Ups and downs
The event was something I was proud of being a part of. Tim had a look of earnestness on his face as he prepared to enter the little pool in the back of the church. Danny the youth pastor motioned for me to come over as Tim was being asked if he acknowledged Jesus as his Savior. Tim nodded his head and Danny and I lowered him into the water. The look of joy and relief on Tim’s face when he reemerged was obvious.
Tim’s life was different that day, but it has been far from perfect. Trying to break free from circumstances and behaviors that introduced me to Tim at Savio keeps his life going up and down.
It honestly hasn’t been all his fault, confused family members wrestling with individual issues turned on him, and despite trying to pay past court fees and rid himself of all the consequences of past wrongs in his life, the bitterness of others repurposed the money he had saved.
Then the evening arrest and jail came.
Then the morning release and forgiveness of most court fees.
Then hard drug use.
Then living in a Suburban in a Walmart parking lot.
Then quitting hard drugs.
Then finding a more stable place to live.
Now a steady job.
Now a chance to reconnect and talk about where God is in all of this.
Life is filled with up’s and down’s even after we encounter Jesus, our youth just have more dramatic swings. Tim’s life certainly has those, but by stepping back one can see God actively involved in the process of restoring Tim’s life.There is comfort in knowing that we serve a God who does not grow weary or impatient with our ups and downs.
Thank you for your support during this time when our life circumstances are down. My prayers are with each of you as we navigate this together. Please don’t hesitate to let me know if there is anything I can be praying for.
Richard, a youth we have followed into the community has had his share of up's and down's as well. Next month we will be telling his story.
