Deven..

This is kind of a weird post for me, but this is something that has definitely had a big impact on who I am. I mentioned my friend Deven from 7th grade once before, but I'm gonna tell you a little more about him. When he was 13, Deven was killed in a car accident. I know that seems like so long ago, and it was, but his short life challenged me more than very many people in my whole life have. I don't necessarily think about him every day like I used to, but I definitely haven't forgotten him. I know that before when I mentioned something about him, I was talking about his passion for Christ at such a young age. He literally didn't meet a stranger and told EVERY one about Jesus and everything He had done for him. A few days before he passed away, he, and our friend Corey, had been going table to table in our lunch room to ask people if they knew Jesus. I don't know about you, but I don't even have that kind of courage or confidence now, let alone then! I heard a song that they played at his funeral this week, and I've been thinking about everything his life stood for since.

 I know that he was a nerdy, 13 year old kid, with a curly, blonde afro, but his life and death changed my life for good. I couldn't ever thank him enough for the inspiration and friend he was to me then, and even now. I don't why certain things happen, but I am more than certain that Deven's life and death happened to bring glory to his King, and thats all he would have wanted. I'm so thankful for the short time I did get to spend with him and even more thankful that he showed the love of Jesus until the day he died. I know this is kind of a weird thing to be thankful for now, almost 7 years later, but He impacted my eternal relationship with my Savior, so that is obviously a HUGE deal. Thank Jesus today for all the people that have impacted you and your walk, and, as always, look for grace in your life, both given and received. Love Love Love.