Burlington’s Own Brandon Smith: A Journey of Calling and Compassion
In the heart of Burlington, there’s a story that many might not know about a remarkable individual who has not only answered a big life calling but has also rolled up his sleeves in times of crisis. Let’s talk about Brandon Smith, a devoted father, military member, and pastor who found his purpose by pushing through inner resistance and embracing a life filled with service and compassion.
A Calling Ignored, Then Accepted
Brandon’s journey began at the tender age of 12. He felt a calling that felt almost palpable—an undeniable urge to become a pastor. But like many of us when faced with big responsibilities, he fought it. “It was as if God had to knock me over the head,” Brandon recalls. He spent years resisting his calling, “I fought it! I ran from pastoring, resisting everything He was asking of me.”
Life took a turn for Brandon in 2010 during a casual cookout at his mother’s house. The chairman of the deacon board approached him with an unexpected question, marking a profound change in his life. “He told me, ‘We just finished the vote … and you won,’” Brandon reflects, shocked at the news that he was chosen to lead. “I didn’t even know there was a vote happening!”
Finding Strength Through Struggles
Brandon admits that his initial reluctance was not so much about giving up personal joys but more about accepting the weight of leadership. “Leading people isn’t easy,” he explains, “especially when you’re dealing with different personalities.” Despite the challenges, he found a real affinity for ministry through love and dedication.
After high school, Brandon enlisted in the military, where he honed critical leadership and conflict resolution skills. He found that these experiences prepared him for the complexities of ministry, where he has now served faithfully for over 12 years.
Service Beyond the Pulpit
Brandon’s commitment goes beyond teaching in the church setting; he also serves in the National Guard. Recently, he was deployed to Asheville in response to the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. His compassion in these situations is evident as he assists those in dire need.
When recalling his time in Asheville, he likens the devastation to a scene from “Independence Day”: “The destruction was overwhelming, like nothing I’d ever seen. It was chaos. Houses were leveled completely to the ground,” Brandon describes. Folks had lost everything—homes, belongings, and even a sense of normalcy.
Building Resilience and Community
Brandon was on a mission, transporting essential supplies to those in need. “We became a support operation for other units,” he explains, highlighting the importance of logistics in disaster response. “Our job was to ensure soldiers in the field had what they needed,” he adds, stressing the value of teamwork in such dire times.
As he reflects on the challenges, his heart feels heavy with the weight of the struggle faced by many families. He can’t help but put himself in their shoes, pondering what it feels like to lose everything. “I kept asking, how would I react if I were in their situation? It was a harsh reality,” Brandon admits, clearly moved as he describes the experience.
Connection and Community Action
One pressing question arises: How can we unite as communities before facing such tragedies? Brandon emphasizes the importance of building relationships among neighbors. “We need to take action now,” he encourages, pointing out that waiting for disaster only increases the challenges that future generations will face.
As Brandon explained, “The ball is in our court right now. It’s our responsibility to make things better for those who come after us.” His passionate call to action serves as a reminder that now is the time for unity and strength, forging connections that will last beyond ourindividual challenges.
Faith During Trials
In challenging times, Brandon has a guiding light he turns to: “Romans 8:31 – If God is for us, who can be against us? Whatever I go through, it ain’t my fight. It’s on God, so I’ve been guaranteed victory.” This heartfelt scripture emphasizes his unwavering faith in the face of adversity.
Cheers to Brandon Smith!
Brandon Smith is not just a pastor or a soldier; he’s a true embodiment of service, resilience, and community spirit in Burlington. His story continues to inspire hope, reminding us all of the importance of answering the call within, supporting one another, and building a brighter future together.
