Jesus Saves

Matthew 5:44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,

This blog has been a blessing. It has created a safe space for me to share my journey. The overwhelming support has given me much momentum as I continue on my road to victory. However, there have been a few individuals who have found this platform and used it to air their grievances about my employer and decisions made to Support and affirm the humanity of all our students.

I have received this criticism couched with vitriol about my current fight against cancer and trying to make some illogical connection between the two. I appreciate these criticisms and attacks. Not because I agree with the hate I have received from individuals who use generic email accounts to gain access to the platform never using their legal name. Rather these attacks have illuminated the message Jesus shared in Matthew 5:44. Prior to my diagnosis I never prayed for those who wished me ill. Additionally, I also never asked the Lord for the capacity to forgive despite my desire for a direct conversation with each individual. As a believer I know this scripture Genesis 50:20 ESV -

As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today. To be true.

I am almost certain the messages I received were intended to cause me fear and discomfort. However, the outcome was I drew closer to God and strengthened spiritual muscles I know I will need for

The rest of my life.

As I continue to live I will count these naysayers as key players in God’s master plan to help me grow into the man he’s calling me to be. If you want a role in this story and your intentions are not positive I ask you to read Genesis 59:20. If you still feel compelled to send me something wild know that my faith and spirit are strong. Whatever you send my way, know that it will ultimately be for my Good.

My empathy for leaders of today and historically in the public has also increased. I have been given a small peak into what our world changers have had to combat to contribute to building God’s Kingdom on earth.

As an avid reader of biographies and autobiographies my mind is awash with details from the challenges overcome by people such as Nelson Mandela, Sonya Sotomayor, Thurgood Marshall,

At this point in my journey I do not know what my final contribution to this world will be through my professional career. What I do know is God’s not done with me yet. To achieve whatever it is I will be called to do I will need each of the experiences good and bad to be prepared. During college my strength and conditioning coach would sometimes sing a tune I’m convinced he made up himself. I don’t remember every lyric but the gist was no one ever said it would be easy. Hearing this when i had 300-400 pounds on my back in the squat rack I couldn’t help but be motivated. As I continue getting stronger in the spiritual gym I know I getting stronger despite the discomfort at times.

Thank You God!