During my tenure at Buckner, I have had the opportunity to be a part of ministering to countless children and families. I have been blessed to be under great leadership in an organization that puts children and families first.

 

At one point in my fifth year at Buckner, I was promoted to recreational director for a program call Passport to Recovery. In this role I was responsible for planning therapeutic recreational activities for the youth in the program.

 

I was excited, energized and still committed to helping the broken hearted. Little did I know that God was not only allowing me to minister to the clients but also that they would minister to me. 

 

I recall a day when I was working late, and had some personal concerns on my mind. I went outside during my break and I sat on the stairs and looked up at the stars in the sky, as I often do when I am seeking an answer from God.

 

About that time a client came outside, sat beside me and began to speak to me. I can still remember her words to this day.

 

The client asked me what was wrong. Of course being the staff I downplayed the issue. Then the client said to me, “Mr. Henry, don’t worry this too shall pass.” 

 

As soon as she said that, I felt the worry release from me. From that day on, I learned that in order to minister to others effectively you have to be able to receive effectively; not focusing on the vessel God uses but the content of what is being given.

 

I have since carried those words within me, and I have paid it forward to others whom I have been allowed to witness to.

 

Who would have thought a client in care could minister to the one whose job it was to minister? God does work in mysterious ways.