I didn't sleep so well last night after a conversation with a young man whom my heart is deeply burdened for called me to share a bit of joyful testimony to the power of God's grace and provision upon his life. Many rocky roads have felt the uneven steps of this traveler to the tune of brokenness and defeat. Poor choices were to blame in many ways; a brilliant mind wasted so it seemed on life's trivial pleasures and sin. Oh, the nights I lay awake in heartfelt prayer for this one I hold close to my heart.
His words resounded over and over, as I lay awake staring at the ceiling of the place I sleep with every known comfort available to me. Difficult as it may be the choices of our lifetimes do find us reaping the seeds of foolishness and hopeless mistakes. And then it happens! Someone takes the time to see the worth in a homeless man and takes him by the soul to provide a home and the basic necessities of life! A pastor saw the worth in this 6'7'' 140 1b. stature of a man and invited him to share his home and led his heart to find joy once again in fellowship with the family of God.
He gave him a job and afforded him the opportunity to work with gifted hands as a carpenter on the very property he called home. He took him to meet friends at the church he pastored and even saw fit to allow him to participate in ministering to those in need of strong arms and a selfless heart. Put him through a rehabilitation program which gave him back the very dignity he lost so long ago it would take countless calendars to measure. Oh, the grace...the love...Calvary love! The love of which poets speak and servant hearts seek...the love of unconditional forgiveness and hope.
The prayers of a mother's love...soul wrenching worry spread over a lifetime of prayers to God for the life of this young man she calls her son. He gladly shared how God had given him hope, a bank account, an income, dignity and a promise of security for once; since leaving home at the age of seventeen, to discover this world and what it had to offer. "God has done so much for me he said! Who could ever have predicted that I would be able to provide for myself, afford medicine and have the simple necessities of life. God is so good to me and all who believe in him. "
He shares hope to all who will listen. I couldn't help but remember a certain young man in the scripture who found himself penniless and without hope and yet he returned to the Father of his youth. Welcomed back as the one we know as the prodigal son! I wonder how many stood in awe as his father welcomed him home? The invitation is clear: Matthew 11: 28-30 - Come unto me, all ye who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light". Oh, and by the way the man I spoke of...'he ain't heavy he's my brother".
Written with love in tribute to the struggles of David Alan McCartney. Your sister, Renee'
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