We enjoy the Christmas season for several reasons: we share extended time with family, as we celebrate the birth of our Savior. We have a chance to "catch our breath" between semesters. And, we hear from several of our friends and family members about how God has been at work in their lives.

One such note we received this Christmas was from Zach, who was a member of a discipleship group I led at Pittsburg State University in 1993.
The following note is shared, with Zach's permission:

"Dave,
I hope you are doing well and had a great semester. My men's group is working through a book called 'The Quest for Authentic Manhood.' In the initial part of this, we have the opportunity to reflect on our life. One of the things Robert Lewis mentioned is that men need good mentors.

In reflecting on my life, I realized God blessed me with positive role models and mentors ar specific critical periods of my life. I thank you for being one of those influences. You were the first person that really took the time to show me what a Christian really is. I credit you with teaching me how to study the Bible and building skills in me that I still use today. I can't tell you how many times I think of things you said to me, or the books we studied together. I still have my card from the Pursuit of Holiness where our group signed it stating our aim was not to sin (vs. not to sin much). You, Travis, Tim, Kent, Matt and I all signed it.

I could go on listing the number of things I learned from you, but the bottom line is I just want to say thank you for taking the time to be an example for me of what a Christian really is. As you know, the college years can be a great challenge. I am thankful God blessed me with someone like you to help me during those difficult years. You will never know how much it means to me."
 
There have been times when I have been asked, "So when do you know when your work is successful?" And I often answer with two statements:

First of all, we get to participate in God's work in and through the lives of individual students. Secondly, since I have had the opportunity to invest in discipling relationships for more than 30 years, I get to see how God continues to work through the young men and women who have graduated and continued to grow in their relationship with Christ and others.

Zach is one of those young men.

Thanks, Zach, for the reminder that investments made into the lives of young adults bear fruit for years to come.

Thanks, too, to each person who has read this column. You received this e-mail, because you have committed to support us through your prayer and financial gifts. You play a vital role in our continued ministry.

The chorus of a familiar hymn comes to mind as I close. "When we all get to heaven, what a day of rejoicing that will be, when we all see Jesus,we'll sing and shout the victory."

LOVE WINS.