He made us so proud, didn’t he?
For two minutes and 29 seconds Doug Gibb was the focus of Global Edmonton’s TV news last Wednesday.
For a lot longer will be the positive ripple effect of the evening broadcast.
Gibb had attracted media attention over his plans to launch a gratis Barrhead transport service for those in wheelchairs or using walkers.
It is his way of putting to good use the God-given health and vitality he still enjoys at 92.
The Global Edmonton program trained a spotlight on sunny Barrhead as Gibb took reporter Shane Jones and cameraman Cliff Harris around town in his newly acquired Dodge Grand Minivan.
A driver for 75 years, Gibb had looked completely at ease from the moment he turned on the ignition, supporting his claim that he is never more relaxed than behind a wheel.
Viewers saw part of Main Street and some familiar landmarks, including the hospital, with Gibb acting as a tour guide.
What they also saw – and felt – was the heart-warming spirit and energy of a senior determined to do good in his community.
It was this more than anything that made an impression.
The Klondike Place resident embodies the qualities that many people in Barrhead hold dear.
Firstly, his humility.
Gibb, a lifelong Christian, told Jones that he thought the description “God’s chauffeur” was inappropriate.
“I’m just one of His sinners,” he smiled.
Some might demur, seeing Gibb’s actions as a wonderful way of giving thanks to the glory of God.
Then there is his compassion.
Gibb explained the rationale for his in-town service, saying it was targeted at those who needed it.
“Not the ones that might want it, but we’re after the ones that need it,” he said.
Finally, we come to Gibb’s most prominent quality: his faith in God, a faith underpinning everything he does.
Asked how long he intends to continue driving, he deferred to one of his favourite sayings.
“I know not what the future holds, but I do know WHO holds the future,” he said. “To me that’s very fitting.”
Another of Gibb’s popular quotes is equally fitting. Even though he has experienced his share of dark moments, Gibb says there has always been a light ushering him towards a brighter tomorrow.
“God never closes a door without opening another.”
With his transport venture, another door has indeed opened.
The door to his van … and a fresh opportunity to glorify God.
