In the early 1980s the congregation where I preached experienced much growth as dozens of individuals obeyed the gospel and converted to Christ. The work was tiring as well as exhilarating; filled with valleys as well as mountain peaks. It was exciting to be a part of such an effort.

I would conduct personal evangelism classes one night and new converts classes almost the next night. Young adults who became Christians would bring their friends to study and we often would baptize them. We were careful to make sure that those taught and baptized were taught to "observe all things I have commanded you" (Matt. 28:19).

However, we saw some new converts rise up and grow. They went to other congregations and were faithful. Some of them married each other and continued to grow. Sadly, others grew weary and fell away. After a while the work can take its toll if we are not careful. At times like these, saints need to lift up their eyes and see the Creator of all the Earth. He gives power to the faint-hearted and weary. We can run and not grow weary and soar on wings as eagles.

Two young Christians, each of whom I had the opportunity to teach and baptize, met each other at another congregation, fell in love, and asked me to many them. Before they moved away from Sacramento, they presented me with a large framed print showing an eagle with wings spread, ready to "mount up." It had this inscription: "They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles. They shall run and not grow weary, they shall walk and not faint" (Isa. 40:31). It has been my favorite Old Testament passage since and was the inspiration for this familiar hymn that I wrote. At last report, they are still faithful to each other and to the Lord.

Guardian of Truth XL: No. 15, p. 11
August 1, 1996