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When Jesus Says No
Brad Thompson
April 19, 2009
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Hali Project
I would love to be able to say that we just chose this path, that it was a childhood dream. To be honest, I never would have chosen this path. Almost 20 years later, it can still be overwhelming at times. I certainly wouldn't choose the challenges that Hali faces for anyone's child.
It's a challenge when you think you're doing what God wants you to do, especially when you love what you're already doing. But then He orchestrates life in a way that points you in a totally different direction. That happened to us with a one sentence diagnosis - "Your daughter is mentally retarded."
Those words changed our lives - leaving us wondering what they meant for Hali and for us - both personally and professionally. We thought we had a purpose and a call on our lives. God had something else in mind.
I think the demon-possessed man in Mark 5 could relate to that experience. He just wanted to follow Jesus - a very worthy ambition. But Jesus had other plans for him - He didn't need the man to follow Him. He needed him to go where only he could go and share his story of hope that comes from the power of Jesus. Because he did, many were amazed.
Karen and I are trying to demonstrate that kind of faithfulness. It's not what we would have chosen, but we do believe it is where we've been sent. It is our job to be faithful, sharing a message of hope that only comes from God through faith in Jesus Christ. Thank you for joining us in that mission to make it happen far beyond what we could have ever imagined.
While I would have never chosen this path, faithfulness demands that we see this work to the end. What is your calling? Where is God trying to direct, or re-direct, your impact? I hope that God blesses you with a clear sense of calling. In the meantime, we are so grateful for your participation in ours, and eager to include you if your calling is with us.