Living YES!: Kevin's Story — Young Enough to Serve Again

Kevin

"I really just want everyone to know, that life is better than ever now."

On a sunny day in May, our daughter arrived from her usual Metro Mobility ride home from work. As she approached our doorstep, a familiar face greeted us warmly, saying, "Well Hello Parottis!"

It was a joy to see Kevin in this happy coincidence as he was a significant person in Dan's life. We couldn't help notice his radiant smile and light demeanor as he escorted Addy to our door. Kevin had worked for Dan when he was the facilities director at our church. Kevin was a hard worker but often seemed guarded and easily angered.

Dan soon discovered that Kevin had struggled with addiction for most of his life and even during his time working for Dan, it was a daily battle. Kevin shared with us that he battled addiction for 50 years, reaching a point where he could no longer see any hope.

As Dan and Kevin talked that day, they recalled a time when Kevin was no longer working with Dan. The church received a call that he was in the hospital with heart complications and would need surgery. Kevin knew he was at a crossroads, and if he didn't reach out for help, he would likely lose his life altogether.

In 2017, Kevin entered the full year program at Teen Challenge, a Christian treatment and recovery program. While he was there, Kevin recommitted his life to the Lord and thrived. For the first time, he felt he was on the road to real recovery and freedom. Kevin even ended up working at Teen Challenge for three years! Since then, Kevin has remained free from addiction and, at 68 years old, feels like he is finally living.

Kevin shared, that he has never been more stable in his life. "I have a job where I can serve others, and I have the opportunity to really listen to them. When someone doesn't have money to pay for their ride, I just take care of it. Today, while on a route, I was talking to a woman who is about to celebrate her 100th birthday. I shared about my past addiction and how the friends in church helped get me back on my feet and on the road to freedom. I told her that I was going to be interviewed by you, sharing my story in hopes that it might encourage someone."

As we listened to Kevin recount his story, we couldn't help but notice how much younger and healthier he appeared. It served as a powerful reminder to us that regardless of our past, our best days can always be ahead of us with the Lord. The story is never over. He continually seeks to transform our lives, free us from the things that bind us, and use us to bless others.

We are so thankful for the privilege of witnessing the transformation in Kevin's life. His journey encourages us in our own faith as we see the power of God at work when we simply surrender to Him.

Reflection from Judy

Oh, the joy of a transformed life! Kevin's testimony is a great reminder that you can still be young enough to seek help for an addiction. While there are many programs that help people in their battle with life-controlling issues, the program Kevin chose, TEEN CHALLENGE, is amazing.

Don't let the name fool you. Although it was founded by a minister helping troubled teenagers — it expanded to a worldwide ministry helping people of all ages, through the power of Jesus Christ, to overcome addictions. Should someone you love be in need of freedom from a life-altering addiction, PLEASE CHECK OUT THIS LINK:

https://teenchallengeusa.org/about/faqs/

Thank you, Jesus, for saving and transforming Kevin. We pray many others will receive your forgiveness and healing.

–Judy

Do you know someone in the second half of life who is making a meaningful impact for the Kingdom? We’d love to hear their story as we continue gathering inspiring examples. Please send to info@yestoserve.org.