Monday Motivation: Every Life Matters

We are living in unprecedented times. Anger and hurt have created division that now spirals out of control. But the truth is every life matters. We are all created by God and God doesn’t make mistakes. Mistakes come from us. Sometimes we make poor choices that result in painful consequences. But those choices can lead us to serve others. Love and forgiveness are colorblind. Love stretches across racial barriers and buries itself deep inside the soul.

Love and forgiveness are colorblind. Love stretches across racial barriers and buries itself deep inside the soul.

My dad, Gordon, has reached across the racial barrier better than anyone I know. He’s spent over 30 years sharing love and forgiveness with men in prison. The color of their skin doesn’t matter. He doesn’t judge them based on their past.. He cares about their heart, places his hand on their shoulders, and prays with each inmate.

What made Gordon so passionate for the unwanted men of our society? It began when another reached across a barrier in a desperate attempt to save his life. Gordon’s drinking had gotten out of control. He was on a path of destruction. His friend said it was time for an intervention. He made Gordon sit down and listen. No one could have imagined how that intervention changed the course of history.

His friend explained that God loved him and had a wonderful plan for his life. Gordon didn’t believe him. He blamed God for the death of his mom when he was only nineteen years old. Anger spewed. Blame, hurt, and accusations followed. But his friend didn’t give up. The next morning, for the first time in years, Gordon didn’t want to drink. He poured the liquor down the drain and cried out for God to save him. In that instant, God in His mercy delivered Gordon from alcoholism and gave him a peace he’d never known before. Gordon gave his life to God and promised to serve others. He has kept that promise in so many ways.

He has blessed the lives of countless prisoners and their families, many of whom have been released from prison and started their own prison and rehab ministries! All because one person took the time to share God’s love and forgiveness.

You see, every life really does matter! We can all provide healing and reconciliation. We can make a difference in someone’s life right now. The color of your skin doesn’t matter. Your age doesn’t matter. What matters is you! Your heart, your soul. You have no idea how your unique life will impact those around you.. Together, we can change our world.