We had the privilege of having Samuel Lai, deacon of Wildfire, speak to our church family this past Sunday. Sam taught about being present in the present. We often look back and long for ‘the good old days’ or we look to the future in hopes of better days. But in doing so, we miss the blessings right in front of us. For anyone who has a teenage child and up, we can all truly relate. Every time I see a baby picture of my children and their chubby cheeks, missing teeth, and outrageous wardrobe I think to myself – ‘time does fly’.
Sam reminds us that God is working in the present. Looking back reminds us of His faithfulness and looking forward keeps our eyes on trusting and believing in God’s provision and guidance. But living in the present allows us to enjoy the season.
As Sam was speaking, I felt the Lord highlight that Sam is not speaking from theory, he is speaking from heart and experience. Sam joined the LifeSpring family 20 years ago. He first accepted the Lord in our very own gym, he got baptized on the stage we still use today, and, 20 years later, the Sam I knew is “same same, but different” to the Sam today.
A teenage kid who met Jesus and encountered the Holy Spirit became a key member of Kidz Harbour (former Kingdom Kids) and is now the deacon of Wildfire (Youth & Young Adult Ministry). His experience in the past has led him to his present – a father, leader, and mentor to many – yet the Lord put on my heart that “HE IS NOT DONE YET”. That God will be upon and continue to guide and bless Sam to be a blessing.
I believe this is a key message for the LifeSpring family at this time. We must always remember the past – God is so faithful. We must be present in the present – even in the chaos with so many young children. Yet we are hopeful for the future that God will continue to use and bless us to be a blessing, for generations to come.
Thank you Sam for your message. LifeSpring family, take a moment and enjoy the season.