As you glance back over your life, it is good practice to intentionally put down “mental stakes” when there are significant moments to remember. There have been many memorable and important moments in my life. I would like to tell you about one that took place more than 33 years ago.
1989 was a year of transition and change for our family. Susie and I had been married for 11 years. During that time, we adopted our daughter and welcomed our son into the world. We had made incredible friends (who were like our family) and been heavily involved as staff members of a large suburban church, just south of Minneapolis, Minn.
My role as youth director at the church had gradually morphed into that of a media director. I became responsible for the church’s weekly radio show, TV show, and other communication outreach efforts.
In May 1989, my time at the church ended and I accepted a radio station position in Illinois as an on-air radio personality and program director. The job did not pay well, but did provide me with a ton of valuable experience.
About six months have passed since our move. We now had a new address, were attempting to find a church home, plus trying to make new friends. We had family in the area, but as great as that was, it was still another adjustment. The kids were beginning to find their way into their new school and surroundings. If you have ever moved out of state, you know it is a substantial change for everyone.
My wife and kids were being troopers and plugging right along in our new surroundings, but I found myself in a place where I felt disconnected and lonely. I also felt separated from the people I had relationships with and the things in which I had previously found my personal identity.
It was precisely at that moment in time that I received a package, very unexpectedly, from a friend from Minnesota. Inside the package was a wooden, handmade, green-and-red old-fashioned milk truck. My friend Tim had built it and sent it my way.
God used that little wooden truck to let me know that I had not been forgotten. One might think it was not a big deal, but the timing was divinely and personally orchestrated for me! God used that truck to reassure me that I was not alone. Someone (thanks again, Tim) had thought enough of me to make the truck and ship it to me. The timing could not have been more impactful.
Yes, I still have the truck, as you can see. Yes, it is still a reminder to me of the day it arrived 33 years ago. I am sure Tim, through his kind gesture, had no idea of the profound timing and impact his act of kindness would have on me.
I share this story to encourage you to not only remember profound moments that mark your life, but to also reach out to the person God brought to your mind as you have read this story. I would encourage you to make the time to send the text, make the phone call, or send a card, or email. Buy the gift. Make a visit. Who knows? Your effort to reach out might very well make a massive impact on that person’s life. Please do not miss the opportunity!
