You could feel the silence in the gym. Not since Spiritual Renewal Day last year when Nick Vujicic shared his powerful testimony have we experienced such a response from the student body. Tears and support flowed for Specialist Matthew Stern of the United States Army. An NCS graduate of 1998, Matt asked if he could share with the students stirring and tragic events, which he described as evil, from his service in Iraq.
Moments before speaking Matt received a phone call of yet another passing of someone close. He was at a loss of words, but God spoke through him with conviction and raw emotion. Matt shared with the students the reality of war and the incredible cost of freedom. He has suffered greatly from the deaths of friends and soldiers serving under him. In grisly details, appropriate only because of the context, he honestly and poignantly painted a picture of evil he has seen and, to the glory of God, survived. He stood before us as a vulnerable and victorious soldier of Jesus Christ.
As Matt broke down, I jumped from my chair to hug him and let him feel the support of our campus. As I turned the faculty was already thinking the same and immediately placed hands on him as he experienced a long overdue catharsis. Prayers followed led by Mr. Nelson and myself. Students who have loved ones in the war came down and also surrounded the soldier with support.
This was a spirit-led service that ended with students lining up to hug this hero. Through this service God convinced us all that not only is there a real war in Iraq, but there is a spiritual war fighting for lost souls. Praise God we serve a risen and victorious Savior, Jesus Christ. His power and authority defeats evil!
What humbles me most is how God trusted us to minister to this soldier. This is proof that we have grown spiritually as body of Christ. He trusted us to follow His lead in responding to Matt’s humble heart. We became the instrument of healing God used when Matt needed the Lord’s healing touch.
Thank you, Jesus, for trusting our campus with this divine appointment in the realm of spiritual warfare. Keep fighting for Matthew and protect him as he fights for us. He is your servant and you are His mighty Savior!
In your Name, Amen- |
