So I have this dream, something that was initially suggested to me when I had a year sober. A dream that around year 2 started to form with more details. Which has now grown in my heart even more of late. I want to travel across the continental United States and speak in every state in churches concerning the disease of addiction. My hearts desire is to beg them for prayer warriors that would get on their knees daily for those of us in the fight of our life.
Im not asking for a paid speaking appearance, just the opportunity to share my story. Not so much the wreckage of my past, rather how God truly has allowed me to live a victorious life in sobriety. I know that I am an excellent communicator (people have told me that each time I share), God has blessed me with a miraculous recovery and its a wake up call that those sitting in the pews need to hear.
More importantly I want to reach out to the church goer that was born and raised in the church, sits in the pews a few Sundays month, has all the Bible knowledge in the world but…is a hopeless, strung out, near death alcoholic/addict. Why? Because that was me for 13 years.
I was never a rock star, didn’t lose everything and am grateful that my actions didn’t cause any long term harm to anyone. What makes my story special? Nothing really. There are millions of recovering addicts out there who have accomplished way more than I have. What drives me to want to share my experience, strength and hope in whirlwind fashion crossing 48 states? Because its something I really feel God has placed on my heart.
Who is going to pay for all this? What am I supposed to do now? When will I begin this journey? Where will I start/end my speaking? Why would a pastor let me into his church without meeting me? To answer all those questions in three words….I dont know. How is this going to happen? Pray and ask those of you who read this to pray for me. That God opens the right doors and that through it all I remain a humble servant.
If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. (James 1:5)
Tweets...
Justin
What you already have is all he needs (to do wondrous things through you and for you)…willingness. You are obviously open to the Lord, and his will to be fulfilled within you and through you. I truly admire that about you. In a way I am envious of your zeal for the truth, the way, and the light. In AA, they say… look for those around you that have what you want. Well in the truer walk, the walk with God, I want what you have and are continuously seeking. Keep your heart open, along with your mind my friend. More will be revealed.
I love you like a brother, because you are my brother….from another mother! You are always in my prayers!
July 30, 2010 at 3:06 pm
Jon
Love you too bro. Im grateful to have people like you supporting and praying for me.
July 30, 2010 at 3:08 pm
kaala
Ahh…I remember this dream! One of the saddest things I see around me is when people who used to dream do so no longer. Keep it up! One step, one pullup, one Murph at a time. To me, and this may be theologically questionable, when we step out it gives God something to work with. Not that he couldn’t do something with nothing but still…Aloha!
August 2, 2010 at 3:08 pm
Jon
Yes, you were the one that first put that thought in my head. Im blessed to have solid men of God like you in my life!
August 2, 2010 at 7:36 pm