Brian the Non-Practicing Buddhist

Several months ago I went to see my friend Craig the paranoid-schizophrenic-alcoholic-legalist, but when I knocked on the door his roommate answered. I had never met Brian, but from the looks of him, he was neither happy nor was he nice. I wasn't frightened, but I did think to myself, "O great, this guy is probably taking advantage of my friend Craig." Thus began what has now become a strong friendship.

At the time, Brian described himself as a non-practicing Buddhist. He had spent several years studying the teachings of Buddha and living in Buddhist communities, but something was missing. We started meeting every week and talking about the similarities between the things he liked about Buddhism and things that Jesus taught. One day Brian told me he wanted to become a Christian. I probably should not have been as surprised as I was. The thing is, I hadn't really been trying to convert him. I was learning a lot from him. He challenged me and I enjoyed being with him.

I was privileged to baptize him and now we ride to church together on Sundays and meet almost every Thursday. On April 1 he decided to quit a two pack a day smoking habit. He is two weeks in and his world is changing. He feels better, his senses have sharpened, he's sleeping better at night. But it is still difficult, especially after meals.

I love Brian and I hold him in highest regard. He needs your prayers as God makes big and rapid changes in his life. One of the changes God has already made is Brians name. He is no longer Brian the non-practicing Buddhist. He is now Brian the non-smoking Jesus follower. Pray for him today.