Proverbs 17:17
A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.
I had a friend who was a great Scott. He was Bernard Scott and he had a way of making people feel important and loved. Many people are your friend when things are going good but few show up when it is time to move your office. But then, there was Bernard. Not only did he show up once, he came in a few times before we actually moved to help pack.
When I was in the process of setting up that office in 2008 Bernard visited and help me with wiring the place. On his own, he went to purchase a bottle of honey because he knew I like honey with my tea. I still have that bottle from 2008. Each morning, when I put honey in my tea, I remember Bernard Scott.
The Adventures of Superman was a TV show that ran from 1952-1958. Perry White, editor of the Dailey Planet, used to say “Great Scott!” as an explanation of exclamation. It was an apt description of Bernard. He was a great man because he modeled the life of Christ. He was always there to lend a hand and to encourage people. Bernard always had a kind word for those he met. We broke bread together often. I always felt better about myself when I spent time with Bernard. He was special.
Bernard was not successful as the world measures success. There was no write-up in People magazine or large foundation named after him but there should be. He modeled the life we are supposed to live. He treated people well and made them feel important. I want to be more like that. It is hard to follow Jesus. That is why I am so glad Jesus decided to guide Bernard and put him in my life to show what following a risen Lord looks like.
I have a voicemail I have saved for years. It is from Bernard asking me to give him a call. In the message, he did not even mention he was in the hospital. He just asked for a call back. Bernard had advanced stage cancer by then. But he just wanted to speak with his friend. I got to visit with him a few times. The cancer was getting the best of him. He was in and out of consciousness. One of our mutual friends suggested reading the Bible to him and he slept which I did. It was getting dark and Bernard was not responding so I decided to head out for the day. As I go to the door in the dark, I heard his voice say “I love you Bob!” I responded and told him I loved him too! That was the last time I saw my friend. They moved him to hospice and he passed the next day. But I know this. I will see him again! If ever there was a Mansion built in heaven for one of Jesus followers, it was built for Bernard. Well done thou good and faithful servant! Save me a spot. We will break bread together again.
Lord, thank you for the life of Bernard Scott and the example and encouragement that he was to me and so many others. He lived the life You desire for us. He was a true Brother in Christ sharing Your love. Thank you for putting him in my life and allowing me to be a part of his. Remind us, by Your Holy Spirit, of all those people in our lives who have been a blessing to us. Help us to be a blessing to others in Your name. Amen!