Back

Open Windows Ministry -- On February 1, 2005 I reluctantly entered the disability status and preached my last sermon as a United Methodist church pastor. For twenty six years I have served full-time as an ordained minister in pastoral settings. To make such a drastic change in my life involved much prayer, seeking God's Word through the Scriptures, and talking with my family, physicians, supervision, and close friends.

In the latter part of 2005 I had to give up preaching due to short-term memory loss and other Parkinson's advancements. A big part of my life had now been closed to me. My Christian faith has not been shaken in all this, and I prayed that as one big door was closed, God would open a window for me to continue in His ministry. I discovered recently the opening of not a window but windows. New opportunities for public speaking about Parkinson's disease have have been presented, I have entered into a deeper role as police chaplain, and the Lord has shown me a talent I never knew was present. That talent is pencil artwork.

I have discovered a gift that is great brain-hand therapy and that enables me to express my feelings and ministry in art. I, like many of Parkies, have a sleep disorder. In the early hours of the mornings I go to the den and begin to draw and color pictures. I do drawings of flowers, winter scenes, Christmas, barns and farm scenes, "out houses" that are surprisingly popular, and other objects and scenes around my home.

I have been able to give framed and matted pictures to friends who are sick and persons who need cheering up and a reminder of God's love for them. I also am able to suppliment my pension to a small degree from my art.

0

I say to persons who have recently been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, to persons who are experiencing an increase in symptoms, and those who are incurring greater disabilities -- do not give up! Do not feel that the closing of a great door in your life will shut you out from having a good and enjoyable life or from being productive. Pray for and expect windows to be opened for you. You and I are not to dwell in lost abilities, but we can look for and expect new opportunities in life.