Sunday Song - "Blessed to be a Blessing"

This afternoon our community hosted a farewell tribute to a wonderful man, John Andrist.  Born and raised in Crosby, ND he has lived here now for more than 80 years.  He followed in his father's footsteps as the editor of our local newspaper, and passed the reigns to his own son.  The business has now been sold, but he still faithfully writes his "John-A-Dreams" column. 

Seeing the crowded room was evidence of how many people love and admire this man.  The list of people offering tributes was a long one, and it was interesting to hear the many ways in which John has touched lives.

Near the end of the program, a tally was given of the donations John has made over the years to benefit projects in our community and state.  I forget the exact total, but know it was greater than a million and a half dollars.  His generosity has been amazing and he remains a very humble man.  To me, this is very admirable.

In John's closing remarks, he challenged each of us to do what we can with our money and time to make someone else's life better.  He claims his giving is a selfish thing, as he loves the joy he receives when doing it.  He also remarks no matter how much he gives away, he always manages to end up with more.  I do believe there is a Biblical principle at work, which is outlined in the following passage:

"Give, and it will be given to you.

A good measure, pressed down,

shaken together and running over,

will be poured into your lap.

For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."

~Luke 6:38

When thinking about John, the chorus of a song comes to mind.  Attributed to  Scott Wesley Brown, Claire Cloninger, Niles Borop, and Dwight Liles, the song was copyrighted in 1988 and is entitled "Blessed to Be a Blessing".  Although the words of the verses are directed to our country as a nation, the chorus seems to describe John's attitude very effectively. 

"We've been blessed to be a blessing
We've been loved to give His love
Made mighty so we can fulfill His call
We've been blessed to be a blessing
With enough to give enough
For the greatest in His kingdom
Is the servant of us all"

What a blessing it has been in my life to know and love this man, who also provided me with a dear friend when the third of his five children was born.  He has been a mentor for my husband in his political aspirations, and something tells me he will remain an important part of our lives even after he makes his move to the other side of the state.

There is a passage of Scripture which often comes to mind when I think of those who have been blessed with riches.  Bear in mind as you read it how much more even the poorest of us in America have over those in impoverished nations:



"Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life."

~1 Timothy 6:17-19

Thank you, John, for providing us with a model of obedience to these commands.  May many seek to follow your example!

*********************************************************************************

If you would like to take in the tributes given John today, a video was made of the program and is accessible at this link:    



http://youtu.be/i_InFdU7k6M