There is a story behind the story…

For the last few days I have been helping our friends at YWAM Denver.  I was asked to help coordinate communication with the media related to last Sunday’s incident.  It turned out to be a privilege to see the kingdom of God in a way I had never seen so clearly before.  

The YWAM leaders involved were the example of servant leadership.  Many flew in from thousands of miles away, and poured their time, talents, wisdom and love into this situation.  Their interactions with the media, the families of those involved and the authorities left a lasting impression of competence and compassion.

The love and convictions of the two YWAMers that lost their lives had an incredible impact, even after their deaths.  They laid the foundation for the most beautiful expression of God’s character that I have ever witnessed.  After a memorial service that celebrated the lives of Tiffany and Phil, their families met with Matthew’s family.  In an exchange of grace and forgiveness, they recognized the losses and the hope in Christ that they all share.  This courage to love in spite of pain caused a seasoned journalist to ask, “isn’t this the epitome of Christianity?”

I said, “Yes, friend. It is.”

Please continue to pray for everyone who has been touched by this tragedy.

Blessings,

Dustin Barrington

YWAM ICN