Another year behind me. What lies ahead?

Tomorrow (Sunday), I turn 58. It’s hard to believe that I’ve made it this far. When I was diagnosed with full-blown AIDS in 1992, I never thought I would see this day. But as time passed on and I kept overcoming hurdles and other diagnoses that were brought on from the virus itself, like diabetes being a thing with one of the AIDS medication brought on, I kept living. Every day became a treasure for the added days God gave me. Years passed and I’m still here today, 31 years later.

Anyway, here I am, by God’s grace. Every day is a gift, and I am grateful for every moment I can spend with my loved ones in making memories, a legacy, if you will and sharing Jesus with others of what He has done in my life. My life has been far from perfect; many of my struggles were brought on by yours truly. I’m not perfect and have never claimed to be. It hasn’t been an easy journey, but God never promised any of us a life without blemish, and trust me, I’ve had a few. I am proud of the battles I have fought and the scars that remind me of the strength I do possess because of Christ and what He has allowed in my life.

As a survivor of the AIDS battle, I know what it means to rely on God’s mercy, His love and forgiveness. I have seen the darkness that this disease can bring, but I have also seen the power of prayer through Hope and Faith in Christ Jesus. Jesus has been my rock throughout this journey, and I am forever thankful and grateful for all that he has done in my life and all that He will continue to do.

This evening’s communion was God’s perfect timing. I was able to pray for God to purify my heart and help me serve Him better, and what better timing than at the cusp of a new year ahead. I want to make the most of every opportunity that I have, to love and serve those around me, and to be a light in the darkness of the world around me. I may stumble and fall, but I will always ‘choose’ to get back up and keep moving forward with Jesus and my wife by my side. At 58, I am thankful to still have my mother who is not only living but who we are blessed to have live with us and a wife who supports me even in my darkest hours.

Thank God for yet another birthday