This is Brian (surrounded by his family). [Not to be confused with Brian Truschinger, who is the Brian referred to in other parts of this newsletter.]
About two years ago, he started sensing strong promptings to spend time with God. Brian had been a Christian for over 15 years, and he was originally an “on fire” believer, but over time that fire had faded. Wrestling with topics like suffering, dealing with his own disappointments with fellowship, and dysfunctional church community had all contributed to feelings of hopelessness and pessimism. Brian thought he knew all about prayer and spending time with God.
But the new desire Brian had wasn’t just a yearning to pray. It was a desire to get away and spend time with God and nothing else. So he did. Jesus met him there and it was good. There were no fireworks or crazy revelations, but his desire didn’t stop—it only grew, and something of a new fire was kindled. Brian’s wife Samantha introduced him to BEMA and they began listening and discussing it together. Brian began studying some Hebrew.
Brian figured this study component would be something to come and go, but it only added to his fire. Brian and Samantha have gone on an incredible journey of listening to God, learning how to help others listen to God, and even pursuing training to disciple others in these efforts. They are truly experiencing the slow but steady work of God in their spiritual formation—and helping others do the same.
