When you pack the pews at the largest Baptist church in our town, something is happening. Such was the case recently with the Celebration of Life for Don Betts. I’ve lived in Fuquay Varina for forty years and have heard that name since I arrived although I have never met the man. I am, however, friends with his daughter, son in law and grandson. I have been blessed with serving alongside his grandson Sam in our Banded Brothers organization.

Mr. Betts was a highly successful businessman. He oversaw a family run business that designed, manufactured and distributed all types of fishing lures and related equipment. When Wal-Mart carries your product, you’ve hit the motherlode. Such was the case with Bett’s Tackle. While Mr. Betts was widely known internationally for his business success, he was even better known locally as a kind, considerate and caring member of our community.

I visited his daughter a few days before Christmas to deliver a couple of birdhouses. One birdhouse with a NC State Wolfpack theme was a Christmas gift for her dad. Shortly after Christmas, she informed me that the birdhouse had been his favorite gift. Even though he was ill and not feeling well, the gift brought a big smile to his face. That is and will always be a delightful memory for me to know that story.

There has never been a time in history when business success and money has corrupted so many as in our world today. Mr. Betts was not of that model. I have personally witnessed up close and from afar the influence he had on his family and community. The church was full with those who loved him. Our community is full of those who will miss him. His family is filled with his positive influence. That legacy will be eternal. No amount of money, success or fame can guarantee any of us that reality. Our community is less in his passing but Heaven has gained a wonderful addition.

Matthew 19:24 is most reflective for me as I celebrate the life of this man. "Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." The camel has passed and my heart assures me he easily entered through the eye of a needle. Also found in Matthew (16:26) is a warning that worldly success is worthless if it robs your soul. Mr. Betts knew his success was temporary, now he knows eternity.