Dr. John Smith

'Service above self'
is Christian ideal

March 6, 2007

Perhaps there is a reason Rotary has grown so rapidly in its first century, said Dr. John Smith, Pastor of Teays Valley Missionary Baptist Church. The ideals of Rotary are Christian ideals.

A veteran of 29 years of service in the community, Dr. Smith told Putnam Rotarians today that the goals of his church family match up quite nicely with those of Rotary.

We want to help people in need, he said.

We want ethics in business and community, he added, with a nod to the Rotary "Four-Way Test"

The key to satisfaction in life is selflessness, he told the group. "You have to see the big picture."

One needs to have committment, to be faithful, not indifferent. Determination is required.

Smith spoke from the Old Testament about the prophet Elisha, how he "took hold of his own clothes and tore them apart." (II Kings 2:12b) when Elijah was taken from him.

Elisha had served for years without recognition, and when he rent his garments, it was not in anger or frustration. It was a sign of humility -- of selflessness.

When Smith began his ministry in Teays Valley, there were 89 members in the church. Now there are 1,600 members.

The church budget then was $25,000. Now the church supports 150 missionaries at an annual cost of $500,000 for missions alone.

Once a car broke down near the Teays Valley interstate exit, Smith said. He took the travelers into his home, fed them, filled up their gas tank, and sent them on their way.

It was a private act, an act of love -- not one for personal publicity or acclaim.

"I have never tried to get my name in the Gazette or any of the county papers," said Smith.

He has preached in many chruches and in many states, but "I have never asked to speak," he said.

"Selflessness brings its own promotion. If you are selfless, the payoff will come.

"When life is over," he said, "wouldn't it be wonderful just to hear your Maker say, 'Well done'?" .