But God
The words ‘but God’ form one of the most significant, eloquent, and inspiring transitions in all literature. They indicate that a stupendous change has taken place. It is a change from the doom and despair of the valley of death to the unspeakable delights of the Kingdom of God. The author of change is God Himself. No one else could have done it and no one else would have done it.
– Unknown
We could never do this on our own.
Showing up every day with expectation that God will move mountains an inch at a time in a city like Chester, amidst the weight of pain and brokenness, can be daunting. We live in waves of unpredictable moments – crisis calls from jail, a recovery client relapse with tons of drama, late night knocks on the door for help – that bring us to our knees. It’s a level of steady outpouring that is intense and deep and sanctifying.
But God.
He meets me and my team in the lonely moments of leadership. In the times of feeling ill-equipped, He is there. God delivers more funding right when we need it. He brings the volunteers, even when we didn’t see a way. He graciously balances our Greenhouse Project life with celebrating the ‘wins’ with the single moms and kids. We watch as neighbors start to connect more than ever instead of isolate. Even the corner drug dealer is getting to know us.
As I think about the above quote, I’m struck by how God – quite literally – saved me from the valley of death and into a changed man who experiences the power of the Kingdom of God, even when it’s hard. Especially when it’s hard! Life transformation happens at the point of believing Jesus at his Word. When He changes a heart, He changes a life.
Watch my life change story in the video below to see why I’m here.
