One of the greatest things about finding your faith again is being able to look back and see how God has worked in your life through other people. The people God uses to affect your life are often the ones you don’t expect. He uses those who challenge us and make us challenge ourselves. This may be through trials of patience, perspective, or even strife. It can also be through unexpected compassion when we need it most. Looking back at those who affected me most, I’ve been able to see just how profound their influence was and better see how I may have an impact on those in my life now. I would like to share two examples of people who had amazing influence in my faith and life, often in unexpected ways.
Growing up, my parents were insistent on giving us a solid Christian education. We went to church and church related functions well into our teen years. Most of our friends were through the church. As a teen I rejected many of these teachings, but the knowledge had already taken hold. Even in years that I explored other religions and ideas, my heart knew a profound truth that had in part been placed there by my parents. Their insistence on raising us with a strong moral foundation had built new perspectives in me, even when I strayed. As a teen I often saw this education as stoic and restrictive. I now see it as an important step towards fully appreciating my faith. Without that foundation, the wisdom of faith would have been much harder to see.
Another person who greatly influenced me in later years was a good friend, Bob Rockhill (@bobrocky on Twitter). Bob and I have often had great differences of opinion when it comes to life, faith, and politics. While our differences were often numerous, we have always had a kind, and compassionate approach to discussion. He showed me what a steady faith can look like. I treasure our friendship and always look to him as an example of deep faith and strong convictions. I often tell people that it took a Protestant pastor to help me be a stronger Catholic (sorry Bob, it’s true). Not through derision, but through compassion.
I thank God often for putting essential people in my life. I don’t always appreciate them at the time, but when I look back I can see God working miracles through them. I often need reminding that we can reach out to those around us by example. It’s easy to stay close to those who think like us, dress like us, and believe like us. By living true for Christ, we become a beacon to those looking for truth. Immerse yourself in the world around you so that those most in need of that light can see it. You never know when you will be that one shining example to someone. We are the body of Christ and are called to be His hands and His voice. Oftentimes the loudest way to speak truth to others is to simply be there for them. I’m thankful for the countless people who have been the hands, heart, and voice of God in my life. I hope I can be a true example for others when they need it.
“Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.”
Mother Theresa
