In this episode of 12-Minute Convos with Jesus Believers, Engel Jones connects with minister and higher education veteran Dr. Stuart Jones from Indiana. Dr. Stuart vulnerably shares his family's story of breaking generational cycles of alcohol abuse after finding Christ, and the radical decision his parents made in 1954 to raise his oldest brother, Stephen, who was born with an intellectual and developmental disability. Rather than hiding him away or putting him in an institution as many advised back then, Stuart's parents raised Stephen as a fully included, deeply loved member of the family. 

Listen in as Dr. Stuart discusses his book and reflects on how Stephen though never famous or academically accomplished lived as the most genuine example of "Christ-like" faith he has ever met. He details the heartbreaking tragedy of Stephen's death 20 years ago when he was hit by a motorist who didn't see him, and how Stephen's spirit of unconditional love and forgiveness continues to speak today. If you are looking to be inspired by a story of pure, unfiltered faith and the truth of Psalm 139 that every single person is fearfully and wonderfully made Stuart’s powerful reminder that "God don't make no junk" will deeply anchor your soul!

Engel Jones
Podcast Host

                         Guest's Bio

Award-winning author Dr. Stuart D. Jones is a retired higher-education executive and former church minister who now teaches college courses part-time and writes with a passion shaped as much by life as by books. 

Over the years, he has spoken at many universities, churches, conferences, seminars, workshops, and leadership events around the world on a variety of topics. A devoted advocate for disability rights, he believes every life has purpose and worth since each life is one of God's wonderful creations. 

​Yet no credential has shaped his faith more deeply than being Steve's brother. 

​Dr. Jones holds advanced degrees in both education and theology and has been published in several academic forums. For the Love of Stephen: The Story of a Boy Who Was Never Broken is his first work of narrative nonfiction and by far, his most personal.

Links:

• Email: fortheloveofstephen@yahoo.com
• Website: http://www.authorstuartjones.com
• Facebook: AuthorStuartDJones
• Instagram: @‌AuthorStuartJones
• LinkedIn:  Stuart D. Jones, Ph.D.
• Podcasts: Guest Profile Link