News
November 12, 2004
On November 6th Fred was inducted into the Roaring Lambs Hall of Fame. This fine organization was created by Garry Kinder to continue the work of Bob Briner. They train, equip and encourage men and women to show "faith that works at work." The ballroom was filled with over 1100 enthusiastic attendees. Clearly, the Holy Spirit filled the place, as well.
Fred spoke in a reclining position in his Barton Chair. The teamwork was flawless, for indeed it took a well-oiled machine to get him to the hotel, through the dinner and home. What a sight to see two giant men(John Gillespie, Bill Glass) flanking him and cutting up his dinner!
S. Truett Cathy, Founder and Chairman of Chick-Fil-A was inducted, as well. Dr. O.S. Hawkins, President and CEO, Guidestone Financial Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention was the keynote speaker. He demonstrated great humility and wisdom by acknowledging that these two men had much to say. So, he put his well-prepared talk into his pocket, shared the gospel of Jesus Christ boldly, made a few perceptive observations and closed the meeting. The audience recognized his decision and appreciated him for not only his professional sensitivity, but his personal kindness.
Fred hit the ball out of the park. His voice was strong, his message to the point and his delivery "vintage Fred Smith."
Future weekly thoughts will highlight his talk but here is a helicopter view of three key points. "When man uses you you feel demeaned; when God uses you you feel anointed." He cited a conversation with his good friend Ron Glosser. "How are things going, Ron?" "Fred, God is using me."
Fred's favorite definition of humility: "humility is not denying the power that you have, but admitting that it comes through you and not from you."
He challenged the audience to think about whether they were trying to be the pump or the pipe. When we assume the pump role we can burn out, but the pipe never tires - it just transports the fluid that the pump provides. He reminded us that Jesus Christ is the pump and we are the pipe --- any other configuration will fail.
At home were all of Fred's children who had proudly attended the dinner. And, Mary Alice, his wife of 67 years who was too ill. The family stood around, held hands and prayed for both of them.
Fred was an anointed pipe on Saturday, November 6th!
