I started Monday with tears.
We were invited to speak to about forty guys at Teen Challenge Phoenix. Before we began we got the honor of watching two men graduate from this phase of the program.
These guys made the courageous choice to confront addiction. Several months ago they walked into an unfamiliar environment with a bunch of strangers and decided to change course. They’ve faced their demons, admitted their weaknesses, and stepped onto the scary path of walking the talk of their faith.
One of the men had his parents there. They traveled from Florida for this special day, and couldn’t have been prouder if their son was receiving a Nobel Prize. Without knowing the details, I can only imagine the pain and heartache splashed across the pages of their shared story.
But this ceremony was all about redeeming the struggle. Dad couldn’t find enough hands to shake, and Mom literally beamed with pride.
As I sat in the back and listened to their counselors speak about their journeys, I was deeply moved. I felt like Becky and I had witnessed a very special moment, one we didn’t completely understand. But I knew we were on holy ground.
These two men aren’t done. They’ll head to New River Ranch, where we spoke last Friday, for the next phase of their recovery. There will be challenges, disappointments, and setbacks. When you’re fighting serious addiction issues, there’s no “easy button” to push for answers.
But they’ve chosen to battle, and to surround themselves with people who love them and are dedicated to their success. They’ve decided to lean on Jesus.
As I cranked away from the center I was once again overwhelmed with emotion. I want so badly for these two men, and all the guys we’ve met at Teen Challenge, to win. I pray for them.
I started Monday with tears—tears of joy, hope, and fear, because the battle’s tough and the enemy’s real. I hope they’re covered by Jesus’ words from Matthew 14:27:
Take courage. I am. Don’t be afraid.
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We’ve just about biked our way through the Phoenix area. My Monday ride around Camelback Mountain brought our mileage to 364. Today’s our final Phoenix speaking event (Phoenix North Rotary). Then, on to Tucson!
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