January 10, 2017 (Tuesday)
If you go to Birmingham, Alabama, you can visit the statue of a man who died in 1941, on his knees in prayer, and the only words engraved there are, “Brother Bryan.” He was pastor of the Third Presbyterian Church in that city for 52 years, but was considered chaplain of the entire city. He lived his religion. He shared sacrificially with all who needed anything. Some compared him to St. Francis of Assissi, who was known for his lovingkindness and acts of love toward his fellow men. A great mission continues his work to the present day, providing for the physical and spiritual needs of people from all walks of life. A poem was read at his funeral by Luther Patrick, congressman from Alabama, thought to be the author. Here is the poem:
I was not born in time to see
With eyes the Man of Galilee;
Nor view the Master’s gentle face,
While He extended living grace–
But I am sure He passed this way
For I saw Brother Bryan today!
I did not hear with ears the voice
That bade the foul, unclean rejoice,
That bade the blind believe and see,
That bade the sick and lame go free–
But oh, I know He came this way
For I heard Brother Bryan pray!
He led many thousands of people to Christ, conducted thousand of weddings and funerals, and held several impressive academic degrees, but preferred to be known simply as “Brother Bryan.”
How refreshing to be reminded of a person who followed in the footsteps of His Lord, and faithfully served God by serving others throughout his life.
Jesus invites each and every one of us to make the same type of commitment to Him. May we all pray together, and really mean it from our hearts:
I surrender all.
I surrender all.
All to Thee my Blessed Savior,
I surrender all.