Colossians 3:15 "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful."

I've got something that happened to me last night I'd like to share with everyone. It really didn't hit me until today. Last night I shared with the youth group some of my story. I will somewhat do that again here. About December 16 years ago I found out I was going to be a dad. I wasn't married for those who may not know. Talk about your shockers. To make a long story short, the main part of my talk last night was about how that decision to have sex changed my life forever. I talked about how I always wanted to be a teacher and a coach and all of a sudden that was put on hold. The things I thought I was suppose to do with my life were not happening that way. I talked about consequences for my sin. I talked about the guilt of letting so many people down, especially my family. The guilt of letting God down. I also mentioned how at the time God wasn't really a part of my life. I did the going to church thing, but there was no true active passion for Christ. It was really more a habit of going to church that I was in. A habit of acting like I had it together. (now that is a whole other topic, eh TK?) That was the main thing. God just wasn't at the focus of my life. As I reflected on what I told those kids it really kind of made me feel weird in the fact I hoped I didn't leave them thinking I was regretful and felt cheated for what happened because I am not doing what I dreamed of doing. It is a strange way to say it, and I am sorry for the way our life started, but to say I am regretful for the way things have turned out would not be true. That would be saying I am sorry I am married to a wonderful woman and sorry I have a beautiful child. I have come to realize in my old age, God always turns bad situations into good if you'll let him. Up to last night I have always had a feeling of am I doing what God put me on this earth to do. I have always felt like I was meant to do more than kill bugs. Almost felt like I was wasting my life away. Something today made me think, I am doing exactly what I am suppose to be doing. God isn't going to waste anyones talent if they want to use it. You just have to look how he will use you. I reflected on my past and the present. I have had a great opportunity to coach my daughter Emily for 3 years and hopefully for many more. What else could a guy ask for? A chance to share something you love with one of your own? The chance to spend time with her and teach her about life? My oldest daughter, we sang a duet together for her great-granddads funeral. How many guys get the chance for something so special as that? My little dude Cutter. My mind goes crazy thinking about the stuff we will get into together. My Wendy and I have done some cool things together as well. We started the Childrens Worship ministry together at church and ran that deal for 7 years. We are again involved with it. We share a love for children. We have been huddle leaders for high school, life group leaders and members. I say all these things to not sound like I'm bragging but to say this. If I hadn't married my wife and walked down the road God sent me on, all these things I mentioned (and believe me there are plenty more) would not have happened. My desire has always been to make an impact on peoples lives. To make a difference. Well.....I think I can most certainly say, I hope I have and believe God will put me into positions were I can be more of an impact player in his kingdom. Do I still wish I was a coach and teacher? I would have to say no. Why? Because I believe God has a better/different plan for me. And if I was coaching, I wouldn't have the chances to do what I do. If it is meant for me to some day finish college and pursue it...fine. If not, I'm o-kay with that too. I am on an incredible journey with my Lord, and feel totally peaceful were I am and what I do.

John 16:33 says "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."