God’s command to "love thy neighbor" comes very easily for me. Yes, Donna and I love our neighbors. They are a younger couple with four beautiful children. Over the years we have adopted one another as a true family. We have been bound together in good times and bad times. We have an infallible and deep level of love for and trust in each other. One strong connection we have is our faith. They are truly people of deep faith and are raising their children through a divine example.

With that said, Donna and I attended an event at their home on Monday night. It was an event highly fueled with excitement and anticipation. It was a night that Andre, their oldest child, would receive his assignment for his two year mission for his church beginning in November. This mission endeavor has been a frequent topic of discussion between our families for quite some time. Monday night was the accumulation of much intrigue and suspense. Their home was packed with friends awaiting the announcement. When the decision came, it was announced that Brazil would be his destination. Andre’s dad was born in Brazil which made the assignment extra special.

I was honored to be a part of the event especially due to my love for Andre. I can not say enough about this child. I have watched him grow from a kid kicking around a soccer ball in the front yard and splashing in the pool to a beautiful young man committed to service to his church. Just recently he graciously assisted me in the installation of sod in my backyard. I was impressed by his attention to detail not to mention his strength as he lifted the heavy rolls of sod as if they were cotton balls.

Scripture views youth as a crucial and capable part of the church with emphasis on their potential to serve God. 1 Timothy 4:12 says "Don’t let anyone look down upon you because of your youth, but set an example for the believers in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity". Obvious to me that my friend lives by those words. Jeremiah 1:4-8 further urges young folks to be encouraged and not feel limited by their age to answer God’s calling.

Yes, Andre has benefited from the divine example set forth by his wonderful parents, but this young man has listened and obeyed them every step of the way. His gentle, soft spoken and polite demeanor is a welcomed trait in this celebrity driven, and often rude, culture of youth we sometimes see in today’s world. My friend will leave for Brazil in November and be separated, across the world, from his family for two years. Their only contact will be a weekly call. I love this young man and ask that you join me in constant prayer for his journey. Pray for his safety, peace and comfort. No one knows better than I that he will make all who love him proud !!!!!