Because my dad worked in the oil industry, our family moved several times between Louisiana and Texas as he promoted through the company. Each new city afforded a connection with a new church. I was blessed to have outstanding Student Pastors during my teenage years. One of them, in Lafayette, Louisiana, was a wonderful man named Paul Strahan. Paul was a character, full of life and Southern charm, accessorized with a thick Mississippi accent.
Paul was one of the first people to believe in me as a leader, to recognize the call of God on my life.
As a high school student, Paul invited me to help in our church’s middle school ministry. It was exhilarating, as if strong winds filled my sails, propelling me toward a purpose. Those opportunities to plan and lead ministry prompted a question in my heart, one that I shared with Paul: Was God calling me to step away from plans for veterinary medicine, into a life of pastoral ministry?
Paul was wise and kind, not pouncing on the moment, not pressuring me to sign on the spot for a ministerial contract (that’s not a thing, by the way). He said, Well, let’s pray about it and talk about it over the next several weeks. On Wednesdays or Sundays, Paul would ask about my thoughts and prayers concerning ministry. I would share my best sense for how God was leading.
Paul didn’t oversteer or claim divine insight. He was a great Shepherd and a reliable sounding board for processing the work of God. He believed in me as a future pastor. He believed in my ability to seek God for direction.
Paul passed away last week in a rapid loss to cancer. I grieve for his family.
Appreciate those who believed in you.
In the almost 40 years since high school, we caught up several times, but I allowed myself to fall out of touch with Paul. I realize now that it was just before Covid since we last touched base. I regret that.
Chances are high that someone believed in you early in life, just as Paul believed in me. And just maybe, they were kind and good to you even if you didn’t recognize it in the moment. It is now clear how God used them as a link in a chain of mentors, the people who shaped you into who you are today.
If by God’s grace, they are still living, reach out to them today. Send a text, connect on Facebook, or even better, write a handwritten letter. Thank them and give them a glimpse of the fruit that has come from your life because they cultivated your younger self.
I take comfort in the hope of seeing Paul again in heaven. I look forward to seeing him grin and hearing, Welcome, in a thick Mississippi accent. I look forward to thanking him for letting Jesus use him in my life.
Believe in someone still finding their way.
Look around for someone wrestling with where they are headed, grasping for guidance and encouragement.
Invest in them.
Affirm them.
Be kind and good to them.
Believe in them.
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