Every time we have an opportunity to hear him preach, Julie does the same thing. She’ll take notes; she knows there’s no way she’ll be able to get it all written down, but if you know my wife, you know she’s not going down without a fight. But there’s something else she does… she keeps a tally. You know what I’m talking about, the little marks you jot down every time somebody does whatever it is you’re trying to keep count of. She started doing it years ago when we heard him preach for the first time. Now, it’s just second nature while she’s paying attention to the message (and believe you me, she IS paying attention!).
What are the marks for? I’m glad you asked. Every Scripture he quotes without turning the pages of His Bible or looking at any notes, which usually don’t even exist – they are so deeply rooted within his heart. Years ago, he was asked at a conference how he memorizes so much Scripture. I’ll never forget his response. He looked at the young pastor and said,
“Young man, I don’t memorize Scripture. Scripture memorizes me.”
This morning, my prayer is not just that we are challenged by God’s Word (I know that’s going to happen) but that we will also commit ourselves to God’s Word. That we will hear and experience and understand more fully, more completely… this incredible power we have IN HIM and THROUGH HIM because of His Word.
Church Family, once again, Julie and I are elated and honored to share with you our friend, Dr. Robert Smith Jr. Dr. Smith, we are humbled and excited to share with you our Church Family. We love you both, and thank God for putting each of you in our lives.
Julie… get ready!