Look at God
Tom at Lake Placid Memorial Library
This is one of those tales that make you think about fate, or as I see it, the spiritual interacting with the material. I mean, how a seemingly random incident leads to another and another, and all you can do is go along with it.
Here’s the story: At the library one afternoon I spotted a book with the word “memoir” on the cover. Curiosity comes to life because I am writing my own memoir. A tale of playing in rock bands around the world in the ‘60s and ‘70s. I snatch it up; let’s see how this writer does it.
The author is, Texas A. Stready, the book, Deep In The Heart of Texas. It’s her search for freedom—a 28-year tour through a hellish cycle of drug addiction, self-degradation, and even prison.
I cannot put this book down. The story seems to lunge off the page and smack me in the heart. I’ve had my struggle with addiction—nothing like what I’m reading—but I know about that walk through the fire, trying to shake it, and attempting to have a life.
While reading the epilogue I discover Texas has an active ministry, A Radical Difference. Her life is now dedicated to reaching out to the lost and forgotten with love and hope. I’m in awe!
I subscribe immediately and notice the ministry is located in Lake Placid, Florida. Wait a minute, that’s where I live! And guess what, she’s just across the highway. I bet I could see her house except for the trees.
I will admit, I went a little nuts. This is too good to be true. I shoot off an email to the listed address. First, this long and gushing bio about my failed attempt to start a drug counseling ministry in Key Largo and so on. I was careful to include, Mon Cirgue, a local wine bar where I read my stories and poetry once a month. There were far too many details but I sent it anyway.
And to my surprise Texas sends a polite reply thanking me for my interest. This is good, right? Can’t help but think that since we’re neighbors we should get together. I must meet this incredible person. Shake her hand. Hug her. Say thank you.
A few back-and-forth emails and then out of the blue—a gift! An invitation to join Texas at her church, South Oak. Sunday morning, 9 AM. Yes!
Texas and Tom at South Oak
Sunday arrives and I walk into the building to discover this beautiful woman beaming with energy, skipping down the aisle, arms wide for a loving embrace. “You must be Tom.”
I leave there feeling as if I’ve known her my whole life. Later, in one of our conversations, she discovers I’m a writer and asks me to write for A Radical Difference. “I’ve been praying for someone like you,” she says. “Someone to help me report to the RAD audience what God is doing. Powerful demonstrations of great victory. Stories that deserve to be told. I just don’t have the time to tell them. Will you pray about this role?”
Fast forward to today: We are the best of friends. At the age of 84, you can’t help but wonder what God could even use you for. Is there any purpose left? There is! And, praise God, I’m beginning a new chapter.
After getting heaven’s nod, I’ll be writing for a greater cause than ever before. The name of this periodic blog is Look at God. So happy to be a part of the RAD Crew and I hope you’ll watch for these compelling stories of God’s supernatural ability to bring total restoration.
Written by T. Brashares
Thank you all so much for the warm welcome. Texas is a powerhouse of faith in action. Working with her is one big revival meeting. We know God is good! And I know He led me here and I thank Him to the Heavens! Thanks again to you people, God Almighty and my friend Texas! T.
I love you, Tom. You are such a joy and encouragement to me. You are amazingly talented and I am honored to be working with you. To God be the glory!!!
So happy you have Thomas on your team! So glad you invited him to South Oak and now we are friends too. Texas gave me one of your CD’s . I just got a boom box give pen to me and plan to take a listen. Looking forward to your contribution!
It’s a great CD. I was letting my son listen to it yesterday. Tom is the best, besides you of course. XOXO
What an exciting story of God’s moving in his body….God’s not finished with you yet, Tom. Being a senior, as well, I’m reminded of a verse I’ve claimed: Colossians 4:17 says, “See to it that you complete the ministry you have received in the Lord.” I know Texas and RAD will be that vehicle for you to bring glory to Him in whatever days He gives you…blessings brother.
Thanks, Doc. This is my first and longest board member. Doc Parrish! Super glad he approves. Love you, Doc.
Love this so much!!!
Me too. Thrilled to have Tom aboard. He’s a fabulous writer and terrific friend as well.
Tom! Outstanding and congratulations. I felt the same way about
DEEP IN THE HEART OF TEXAS, I couldn’t put it down.
I’ve known her family since high school so it was REALLY personal.
Prayerfully, Fred
Yay! Thanks, Fred for your comment. Means the world to me. XOXO
Once again, I am moved to tears! Look at God!!!He is so amazing and faithful. Bringing people together to share His Good News is why we are all here. So happy to hear about your connection and anxious to hear more. Love, Cynde
Our God is amazing and everything He’s doing, and has already done, blows my mind. Thank you so much for taking the time to write this.
Congrats, Mr. Tom and Texas! So excited for what God has planned for your new joint season of His ministry! What a great testimony to the speed and magnitude in which He will readily answer and multiply the offering of; “Send me! I’ll go!”
So true Ashley. So, so true. Super proud of where you are. Thanks for reading and regularly leaving comments. Hope you have a great weekend.
Wow! This is exciting – and I cannot wait to read your next entry! God is right on time – all of the time. I never stop being amazed by His timing. Go Tom! Go Texas! Go God!
Super exciting. Only people who have never lived this life can say it’s boring. It’s way more exciting than anything I’ve ever experienced. That’s for dang sure.
Look at God indeed!! Making a way for expanding the ministry. Welcome Tom.
Yay, Gail. Thank you so much for leaving a comment. This is such a great encouragement to me. And a real confirmation that I’m moving in the right direction. Love you.