“Aaron and Hur held up his hands, one on one side, and the other on the other side.”–Exodus 17:12b

Ask any minister how she or he came to that vocational path and you will hear of persons who helped them recognize a call from God. One who did that with me was Latane Smith, a member of First Presbyterian Church in Columbus, Georgia. 

Aa a senior in high school, I delivered a sermon on Youth Sunday. Afterwards, parishioners came forward to express their appreciation. Most  said things like “We’re proud of you” or “You sure didn’t look nervous,” but Mrs. Smith effused: “I just know you’re going to be a minister one day!”  I smiled while inwardly wondering if she was suffering from a high fever.  My plans at 17 were more oriented toward making millions than residing in a manse, more geared toward climbing the corporate ladder than preaching about Jacob’s ladder. Years later, though, when I first began to consider the ministry, I thought of Mrs. Smith, and found encouragement in her words. 

Early in my first pastorate, I had the opportunity to preach again in Columbus (the photo shows me in that pulpit). Afterwards, I sought out Mrs. Smith and told her how much her words from years earlier had meant to me. And you know, she didn’t remember having said any such thing! 

I suspect a man named Hur always remembered his moment. To some readers, that name could evoke memories of Johnny Cash’s song about a “Boy Named Sue,” but there’s no indication the name Hur had feminine connotations in ancient times.  One scholar thought Hur might have been Moses’ brother-in-law, but we don’t know as he appears in the Bible only twice. Yet even with such scant Scriptural details, Hur is worthy of our attention even if that name still makes this English teacher’s son want to say that “She is worthy of our attention!”

 In Exodus 17, Hur and the brother of Moses stood on either side of their leader. When Moses’ arms were high and visible the Israelite army made advances in battle, but when they drooped, the enemy progressed. Thus, Hur and Aaron held up the arms until victory was secure. 

On this day, I invite you to think about the people like Hur and Mrs. Smith in your life. The one who offered you a job or gave extra attention in the classroom.  The one who spoke a word of encouragement or gave you a second chance or in some other way blessed you. Ultimately, it doesn’t matter if they remember the event or not as you and God do. Which makes this moment the perfect time to give thanks.  

Creative One, on this day I celebrate the women and men and children who have shaped my journey through the part they played.  Lead me to do the same with those I will meet. Amen.