Glenn Ingraham 1923-2010
I remember fishing. I remember salmon BBQs. I remember trampolines. I remember huge family Christmas Eves. However, the memory that stands above the rest was a rather simple moment.
Standing at the back door of his house around my 18th birthday, he casually, yet intentionally, pulled out his Bible memory cards and said to me, “Brian, this is a good one that I want you to remember. 2 Chronicles 16:9 ‘The eyes of the Lord range throughout the whole earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.”
Sometimes it is the most simple moments that leave the deepest impressions. That day I memorized those words that have become a source of continual encouragement and grounding. During the 7 years of ministry training and the now 12 years of full-time ministry (more than half of that oversees as a missionary church planter), these words have kept reminding me of what is truly important. God is searching for people whose hearts are fully committed to him. And if I want to experience the strength of the Lord in my life and in my work, then above all else I need to make sure my heart is “all in” following Jesus Christ “any time, anyplace, any cost.”
God ordains the families we are forged in. He ordains certain “legacy moments” where the wisdom he reveals to one generation is divinely passed on to the next. To have a Grandfather who loved the Word is a priceless heritage, one that I desire to pass to my children someday as well.
Grandpa Ingraham, thank you for this priceless legacy.
February 24th, 2010 at 8:38 pm
A precious treasure, Brian. Thanks for sharing this inspiring legacy. Praying for the family as you now rehearse your treasured moments with Glenn.
March 7th, 2010 at 3:39 am
What a wonderful way to remember your Grandfather. Yes, you did have a Spiritual upbringing even if your mother has gone south (literally). I was able to see most of this memorial online but missed the first part.
Lots of love and again, many thanks for the cards and gift. Going to bed, I think I have pneumonia.