A couple of months ago, I connected with a young woman who I knew from my previous home. She is now living in the same state as me, so we caught up over dinner. The other day she told me that her brother was going to be in town for a short time and asked if I wanted to get together. I knew her brother in the high school youth ministry I worked with and had not seen him for several years, so I was excited for the opportunity. This morning I met up with the young woman, her husband, her brother and his family. Her brother is now married with two young children. His adorable and energetic daughter reminded me so much of his sisters as they were pretty young when I first met them. His son was very quiet and polite. The young man, now in his mid-20’s, became a Protestant minister. He was always very thoughtful and inquisitive as I remember him in high school. I could also see that he had a deep faith and was trying to figure it all out – as are most high school youth. We talked about the path that he took for his life and the discernment process that he went through in making this big decision. He said he couldn’t see himself doing anything else. He told me about his schooling overseas and finding a congregation to work for. He is currently the pastor of a small church in a small town in the next state over. We talked about youth ministry and the workcamp trips we used to take. He wants the kids in his youth ministry to have that same experience. There are many high school youth – mostly guys – who come to his youth group and not all of them are part of the church. Evidently he is offering them a connection that they are looking for and is a wonderful young role model. I was so caught up talking with him that time just flew by. In the mean time, his extremely patient wife was keeping the kids occupied – with a little help from their aunt and uncle. I chatted with her a bit before we parted ways. I mentioned what a sacrifice this young man and his wife are making. She said she did not see it as a sacrifice at all. She is honored to support her husband, to allow God to work through her, and to follow the path God has set for their family. It warmed my heart to witness what a blessing this young man has become.

I Found God today in a faithful, dedicated young man and his family.