Wendy's

Last thursday I had a great meeting with Bill Johnston at Wendy's. Bill is an awesome man of God, who is genuine, and has a great sense of humor. I'm not just saying that because he bought me lunch either. We really talked about this, that, and the other. I felt that God was moving me out of the youth/worship ministry phase into something different. I was looking for more of a career that would enable me to be a light and share the Gospel at the same time (i.e. assistant manager, office clerk, mechanic, etc.). He shared how that at one time he was so certain of being called to the youth ministry that he was willing to give up his job as an E.M.T. with St. Cloud, and go into the ministry full time. It never happened. Sometimes, you find that the ministry continues, but on a different page. Bill still meets with college students, and others to encourage them. I can't tell you how awesome this is. His other piece of wisdom for me was really good. "Sometimes we can beat ourselves up worse than the enemy ever could, and judge ourselves harsher than our Heavenly Father ever would." We also talked about jobs, what's it like to be an E.M.T., and other stuff. By the time the conversation is drawing to a close, I totally forget that he's really this important guy. He's the fire chief for the city of St. Cloud, but he also genuinely loves Jesus. Thursday was a tough day, since I read my ex-girlfriend's name in an email. I had mixed emotions about it. I was glad that she was still in fellowship, but also felt sad about everything that happened last year. How do you explain in an hour, what's happened in a year? Before he left, Bill's warm hand on my back, and the genuine look from his eyes told me that he really meant it when he said, "I love ya brother, and I'll be praying for ya." It was exactly what I needed to hear. I'm looking forward to the next meeting, and being able to share more of what's going on in my life.