Jeff Hampton – Page 77 – Jeff Hampton, Writer

December 1, 2021

Stand Up

For Wilshire Baptist Church

It was one of those college football games where the score was close and the tension was high and you felt like you had to do something — anything you could — to help the home team. And about all you could do was stand and shout, as if either of those actions would have any impact. Although when shouting you can add your voice to the crowd noise which can energize the home team and rattle the visitors. But standing only benefits those who are standing. Or does it?

November 23, 2021November 23, 2021

Thankful

For Wilshire Baptist Church

Yesterday I drove Wilshire pal George Gagliardi to Union Station to catch an Amtrak train for his annual November trip to Colorado, and as we got to the intersection of Elm and Houston streets, we found ourselves in a carnival of traffic and pedestrians. Only then did we realize that it was November 22 and we were at Dealey Plaza.

November 17, 2021

Reading Lips

For Wilshire Baptist Church

Sitting with the Wilshire Winds at the front of the sanctuary on Sunday morning, I had the unique experience of having the children’s choir standing right behind me while I faced their director, Candy McComb, leading them from the first pew. From that position, I heard young voices and watched Candy’s face as she mouthed each word they were singing:

“Almighty Creator and Lord of all, I come to You today.For all of the blessings You’ve given to me, I sing this song of praise.”

It brought back memories of my own days in the children’s choir, watching the director’s face for the words on her lips to reinforce my nervous, shaky memory as we sang each line.