Finding God in the Big Apple

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11)

New York City.

I will never forget my first encounter with the Big Apple. I was in my twenties, and in Manhattan for an interview with CBS Sports. When I arrived, I was mesmerized by the stately skyscrapers, the diversity of people, and the energy of the city. Taxi horns blaring, I knew I wanted to work there one day.

As it turned out, the CBS interview was for a behind the scenes entry-level job, and I opted to delay my dream of working in New York City, so I could return as an on-air sportscaster.

Nine years later, I realized my dream when I made it back to the number one market in the country, in front of the camera, not behind. I embraced the city, and all it had to offer.

But while New York City was the place of my highest career accomplishment, it was also the location of the lowest point of my career, and that’s where I had a face-to-face encounter with my Father in Heaven. He couldn’t get my attention until I was jobless, lost in the city, and flat on my back. That’s when I slowed down long enough to hear his soft, still voice, and rededicate my life to him.

There’s something about New York City, and in the hustle and bustle of its streets, God found a way to meet me there.

In a couple of weeks, I will be going back to this magnificent place to receive one of the highest awards an independently published book can receive, a Next Generation Indie Book Award. My book with Catherine Weiskopf, If I Only Had…Wrapping Yourself in God’s Truth During Storms of Insecurity was a finalist in the Religion Non-Fiction category. It’s been named one of the best in the country.

I believe a reason this awards ceremony is being held in New York City is so I can look back to see how God has transformed my life. As a 30-something sports reporter, at the pinnacle of my career, I would have never predicted I would find my way back to the city as a Christian author, receiving a top award for our God inspired work.

In all this, I realize the Lord is faithful.

When we are obedient to him, he provides bountiful blessings.

When we surrender our lives to Jesus, his journey is exciting, not dull.

He will provide us with favor, and take us to places we never dreamed we’d visit.

And sometimes he takes us back to see how far we’ve come.

I think that’s what this trip to New York City is about.

As I accept this amazing honor at the Harvard Club in the heart of Manhattan, I know my mind will scan back to a time period, almost 25 years prior.

When at my lowest point, I did not understand the plans God had for me.

His plans to prosper me.

Plans to give me a hope.

Plans for a bountiful future.

My prayer is that the next time I find myself lost in the city, I’ll trust God with the outcome, and walk through the dark streets, holding his hand.