Resident shares last sermon of grandfather

When I think about legacy, I think about Bob Patterson a member of our church. Legacy is what outlives you and can be bad or good.

Bob Patterson has been married for over 70 years to his lovely bride Martha and they are both in their “young” 90s. Brother Bob has accomplished so many things professionally and traveled to many different countries, but what matters is he is a Christian and carrying on a long list of Godly men in his family’s legacy.

He shared something with me I wanted to pass on to you. He shared a paper that was found in the notes of the last sermon delivered by his grandfather Reverend H. Patterson on Sunday Oct. 20, 1946, at Landers Ridge Church. Rev. Patterson attempted to finish this sermon after being stricken but was unable to recover and passed away Nov.7, 1946.

“My Way of Life”

I have dreamed many a dream that never came true; but I have had enough dreams come true to make me believe in dreams and keep on dreaming.

I have prayed many a prayer that seemed unanswered; but I have seen enough of my prayers answered to make me forever believe in prayer, and keep on praying.

I have trusted many a man who failed me; but I have found enough true friends to make me forever believe in humanity, and to keep on trusting.

I have sowed many a seed that fell on stony ground and was destroyed by the birds; but I have held in my arms enough golden sheaves to make me believe in the harvest and keep on sowing.

I have fought many a battle and lost it; but I have won enough battles to make me forever believe in the struggle and make me keep on fighting.

I have spoken many a word that should never had been spoken; but enough of my words have touched human hearts to make me forever believe in witnessing and to keep on at it.

I have preached many a poor sermon that shamed me; but I have seen enough hearts warmed under the gospel to make me forever believe in preaching and to keep on at it.

I have seen Jesus, my Lord, seem to lose many a battle; but I have seen enough of His triumph to make me forever believe in His Divine Sovereignty, and follow Him forever and forever.

I have to say, that that is an encouragement to us all to keep going and not give up in making a difference for Jesus in our community and world.

If you want to email how this impacted, I will pass on to Brother Bob Patterson (mathewvroman@gmail.com).

Finally, make sure you have trusted Jesus Christ as your Savior.

Oct. 30 at First Baptist Church there is a free Fall Festival 5 to 6:30 pm. Don’t forget that this Sunday is the continuation of the Bible course called “End Times 101.” Come to First Baptist Church (1101 N. Main) to learn more this Sunday at 6 p.m. (fbcsikesotn.org).

If you have a question you would like answered for future columns email mathewvroman@gmail.com