Reflections from the Fouts Farm
I was blessed to be with a men’s d-group that meets at the Fouts Farm weekly last night. It is a group of men that has been so impactful in my life and in the life of our church. There was a moment around the campfire that night where some of the guys were sharing testimonies of God’s faithfulness and my heart was full but the words wouldn’t come… here is a note I sent to them that I think might encourage us all as we embrace the call to make disciples.
Men, what a joy it was to be with you last night. Spending time with some of the best men – men who love the Lord and one another – two things Jesus reminded us were of the utmost importance. For some reason, as we sat around that fire, the words I wanted to express just wouldn’t come. But I woke up around 4:30 this morning with all of you on my heart, feeling full from our time together, and I wanted to share a few things that were on my heart.
As Bill shared about how much you all and the brotherhood have meant to him, the special place it has had in his life, I thought about the countless people he has blessed through his efforts. Only the Lord knows the many ramps and loads of wood that may have been provided. When I consider all those who have been blessed, I know that includes the men around that fire. It’s amazing how the Lord blesses us as we give of ourselves to help others. Jesus said, “The greatest among you shall be your servant.” (Matt 23:11) Looking around that fire, there were truly some of the greatest according to this verse.
Beside Bill was Terry, who continues to run the race in many ways where Bill is not physically able. As Terry shared, he spoke of Bill and Mr. Dillard and the impact they made on him, a legacy that continues to influence us all. Bill mentioned not being able to do much other than observe in this season, but just his presence means more to Terry and all of us than Bill realizes. Every Sunday and every time I see Bill, he encourages me and lifts me up. It’s never about Bill, but always about others. God has placed a true “Barnabas” in our midst, and for that, I am immensely grateful. Cowee is so much better because of Bill. We all are. Happy birthday Bill… I thank God for you.
Hearing Coach Morgan talk about God’s hand in his life at every turn, we are thankful that God brought him our way and to Cowee. To grow up seeing his example as a student at FHS and a part of the track team for a season, and then for him to lead prayer services for Sherry and I after a car wreck her senior year connects a thread that goes way back. The impact he continues to make in countless lives, guided by God in each step, is evident. Seeing his son-in-law and grandchildren beside him last night – loving Jesus – and hearing him testify, reminded me of the importance of making the “handoff,” a track term that is so familiar, in our families and to other men in our lives.
Reflecting on Harvey’s impact, I am reminded of the immense blessing he has been to me. After my first sermon at Cowee, Harvey took the time to send an email and encourage me on the journey. It was one of the most timely and helpful messages I have ever received. In numerous meetings and gatherings discussing the future of our church, Harvey has imparted invaluable wisdom and possesses a gift for conveying it concisely and memorably. I recall a deacons meeting during the early stages of COVID, feeling stressed and weary, when Harvey leaned in and said, “This too shall pass.” Those words, prompted by the Holy Spirit, often brought me comfort and helped me navigate that season. They were true, and God has remained faithful as we persevered. Harvey also once mentioned that the next season for Cowee needed to be “high tech and high touch.” These words have resurfaced in my mind as I read Acts chapter 6, emphasizing God’s desire for His people to be cared for and for the Word and prayer to take precedence.
The impact these men that gathered for last night have on our church is bigger than what I can articulate. The impact you have had on me and on Cowee is immeasurable. I am grateful to have spent time on the Fouts farm last night with you all. We need more of what occurs at the Fouts farm every Tuesday, in our church and community. We need more instances on a larger scale, shown beautifully by Bill and Terry’s story last night.
Paul wrote to Timothy, “You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” (2 Timothy 2:1-2) I thank God for faithful men like Adam, who shared God’s grace last night, and men like Sam, Keith, Mike, Shane, and Thomas – as well as upcoming men like Isaiah and Owen – who are tasked with carrying the baton from men like Harvey, Bill, Terry, and David. These faithful men are leading the way, gathering around the Word and preparing to handoff to the next group who will carry the mantle in our church and community. Men who are willing to impart their knowledge from the Lord’s Word and life to faithful men, who carry the responsibility of doing the same. It’s a significant responsibility, but we serve a mighty God. I am thankful for each one of you. May God help us to carry the baton and make the handoff well as we love and serve Him together. Grateful for you all!