What Kirk Cameron Taught Me in Eight Hours

 In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.

Titus 2:7-8

Actor Kirk Cameron came to my boys' school to speak. I had the thrill of interviewing him for a question-and-answer session. He was on campus for part of two days.

As any good journalist, I researched him well. I knew a lot about him. However, it's what I observed that impressed me the most.

1. He knows scripture better than I do. As he spoke in conversation and on stage, he referred to Old Testament and New Testament scripture passages. And not the familiar ones. It was clear he studies God's Word.

2. His smart phone was at least two years old. How did I know that? Because I have the same one. Sometimes I think the whole world -- especially the famous people -- get new technology as it comes out. I often want the latest. But I was humbled by the fact that he didn't feel the need to keep up. And neither do I.

3. He's protective of his family -- especially his kids. In my very thorough research, I could find very little about his six kids. And he didn't share very much -- even when I asked about them. I can't help but think that's to shield them. I think he guards them and their reputations. He doesn't put them on display -- even when that's the norm in our social media culture.

4. He serves others with his family. Kirk and his wife, Chelsea, established Camp Firefly for families with seriously ill children. Every summer, all eight of the Camerons, head to the camp to work and serve these families.

5. He has a passion for the lost. When Kirk spoke to the students, he presented the gospel in an effective and engaging way. He didn't take for granted that most students were Christians just because it's a Christian school. And in fact, the school has many nonbelievers.

6. He prayed before he spoke. I stood beside Kirk in opening worship before he spoke to our students. We sang worship songs together. But just before he took the stage, he stopped singing. I could hear him whispering, what I believe was a prayer before he spoke.

7. He showed deep regard for elder family members who fought for our freedom. The founder of our school established the American Freedom Museum on campus. As Kirk toured it, he took out an identification card that belonged to his grandfather, who served in World War II. Kirk carries it in his wallet as a reminder.

During my time with Kirk Cameron, I began to see him in a different light. To me, he's not a great role model because of his acting career. Though that certainly gives him influence. He's a great role model because he's a serious Christian. His Christian walk challenged me in every area I mentioned.

Lord, help me be an example to others that challenges them to live in a deeper relationship with Christ.

Stacy