Into the Fire

Many of you have probably heard of or heard Dave Roever speak. His testimony of a phosphorous hand grenade exploding in his hand, wiping out half his face, and setting his body on fire while serving in Viet Nam, is well known. Those who rescued him assumed he was dead, and it took every ounce of effort he had remaining to alert them to the fact that he was not. His horror and pain was compounded when he feared his wife would be unable to accept him in his disfigured state. Many, many surgeries later, still with health issues and some disfigurement, he is a man with a mission.

He has preached at men’s conferences, public schools, and at just about every location where our troops are fighting across the world. His enthusiasm and his mission are ever present, and his current project is building a home in the high hills of Colorado dedicated to repair and restore damaged service men, helping them to realize their purpose, importance, and value does not depend on their appearance or the physical limitations of their bodies but rather in how God can use them in His service for His kingdom. Dave Roever had to learn firsthand what it felt like to feel like a freak, to heal, to mend physically, emotionally, and come to terms with who He was in Christ and how God intended to use Dave’s “limitations” for His glory.

If you’re ever in need of some inspiration, check out Dave Roever’s websites. If you’re ever in need of perspective, try to attend a church or event where Dave Roever is speaking. His humor is hysterical, his emotion is genuine, his mission is Spirit-led, debt free, truly noble, and worthy of contributions.

When you’ve gotten too far into yourself, take a refresher course on real values. Understand that sometimes suffering enhances ministry and is a requirement to true humility and service. We all need a reality check sometimes.

Father, please help me to know, acknowledge, and proclaim your blessing on my life. Let me never forget how gracious you’ve been to me. Thank you, dear Jesus, for your suffering on my behalf. Help me to be generous to whatever ways you want me to give of myself. Please continue to watch over Dave Roever and bless this home for the soldiers who desperately need your restoration and healing. Be there in power and grace, Holy Spirit. May they know your love in its fullness, God. Use them all, Jesus. Renew their lives and give them abundance. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.