| If you are a western book fan you know Louis L'Amour. He wrote a book once on loyalty. The book was called, 'Riding for the Brand'. I understand that was a statement for those loyal to the ranch/rancher for whom they worked. There is nothing wrong with being loyal, mostly it is good. This Forum has lately had a few posts and lots of comments on a pastor, who some/maybe a lot of us think went 'rogue' and should have continued to ride for the brand. After all the brand had given him national exposure.BUT there is a lot to say about us folk who ride for the brand, even if we disagree with the policies from above. But for the cowboy/pastor who cannot 'morally' or 'mentally' follow what he thinks he is asked to follow blindly, decides to ride out; I can admire. if he takes his 'blanket roll and personal belongings, and rides off without 'shooting at the one he worked for', or tries to get his peers to leave with him. Over my many years associated the the COG I have watched, with regret most of the time, when someone just rode off. Some I have respected, others I lost all respect. It is always the 'situation' or demand of the BRAND, and the minister's reaction. I have no doubt that the 'demands' are more than some minsters can stomach. When at all possible, I prefer to ride for the brand, BUT there are EXCEPTIONS! I hope the latest cowboy who rode off is the exception! Some facts but mostly just my [email protected]/ |