By Ralphine Major

“It was a five-year vision,” he said. “A vision even before becoming pastor,” he added. “When I got the call about becoming pastor, I would come and sit in the church parking lot at the far end and pray for God’s will. The thought crossed my mind that on the hill would be a perfect place for a flag for the whole community to see,” Rev. Justin Pratt shared about the giant American flag flying high above Clear Springs Baptist Church in Corryton. What a special time to see a five-year vision fulfilled as the church celebrated its 125th Anniversary on September 25, 2022.

Rev. Pratt shared more about the details surrounding the flag. A drone was used to determine the height needed so that the flag could be seen far beyond the church grounds. A generous donor who attends Clear Springs covered the cost of the project. On any given day, a drive by the church offers an amazing sight of Old Glory standing tall and waving proudly. “There is a natural breeze so that the flag is most always blowing,” the pastor added.

The picture was taken from a vantage point approximately two miles away. With the beautiful East Tennessee mountains as a backdrop, the flag is a steadfast reminder of our everyday freedoms. The pastor was right. The hill is a perfect place for that big, beautiful flag. What a wonderful gift to the Gibbs Community! Thank you, Clear Springs Baptist Church, for this marvelous blessing!

Words of Faith shared by Rev. Justin Pratt: “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance.” Psalm 33:12 (KJV).

This time of year, “Piddle Diddle’s Lost Hat” (a Santa hat) is an excellent gift for the children on your Christmas list! Available at Amazon, Barnes&Noble.com, and www.jancarolpublishing.com. For autographed copies e-mail ralphine3@yahoo.com.