Last week I received a letter of condolence from a good friend in Brazil regarding the home-going of David Nicholas, the man whom I succeeded as Senior Pastor at Spanish River Church. My friend borrowed these words from the German playwright, Bertolt Brecht. He felt they described much of David's life and ministry. I agree. They are a fitting tribute to David's legacy of service to Christ.
There are men that fight for a day, and they are good;
There are others that fight for a year, and they are better;
There are those that fight for many years, and they are very good;
However there are those who fight for a lifetime . . .
These are the essential.
Bertolt Brecht
Brecht's song calls to mind the words of the Apostle Paul, which both describe David and provide the admonition for all of us who want to be counted among those who "fight the good fight" for Christ.
For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing. (2 Timothy 4:6-8 ESV)
Lord, let us be counted among the essential!