When Our Plans Fail

After graduating from SFU in 2012, I worked diligently towards the goal of being a Police Officer with the VPD. 

But my plan didn't turn out the way I had envisioned it.

I was disappointed and discouraged, but God began to guide my heart in a new direction. In 2014, I began learning more about the history of aboriginal people in Canada and the role of the church in many of the abuses they've suffered. Contemplating these injustices, I've felt convicted by the Holy Spirit to be a part of healing and reconciliation.

In September, I began working as a Youth Transition worker with the Urban Native Youth Association. I help at risk youth prepare for living independently, and I feel that God has placed me here for a purpose. 

Thinking back, I now realize that it's amazing how God has been leading me towards his plan. In 2011, I had been on a short term missions trip to Thailand. There, young people from a church in Hat Yai prophecied that in the future I would work with youth and people struggling with addiction.

How would they have known that in September 2015 that word from God would come true?

In this new job as a youth transition worker, I've been helping at risk youth transition to independence. One of the most difficult parts of the process is finding affordable housing and landlords that are willing to rent to youth with no references. 

During Pastor Milissa's message one week during our church-wide emphasis on “Fullness of Life for Every Child”, she spoke about how many homeless youth are former foster children. It made me think of the kids I'm working with and how myself and the church can care for them. A not for-profit organization called Aunt Leah's Place is starting a new initiative called the Friendly Landlord Network which is a database of landlords who are willing to rent to youth who were previously in foster care. 

I thought it might be appropriate to share this opportunity with the members of Tenth as another way to reach out and help bring fullness of life for every child.

God makes impossible connections happen—just as when I thought there was no light at the end of my career tunnel, God opened a new way for me. I know that He can do the same for the vulnerable youth with whom I work.

David Minor is a worship leader and attends our community at Tenth East Van with his wife Andrea.