Unsung Heroes

Have you ever met a person so impacting that it leaves you thankful just to have been around them? You know, those people that seem to command respect and attention, not because of their lofty speech and lavish possessions but because of their humility and kindness? I count myself fortunate to have spent the last few days in the company of such people. Today was day #2 of the leadership conference in Suceava and we heard a few testimonies from a few of the great people attending. What a humbling, inspiring time it has been. I've shed some tears, laughed, and been challenged spiritually all while sitting shoulder to shoulder with some of the unsung heroes of the Christian faith. Their stories ranged from living a life of faith under communism to becoming a Romanian missionary, sacrificing many things this world calls "success" to get there. Every time I heard another story, I found myself thinking 'who am I that I get to be called a fellow soldier with these people?' Seriously, talk about a perspective shift!

Scott opened up the morning session with a few thoughts from 2 Corinthians 4, sharing candidly about the hardships of ministry, and honestly, it was just what I needed to hear. I am so "green" in the ministry, so it was both sobering and encouraging to hear from seasoned warriors of the faith who have already been on the path I'm now walking. As they spoke from their brokenness, I could see the hand of God's grace that even at the present moment was holding them. As they spoke from their joys, I could see the smile of God shining on them. It is amazing to see God enjoying them even more than they were enjoying Him. Hearing their stories has created a deep desire within me to anchor my faith to the Rock which will hold me firm through the trials and bitter storms. My calling from God is not a promise that I won't have pain. Rather it is a promise that through anything, He will see me through and give me all that I have need of. These beautiful people that God has surrounded me with remind me of the truth of ministry and it is well timed. I'm not sure what is ahead of me but I do know the One who holds my world in His hands. He will always be enough.