Our Stories
Sing Hosanna
By Beth Soderlund | posted 01/24/2008
"Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God." (Romans 5:1-2)
Koti Hu's testimony of God's glory before his July, 2007 accident is incredible. Then God gave him a new story. As Koti describes it, God wrapped His hands around his head, protecting his brain, before allowing him to be hit from behind by a truck going 60 mph. Koti is now paralyzed, in chronic pain, and still witnesses his unwavering trust in Christ.
Did you hear him speak at Creekside? Were you not touched in the deepest part of you? Through my blurry eyes I spotted many a tear, so I know you must have felt similar to me. Koti's story of God allowing such tragedy is devastating. But that's not really the point, is it? Did you also hear Koti's friend Jeff Neuenschwander? Jeff truly set the stage for a testimony of God's grace and his glory. He reminded us that we add so much extra baggage to our Christian walks when the basics are: a) God is God and b) we have eternal life. (Romans 5:1-2). It was a reminder I needed.
My initial response to hearing Koti honestly tell his own story; struggles, depression, pain and all, was to worship my Almighty God whose gift of eternal life is mine to claim. Isn't that the true message we heard? As a worship band member, I continually struggle with what it means to "lead worship:" singing on a stage and yet wanting to be forgotten. I desperately pray that my voice, offered back to my Lord, only leads others to worship God. No one has taught me this lesson better than Koti. Here is a man who used every talent God gave (and He gave abundantly) to God's glory. God will always honor that desire.
I found myself driving home thinking not of "sad story," but thanking the Creator of the universe for His grace. Incredible that we can suffer with one another, feel true sorrow over each other's losses and still be led to sing halleluiah. Koti's dream for us is that we forget Koti. Did he achieve this for you?
To respond to this message, email Beth at bethsoderlund@yahoo.com.
