Responsibility

I have had something on my mind for several months. The gist of the story is a friend of our family expressed a desire to learn more about God. He had zero knowledge or background in faith of any kind. He believes in God but has no guidance in this area of his life. As a matter of fact, Easter Sunday he attended church with friends and later shared what a great day he had and how much he enjoyed the service. We were talking and he said to me, “Kim, did you know that God gives us second chances?” I’ll be honest, I thought he was joking at first. However, his eyes were bright and he was genuine. He had no idea prior to that moment that God gives second chances. I, of course, said, “Yes, sweetheart I do. Thank God he does!” He replied, “I had no idea.”

That was a pivotal moment for me. Earlier in the year, he had mentioned not having a Bible of his own, and he really wanted one. I assured him that I would get him one. I had actually wanted to give him one for Easter, but I did not. So you can bet that later on Easter Sunday I began to search for a Bible for him. He would soon be heading off to college, and I wanted it to be easy for him to understand but also guide him. 

This young man had turned 18 before Christmas and kept touting the saying he was an adult because he had turned 18. I reminded him that 18 was a number; not necessarily the sign of being an adult. None of the adults in his life were guiding him, and to be honest, neither was I. I didn’t want to overstep because faith and religion are sensitive topics for some. I also didn’t want to overstep because I am in no position to preach or guide anyone in their faith. He recalled conversations he and I had earlier in the year about life and my journey in my faith. 

As you all know, I am a person who has been given so many second chances in my life because I believe in a God that loves me unconditionally. I was also blessed with many, many God-loving people who led me and showed me what God's love and forgiveness looks like. I want this young man to know God loves him always even when he doesn’t think he is lovable. I want him to know that in the quiet moments when he feels alone, happy, sad, celebrating, or mourning that he is never alone because we have a God who always loves us and that we are never truly alone. I want him to have a Bible for the time when he is ready, maybe soon, maybe years from now, that he can open and take comfort in the words of our Lord. 

Earlier this week I happened to be listening to a Fr. Mike podcast on the radio, and it was about what age we become Adults. It is called Adulting Level: Expert on YouTube. Basically Fr. Mike says we are adults when we take responsibility for ourselves and secondly, when we take responsibility for someone else. Also, being responsible and giving your word to someone is the mark of a Christian. I always laugh when these little God moments happen because I had been dragging my feet about when I should give him his Bible. I needed that nudge from Fr. Mike to take responsibility for myself in that I am a person of my word. The gift is wrapped and ready to be given. Luckily, I was reminded that God is forgiving, loving, and always present no matter our age. 

I would love for all of you to pray for this young person that he will find his way and truly grow in his relationship with God.