Elder Lester Clarke
In this second installment of a three-part series that examines the motto of the library through the eyes of readers in our church, we speak with Elder Lester Clarke. Last week, Ellen Larocque talked about how she reads more under the motto’s first line: “The more you read” … This week, our head Elder and author explores the second line in the motto: “The more you know…”
Jewel Bailey
Jewel: When and how did you start reading?
Elder Clarke: I developed a keen love for reading from my mom, who was a reader herself. I started off with picture books, the typical, “I am a boy”, “This is a bat and that is a rat”. I then graduated to Hardy Boys, cartoons and mystery series. Over time, I quickly developed a love for reading, which fostered my desire to consume even more advanced reading materials. This included a love for spiritual books, non-fiction and biographies. It has been an awesome reading journey.
Jewel: In what ways has reading increased your knowledge?
Elder Clarke: It’s the best-kept secret: The more you read, the more knowledgeable you become. Want to be a better leader? read. Want to win friends and influence people: read. Want to be successful: read. Reading increases knowledge, and knowledge is power. There is something powerful that happens when your eyes connect with the pages and your brain begins to comprehend, analyze, synthesize and apply the information.
Jewel: How does your role as a spiritual leader require you to read more?
Elder Clarke: It is a strong requirement for this role. The reading of God’s word is critical in the life of a spiritual leader. This is how new insights on Godly leadership are gained. I am currently doing the Bible year (this is a Bible reading plan that allows an individual to read the Bible from cover to cover in one year), and each morning I read a portion of God’s word. When you examine the lives of Moses, Joshua, and Abraham, you see the importance of reading and relying on God. Reading is the bedrock that facilitates that communion with God. There is also supplemental reading that enhances spiritual leadership. For example, the church manual, Testimonies to the Churches, Mind, Character and Personality. Ellen G. White has an arsenal of books that enhance and facilitate one’s leadership. Those “red books” are fundamentally sound in setting any leader up for great success.
Jewel: How does reading more inform your writing as an author?
Elder Clarke: Reading is critical for authors. I have benefited from the wisdom of other authors. Reading across various genres allows for a wider range of ideas and resources. I would encourage anyone to read biographies. This helps us to understand and analyze the lives of individuals and authors. Reading gives me new ideas, informs my creativity and influences my writing style.
Jewel: What would you say to others about how reading more will expand their knowledge?
Elder Clarke: I would encourage everyone to develop the discipline of making reading a daily habit. The only thing a person really controls is their personal development. Imagine the impact of reading a book of Proverbs or Ecclesiastes every day. It is an opportunity to get wise beyond your years. Reading expands not only your mind but your perspective on issues. It is the gateway to information that transforms your life. My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Reading ensures that you’re not caught or found in that category. Gain the knowledge and go a step further by applying the knowledge to make your life, relationships and community better.
It is my hope and desire that reading will be the gateway and catalyst that transforms you spiritually and financially.