Along for the RIde

Never again will I celebrate an Easter without thinking of my dad. The dad who: -used to sneak out on Monday nights with me to get ice cream and let me fall asleep on his chest as we watch football. -took me to the arcade to play air hockey. -quit his job to be closer to my brother and me. -went on my 3 rd grade field trip to the fair. -took me out to breakfast on Saturday mornings. The same dad who:             -checked out on me emotionally             -drove me to church with great reluctance and loud objections             -left me alone to deal with my emotions when my mom’s health got worse -expected that life in a family where one person had polio would not create challenges and extra responsibilities -thought he was being a good parent because he provided food and shelter for his kids ...

“I’d like to think that the Kingdom of God is for people like Vaunn.” –Aida My good friend Aida and I work together at The Rescue Mission of Trenton. This has been one of the best experiences during my time at seminary thus far. Some days it is challenging and rewarding; other days it is challenging and leaves me feeling empty and helpless as I return to my comfortable world at the seminary. The day we met Vaunn was all the above. On our way home from work, Aida and I often reflect on our time at The Rescue Mission. What kind of day was it? What did we learn about the people we met? The day we met Vaunn, Aida spoke words I will never forget: “I’d like to think that the Kingdom of God is for people like Vaunn.” We sat in silence for a bit letting the words hang in the air. It was like we’d both met Jesus that day. I distinctively remember stepping out into the tiny hallway to meet with Vaunn. I had four pieces of paper for her to sign. Because my paperwork takes the l...