Planting Seeds
September 20, 2006
This week we got a letter from one of the very first young men who moved into Alpha House nearly five years ago. His letter reminds us that we plant seeds – and sometimes God gives us the opportunity to see fruit born of our work.
The letter came from Brad. After living among us for nearly two years, he slipped away one night leaving only a note to say that he was not coming back. It was nearly two years before we learned that he had married a young woman who was not a believer. They had moved to another city in Texas. But, even after letting us know of his whereabouts, he refused to reconnect to us. Then this letter came. Here’s a part of what he said.
Jim and Betty:
I just wanted to let you know that over the past few months, my wife and I have begun to come together on the spiritual path. We are studying the Bible, praying together in the mornings, and seeking the Lord in our ways throughout the day. The peace and strength that has begun to form in our relationship is growing everyday. Though we still struggle, we have begun to persevere and press through. We are growing together and the change in our family is small but dramatic. I have immeasurable joy from this, and as we grow I think of you and Betty often.
I love you and felt led to share this with you. I would not have known where to start or maybe would not have started at all without your loving guidance in my life. I wanted to thank you for what you have done for me and my family, at may be the case of the seed that God used you to plant and water but never saw it grow.
My wife and I were talking about me as a father last night and how she was happy about the father that I am and am becoming each day. I know that my example for a good father started with you, and I am grateful to God for bringing you into my life.
In thinking about you guys lately I have come to see how arrogant I have been since I left. I never said that I was sorry for the way that I left. In my selfishness I never considered how it would affect anyone but me. I don't know if it is worth much now, but I wanted you to know that I am sorry and sincerely hope that you will forgive me.
With loving thanks,
Brad
We are giving thanks for the faithfulness of God in Brad’s life and in the life of His family. Join us in praying for their journey as they are being conformed to the image of Christ.