When Justin was in grade 7 and just learning to play the guitar,
his pastor came alongside him and took him under his wing.
All through the teen years, he was there for him.
Meeting him for coffee, encouraging him spiritually, just there.
Now, 14 years later, Justin realizes what a gift his pastor has been to him.
He’s taught him how to be faithful in seasons of difficulty,
He’s been the voice of consistent reason through the ups and downs of life.
He has encouraged in him “a long obedience in the same direction.”
As he’s gotten older, Justin has increasingly appreciated his pastor’s sense of riskiness when it comes to living a life of faith.
In a quiet and gentle way, he’s willing to challenge the church’s blind spots.
He encourages Justin to follow the Spirit and to live missionally as a child of God.
Spiritual friendship – this is one of God’s best gifts.