Juan
When I first met Juan he was known to give the best hugs. Perhaps it’s because of his unabashed love for people. He can’t help himself but to love on others. “I have a passion for people.” Juan is a Youth Pastor at a local church.
I had a great time sipping on ice tea, trying to beat the heat outside, and having a great conversation with Juan. We spoke about everything from the glory days of our favorite football team, the Raiders, back in the 80’s to comic book movies and great documentaries, which he is an avid fan of, to loving people as Jesus loves people no matter their past or lifestyle. Juan quotes Saint Francis of Assisi who said “Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words.”
Juan believed strongly that expressing love to people through our actions is the best way to lead people to Jesus, even to those who don’t love us back. “It’s about bringing heaven to people,” says Juan.
He is currently in a season of passion and seeking authenticity. “There is so much more than the surface-level love that we express.” He spoke so eloquently about passion having a deeper meaning than just having a strong desire for something, but also meaning enduring pain and the countless hours of persistence needed to perfect your craft. He brings up examples such as the apostle Paul, when he languished in prison and beaten severely for his passion for the Lord, or musicians locking themselves away for eight hours a day, for years on end to practice their instruments.
Before he dies he wants to write a book and leave a legacy that will lead people to Jesus. When asked what piece of advice would he give his younger self he replied, “Stop hiding.”
95 stories to go.
