January 7, 2021
Maybe I’m being overly sentimental, but I just wish everyone could be a part of this moment. Right now, in a house on Lake Gaston, there are 12 twenty-somethings prayerfully dreaming about the rest of their lives. Emotion wells up in me as I consider what ordinary vibrance they will bring to this hurting world:
The grocery store clerks, gas station cashiers, and servers that will get a taste of the heart of God because of who these people have decided they want to be.
The faithful stewards they will be: with their money, their relationships, their homes. None of it will belong to them, all is a gift from above. Because of that they will know true joy and contentment. Because of them we will see heaven on earth: Finances redeemed. Success redeemed. People redeemed.
The grace, tear-jerking kindness, and startling generosity they will bring to harsh, covetous workplaces.
The wise, fierce, gentle, and fun women they will be. They will be role models; exuding both the dignity their Creator has placed on them and the meekness of their Savior.
The strong, goofy, and humble men they will be. They will surprise people with their kindness, servant-leadership, and thoughtfulness. Jesus will be so proud to make himself known through them.
The life, fun, and safety that will fill up and overflow from their homes.
The leaders they will be in their communities. Humble mentors, hospitable neighbors, unflinching advocates. Imitators of Jesus. Imperfect, radiant images of the God of the universe walking around our cities. Wounded healers. The aroma of Christ.
I am so confident in how the Lord will bless this world through them, because I’ve witnessed first hand how he’s already doing so: Trey’s authenticity. Maddie’s liveliness. Austin’s gentleness. Sarah’s compassion. Jeb’s wisdom. Sara’s loyalty. Tommy’s thoughtfulness. Morgan’s leadership. Gentry’s kindness. Jen’s childlike wonder. Cam’s humility. Ashley’s devotion and 22-year-old heart. All have shown me glimmers of God and sharpened me.
And what an immense privilege it is to be here while they dream. The best is yet to come.
To the Church of the Apostles and St. David’s families, the Raleigh Fellows alumni and NC State community, the Crutchfield and Farwell families, my home team, and my precious fellows class, a simple “thank you” will never suffice but it’s all I’ve got. You have befriended me, served me, helped me, guided me, and cared for me more and better than I could ever deserve. You’ve taught me and reminded me:
People aren’t made in your image — be curious.
We become what we behold.
You are not immune, but don’t let that keep you from getting in the arena. Get in the arena.
We’re all just beggars trying to tell other beggars where to find food.
You are fingerprints of The Divine. Thanks for letting me be a kid and helping me grow up. The best is yet to come indeed.
“So she called the name of the LORD who spoke to her, ‘You are a God of seeing,’ for she said, ‘Truly here I have seen him who looks after me.’”
— Brooke