WAJ - 2007 RELATIONSHIPS

Each year as the date for the Write About Jesus Workshop gets closer to the opening evening, Sue gets into her feelings of not having any idea as to writing a new song and becomes totally focused on making the workshop one that those attending will find inspiration not only to write better, but be a better Christian.

Developing a program for both experienced writers and those in the initial stages of writing for Jesus is not an easy task. Fortunately, we have a faculty who is good in both areas. As important as improving as a writer and learning the technical skills that are required, it appears to me (not a writer) that perhaps the best thing that comes out of WAJ is relationships. In the field of education, I have long insisted that emphasizing the four "R's" is vital. Reading, "Riting," "Rithemetic," and Relationships This should be part of the curriculum of every school and especially in Christian schools.

I felt something special at this year's WAJ. From the beginning in 2000, there has always been a good spirit; however, this year a special spirit was something that was unseen, but very real. There appeared to be a spirit of unity, helpfulness, a universal desire to learn, and warmth. Perhaps it was the influence of Jesus that was present in each of us. I know I want more of whatever it was. In the competition there was not a spirit of competition. It seemed like everyone was pulling for everyone to do well and if someone else won, that was ok with the other competitors. That has to be the influence of Jesus. Through the workshop and the discussion board, we are building a Christian family that is getting better, not only at writing, but at caring for others in the family. That is relationship building and I am grateful to all the registrants and clinicians for making this happen.

The Ugliest Old Lady Who Had Great Influence

Aunt Jane Prestige grew up in Texas a long time ago during the reconstruction period of our nation's history. She married at an early age and had two children. Her husband died early in their marriage leaving her with the two children and a lot of work to do. She literally built their home. She split the rail, placed logs and lumber into place, painted, cooked, maintained the yard, took care of the animals. My friend Chaplain (Lt Col) John H. Brown said she had one and half teeth and they didn't meet. Because of what she did to keep her family going, everyone respected Aunt (as they say in Texas "Aint") Jane. It always seemed to take a long time to walk in front of her house. If you asked as question such as "Think it will rain Aunt Jane?" Her reply was straight to the point. "Your thinker is as good as mine, what do you think?"

Chaplain Brown said she preached the greatest sermon he ever heard and she preached it on her front porch. She said: "John, I've seen happy days and I've seen sorrowful days, but through it all, I can say blessed be the name of the Lord." My guess is that she didn't give that thought much attention, but it was incredibly moving to Chaplain Brown. Without her knowing it or having any idea that this was meaningful to someone, that message has been preached in Army chapels around the world. It has been preached on ships at sea and on the battlefields of Korea. It has been a message that has touched soldiers, sailors, marines, and civilians in the United States and Europe. I continue to share the story and some of those who hear me will continue the legacy.

You don't have to have a college education, be a commercial Christian songwriter, a professor, or a minister to have a message. Sometimes the great messages come from unexpected places. That makes listening very important.