My Story
Vulnerability. One of the most important aspects of ministry.
I want vulnerability to be the start of my story. Most likely my story starts out similar to most of you... but life hit me, and life's 'right hook' was enough to bring me to my knees.
I was raised in a Christian home (oh no, here we go again another classic church story... I know, I know, but stay with me). My parents were teaching a marriage class at my church, my older brother was the popular guy in high school who I really looked up to, my younger sister was the little sibling that received the smarts, the talent, and the good looks. Music, basketball, and relationships are the things I clung to.
Life was great until a beyond awful night crept into my picture perfect family. My parents who had been married for 22 years got divorced. My brother decided to go off to basic training as he joined the United States Air Force. This means I was left as the man of the house being a freshman in High School. WHAT A WAY TO START HIGH SCHOOL AS IF IT ISN'T ALREADY INTIMIDATING ENOUGH!
A month later after I was trying to get used to the new "normal", my amazing, selfless, mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. I was down for the count.
At this point, I was numb to everything. Nothing seemed to phase me. I knew one thing, one person, that would never change... My Savior.
I had been a follower of Christ for about 3 years, but I will never forget this moment. A man from my church walked up to me and said, "Lain, you can either use this as an opportunity to run TO God or use this as an excuse to run FROM God." It was at that moment that I chose to run to God and cling to Him with all that I have.
Long story longer, there have been a few obstacles on my journey so far. BUT, I allowed God to turn my obstacles into opportunity.
I would not be anywhere close to where I am today without Jesus. He has proved His faithfulness time and time again. My mother is now 4+ years cancer free, my brother is married and has blessed me with 2 of the most adorable nieces in the world, and my relationships with family are restored.
Now, I am in pursuit of a career in Evangelism. I attend a really amazing college in Branson, MO called College of the Ozarks (if you're ever in the area just give me a shout and I'd love to connect). God is doing big things in my life, not because of me or anything that I have done... simply the fact that I am a broken man, willing to be used by My Creator.
-LM
You are loved! Until next time...
You can follow Lain on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook: @LainMcCanless
If you would like to make a request to have Lain come speak with your church, conference, event, school, or group, email me make sure you check out the Speaking Requests link on my site. You can also recommend blog topics for future posts!
Also, if you liked my blog check out:
https://www.lukelezon.com/blog
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4-CH0epzZpD_ARhxCx6LaQ/featured?disable_polymer=1
