The dynamics of my family is an example of God’s redemption. When you look at just who we were before we surrendered to God, to where we are now… it is full of grace.
We are by no means perfect, but are flawed and still having a work done in us. Dylan, our son, has played a large role in helping us to see Christ, and to understand what being a servant truly is. We can understand and have great compassion for those who struggle day by day. My wife, Patti, and I struggled for years with church as well as with the example we saw of Christ. We had the opportunity to meet folks who truly embodied the teachings and the example of Christ. After years of people praying for us and trying to get us into church, we finally were able to see.
This love is the love that John speaks of in his Gospel. By showing this love for one another it flows out to others. We try very hard to look for Christ in others regardless of who they are or where they have been.
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
“Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.”
Patti is very caring and a protector of those who cannot protect themselves. Her compassion and sympathy can overwhelm her at times. It is really a beautiful thing see that much passion. She sometimes sees it as weakness, but I see it as God’s heart lived out through her. Patti lives out Romans 12:15:
What can I say about Dylan…life somedays is a struggle. From just getting up in the morning to just being able to sit up. The things we take for granted daily is an achievement for him.
Yet there is such a light in him that is from Christ. When he is having a good day, his laugh and energy can ease everyone’s burden. Even on the bad days his love flows from him for others. He does the best he can, as do Patti and I, to help him live with Cerebral Palsy. He really tries to focus on the words of Paul the apostle:
“ I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”
We tried this walk with out God for many years, and we have had years walking imperfectly with God; the road is so much better with than without.
Life is still life with its trials and obstacles now we have Christ in us, and we can do all things with him.