Held Up by Prayer - May 2nd

Words can hardly capture the overwhelming love and support that surrounded me on Saturday, May 2nd. It began simply—our cousin’s daughter, Sammie Wiebelhaus, reached out to ask if she and a few others could come pray with me. My son’s grade school friend, Colton Jansen, joined her in organizing what turned out to be a complete surprise—one that became a gathering far beyond anything I could have ever imagined.

What I didn’t expect was to walk out my front door and be met with a crowd of people—students I’ve taught in the past and present, my children’s friends, our family, and so many dear friends—all gathered for me.

As everyone joined together, placing a hand on the shoulder in front of them until that circle of support reached me, I felt something truly powerful. The presence of God in that moment was undeniable. Their prayers covered me with hope, love, and strength for the days ahead. They spoke boldly of God as our healer, believing in His power to perform miracles, and asking Him to bring healing over my body.

The students and adults who spoke shared such meaningful and heartfelt words—I will carry that moment with me forever. When it came time for me to speak, it was nearly impossible to hold back the emotion. The entire experience was deeply moving, but it also reminded me of something so important: good will come from this.

I am reminded that I am created with a purpose. A purpose that existed long before I was born and one that I will never outgrow—to glorify God and honor Him with my life.

As it says in Ephesians 2:10 (NIV): “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

We are called to do good—not simply for the sake of being good, but to live out the purpose God has uniquely prepared for each of us, with hearts that seek to serve Him.

He has a purpose for each of our lives—and He is faithful to carry it through.