It is not always easy being a Pastor’s husband; God sometimes takes me out of my comfort zone, but I believe that is a great thing.  It is like God is re-releasing me into society; only this time, I have come prepared to fight mental illness with the help of Jesus Christ.

I made a promise to myself I would never sing for any one ever again, unless I was singing karaoke.  One day, I somehow found myself singing a solo during offering at church.  The Worship Pastor and the Praise Team asked me to join them; honestly, at first, I felt a little hesitant, but I was honored they had asked me, and I knew Jesus was re-opening a door I shut a long time ago.  Now, I look forward to Sundays so I can join the Praise Team in leading worship.  It is funny and mysterious how God works in our lives is it not?

I went to children’s camp with my wife a few years ago for the first time in Maryland; man, was that an experience.  I felt like my years camping at Lake Gaston helped me out a lot.  The kids were fun to hang out with: there was dodge ball, fishing, arts and crafts, and worship service.  Of course, there was also the bunk houses, and being shut up in there with ten or more kids, that was an experience within itself, as sleeping was hard to accomplish.  I always wanted to be a father, but being able to hang out with those kids gave me a chance to lead by example; even with all of my tattoos.  Well, one thing is for sure: one can not hide from God.

For the last two years I have gone to children’s camp with my wife in North Carolina; there was two different camp grounds in two years.  The experience was pretty much the same but different at the same time.  I thoroughly enjoyed watching the kids come together as a team and encouraging one another, and knowing that God is at work in their lives is a feeling that is indescribable.  “But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”  Luke 18:16

I am going to children’s camp again this year, and I look forward to working with them and helping them, and working with the other adults.  I know I will see some familiar faces, and that always helps.

The exciting thing is: this is only the beginning of Crystal’s journey, and I know it is part of my journey as well.  It is not like it was in the past where I would sit on the fence and decide when and where I would serve the Lord; when it comes to following Jesus, there are no fences; you are either in or you are out.  I am happy to say I am in, and I know it is only by God’s grace that I sit here and write about what is on my mind and how I feel.

If not for my parents, I could be homeless somewhere, or I could be in Heaven; don’t get me wrong, because I am ready to fly; just not yet.  I hope there are no fences in your life, and please know that the Kingdom of God is for you as well; you just have to open yourself up to it.  My prayer for you is that you would have an open heart and mind, and know that when you have Jesus leading the way, there is nothing to fear; not even death!

Take care, and God bless!

Chris