My name is Jeff Young and I see my whole life as a process. The processes within the process are: knowing God more, becoming more like Him, being better able to communicate who He is.
I have 3 amazing kids: Kennedy, Molly, and Isaac
I spent 8 Years as a professional firefighter
I spent 5 years as the youth pastor at LIFEchurch white rock (WRCF)
I spent 1-1/2 years a the lead pastor at LIFEchurch white rock
PLEASE DON’T FEEL ANY PRESSURE TO ADD COMMENTS TO THIS BLOG. I AM KINDA NEW TO THE BLOGGING WORLD. MY PURPOSE IN THIS IS PARTLY TO HELP ME FIGURE OUT HOW I AM DOING AND ALSO TO HELP MY FRIENDS HAVE AN IDEA ABOUT WHERE I AM AT IN MY JOURNEY. PLEASE FEEL NO PRESSURE TO RESPOND WITH COMMENTS (WHILE THEY ARE WELCOMED)…THIS IS PRIMARILY FOR YOUR VIEWING PLEASURE.
iProcess 
Jeff…so much love and so much intense prayer goes to you, my Pastor, brother in Christ, and friend…
Jeff ….. You are an amazing man of God. In the short time I was blessed to have my life intersect with yours in White Rock I saw a man who lived as Christ among us. Praying for you in your journey, with empathy beyond telling.
Jeff…your heart and character are so obvious they speak volumes. We are praying for you.
Jeff, my hearts breaks for you….you have such incredible character and strength, praying with all my heart for your and your family….God’s grace be with you.
Jeff,
I can not begin to imagine the pain you feel. I have deep respect for you, and certainly am shocked that you would be faced with a situation like this. You are in my thoughts often, and I will remember to pray for you and your family. If ever you would love to chat, share your heart, talk about pain, I would love to do that. God’s grace is sufficient.
Jeff,
Although we don’t have a long history, our paths have crossed many times and I have a lot of respect for you. All I can say is that when it comes to matters of truth and love – time will vindicate, even if you don’t feel that way right now. I’ve been there brother, I understand your grief and brokeness all too well. As I near a one year mark in my own journey of restoration, I can confidently say that it DOES get easier…you WILL feel stronger and more able to look ahead with hope. For now, just allow yourself to feel – whatever you need to feel, just feel it. Try not to put too much pressure on yourself to be the “saint” in all this. Just be. I hope you can take comfort in knowing that someone understands your pain and grief and is trying to pray with understanding for you today. Be blessed Jeff…
We are tied together by a lifeline. The strands of which have been formed by 8 years of a promise to hold on and give even the last breath in our lungs to the other . I became a Christian at age 24 one night in the firehall after watching a Billy Graham Crusade on television. I was on the job for 4 years already and was not treated to an upbringing that spoke of Jesus or Bible passages. Jeff became a co-worker of mine in the fire and rescue service about 5 years later. In that place, where I am now the only Christian, Jeff was a gift from God. Literally our lives were tethered together when entering an inferno or rappelling off a 100′ foot cliff to a river below. A strand of three chords is not easily broken when Christ weaves His Communion of the Saints into the bond. Jeff had my back in every way. Spiritually, socially, and professionally – he is a giant friend. Jeff took care of what needed taking care of. You prayed for me and I could go to you for help with the issues of life.
With such a strange bomb going off in the lives of you and your family and those you assemble with, do know that I’m still tethered to you and will not let go . I will do C.P.R. to revive you all. Christ’s Promises Realized. The Great Physician will take care of His wounded sheep. You will grow strong and wise and be healed of selfishness, fear, feelings of inadequacy, passivity, entitlement and self-reliance. Your church congregation will stand up and move to the leading of the Holy Spirit instead of whatever they see with their eyes and feel with their emotions.
Behold ! It is written !
” We are troubled on ever;y side, yet not distressed ; we are perplexed , but not in despair; persecuted , but not forsaken, ; cast down, but not destroyed.” 2Cor 4:8-9
” Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and thy right hand shall save me.” Psalm 138:7
“Let not your heart be troubled : ye believe in God believe also in me.” John 14:1
“When thou passest through the waters , I will be with the: and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.” Isaiah 43:2
“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God , to them who are called according to His purpose.” Rom 8:28
” I will be glad and rejoice in thy mercy : for thou has considered my trouble; thou hast known my soul in adversities.” Psalm 31:7
” I will lift mine eyes unto the hills , from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.” Psalm 121:1,2
” Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” Matthew 6:34
” Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.” 2Cor 1:3,4
” Do not be anxious about anything but in everything by prayer and petition present your requests to God; and the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Phil 4:6-7
” Therefore the redeemed of the Lord shall return , and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy shall be upon their head: they shall obtain gladness and joy; and sorrow and mourning shall flee away.” Isaiah 51:11
Jeff. Ali and I heard the news this morning while attending our Sunday morning service at SouthGate. I havn’t been involved in church for very long, and I’m sorry I may not have much to offer in the way of spiritual wisdom or advise. We just wanted to let you know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Every once in a while you meet someone in life that has that “Something Special” about them – and Ali and I both admire that quality in you. Whether it was assisting Revy customers with their home improvements, saving lives as a Fire Fighter, or guiding their souls as a Pastor, so many have benefitted from your talent, passion, and dedtication. We also know first hand about the love that you share with your children, and admire your decision to spend time healing with them. I know it’s day by day right now, but I also know that God’s love will give you the strenth to get through this, and contiue to bless you in your future endevors. Our prays ere with you.
Hey Jeff. I’m not sure if we’ve met, probably, but my heart is with you and your family today. Following Jesus has these seasons where our pain pushes us into His arms, but His arms are strong and He is “the restorer” of our souls. Carina and I will be praying for you all. in Jesus love. Brent.
Jeff,
Just a short word to let you know that all the way over here in Ireland, you’re being thought of and prayed for, as is all your family. I hesitate to say much as it is too easy to become verbose in christian cliche. You know what I have been through over the years. In the midst of my despair well meaning brothers and sisters would do their best to encourage. Sometimes (depending on the level of my own despair) I wanted to tell them to put their christian cliches where the sun doesn’t shine and other times I wanted to really embrace them for highlighting truth to me when I was in the dark. Wherever you are at, I just want to say-HANG IN THERE,BABY! Jesus will turn your hell to heaven and surprise you doing it. Ever want to just let rip – just call.
Chris in Derry
Jeff,
Keep on keeping on. Like Chris said, no cliches. I can’t imagine the plethura of feelings you must be going through, but I know what it’s like when you are going through the darkest time and well intentioned people say the most trivial things and the most ill-concieved time…
I’ll just keep dropping note so that this one thing you know – I am thinking of you the kids, and I will continue to. So when some time has passed (but the pain has not yet completely subsided) and you feel alone, I’ll be like a badly screeded dirveway – a dip that will always be there for ya.
Mike in Vernon
Jeff,
I remember the steps to freedom – they were painful and difficult. Pain can refine us and drive us to excel in the presence of our God – if we don’t fight it. I made it, and you will too. You are going to find the most incredible grace, and support in Him. We are cheering you and the kids on, and are here if you guys need us.
Jeff, I don’t have any words, but I’m praying. We love you bro!
Jeff,
In my short time of being involved at Life church a few years back, I was blown away by the presence of God that surrounded you. I will admit that I was definitely conflicted about leaving my church and joining yours so that I could support you in ministry. I know you don’t feel it now…but you have a strength and a quiet peace that surrounds you. I am praying for you as my heart is broken for you over this situation. You are an example Jeff, and restoration is possible.
Hi Jeff, I don’t know you but I do know your father. He is someone that I have looked upto for some time. I work with your father at Forensic. I am very sorry for what you are going through at this time and my thoughts are with you. From what I have read in your blog and what I know of you from your Dad, I am convinced that you will rise from this even stronger than you already are. You have a tremendous amount of support and kind hearts around you.
I intend to check in here on your blog to see how things are going. I wish for you and your beautiful children much happiness.
Jeff, Jim and I met you only once, when you married Mike and Denise at our house – however, we were both very impacted by you personally. It saddens me to know what you are going through…from my many different journeys in my walk as a christian, (and some were very painful) I can say with all my heart that unconditional love and forgiveness go hand in hand…both are in my opinion, gifts from God, and given in God’s time, when He knows we’re ready. My family will pray for your family.
Hi Jeff, just wanted to say “Hi.” It was great to see you and hear you at the church service this a.m. Bonnie and I are praying daily for you and all those close.
I remeber four Firefighters walking up a road after a rescue call went all screwy. All four Firefighters knew they did a great job and likley saved the fellows life, but why were they walking back to the hall? Don’t they ride in truck. They also knew who was waiting for them back at the hall, he was looking to blame someone and not once did he consider himself to blame. One of the Firefighters says to the new Firefighter and the other two Firefighters listen as well though they are much senior. The fellow says ” ok when we get back to the hall he will rant and rave and blame us, but you new Firefighter you are brand new and you will escape the wrath, beacause he will have to go thru the three of us first. Just don’t say anything. He told him this because he knew the man really well and holding his tongue was something he wasn’t skilled at yet. So sure enough the rant begins and as it is closing exactly the way the Firefighter described it the newer Firefighter just could not hold it in. “BUT CHIEF”, he starts and the whole matter goes up in a roar. You were never the silent type Jeff so don’t be around your brothers give us a call, drop in for a cup of Firehall mud.
respectfully wilk
Very sorry to hear your hurting, all the best to the fam .Have always held you in high respect for the way you carry yourself and treat your kids. Even though, our beliefs are so diff. we are still the same bud
stu
Pastor Jeff:
Faith
Focus
Forgiveness
May we continue in His Grace!
“God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind!”
“Perfect love casts out fear!”
No pontification intended. i still find it difficult to wait on the Lord, so that i will mount up with wings as an eagle; run and not be weary, walk and not faint.” We are all on the same cloud. May we continue to fly with one another in the Holy Spirit’s wind. Flying forward as we continue together as one in Christ migrating together unto our final eternal destination. 0ne blocks the wind for the other and when one finds strength then he substitutes to lead the flock ( Canadian geese together in flight pattern) Of course the windbreakers are only an example for us eagles. Trying to continue resting on God’s updraft.
Agape,
Arnold
JEFF, We met this morning during Easter Breakfast, I sat with your Mom, who I went to school with as well as your Dad. I know you are going through a tough time right now and as I sat and listened to you to today, I was impressed with what I saw. You are going to get through this! You have the support of your wonderful family! And from what I read in your blog, you definitely have the support of your church family & the fire fighter family. You are a very dynamic individual. It will be a long tough emotional road, but like I said, you WILL get through this.
Jeff,
It has been forever since I have seen you, but you have been in my heart for the past few months and I have been praying for you and the kids.
Stay strong in The Word, and God will provide the rest.
Agape
Alley
Hi, Jeff…don’t know if you’ll remember us…we were at your church a few years back. Tim led worship a few times. We just wanted to tell you how much you ministered to us in those few short months we were there and how blessed we were to hear that you would be “taking over” the pastoring role…God has anointed you and it is clear by your transparent heart that He will restore all that satan has tried to take away. Your kids have grown soooo much since we saw them! They are beautiful and no doubt they will be greatly impacted by your faithfulness to righteousness. May the Lord richly bless you wherever He leads. You are loved, thought of and prayed for. Peace.
Bethany and Tim Stewart