Learning to Lean – It's On My Mind

November 17, 2020 (Tuesday)

In 1983, First Baptist Rockport had a revival meeting led by an evangelist from Scotland. I have wracked my brain, trying to remember his name. His wife was with him and they made a beautiful pair, serving the Lord from place to place. He taught us a song, “Learning to Lean.” I can hear him singing it now with the Scottish accent. He led us in the chorus in every service and even in the post service times in the evening. (see note at end of blog for his identity).

I remember the date, early February, 1983, because my brother, Jimmy Heim, died during the meeting, and I had to leave Rockport and go to Houston for the funeral. He died on February 3, 1983, at age 34. He had an illness from birth that we knew would someday take his life; early in his life the doctors said he probably would not live past his teen years, but he lived twice as long as predicted. We are thankful for that, because he was a blessing to all who knew him (to know him was to love him).

I wish I could remember the evangelist’s name. We enjoyed having him and his wife lead us. I’m sure the name was printed in the church newsletter. I saved those newsletters but for the life of me I cannot find them now. So I’ll just take a stab in the dark: “MacGilvray.” That’s not it but it’s the only thing that buzzes through my head. At least I’m pretty sure it has “Mac” in the name.

The main memory I have of him is his sweet spirit and great talent in preaching the gospel. I also recall his Scottish accent and musical ability (he played the acccordion, sang “Danny Boy” and Irish songs like “Dear Old Donegal,” the song that introduces everyone in the family: (“Shake Hands with Your Uncle Mike.”) I’m ashamed that I cannot remember that preacher’s name. But that has been almost 38 years ago. I do well to remember how many cups of coffee I have already had today.

The song, “Learning to Lean,” has a great message. I think you will agree to that.

LEARNING TO LEAN
Author: John Stallings
1976

Learning to lean
Learning to lean
I’m learning to lean on Jesus
Finding more power than I’ve ever dreamed
I’m learning to lean on Jesus

Sad, broken-hearted, at an altar I knelt
I found peace that was so serene
And all that He asks is a childlike trust
And a heart that is learning to lean

Learning to lean
Learning to lean
I’m learning to lean on Jesus
Finding more power than I’ve ever dreamed
I’m learning to lean on Jesus

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*Just for fun
Dear Old Donegal sung by Jimmie Dean & friends Click here(The classic Irish song performed by Maureen O’Hara, Jimmy Dean and Bronwyn FitzSimons).

* More fun–the lyrics Click here

Hear Dennis Day, a great Irish tenor,who was a cast member and soloist on the old Jack Benny show (radio and tv).

And don’t forget Bing Crosby

I am adding a note on March 9,2021. I found some information. The evangelist was Victor McManus,and his wife was Maureen. He was known as “The Man from Ireland” and his home base was Greenville, Texas.