Overcoming

It has been almost 45 years since I met Dan. He was 18 then and headed for Bible college. His parents were members of the church I had just been called to pastor. Danny, as he is known to most of us, had been playing the piano and occasionally the organ at church. He would major in music at Pillsbury Baptist Bible College in Owatonna, Minnesota. Upon graduation, he returned to Indianapolis and resumed music ministries as a lay person in our church.

I had coffee with Dan Brown a few days ago, for he has been a significant person in the ministry that I am still affiliated with as “pastor emeritus.” He still plays the organ. In the past 40-plus years, he has missed only a handful of services aside from occasional family vacations. In today’s mobile world, he is undoubtedly an exception. Most people have been members of several churches over the span of 40 years.

Danny is exceptionally bright. By his own admission, verbal communication skills are not his forte. But as one listens to his music, there is little doubt that he communicates deeply, soul to soul. He sings regularly, accompanying himself, and often composes the music that he sings. He writes poetry as well as hymns.

When Dan was about a year old, his parents moved to Three Hills, Alberta, Canada, where his father took some courses in the Prairie Bible Institute, founded and led by Dr. Lee Maxwell. A neighbor of the Browns, a widow, took an interest in Dan and invited him to practice his piano skills while serving as a “coach” and teacher of sorts. Jack and Ruth, both long-time members of the church I pastored, moved back to Indianapolis when Dan was about 8 years of age.

For most of his adult life, Dan has suffered with a mild case of a disorder known as Tourette Syndrome. Those who are afflicted with this are given to sudden uncontrollable outbursts, or sometimes just abnormal jerky movements known as tics; at worst, they might unleash a verbal volley of uncomplimentary oaths. It can be a terribly crippling disorder, especially if and when one must be with and around the public, where there are people who do not understand what is happening when an episode occurs. Danny has at times taken medication for this, but often the side effects have complicated matters. He has pretty much learned to live with it, and his piano and organ music, with his hymn writing, are therapeutic outlets. In this pastor’s judgment, Dan is a deeply spiritual person which, in the final analysis, has been the first and foremost factor in his ability to live and function with this neurological syndrome.

I said that Dan has a keen mind. At one time, he had been delving into some science and was struggling with matters that can only be resolved by faith. I visited him once in his home and had a heart-to-heart talk with him and, evidently, he got those issues worked out in his own mind and soul. He has a strong faith, and he is extraordinarily faithful in his service to Christ through his local church.

About 28 years ago, a young lady showed up in one of our revival services. It was not long before she was observed spending time before and after services at or near the organ where Dan was often playing hymns. In time, not only did she show interest in Dan, but Dan became interested in her; and, wouldn’t you know, they eventually married, had two children and, to date, have lived happily ever after. No one would have ever “pegged” them as a possible pair, but God….

Dan has made and is making a living by driving a truck locally. He recently bought a CNC router and is crafting beautiful creations in his garage, to complement his other interests. Sherie, his wife, tends to her chickens and various other animals she has adopted. The Browns love to travel and enjoy the wonders of God’s world in the outdoors.

There may be someone who reads this article who is taunted by Satan, society, or self because of a handicap that you are living with. Maybe it has you defeated, so that you are asking: “What could I ever do for Christ?” Let Danny Brown answer that question. In his words: “I determined to serve God anyway, and not let that obstacle get in the way.” You can do whatever God wants you—and has equipped you—to do! Be faithful. Use and cultivate whatever skills you may have, dedicating them to Christ and His church. And, even with a menacing affliction, God can and will use you for His glory. I have observed it first-hand in Dan’s life for more than four decades. God can do it in your life also. Decide today!

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” (Phil.4:13)