Empty Sleeves is a story of tragedy and triumph. It is the best-selling story of Rev. Rushing who, in his youth, was recognized as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Men in America. In 1947, during his youth he was the victim of a terrible accident that left him with empty sleeves. Rev. Rushing the author of this wonderful book describes the difficult journey from desperation to hope, from fear to invincible faith in his almighty God. 

You must read this remarkable story of this ordinary African-American who, born into poverty on a Southern plantation, journeyed on in life to overcome crippling circumstances and insurmountable odds, and because of his trust in the Lord’s ability to “fill his empty sleeves, became in time, a truly extraordinary human being. 

After reading this book it became obvious to me that Rev. Rushing realized that his considerable handicaps were among the greatest blessings in his life. He did not believe that his injuries were in any sense punishments. Instead he thanked God for them; for through them he discovered who he was and found his work and his God. The reader also quickly discovers by the end of the book that “If the only prayer you ever say in your entire life is “thank you”, it will be enough.” Meister Eckhart von Hochheim, German mystic of the 13^th century. 

Rev. Phillip Rushing has served as a pastor, social worker, and government official. He has also worked as a volunteer minister, reaching out to the physically and emotionally broken, taking both God’s agape love and His hope to them—especially to those in the inner cities. This book is a must read. I give it five stars!

 In the words of my dad, “You must honor the chair whether it is sitting, walking or lying down.”