Along the Way: You’re off and away!

Congratulations! Today is your day.

You’re off to Great Places! You’re off and away!

Todd Deaton

More than a dozen years ago, we began a journey together that was partly inspired by Dr. Seuss’ classic book, “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” Along the Way, readers of The Baptist Courier have met hundreds of inspirational South Carolinians who were involved in missions and ministries – all using their abilities and talents to share Christ in interesting, and sometimes unique, ways.

There have been ventriloquists and illusionists, river kayakers, hitchhikers and campers on mission, book authors and artists, actors, clowns and puppeteers, beauty queens and star athletes. In addition to pastors, evangelists, campus ministers, musicians and chaplains galore, we’ve talked with new and retiring missionaries, volunteer disaster relief workers, doctors, nurses, dentists and optometrists. One thing these people all had in common was their fervent desire to share the love of God with another.

Conversations spotlighted construction teams building new churches; volunteers using chain saws to clear debris after storms; youth swinging hammers and toting paint buckets and brushes to restore homes for the elderly or needy; and women sewing caps for sailors, quilting blankets for newborns, collecting teddy bears to comfort traumatized children, and making dolls to help missionaries spread the gospel with those in far lands.

In the midst of it all were tales of family: my first trip to the Holy Land; the birth of a son and three generations attending their first Darlington race; a daughter’s confession of faith at Vacation Bible School, her joy of learning to ride her bike, and the excitement of driving a car; and celebrating retirement with parents near and far.

Still stories abound, for some are yet to be told. Still places remain, but others will now have to go. Michelle, Laura, Caleb and I will soon be departing the cool sands under the Palmetto trees to stroll barefoot in lush bluegrass hills. Yet your faith-filled testimonies have enriched us and will forever be a part of fondest memories.

Your inspiring stories have reminded me often of that little Royal Ambassador lad from my seminary days who once quizzed, “Why do you do what you do? Do you like it?”

What is it that I like most about my vocation? Perhaps, after all, it’s really not so difficult to understand: It’s you!

While attending church-related functions, I have met fascinating people, like you, who have shared inspiring stories about their faith and God’s blessings. Thanks for sharing with me – and the other readers of The Baptist Courier – how you are using your talents and abilities in missions and ministry. For indeed, the abundant life is found in seeing God at work in the lives of people you meet – along the Way.