so diligently right up until he left its doors last week was packed. He had done a wonderful job as pastor and it showed in every aspect of the service and in the words of those who had come.

As I sat and worshipped my thoughts returned to that day in my office over a year ago. After we had prayed I asked him what else I could do for him. He looked down to compose himself then looked at me and spoke words I hope to never forget. He said, “Promise me that you will call me on it if you see me waste one day or one hour of whatever time I have left. Please tell me because I don’t want to waste not one minute and not one second of this time!”   

I’m afraid I was not able to keep my promise, but I am very thankful because I believe Brian did!