One of the great influences on my life was Reverend Earl Gibson, my aunt Birdie (Thomason)'s husband. Though he was an uncle, everyone called him "Reverend Gibson" out of respect for his walk with God and powerful impact on the family and community. His ministry was centered around the cotton farming community of Memphis, Texas near the Red River. An Assemblies of God minister, Rev. Gibson pioneered many churches within a day's drive of their Memphis home which he built with his own hands. Whenever the large Thomason family had its get togethers, he was always the one called upon to lead prayer even though there were several preachers in the family. He was getting old already when I became keenly interested in him and losing his eyesight. I enjoyed many conversations with him, always about the Lord. He talked about Jesus like he was describing his best and closest friend and would always burst out in loud, joyful praise. I shall never forget his glowing face and dimpled grin as he encouraged his young nephew preacher boy.  When I pastored a church in Rockwall Texas, I made frequent trips back and forth to Amarillo. Memphis was on the way so I would stop in to cheer up the home bound old preacher. It never failed that I would be the one who got "cheered up"! His faith in God was enormous and his spirit never grew dull as he aged. He was known in the community as one who would pray for the sick with healing results. So, when his failing eyesight prevented him from driving, people would come to his driveway and "honk for prayer". He would make his way to their cars and stick his hand through their window to pray for them. He never quit. What an example to me even after all these years. All I have to remind me of him are these memories, an old bible he wore out, and this picture. I cannot wait to see Reverend Gibson again!

 

It has been almost four years since one of the most remarkable men I have ever known left this world to be with Jesus. Don Normand blessed my life in so many ways and I shall be forever greatful to God for giving me such a friend. Don was a Father to me in the absence of my own Dad. He was a spiritual mentor and pastor to me in the ministry.  His example of loving people with the Gospel of Jesus Christ set the bar very high for me. He was by far the greatest soul winner I have ever been blessed to know personally. He won souls by the thousands in mass evangelism meetings, revivals and crusades, and one on one. He never met a stranger and never backed away from a challenge. I learned much by watching him work. He was a man's man. A great outdoorsman, he could fish, hunt, swim, fight, and joke with the best in the world. He was friend to Presidents, Kings, Generals, wealthy business people, Rabbis and Priests, common laborers and children. A great story teller and humorists, he was able to hold large audiences spellbound until he landed them safely into his gospel net. He loved Jesus with a passion. One of his last words to me was, "I cannot wait to see my King Jesus". His only regret was in leaving his beloved Cindy behind but he knew Jesus and their children would take good care of her. I learned much from this man about a lot of things. The fact that he included me as a part of his family and circle of friends is one of the greatest honors in my life. I truly miss him! I often find myself wondering what he is doing up there (with a big smile on my face).

Thank you Lord for Don Normand!

I welcome you to my blog and trust it will always be a blessing to you. I pray that you will receive so much blessing that you will come back for more. It is my intent to post a new installment once a week, on Thursday. Please check back often.

I heard a prophetic word recently that said God is taking the lid off of His people's finances. That is a good word, if you are one of His people and if you have positioned yourself through faith and obedience to be in line for the good side of this word.  It could be bad for you if you are walking in disobedience and unbelief. Having the lid off of your finances can allow for blessings to be poured in or out! Remember that God's Word has already said that the wealth of the wicked is laid up for the righteous! Just make sure you are on the positive side of the predicted and long awaited transfer of wealth!

Blessings!

Ronny Thomason