Have you ever carried a burden, or feeling, or sense of anxiousness so strong that you had to do something that was out of your comfort zone? Perhaps that something involved making a decision to go to college, earn an advanced degree, or a qualify for a certification? Maybe it involved picking up and moving to another city or state? It’s possible that emotion in question ended up in a proposal for marriage, or the adoption of a young child?
I’ve experienced that same vexing sensation. Once it caused me to hitchhike across the country to prove my love to a young woman who eventually became my wife. Another time it led me to take a spur-of-the-moment trip to New York City and–unannounced–knock on the door of a senior news producer at CBS television to say, “I was in the neighborhood and just thought I’d say, ‘Hello.’” That informal meeting ended with a job proposal. On three occasions similar convictions caused my wife and I to make life changing decisions to adopt children. And, despite all of the naysayers, in 2001 I followed my gut and went into talk radio, and 17-years later I was voted into the San Francisco Radio Hall of Fame.
So, here I am again. There’s a feeling I can’t shake. I’ll try explain.
Many years ago, one of history’s greatest evangelists, Billy Graham, encouraged me by saying, “It is a privilege to co-labor with you in the gospel.” Billy and I had spent 45-minutes one-on-one in an interview for a TV program I had in Reno. He was genuinely interested in how I, a young Jewish guy, had placed my trust in Jesus the Messiah. Billy Graham saw something in me that, quite frankly, I never acted upon. Only recently, while looking through a pile of memorabilia, did I find the letter in which he so encouraged me. That unearthed letter planted a seed that’s been growing for many months. The seed has since taken root in a Bible verse found in the New Testament writings:
Therefore, we are ambassadors of the Messiah; in effect, God is making his appeal through us. What we do is appeal on behalf of the Messiah, “Be reconciled to God!”
–2 Corinthians 5:20 (Complete Jewish Bible)
Billy Graham was an ambassador of Jesus. As such, his life’s mission was to earnestly appeal to people all over the world to become reconciled to God. His desire was to see people in harmonious relationship with their Creator. Graham didn’t preach flowery messages that tickled the ears and could be applied like a self-help paperback. He didn’t beat around the bush: “You have a problem,” he would say, “it’s called sin, and it’s separated you from a right relationship with God, and only Jesus can forgive your sin and reconcile you to Him.”
That Bible verse is hounding me as much as anything ever has.
That’s why very soon I will be unveiling a totally remodeled briansussman.com website, subtitled, Another Chance. The content will reflect the fact that the God of Heaven is always offering all of us another chance to be in right standing with Him.
Stay tuned for podcasts, videos, and blog posts illustrating some incredible examples of those who have experienced another chance…
Brian,
God has given you an amazing platform and voice in order to do his will. Your decernment and guidance have been amazing over the years. Your voice and words have touched many people and a select few young men that I was with this last weekend. Your words really touched my heart and the others around me “accountance” thank you for that my brother in Christ.
Thank you for sharing your faith journey. I’ve listened to your morning show for a long time over iHeart (In Mississippi). Your book “EcoTyranny” is excellent.
Brian, you have allowed us to walk along side of you for much of this and
we will continue to do so! Life is a journey that is shared! Keep sharing
yourself as you encourage others to share their unique selves with the world!
We look forward to your next chapter!!
Follow your convictions. And only you know what you are called to do. I wish you the best in your endeavors.💖
Wow..listen to your show every morning…your wisdom and common sense are truly inspirational.
Bryan I listen to you almost every day I think you are so funny , smart , charming and I really enjoy your show with Katy and sherry , good luck with your journey I’ll listen along it !!! I listen from South Carolina !!! The beautiful beaches of Hilton head island!!!
Thank you Brian, I have always enjoyed driving with you. And thank you for responding to insights about comfort zones, seeds planted, gut instincts, and that still small Voice. Tom
Brian, congratulations on your induction to the SFRHOF. I listen to talk radio, political, religious, sports, it’s my thing. I remember hearing a voice on KFAX, (1998?) introducing Pastor Paul Sheppard. About the same time I was hearing the same voice filling-in for Lee Rodgers each Monday on the KSFO morning show. That voice is you. Then with your evening show on KSFO you used your talents of engaging callers in dialogue, thought provoking monologue and mixed it all with funny. This made you the right choice to take the coveted morning drive slot. Thanks to you and Katie for my favorite radio broadcast of the day. Good luck with Another Chance, and God Bless you.
Praying for you Brian.
I have always admired and respected you and your behaviors concerning others. This memo to all of us explains why you are such a treasure. Thank you for inviting us into the next exposure of who you are. You are a joy to know.
Hi Brian! I’ve noticed you are making more references to God, Jesus, and the Gospel and am thrilled that you are using your success for His glory! I’ll be praying that your efforts bear fruit!
Love this new venture for you…what a wonderful idea. I have made that decision as a child and never
was sorry. I too have 2 adopted children that the Lord blessed us with so I too understand that part of
your journey. Now I have wonderful grandkids that are a wonderful blessing to me especially since I am
a widow. I am still loving life and love listening to your show every day. God bless you in this experience..
love, Wilma
p.s.I voted many times for you:^)
Loving the journey. I was moved to ask for a son, and 3 months later I found out that I was pregnant at 39 years old. If God is for us, who can be against us?
As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.
Blessings!