On Memorial Day, Memorializing a Miracle

I heard about him.  I read what had been written. And then, I saw him. He stood there -- scars visible; yet, diminished by his smile that radiated gratitude as he stood surrounded in an atmosphere swirling with love, faith, family and joy.

Meet Juan Spence.  Meet a miracle.  

On May 22, 2017, Juan was thrown through the passenger-side of his friend’s windshield in a horrific car accident. The vehicle rolled over several times and landed on the 17-year-old high school junior. In an instant, he went from being a star athlete at Warhill High to a steadfast warrior in a battle for his life.
 
When his parents were told that he only had a 5 percent chance of surviving and that decisions had to be made, they grabbed that percent, (5 is the number of grace), and decided that their son “would not die but live and declare the works of the LORD,” (Psalm 118:17). As ministers, Juan’s mother and step-father are called upon often to share about the hope, love and life found in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. They spoke of faith.

Now, their faith was tested like never before.

Juan persevered through severe brain trauma and major injuries that took or reduced his abilities to see, hear, speak and move. “My heart ached for my son and while I prayed, stood on GOD’s word and held fast to GOD’s promise, I wrapped myself in HIS peace. I had to. The only thing I could do was stand on GOD’s WORD because it will not come back void,” said his mother, Elizabeth.

And, HIS WORD didn’t.  

On September 5, 2017 -- three months after being given a 5 percent chance to survive -- Juan returned on the first day of school to begin his senior year.

This fierce young warrior continues to battle and conquer. On March 28, 2018, he had reconstructive surgery. As he was being discharged on March 30, complications arose that resulted in an emergency surgery to stop bleeding detected around his brain. He was released from the hospital, three days later, on April 3. He returned to school on April 16.  On May 19, he danced at his prom.

On June 16, Juan graduates with high honors as a member of the National Honor Society.

At graduation, he will speak on “The Power of Desperation” to encourage people "to do better, to be better and to make good decisions."

From life support to living life to the full, Juan doesn’t take time for granted nor the platform and opportunities he has to tell his story.  The premiere message of his life-story is that a life and relationship with JESUS is for the young and old. He wants everyone to know that wearing seat belts is a necessity. He wants people to value the love of family and friends.

As Juan continues to push through continued therapy and medical procedures, he is preparing for college in the fall.  Juan is a trophy of GOD’s grace.

Now, many have heard about him. Many have read what has been written. And with his infectious smile and contagious laugh, Juan continues to point to The One who made his story possible, JESUS CHRIST whose nail-scarred hands continue to reach out and save.

This is Juan.  This is a miracle.