READ: HEBREWS 12: 1-4
We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. (V. 2)
The little boy’s father was a physically abusive alcoholic. His mother was the consummate victim who was physically and emotionally battered from years of abuse by her husband. The boy would come home from school and find little to eat; eviction notices posted on the door of his home; and no electricity. He was low hanging fruit waiting for some opportunistic gang member to pluck off the tree and indoctrinate into a culture of violence and criminal activity. Admittedly, he did violate the law on occasion, a fact he was not proud of, but then survival always comes with a price tag. Then his mother began taking her family to a church community outreach dinner entitled, Hungry Hearts. They not only provided him with much needed nutrition, but also began to nurture his spirit. They were respectful, encouraging and loving. For the first time in his life, he began to feel valued, especially in the eyes of Christ. One of the church members paid his way to church camp and his relationship with Jesus really began to blossom. While swimming in a local creek he was involved in an accident that caused him to be flown to a local trauma center. His mother was told he only had a 15% chance of living. Even if he did survive, he would most likely be paralyzed and non-responsive for the rest of his life. Then God stepped in and he was given a new lease on life.
Today, Ryan, who presented his story to our Sunday School Class, is the Director of a local program, Christians in Action. He has directed his efforts toward middle school students in our community. He admitted that he was fearful of starting–“It was like being a new skier and staring down a steep slope that offered him plenty of opportunities to crash and be injured.” But obeying God’s call, he sent himself on the way and today the program has expanded to 150 students. His background and his unwavering faith in Jesus have made him a creditable role model for many young middle school students facing the same challenges he had overcome. They now feel valued and have hope for their futures because of Ryan’s Christ-centered compassionate concern for their lives. By keeping his eyes focused on Jesus, the perfector of his faith, Ryan is helping young men and women at a formative stage in life prepare to successfully meet the challenges of life through faith in Christ!
PAUSE FOR REFLECTION AND PRAYER
Where is Christ calling you to help others complete the races life has set before them?
Dear Jesus, thank you for Ryan and continue to bless his ministry. May we follow his example when given the chance to make a difference for you in our communities.