Scripture Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Sprit Intercedes with sighs too deep for words. And God, who searches the heart, knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the Saints according to the will of God. Romans 8:26-27
A Word of Hope
Today is Tell a Story Day and I will share a story with you. Once there was a boy who grew up in a loving home with a lovely family who took him to church. Attending church was more than something they did on Sundays; it was a part of their lives. His father and grandfather were elders and it was a tradition that was passed from generation to generation. This boy loved Sunday school and then as a teen loved his youth group. This young man loved going on mission trips, lock-ins and fellowship. Then one day this young man came out as gay and his world changed. His friends at youth group left him, his youth pastor asked for him to go to counseling and to stay away from the children’s ministry. Any events, or overnight activities required this young man to bring his father along. This young man was crushed and along with his family struggled to make sense of everything.
This young man’s story does not end there for he went on to find Cathedral of Hope Youth Ministries. Together we made sense of the anger, frustration and the challenges he faced. Romans 8:26-27 says that sometimes we don’t know how to pray but that the Spirit of God intercedes for the Saints according to his will. My young friend’s story affirmed my calling and changed the way we did youth ministry at Cathedral of Hope. We no longer stayed in the classroom and met only on Sunday’s. We created a family of choice, and went out into the community to share the good news of God’s unconditional love.
My young friend’s story is one of many I can tell you that has inspired us. Cathedral of Hope has a rich history of men and women who have worked hard to make this a safe place for many teens and adults alike. There have been times we have prayed when all we had were sighs too deep for words. As a communion of faith we will continue to shine a light to all those who still need hope. For whatever your challenges might be, take courage and know that the God who searches your heart intercedes for you and loves you beyond your imagination.
Prayer God, search our hearts, know our minds and help us remember that we are not alone, for your Spirit intercedes for us. Thank you for our history, our stories and above all our bright future in your hands. May your will be done.
Amen.