The Barber Shop

by Shane Franks

It was maybe seven years ago that I was looking for a new place to get my hair cut. I traveled to a lot of different cities, but my home church was in Dalton, Georgia. My friend, Damon, told me I should go check out Dalton Barber Shop. “Go sit in Chuck’s chair! He’ll take good care of ya!” he said.

So off I went to take a chance on a new place! What’s the worst that can happen, I thought. The only difference between a bad haircut and a good one is two weeks, anyways! I remember walking into the barbershop, and all of a sudden, I was filled with nostalgia and felt like I had walked onto the set of Mayberry (which I loved)! There were old pictures on the wall. Heck, there was even a guitar lying around in case someone wanted to pick it up and pick a tune. It’s just a place to get your ears lowered, hear a few jokes, and talk about recent, or not so recent, events. It’s also kind of nice to get a straight razor shave every once in a while, too! Chuck is only one of two people I’ve ever let come near me with a straight razor. It’s easy to get those Sweeney Todd vibes if you don’t trust someone!

But the longer I’ve been going there, the more I’ve gotten to know them, and the more we talk. Chuck pastors a church in Chatsworth, and I always make a point to ask how it is doing. There have been a few times when he has been cutting my hair and somebody may come in right off the street and Chuck might be briefly interrupted (which he knows I do not mind) to pray with them. An old Bible sits to the right that he reads in between haircuts, and I’m quickly reminded and feel a shaking in my spirit. How easily we are distracted by things in life, while the most important things are accessible right there at our reach!

What does God require of us? To act justly, to live mercifully, and to walk HUMBLY before our God! He is such an amazing God, yet He is SO simplistic! As chaos gathers around your life, reach for what is simplistic and that which is right! Lift your neighbor in prayer before the Lord, and seek Him while He may be found! I believe Job had ministering angels constantly reminding him,

“He’s a good God, Job! He’s a good God!” The best thing you can pour into your spirit is more than likely covered in dust and lying right next to you! Allow God’s Word to be poured into you today, and don’t forget to pay attention to the needs of a loved one, a neighbor, or a complete stranger!

I love you! God bless!

About The Author Shane Franks is married to his wife, Samantha and he is also an avid outdoorsman.