Training

I am privileged to serve with the Alabama Disaster Relief Chaplain ministry as a teacher/trainer. Several times a year I help train new chaplains as they enter into the world of disasters. One question we always ask is, "Why would anyone want to be a disaster relief chaplain?" That's a great question! When we realize that we run to the disaster while others are trying to get out of the disaster, the question becomes even more direct. We see things that are very disturbing and witness people at their lowest point.

We never know when a disaster may hit. They are always inconvenient. Everyday is an opportunity  for life to fall apart. Personal disasters are devastating even if it only affects you. These are reasons why training is so important. To gain the tools needed to serve those in great need is a must. Training is vital for effectiveness. However, a weekend seminar cannot provide everything a person needs in such a situation. Being personally prepared to serve depends on the spiritual maturity and development that takes place on a daily basis. Being in the Word of God, on our knees in prayer, and daily growing in Christ is very essential. Nothing replaces a daily walk with the Lord. Additional training gives hands-on tools to help yourself and others in need.

I want to encourage you to consider serving in disaster relief in some form or fashion. Many opportunities of training and service are provided through Baptist State Conventions. Capacities to serve include chainsaw crews, feeding units, chaplains, mud-out teams, assessment teams, childcare, shower/laundry units and several others. The rewards for serving are eternal! The needs are great. The teams are fun to serve with and lifelong friendships are deep.

The Lord says it is much better to give than receive. Serving in disaster relief is an awesome way to give!

Blessings,
Pastor BR

2020 Happy New Year

I saw a funny post the other day that read: "I'm so disappointed! I waited all my life to get to 2020 and there are no flying cars like The Jetsons promised!" 

I am looking forward to this new year. I believe that 2019 was a year of rejuvenation for me. It was a time of refreshment and re-focus. A time of turning a major chapter in my life. I won't take time to walk through all the events and details, but I will say that the Lord has helped me grow through things that I never imagined. It was a year of preparation for greater things!

In 2020, I am excited to begin a pastorate at a new church called Cloverdale Baptist! While the church is not new to Montgomery, it is new to me. The church was originally organized in 1902. Through the years they have had some great pastors and major building programs. Like most churches, the congregation has swelled at times and shrunk other times. I like to call it an inhale (swell) and an exhale (shrink). These are seasons for sure. All the while, the church is breathing and is very much alive! I believe that Cloverdale is at the end of an exhale and ready for a major inhale! An incoming of people, ministries, and resources. One very important factor that is so critical is that the people are ready and desiring to inhale... to be filled with the Holy Spirit and New Believers! I believe they will embrace a visionary leader like myself and stand with me, beside me, and behind me as we seek the Lord for the future.

I am also excited to have the opportunities to lead training and leadership development sessions through my business, BR Johnson Solutions LLC., as a certified independent speaker, coach, teacher & trainer with the John Maxwell Team. I am certified as a DISC consultant which adds even more opportunities to help people grow. I am developing opportunities to bring scripturally based leadership training and events for small groups as well as large corporations.

I'm not thinking I will see a flying car in 2020, but who knows what the Lord may do to amaze us all! I do know that my heartbeat is to be "Faithful to the Lord... Serving the Community." I look forward to seeing the Lord's hand move among His people and do great and mighty things... New Things... that we could never have imagined! Welcome to 2020!

From the Heart
Pastor BR