Story

Over the past few months, we had many young adults and teenagers lead our community bible study as we've gone through our "Temwayaj" or "Testimony" series. For many it was a step of courage to come forward and share about what God has done in their past or what He was currently doing for their futures. And though we all know each other pretty well, it was a really beautiful time of learning and growing deeper in community together. We heard many stories of the sacrifices their parents have made to bring stability to their lives and send them to school. Some of these young people are the first in their family to graduate high school in a long time. Some have chosen to follow Christ despite their family ties to voodoo. Even at a young age they have broken cycles in their family. When it would have been easier to go along with the pressure of the world, they've chosen to take a stand, even if it meant standing alone.

As we finished up this series, I felt honored to hear what the Lord had done in the lives of each young person that shared, and also filled with hope thinking about the plans He has for each and every one of them as they continue to pursue Him.

It felt sacred and I was struck with the feeling that I was sitting in a room full of greatness,

The chain breakers.

The revolutionaries.

The future hope of Haiti.

The "more than conquerors." The Josephs & Esthers of this generation.

One of our dearest friends who also shared said it best: following the Lord doesn't mean that life gets easier and that the hard stuff goes away, but it does mean he will walk alongside you and give you peace in all circumstances.

I think that's true for all of us, wherever we are. We have all had to walk through difficult things, parts of our story we wish we could rewrite, or leave out.

But, our stories don't stop here, as we keep pursuing the Lord, there will always be a new chapter. Being open to sharing our lives will touch hearts and reach others in ways we never thought it could. God is in the business of redemption, and today's hardship could be paving the way for tomorrow's miracle.

I'm thankful He's not done with mine yet.