Let’s see, who can I be grateful for today? Well, sometimes it’s the uncomfortable challenges a person is willing to subject you to that end up being worthy of great thanks, particularly if done in a respectful way. So today I want to thank my former youth pastor Randy Smith for calling me out on a poor decision, while respecting me enough to let me decide when and how to make it right.
I was nineteen and naive, off on a missions trip where I was supposed to be focused on more eternally significant things than, well, a girl. We hit it off, and while during the trip I stayed fairly focused on my job and purpose there, our relationship after the trip ended up causing legitimate problems for several different groups of people. Unbeknownst to us, the effects were more serious than just your typical teenage drama, and Randy chose to confront me. But instead of berating my decision and telling me I had to stop, he simply explained very well how my decision had been harmful and left the choice what to do up to me. Not expecting to be trusted after making a mistake, I took his sensible words more seriously than I might have otherwise, and the girl and I ended the relationship for the greater good. Sixteen years later, I have a great financial partnership with the missionaries most negatively affected, just chatted with the (now married with kids) girl on facebook last week, and recently enjoyed lunch with the one who respected me enough to give me the truth. Thanks Randy!
Who has had the courage to tell you the hard facts you needed to hear in a productive and respectful way that caused you to act? Today, make sure you heal their hereafter with a dose of thanksgiving for making the truth hurt so good!
I like to ask whomever I thank what cause, quote, or organization they value enough to share with the world! Randy wanted to emphasize Youth Ministry International and its unique approach to reaching young people around the world by creating advanced youth ministry degree programs in an increasing number of countries and then training nationals to multiply outreach to their own youth in ways Americans never could. As someone who has personally benefited from YMI in several ways, I encourage you to learn more here!
