Brandon Smith: A Pastor Answering the Call to Serve
In the heart of Burlington, a remarkable journey is unfolding for Pastor Brandon Smith. At just 12 years old, Brandon felt an undeniable pull towards a life of pastoring. But like many of us, when faced with a daunting task, he resisted. “It was as if God had to knock me over the head,” Brandon reflects, recalling that moment when life led him to his true calling.
The Turning Point
Fast forward to 2010, during a friendly cookout at his mom’s house, the unexpected happened. The chairman of the deacon board approached him and said, “Hey, do you have a minute?” Before he knew it, Brandon found himself in shock. “Well, we just finished the vote … and you won!” The news? He was chosen to be the new pastor. “I didn’t even know there was a vote happening!” he shared, still surprised by how life sometimes takes unexpected turns.
Accepting the Call
Brandon’s initial hesitation wasn’t about giving up personal desires but more about accepting the monumental responsibility of leading others. “A lot of it was realizing that leading people isn’t easy. I love the work I do, I love ministry. But leading people can be challenging,” he admits. While he enjoyed his role within the community, he feared the tough moments ahead—especially when he had to lead those who might not appreciate his efforts.
Military Lessons
Brandon’s life took him beyond the pulpit; he enlisted in the military after high school, gaining invaluable skills in leadership and conflict resolution. These experiences would serve him well later on, especially when he stepped into the role of pastor in 2010. For 12 years now, he has dedicated himself to his congregation, earning respect and love from all corners.
Service Beyond the Church
As a father of three and a dedicated National Guard member, Brandon brings a blend of nurturing and strength to his community. Recently, he was deployed to Asheville to support recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. Brandon recalled arriving in the devastated areas with a heavy heart, likening it to a scene from “Independence Day”, where destruction and despair were palpable. “There was so much chaos. Houses were completely leveled. It felt like the air itself was heavy with brokenness,” he explained.
Compassionate Service
His mission was clear—help those in need. As a personal banker and former music teacher, he utilized his skills in logistics to transport much-needed supplies throughout the area affected by the hurricane. “Our role expanded as we became a support operation for other units. We ensured the soldiers had what they needed to keep going,” he said, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to service.
Facing Devastation
Brandon painted a vivid picture of what he witnessed: “The destruction was overwhelming. You could see despair in the eyes of the people. Some were trying to piece their lives back together, while many were just trying to survive.” Even amidst such heartache, he found ways to remind the weary that hope and compassion still existed.
Addressing Community Needs
With the chaos, misinformation sometimes circulated, raising concerns about whether help reached the most isolated communities. “There was a lot of effort to ensure people got what they needed. We conducted welfare checks, and at every stage of distribution, we made sure folks could access what was necessary,” he assured. Brandon’s religion fuels his dedication to uplift those around him, stressing the importance of unity among neighbors.
The Calling To Unite
Reflecting on how to create a more connected community, Brandon emphasized the importance of addressing divisiveness before disasters strike. “We have a responsibility to make things better for future generations. If we wait until a disaster happens, it may be too late,” he cautioned.
Inspiration Through Faith
When life throws challenges at him, Brandon finds strength in the scripture, specifically Romans 8:31: “If God is for us, who can be against us?” This belief reassures him that his struggles are part of a bigger plan.
A Hero in the Community
Brandon Smith’s journey is one of resilience and unwavering faith. He is not just a pastor but a beacon of hope for many. His mission continues as he answers the call to serve, both as a leader in his church and as a compassionate member of the military, embodying the spirit of love and community in Burlington.
