To a friend...

I got some shocking news last night.
One recent addition to the New Faith community passed away.
His name was Brad. In the hustle and flow of New Faith's sudden growth, it has been hard to keep up with all the new folks.

Brad was different. He stood out in the crowd.
I couldn't put my finger on it when we met, but I knew something set him apart.
Maybe it was his Marine Corps background, maybe it was because he was just so genuine.

I wish I could have spent more time with him. I could have known him better. I know I would be better for the experience.

Brad came to our special gathering last Thursday.
Normally, Thursday nights are for teaching & discipleship, but we decided to do a Sunday-like gathering on Thursday, then skip Sunday morning to spend time with our families & friends.

While we were doing the music, I could feel something different. It was as if God was saying, "Today is even more special than you can understand or feel".
Even though I enjoyed God's extra-special presence, I had no idea what was really going on.
I found out last night that Brad gave his heart to Jesus that Thursday night.
I also found out that Brad said something almost prophetic that Thursday.
Pastor Chuck was talking about "civilized Christianity" and how it has caused a lot of Christians to settle for the mediocre lives the world is offering. Brad said, "There's no way to civilize me anymore..." He also said he was never going to miss another Sunday service.

How right you are Brad. You're with Jesus now and every day is Sunday.

It's amazing how quickly people can find a place in your heart.
Normally, I wouldn't be as emotionally effected by the passing of someone I'd only met casually... only a few times in passing. I can't explain it. Is God changing me or was Brad just that special?

Hopefully, it's a little of both.