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Transformation Pt. 1

   

 I decided that for my final blog (2 parts) I would post my journal entry regarding the simple lessons I have learned. The truth is, the World Race has been a blessing the Lord has used to change my life, but there isn’t a singular moment that I could share that would do justice. These are a few of the many lessons I’ve learned in my time on and off the field. 

 

I’ve learned that vulnerability encourages and builds others up, if it is used in a healthy way. It encourages other to be vulnerable as well, and does not in fact push others away. Feelings are okay to have, and perfectly acceptable to communicate. 

 

I’ve learned that redemption is REAL. Yes, I know, there is freedom and eternity for all those who believe, but the redemption, freedom, and eternity start now. Without that perspective we live in shame and allow it to have power over us. I’ve learned that shame is truly powerless and that my freedom and eternity with the Lord is something I can presently live in. No Shame. 

 

I learned that real and godly masculinity is healthy. It’s vulnerable, and seeks to protect others and their identity in the Father, and doesn’t seek to tear another person down to rise above. I’ve learned that I have a lot more of this to step into. 

 

I learned (and continue to live in the the fact that) Jesus IS ENOUGH. By his grace alone I am alive and breathing and will continue to live. My future is nothing because He is everything. My money is nothing because He is everything. The clothes on my back and roof I live under are all but blessing from Him that have no significance without His love. His death tore the veil, and His resurrection gave us life. His grace is sufficient for me. 

 

I have learned that the Father truly does delight in those who cling to His mercy and fall on their face before Him in prayer and spirit led worship. 

 

I have learned that in order for iron to be sharpened it has to go through the fire. It must be hammered and beaten and fired, and hammered and beaten and fired, and so on. Iron sharpens iron, one man sharpens another, and both are put through the fire. My brothers and I were tested to the limits of our faith as a whole. We learned how to be strong in our weakness, and how to be okay with being weak in the first place. 

 

I learned that forgiveness is a life to be lived parallel with repentance and is only killed by complacency. Forgiveness for self and others. Forgiveness for the church. I learned that forgiveness means loving and not hating. Literally. Black vs white, life vs death. It means letting your bags of trash be untied before the Son, and letting Him shred your blackmail letters. 

 

     As I said, these are just a few of the many many things I’ve learned. I was baptized, I was driven across the country, flown across the world, and plunged into an ocean of a journey that I know is only just now getting started. In this moment, with these words, I take the time to say thank you. To my supporters, my friends and family, my partners in prayer, my parents, my squad leaders, etc. Most of all I want to thank the Lord for being all that He was, all that He is, and all that I know He will never fail to be. 

4 Comments

  1. Gabriel,

    What an incredible and awesome journey you have been a part of. God is faithful! I am so proud of you!

    Love you as big as the sky!
    Dad

  2. Proud is an understatement. Can’t wait to see what the Lord does through you and for you in this upcoming season. Glad to know you.

  3. Gabe, the things you have leaned sets you apart from many. And they are things you are capable of sharing with others and very likely the reason for this journey. It my not be right away, maybe years down the road, but the Lord has a special plan for you if you are willing to allow him to lead you there. So happy for you and it will be a pleasure to have you home.

  4. I am so proud of you for being sharpened by the Lord in this way this past year! What you have learned this year with have a lasting impact on you for the rest of your life!

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