Many years ago, now when a fax machine was the norm I received a fax from my father. My dad was a railroad conductor for 43 years. He started and ended his day at the depot in Greenwood, MS.

I had given my 2 month notice to the railroad as God was leading me to seminary in Memphis, TN. Dad knew how long I had listened to God about this decision, so he knew his son was walking away from a great career and beginning a new path known as God’s Call to Ministry.

Dad sent a fax to me of something he had copied from one of Chuck Swindoll’s books. I cherish this from my dad. I would have never dreamed that in God’s timing and His perfect guidance, I would conclude many sermons around the world with this. Dad would have never guessed what would happen as he listened to the prompting of the Holy Spirit and pressed send on that fax machine. I have used this in many states in America, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Puerto Rico, Russia, Cape Town, South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Israel, and Italy.

            After a young African was martyred for his faith, this writing was found in his room:

             “I’m part of the fellowship of the unashamed, the die has been cast, I have stepped over the line, the decision has been made – I’m a disciple of Jesus Christ – I won’t look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still.

            My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, my future is secure – I’m finished and done with low living, sight walking, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tamed visions, worldly talking, cheap giving and dwarfed goals.

            My face is set, my gait is fast, my goal is heaven, my road is narrow, my way is rough, my companions’ are few, my guide is reliable, my mission is clear. I won’t give up, shut up, let up until I have stayed up, stored up, and prayed up for the cause of Jesus Christ.

             I must go till He comes, give till I drop, preach till everyone knows, work till He stops me, and, when He comes for His own, He will have no trouble recognizing me because my banner will have been clear.”