In my last blogs, I’ve shared a few thoughts on what spiritual maturity looks like and how to become a childlike adult who becomes and receives God’s best. I also shared how part of this process towards maturity entails observing and modeling the growth in others. I consider myself very fortunate to know several individuals who have answered the call and pursued maturity; and displayed that maturity for all the world to see.  These individuals did not initially fit the image I held in my mind about what a mature, childlike adult, would or should look like. They were not necessarily social, cultural or economic “standouts”. Rather, they were quiet, thoughtful, and humble.  Instead of seeking attention they were often quite unassuming. You know the type; the ones you meet and instantly know that they are different, special, and yes, mature!

A couple of weeks ago my heart was deeply saddened with the news that a dear friend of mine had passed away after a long battle with cancer.  His name was Wendell Blanchard and he was a sweet soul with an engaging spirit. No, he wasn’t a “standout.” Upon meeting him you wouldn’t run home and tell others, “Hey, guess who I met.  You have to meet him, too! He does this or that, knows so and so, and has much and more!  No, Wendell was that unassuming guy that went about his own business, firmly grounded in what he believed and who he was. And if you were mindful enough to pay attention, you would have noticed that he was indeed a great man, full of joy, peace and love.

It’s enough to say, that Wendell had a profound impact on my life. So shortly after receiving the news of his passing, I embarked on the seven-hour drive to attend his funeral.  Upon arriving, I received one of the greatest honors of my life; his wife, now widow, asked me to speak at his memorial service and say a few words about what Wendell meant to me personally. Although speaking at such an event can be a bit intimidating, I had no hesitation and immediately said yes. 

It wasn’t very long before I found myself on my knees in prayer consulting with the Almighty for the right words to honor Wendell.  And then it came, one of my favorite verses in all the Bible. It described and defined exactly who and what Wendell was all about.  It comes from the book of 1^st Thessalonians (Chapter 4, verse 11) where the apostle Paul implores us to live the kind of life that is pleasing to God.  It reads as follows: “Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.”  Indeed, my friend Wendell lived this verse! 

Six days a week Wendell woke up early to work and manage his electrician business, providing a livelihood for himself and others.  He loved his wife and adored his children. He diligently took care of his family and knew his purpose as provider and protector of those under his charge. He was respected by all and not dependent on any.  He revered God and worshiped him with earnest.  Wendell was a great man because he made it his ambition to live a life pleasing to the Lord — and was successful in doing so.

In a world filled with so many seeking nothing more than self-serving attention and gratification it is affirming to know that there are also individuals like Wendell who have answered the call and made it their purpose to live a selfless life that spreads joy, peace and love to others. 

Since Wendell’s passing, he has continued to inspire me to greater heights and so I have rededicated my purpose and resolve to live a quiet, unassuming, hard-working life that reflects the light of heaven upon others. So thank you, Wendell, for being a true life example of what I aspire to be.  Well done good and faithful servant!  Until we meet again in the Garden!

Dario L. Perla