Time is an interesting concept as it ties into reality. As I sit here on my alma maters campus I think about the things I’ve accomplished today, and the reason for my presence here right now. I think back to the time when I started here in 1991, and all the water under the bridge since then. This campus and this city is not what it was in 1991, and not all of it has been good. It saddens me. I can look at the glass half-full too, but when you think about the desensitizing our culture has experienced you realize that even the buckle of the Bible Belt can’t save John Cougar Mellencamp even when he sings about it.

I realize there are a plethora of hypocrites that have passed across this campus since it’s beginning in 1891, but I also know there is a memorial fountain right outside this building that honors a dear man who laid down his life for other people. God isn’t finished with Nashville, nor is He throwing up His arms in exasperation wondering why the world rejects Him. It’s been doing that for a long time. There also continues to be revivals of God desire from those who realize life is empty without Him.

I’ve been fond of saying that you don’t have to go through hell to appreciate heaven, and I pray this campus become a conduit of grace for that purpose.

I’ve had to learn the hardway through life, but I serve a God who is merciful and kind. That doesn’t mean the hardway has to be part of my reality as I continue on. When it comes to depression I’m a mighty force for redemption for those who go down this road.

I’m thankful that the stigma on mental illness is lifting, and I’m even more thankful that we have a  Father who never gives up on us.