Written by Brittany McCormick
Some journeys begin with careful planning. Others begin with a simple “yes”. This one began with both and with a God who delights in working through ordinary moments to create extraordinary outcomes.
A trip to Israel
It started when my parents, both passionate about travelling, booked a trip to Israel with JOY! Travel. What they could not have known at the time was that God had already gone ahead of them, arranging divine connections and purposeful encounters along the way.
Coffee in the Old City
One morning during the trip, my dad and the tour pastor, Gerald, sat down for breakfast and quickly arranged that when they got to the Old City of Jerusalem they would sneak out for a cup of coffee. That evening, they made their way into the Old City and while my mother went shopping, my father, Hadley, stopped at a small coffee shop. There, he and Gerald began a casual conversation that soon became something far more meaningful.
A story shared
Like many proud parents, my father spoke about his children, our journeys, and the ways God had been faithful through every season. He shared my story and my personal journey, the fundraising campaign I completed in 2022, and how God had led me into motivational speaking and ministry. Gerald listened with genuine interest and openness. By the end of the conversation, he sensed that God was stirring something in his heart.
A light-bulb moment
He later described it as a “light-bulb moment” and a realisation that he could be part of something greater by choosing to step forward and serve.
A courageous phone call
A short time later, while waiting at the airport for their return flight, Gerald made a courageous decision. He called me. Although we had never met, he introduced himself and asked if we could meet. Unsure of what the conversation might bring, I agreed.
God exceeds expectations
During the call, he explained that he felt led to contact JOY! Magazine to explore the possibility of sharing my story. He believed that my journey could encourage others, and he was willing to take a step of faith to make that possible. What followed was a reminder that God often exceeds our expectations.
An open door
A meeting was arranged over lunch, attended by Gerald, my parents, myself, and the editor of JOY! Magazine. As we shared a meal, the atmosphere was marked by warmth, grace, and mutual respect. That day, what was initially considered a small feature turned into a remarkable opportunity. I was offered the cover story of the August 2024 issue, and was invited to become a columnist for a series sharing how I have experienced and witnessed God’s hand in my life.
Walking it out together
What seemed like a simple conversation over coffee had become an open door – and one that only God could have orchestrated. From there, Gerald continued to walk alongside me, supporting my growth as a writer and author. He shared practical skills, offered guidance, and encouraged perseverance. At the same time, he discovered that the journey was shaping him as well.
Faith applied
Through our work together, he learnt that excuses lose their power when faith is applied, and that joy remains a choice, even in the midst of challenges. He witnessed the impact of vulnerability and authenticity, and how people are often most powerful when they are honest about their struggles.
Broken crayons still colour
He once described this journey as a reminder that “broken crayons still colour”. Even when life leaves us cracked or wounded, God continues to create beauty through us.
An unexpected turning point
The story also brought to mind Saul’s encounter on the road to Damascus and how what appeared to be darkness became the beginning of purpose. God used an unexpected moment and an obedient servant to transform a life and redirect a future.
Willing hearts
In the same way, this journey reflects how God works through ordinary conversations, willing hearts, and simple acts of obedience. It shows how one person’s decision to listen, believe, and act can open doors for another.
Service at the centre
At its core, this story is not about recognition or achievement. It is about service. It is about people choosing to believe in others before the full picture is visible. It is about hope being passed from one heart to another through kindness, encouragement, and faith.
A story still unfolding
It is proof that when we are willing to seize opportunities to uplift and support one another, God multiplies the impact far beyond what we could imagine. This journey was never meant to be walked alone. It was written by God, shaped through obedience, and sustained by grace. And it continues to unfold one faithful step, one courageous “yes”, and one act of love at a time.
A question for you
My hope as you read this is that you will ask yourself whose story can you influence and, in doing so, enjoy the incredible feeling of knowing you played a role in allowing someone else to flourish, just like Gerald spurred me on to dream bigger, for God’s glory.
This article is featured in the April 2026 issue of JOY! Magazine. Read a digital version of this magazine here: joygifts.co.za
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Date published: 20/03/2026
Feature images sourced from original article
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