I know as I begin writing this blog post, there will be some who will blast me for posting about two Christian leaders who passed away this week. (After being in ministry for 26 years, I’m used to it so go ahead. Now back to the post😀…) One of these men was more renowned, but God used both to reach many for Christ. These two men are Dr. Charles Stanley, Pastor Emeritus of First Baptist Church of Atlanta, GA, and Ron Hamilton, better known as “Patch the Pirate.”
Dr. Charles Stanley has been on television and radio for decades. Many have listened to his “In Touch” broadcast and been touched by it. Dr. Stanley was quite controversial during the days of the conservative resurgence among Southern Baptists. Many who were on the same team were ready to write him off after his divorce in 2000. Despite the difficulties, he remained faithful.
Ron Hamilton is one who was lesser known, but he was most certainly not unknown among more conservative independent Baptists. He was a prolific songwriter who also wrote the “Patch the Pirate” children’s curriculum after his diagnosis with eye cancer and his subsequent eye removal. Many churches have used his curriculum for their children’s ministry.
The thing that impressed me most about these two men is that they took their adversities and ministered through them. I can’t help but think how I want that type of resilience and perseverance. Will you join me in praying for these two families?
Honest Thoughts from a Pastor 
Leave a Reply