At church the other day, I heard a rather moving sermon.
I realize all sermons should speak to you on some level. The reverend has put a lot of thought into his or her edict for that day, and the message is always important when it comes from the word of God. But unfortunately, not all of the sermons stick with me in the same way. I’m sure I’m not alone.
On this particular Sunday, the pastor’s words spoke to me in a very meaningful way.
The sermon began as it always does, with an excerpt from the Bible readings we had previously in the service. I wish I could quote the verse to you; but, sadly, I can’t remember the specific text.
What I do remember is the story and the message the pastor shared with us. A quick Google search following the service told me this story had been out there for several years, but this was the first time I had heard it.
The pastor spoke about a fighter pilot, Captain Charles Plumb, who was shot down by a surface-to-air missile in Vietnam. Despite the ruined aircraft, he was able to parachute to safety only to be captured by the enemy. He survived six years of captivity before he was able to return home, forever changed but alive.
He went on to lecture about his experiences and what he had learned. One day he was having dinner at a restaurant when he was approached by a man who exclaimed, “You’re Captain Plumb!”
After Plumb confirmed his identity, the man went on to tell Plumb the name of the aircraft carrier he had served on and that he had been shot down over Vietnam. Plumb asked this man how he knew all of this, and the man answered “Because, I was the one who packed your parachute.”
The encounter stuck with Plumb. He had come face-to-face with the man who packed the chute that saved his life. Without it, he wouldn’t be here to share his story.
The pastor then asked the congregation to consider “Who packs your parachute?” Who are the people in your life who lift you up when you start to fall? Who supports you when you are in need? And in turn, are you that person for someone else? Do you help “pack the chute” in someone else’s life?
It’s a very appropriate message as we enter the holiday season. It’s the time of year to be thankful for those who support us in life and to let those we care about know that we are here for them.
The message resonated with me especially. I have been worried about a few small things in life; but as I listened to the pastor’s words, I looked at my family sitting next to me and thought about other friends and family who have supported me through the years. It brought tears to my eyes knowing they have been there for me whenever I needed them — in both good times and in bad.
I sent an extra prayer of thanks that day for all of the people God has put in my life to help pack my chute. I only hope I can and do return the favor.
So whether you are familiar with Captain Plumb’s story or are learning about it for the first time, the message is the same. Give thanks to all those who have helped pack your parachute in this life.
Contact Pam Rodgers at
641-792-3121 ext. 6531
or prodgers@newtondailynews.com