Justin Matthew Reid

Friends - Josh Piland

I first became aware of Josh back in December of 2004. He had just completed 4 years of active duty in the United States Marine Corps. Josh served two separate tours of duty in Iraq during that time. The Lord was gracious to protect Josh every day of those tours. During one attack on his infantry squad, an incoming mortar went over his head and its shrapnel actually went over, under and to the left and right of Josh but he was completely untouched and unharmed. One of Josh's close friends was killed in that attack. Approximately 100 of the 120 men in Josh's rifle company received the purple heart medal at least once for wounds or for death in combat. Due to our Heavenly Father's gracious protection, Josh was not among them.

It was actually in June 2005 that I personally met Josh and our friendship really started. The Lord was perfect in His timing, as always. Looking back, I can see how we have both been used of God to help and encourage each other to grow further still in the Lord! I remember that around the time I received the baptism of the Holy Spirit, I prayed and asked God to bring some godly friends into my life. I definitely count Josh as an answer to that prayer. Thank you, Father.

Justin, Robert and Josh in Uganda in July 2006