As I was recently reminded of the fragile and uncertain life we possess at the home going of our friend Garry Thornton, it caused me to think of what is really important in this life. Ecc. 7 speaks of having a "good name" which is better than precious ointment. A good name must be worked on day in and day out and protected against the attacks and temptations this world and the devil throw in our path. A good name is a life long investment, but one that pays dividends one hundred fold. A good name is what is required of everyone who calls Jesus Christ their Lord and Savior. A good name reads, hears and accepts the commandments of our Lord and obeys them. Garry Thornton is a "Good Name". He lived as an example to all of us to give ourselves as servants for the honor and glory of our Lord and King.
In my reading this morning in Luke chapter 19 the Lord gives a parable of the nobleman who gave his servants talents (or pounds) to invest while he goes and receives his kingdom. Upon his return he calls his servants to him to see how they have invested their portion. The first used his and gained for the Master ten pounds, the second earned five and the last didn't invest but kept his and hid it. The first was rewarded with ten cities to rule and the second five cities but the third lost what he was given because he didn't use what his Lord had given him. In God's economy his gifts must be used and invested to gain worth. Simply keeping for yourself what you have been given by the Lord is just like saying "I just want to keep it for myself and don't care about anyone else." The gifts, talents and lives we have been given by The Master are to be invested in other people because "The Master is worthy." It is interesting that the Lord uses this parable just before he makes his triumphal entry into Jereusalem to be hailed as "Hosanna in the highest." Garry was a man who invested the gifts that the Lord gave to him. He invested in people and always caused the name of Christ to be glorified. We have had one of the best examples of how to invest in people for the glory of the Lord in our friend Garry Thornton. Thank you for teaching me how to live for Christ.
