Brad
I walked into the Grand Canyon - consumed with some problems in my life. The chilly waters of the Colorado River, which carved this beautiful canyon, rushed powerfully before me. As I sat in awe and wonder, our extravagant God granted me the perspective I needed. He reminded me that my life on earth is like a droplet of water in the river before me. A minuscule part of human history that flows through time. My troubles were put into the proper perspective. God showed me his immense power, extravagant love and incredible beauty.
SAY TO GOD: “HALLOWED BE YOUR NAME!”
By God’s grace, the pain and suffering I’ve endured allow me to understand, support, and love others going through difficult times. As I walk alongside others in their need, my heart is full of gratitude to God for healing my wounds, redeeming my suffering, and allowing me to use my experiences to care for others effectively. I’ve encountered incredibly difficult circumstances, and God not only carried me through them, but also redeemed my suffering. It’s an honor and privilege to let the God of love and light shine through my brokenness to others in pain.
SAY TO GOD: “MAY YOUR WILL BE DONE!”
The God of the universe sent a sea turtle my way during the deepest, darkest grief I had ever experienced to let me know my daughter was okay. Olivia’s soul soared to heaven in January 2020 - leaving behind an eighteen year-old-body destroyed by cancer. In the final months of her life, I decided to focus on beautiful pictures of her. One of those pictures showed Olivia flashing the “hang loose” sign while she posed for a picture underwater next to a giant sea turtle. God’s gift shifted my hopeless grief, making room for gratitude too.
SAY TO GOD: “GIVE US TODAY OUR DAILY BREAD!”
Revelations of unfaithfulness made me realize one of my most important relationships was not at all what I thought it was. And so I began a 500-mile pilgrimage along the Camino de Santiago to try and figure out my path forward. I met amazing people from all over the world. And realized that all people, if given enough time and space, can build beautiful friendships. Walking the Camino gave me a peace and a confidence that I could let go of the pain and unhealthy relationships of the past. And that beautiful new friendships would take their place.
”SAY TO GOD: “DELIVER US FROM EVIL!”