Cerebral Palsy does not stop Peter Kangas. He's becoming a preacher and a teacher...
I'm torn. I could tell you about a chain reaction
of leading a man to Christ and then him bringing 69 year old John to the Lord.
Then there is the always critical situation in Israel, especially now with the
explosions in Egypt, Tunisia, Syria, and other Arab lands.
Instead, I shall tell you a love story. About the worth of a
soul. The value of one solitary life. His name is Peter Kangas and he is one of
my best pals. We met in New Hampshire, and I took this 23 year old shy young
man under my discipleship wing. Boy, was my life changed! I think Peter
discipled me!
You see, Peter had suffered a mild case of cerebral palsy.
He could have been grounded by the well-meaning nay-sayers! You know, those who
might say, "He would never be able to teach or preach." "Peter can't memorize
scriptures or witness effectively to others." "Peter must live with
limitations."
Well, Peter and I became pals. Yep, a grizzled Moses and a
23 year old future Joshua. Peter joined my Band of Warriors class and soon
surpassed the others in memorizing scriptures. Those verses included "I can do
all things through Christ who strengthens me." Soon he was memorizing entire
chapters (he's now completing the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5, 6, 7). He
accompanied me on speaking engagements and challenged the "But I can't..."
congregations by quoting volumes of verses.
Then there was prayer. Peter didn't pray in public. He does
now! Each time we were together, I prayed for him and asked him to pray for me.
Wow! Can he pray! Simply, powerfully and effectively. And shyness? We lifted
weights in my garage. I'm 6'3" with long arms. I kidded Peter, "It's not fair-your
arms are shorter. I shall call you Mr. Stubs." Peter countered with that
mischievous smile, "And I will call you Daddy Long Legs." So much for shyness!
As I write this, I leave in a week to reach out to
the youth in New Hampshire. Peter will be there to help minister at the rally.
He's going to make a fine teacher and preacher. I know you'll pray for
Peter-especially for a miracle for his eyes. Next time you look in the mirror
think of the worth of a soul. The value of a life. For God loves you like He
loves Peter. Just remember-you can do all things-anything-through Christ who
strengthens you.
Frank
Eiklor