Do It Scared

Oct 4

Each day when I come down the stairs, I look at three pictures. One of me and Keira, another of my parents, and a third, Lisa Merideth.

My dear friend Lisa went home to be with Jesus one year ago tomorrow and, as this day approached, I felt sure about honoring her in a special way to our supporters.

For those just catching up, I encourage you to read the first part of this story about the value of a life changed and a glimpse of my friendship with her.

In truth, Lisa, her husband David, and their family showed me a new way of life in my season between leaving jail and starting Greenhouse Project. God used Lisa to shape both the heart and vision of our ministry, and the person I am today. It’s not really possible to put into words the love Lisa and the Merideth family showed (and continue to show) me.

With a spirit of reflection and gratitude, here are three ways Lisa lived life that made a huge impact on others. I hope it encourages you to go bigger and bolder in your own life!

DO IT SCARED

We grow when we step out of comfort and into the promise of God’s provision. Lisa lived like this – full of faith – and encouraged all those around her to do it too. It was the “slogan” she was known for.

What are you scared to do? Maybe it’s a job change or reconciliation with a loved one. It could be forgiveness or even letting go of something no longer life-giving. What is holding you back? Take the first step and, with faith, just do it.

LIFE IS MINISTRY, MINISTRY IS LIFE

Not a day goes by that Emily and I don’t think about the Merideth family investment into our lives. They included us in a lifestyle of service and intentional connection that became the cornerstone of our ministry model. The door is open, come as you are, let’s do life together with Jesus.

Imagine how much your circle of influence could flourish with an approach to life that truly loves like this, in Jesus’ name! Start small: in what way can you serve and connect better with someone in your life?

CELEBRATE JUST BECAUSE

Lisa loved to create fun. Celebrating birthdays, gathering for holidays, whipped cream battles, water fights… whatever the reason, there was always room for fun with her. It’s the connection around fun that makes the best memories. Slow down to celebrate the ones you love. Invest in fun together. The joy expressed in those moments is powerful and lives on. What will you celebrate this week?

With each glance of Lisa’s picture in our stairwell, I’m reminded of the “why” behind Greenhouse Project. What a legacy in her that we all have the privilege of carrying forward. I will end with this, the same as it was just one year ago:

Thank you, Lisa, for the eternal impact you have made in my life.

In all our lives.

We love you. We miss you. We will see you soon with Jesus.

People ask all the time, “How can I help?”

Now is the time to partner with Greenhouse Project to bring addiction recovery, fresh food, mentorship and gospel truth to struggling neighbors in Chester!

How to help: