Today I had the awesome opportunity to sing and preach the Gospel of Christ to men and women at the Veterans nursing home here in Anderson. I have sang and preached there in the Past, my father in law a Korean War Veteran, (Photo: Left to Right - Jake, Leland Mitchell, Pastor T.) was in this nursing home due to Alzheimer's up until his death a couple of years ago. We had about 30 people come in, families and veterans to worship. Homer Johnson and Brother Richard came in to lead the event that occurs their every 1st Saturday at 2pm. Homer and Richard are members of Gethsemane Baptist Temple. Faithfully every month Homer has a worship service there. The veterans are walked in and wheeled in. They gather to hear gospel music and the Word of God shared. From all walks of life they come. It is great to see them singing and praising the Lord. One in particular is the Chaplain of the facility, Garnett Hanley, a decorated WW2 veteran, 101st Airborne , A D-Day Paratrooper, Purple Heart Winner, who has dedicated his life to these men. A Retired Sheriff Department Lieutenant, he has worked diligently for his fellow brothers in arms. He witnesses to them and ministers to their needs. Today he shared with us the story of a veteran at the home who recently passed away. Garnett told about witnessing to this man. A man that most people would not talk to because he was one that would just cuss them out. One afternoon about three weeks ago, Garnett shared the gospel with this man. Garnett said that he and the guy bowed their heads and the man said the sinners prayer. This guy accepted Christ as his savior. Another story was told about a man there that was 103 Years old. Garnett said that this old veteran asked him to pray that God would just take him. Garnett told him that when God was ready for him to come home he would call him. One day the Old Veteran asked him, today will you pray with me for the Lord to bring me home. Garnett told him he would. They prayed together for Gods will to be done. In fifteen minutes that 103 year old man saw Jesus face to face. His prayer was answered. Today when you kneel in prayer, would you say a prayer for these men and women. They have served their country well and pray for the people caring for them. Thank You Lord for Men like Garnett Hanley, Brother Homer and Brother Richard who give of themselves so our disabled and aged veterans may know Jesus Christ and worship him in Spirit and in Truth. Amen.
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