He Still Amazes Me

Today has been one of reflection, remembering, and rejoicing. Last week I had to go on a business trip to Las Vegas. For those of you who have never been to Vegas, let me just say they do not call it "Sin City" for nothing. To be honest, I came back somewhat discouraged after spending the week surrounded by those living for the pleasures of today and trying everything to satisfy. The evening service was just the dose of encouragement that I needed.

For those not in attendance, last night we had our service celebrating the sanctity of human life. At that service, Jennifer from Salem Pregnancy spoke and gave her testimony. For all her heard, her testimony was powerful and moving, but for me, it was more. You see, Jennifer and I were great friends in high school. Last night my mind went back to the many talks we had, the ballgames, and well just hanging out and being friends. I remember how that friendship abruptly ended at age 16 due to her becoming pregnant. Despite all that was going on in her life, Jennifer was always my friend. My mind went back to times that I prayed for her and wondered in my mind how she was doing. As she gave her testimony last night and spoke of how God had transformed her life and equipped her to minister to others going through a crisis pregnancy, I sat with tears and amazement. Not at how she could be doing what she is doing, but how and why God chooses to use us. Jennifer is the first to tell you that the choices she made were not God's will, but in His sovereign will, He uses us anyway. You see my sins are no different than hers, they were just not as visible to all. It takes the same grace to use me as it does her.

So today I am rejoicing. Rejoicing over the grace of God in my life and that of a friend. Rejoicing in the renewal of a friendship that for 20+ years had been absent. And more than anything, rejoicing in the reminder that in my return from "Sin City" God still is in the saving and restoring business. He gives us just what we need, when we need it. He still amazes me.