Dear Friend Who Is Hurting,

It deeply saddens me that I'm even writing this to you; because it undoubtedly means that you're experiencing a hurt that is far beyond what myself or anyone can conceive. However, I'm writing this to you because you need to read what I have to say to you. What I think of you. What an inspiration you truly are to every single person you encounter.

You've been through unspeakable and unexplainable tragedy, a deep pain that seeps into every facet of your life. I know you must hear this often, but I truly cannot imagine what you are going through. It must be incredibly frustrating to be known by many yet fully understood by very few at this particular season of your life.

I don't know exactly what you feel, but I do know how you are choosing to react to the cards you've been dealt. You have chosen to keep pressing on. To keep looking ahead. To keep seeking Jesus even though you have no idea if you'll ever see the light of day again. For the rest of us onlookers, you are more of an inspiration than you know. It would be incredibly easy for you to essentially press pause on your life. To stop pressing forward, taking classes, being involved, and attempting to adjust to your new normal. You could very well do that and nobody would ask any questions because honestly, it's a very reasonable thing to do.

But you don't. You keep going.

You have sought His face above all else. In the midst of the confusion, tears, hurt - you keep looking up. You keep shining His glory. And you keep showing others the gospel. Somebody told me once, "Show people the gospel. And if necessary, use words." That is exactly what you are doing. There are no words to describe what you are feeling.

Yet, you are STILL SHOWING people the gospel and fulfilling your purpose in this life... because you point people straight to the cross. People look at your life and wonder how you have the strength to persevere, and your answer is truly Jesus. What a beautiful and awe-inspiring truth that you point us all to.

It's hard to hurt deeply and still love. It's hard to be broken and still let Jesus work through you to help heal others. Yet, you still allow yourself and your story to be a vessel of encouragement to every single person you meet. Do you realize how cool that is? How brave and bold you are?

Your life is Jesus filled during the darkest hour of your life. You continue to sing His praise and love others along the way. I am so incredibly proud of you. You have displayed a courage and strength that is truly unexplainable. You are the kind of friend everyone needs and an inspiration to every single person you encounter. Keep on going!!!!!

Gentry was an amazing man of God who was loved by all he encountered. He was all things good.. kind, loving, diligent, hard working, and compassionate. We will remember him for the rest of our time here on earth, but rejoice that he is now with our Father. #BallLikeG

James 1:12 "Blessed is the one who perseveres under trialbecause, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him."