As I finish up these posts about “family”, I can’t leave these men out.
When I got to AIM, I met so many amazing people. There are several special men and women that I pray I get to know more as time passes. But there are two that already have a special place in my heart and life.
I got two new “Dads” when I got to AIM. Spiritual Fathers that God lovingly place in my life: Seth Barnes and Andrew Shearman.
Seth is there for me, all the time. He’s the reason I’m at AIM- he saw potential in me and had vision for what God wanted to do in me and BELIEVED it! It’s why I’m there. He took a chance on me that he didn’t have to take – a chance that has changed the whole course of my life!
He checks on me. He continues to speak truth and life into me. He says yes to my dreams. He dreams big with me. He affirms me when I need words of affirmation. He is teaching me what it means to be empowered by authority (in my work and in my life) – as Christ intends for us to be. He cares – and not just about my work. He wants me to reach my full potential in all aspects of my life. He’s seeking the Lord in life-changing ways, and he wants that for all his “kids” too! He cares about my future. He wants God’s best for me.
Did I mention he’s my boss? How lucky am I?!
“Papa Shearman” (Andrew) is a long-distance Dad but he has still impacted me in amazing ways. He has one of the most beautiful hearts I’ve ever seen in a person. He is loving and tender. He adores Christ in a way that moves everyone around him. He loves completely. He’s also strong and POWERFUL! He knows the authority He has in Christ. He’s a fierce father who fights for the hearts of those he loves. He’s a fierce father who has fought for my heart- who has spoken life and truth over me and who has prayed beautiful dreams into my future.
I could go on and on about these men, because they both have so many amazing qualities. I would have counted it a blessing to have simply met them- yet I am blessed beyond measure to work with them and to share my life with them. I am so thankful that God has placed me under their authority, and under their protection and guidance. I am learning more about my Heavenly Father and the way He loves me because of these two men.
