Rick Burgess is walking his talk

By Staff
Beth Chapman, Secretary of State, Guest Columnist
Everyone within an ear shot of this state heard that Rick’s two-year-old son, Bronner drowned in the family’s swimming pool a month ago. While we continue to lift Rick, Sherri and their entire family up in prayer in the loss of their son, this story is not about their loss as much as it is about the way they have handled it.
When the word first hit the streets and the airwaves, I think Rick Burgess in all of his grief knew that all eyes would be on him. He literally felt the weight of the world on his shoulders. Being a strong Christian man, he knew that the leadership role would be his: comforting his wife and children, being strong for them and most of all – – walking what he has been talking all of these years. He knew he would have to be responsible, live in faith and walk in the shadow of Christ. He knew he had to be a role model for others even in his pain, or his witness would be meaningless. Rick Burgess knew that all those thousands of fans who loved him professionally would be watching him personally to see how he handled this tragedy in his life. They had seen Rick at the top of his game with high ratings and a substantial income. They had seen him receive national attention. They saw how he conducted himself on the highest mountains in his life, now they would be watching to see what would he do in his lowest valleys?
Trust me; it is not that I think anyone would watch in harsh judgment but in more of a curiosity type of judgment. They would want to see just how strong his faith is.
Rick and Bubba are smart enough people (regardless of how crazy they act on the show sometimes); to know that people in general are skeptical of high profile professed believers. They are smart enough to know that not all of their radio listeners are believers and would also judge God based on how they handled this horrible situation – especially Rick.
On the day of his son’s funeral Rick Burgess stood strong and did something that most people would rather die than even attempt to do. Even if they wanted to, they could not and would not possibly be able to. Rick spoke at his son’s funeral and witnessed to all who heard him. He walked what he has always talked, giving Jesus Christ glory and honor in even the worst situation. It was not just a gesture either. What Rick did was more than talking. It was a powerful testimony of how great God really is and how much bigger He is than any problem we can ever face- even the death of a child.
After all, God knows that very pain himself because He lost his son too.
Rick and Bubba have used their success in life to proclaim their faith in God. That faith has been tested and tried and has stood strong with great resolve. The world was watching and what we all saw was amazing and a tribute to how great God really is and how hard Satan tries to steal our joy. It brings me great pride to say that this time the joke is on Satan because Rick Burgess is walking his talk and what he is doing is speaking so loudly that the whole world cannot fail to hear what he says.
Please continue to remember the entire Burgess family in your prayers.