Beauty from Ashes

Today at church, we had a guest preacher. The guest preachers I have usually encountered are considered famous in some way, and usually on the later ends of life on the age spectrum. But today was different. Today we had Josh Weidmann speak. Josh is only 25 years old and attended Colorado Community Church growing up. Josh also was also in class at Columbine on April 20th, 1999. Josh watched his friends and classmates die as the two gunmen sought blood.

Josh could have resented God. Josh could have turned his back on faith. But he didn't. Josh took that horrible tragedy, and helped be a pillar of light for that dark moment in history. He called all the news stations and had them broadcast that a prayer vigil would be held at Colorado Community Church, and organized it on his own, at age 15.

He spent 2 years in world missions, 3 years at Moody Bible Institute, helps lead a church, lead a youth group, and has his own radio station broadcast. He's also been to over 30 countries preaching.

At the age of 25, Josh has changed the lives of countless people. He decided to believe that God was there in Columbine and wanted to do something miraculous from it. And He did - He rose up Josh as His servant and has influenced thousands.

I think we can all learn from this man. There are times when God feels distant, and even uncaring. But the fact is, He is right there with us in the hardest of times, and He can use us for the best if we let Him.