I have grown to appreciate the legacy of Jesse Mercer, who was arguably the most influential Georgia Baptist of the 19th century. Jokingly, I have said that he might have been the closest thing the Georgia Baptist Convention ever had to a Pope. In many ways, I find myself aligned with most of his doctrinal convictions and how they shaped his ministry, which was both rooted in Big-God theology and actively engaged in the mission of the church.
One of my favorite stories about him, described by Dr. Anthony Chute in his book Father Mercer, puts Mercer’s determination and assiduousness out front. On his way to an associational meeting, Mercer and his horse came upon a creek. It was a very rainy season, and the creek had reached flood stage. He took his riding gear in hand, sent his horse across, and looked around. A fallen tree caught his eye, which he used to cross the flooded stream. (This is a great opportunity to express gratitude for the modern conveniences of good roads and bridges, even those that have been a bit of a local nuisance recently!)
Many ministers were not present for the gathering. Their excuse? The water was high, and they “could not” cross over to the other side. Later, when he heard the others had turned back, Mercer responded with his quick wit, “If you had waited a little longer, I would have shown you the way.”
That story brings to mind Proverbs 14:8.
The wisdom of the prudent is to discern his way, but the folly of fools is deceiving.
Proverbs 14:8 (ESV)
This is about more than just pushing through difficulty. Jesse Mercer’s determination and hunger for the Lord’s work gave him the will to discern a way forward. So he pressed on intuitively and resourcefully. He found a creative solution. Mercer was wise. He was prudent. Though the others faced the same challenge, they foolishly gave up, turned around, and went home.
We all face obstacles—high waters that might make us want to turn back. The wise man or woman will discern a way forward that others might not see. That does not mean the way across will not be hard, but the wise one finds a way because the mission is worth it.
Like Mercer, may we be so committed to follow Christ that we step forward in faith, led by the Spirit, trusting that if God has willed us to cross the creek, he will help us find the bridge.
And if you’re unsure how to move forward, “wait a little longer” and follow in the footsteps of another Jesse Mercer to show you the way.
Bee-Attitude
Blessed are those who don’t turn back when the water is high, and blessed still are those humble enough to follow someone who’s already found the bridge.
Grant Turner is the editor of the Barnesville Buzz and an educator, coach, and writer based in Barnesville, Georgia. He shares stories that bridge community, faith, and personal growth. In addition to teaching and coaching, Grant is Director of Musical Worship and a Sunday School teacher at New Hope Baptist Church in Zebulon, Georgia. He lives in Barnesville with his wife, Haley.
