Dear Steve,

The day you went home, Grant and I were on our way to a youth group event (we've been hanging out with the high schoolers at our church lately and either they haven't figured out yet how uncool we are or they just don't mind). It was a pool party to enjoy summer and say goodbye to the youth pastor, who is moving to Seattle to start graduate school.
Brandon and Gaby were there, too. It was a sweet comfort to know they were missing you, too, and aware of the sadness that was present for us in the midst of the laughing and swimming and eating potato chips.
At the end of the evening, all the kids gathered together to pray for the pastor who was leaving. It was beautiful to hear their hearts and their prayers for the man who has taught them and loved them for the last 4 years. They were clearly sad to be losing him, and yet hopeful about his future and the things he was going to pursue. I thanked God for the lesson I had learned over and over at Camp Alandale that in God's family it's never "goodbye;" it's always "see you later."
As we prayed, I remembered how much of an impact a youth pastor can have on a life. I remembered how you made sure everyone in the college group had your number and made sure that they knew to call you if they ever needed help. I remember so many times that you shared about your life and how God was teaching you, like the day you said God answered your prayer to help you avoid a particular sin by keeping you so busy that you didn't have time. You welcomed us into your home and your family. We prayed with you and Sonja as you longed for a baby and we prayed with you in the airport after a lovely visit with you and your son - who had given us a lesson in flyfishing. Your life has shaped my faith and the way that I see God in ways that I am sure I don't even realize, and so many that I do. Thank you.
How gracious and loving our Father is, providing that party and prayer night at just that time. He didn't need to, but it was a beautiful gift. He is so wonderful. Give Him a hug for me, would you?

See you later,
Megan