College Station, Bugscuffle, Alto, and Music to the Glory of God
Ever since my first trip to Texas in 1980, I’ve loved the state and wished for more occasions to return and explore. Crossing the border into Mexico at Del Rio, an east Texas sheep farm, the Alamo, the Texas School Book Depository, and steaks in Fort Worth are several of the many sights and experiences that made my trips memorable.
Last week’s two-day trip to Texas added to my treasury of cherished memories.
Our time at Texas A&M in College Station was memorable. Lynne and I had the opportunity to speak with Aggie Reformed University Fellowship students about the work of Reformed Theological Seminary. Large group was wonderful – God-honoring worship, theologically rich hymns, and excellent Bible teaching – so was time spent with students the next morning at breakfast. What Christian parent wouldn’t want their college children under the capable spiritual care of RUF campus minister William Bondurant and his wife Katherine?
There is no direct Interstate from Shreveport to College Station, so we spent a good bit of time on secondary roads – passing through small towns and enjoying the beauty of rolling hills, forests, cattle grazing, and miles and miles of cotton, soon to be harvested.
There were memorable names. One sign pointed to Bugscuffle. A name like that must have a great story behind it, right? Alas, a little research turned up empty. One website says that the town no longer exists.
While zipping past Bugscuffle (thank you, Texas for 70 mph speed limits on secondary roads), we saw that our gas tank was low. That meant a stop in Alto, population 1,200. While filling up, the bells of a nearby church carillon played “Leoni,” the elegant tune to which my church sings “The God of Abraham Praise.” Of course, I found my self silently singing the words:
The God of Abraham praise,
who reigns enthroned above;
Ancient of Everlasting Days,
and God of Love;
Jehovah, great I AM!
by earth and heaven confessed;
I bow and bless the sacred name
forever blest.
The mundane task of filling up a gas tank became memorable as I gave glory to God for his covenant promises to Abraham, promises that have become mine through faith in Jesus Christ.
I am thankful for a church heritage the has given me hymns and tunes so majestic that they can transform a seemingly insignificant moment into a time of praise to the glory of God.
