California, often seen as a beacon of progressive values, is also the stage for powerful stories of transformation. One such narrative is that of Ross Johnston, who went from being donor-conceived and raised in a lesbian household to leading a ministry aimed at revitalizing his home state.
Johnston's story begins in an unconventional family setup. Conceived through artificial insemination in 1994 and raised by a same-sex couple, he describes his upbringing as "normal" until he reached adolescence. His journey took a pivotal turn at age 16 when he discovered Christianity, sparking a transformation that would direct his life toward ministry.
California's Cultural Landscape
California is often viewed through a lens of political and cultural division, particularly regarding issues of family structure and morality. Johnston's ministry, aptly named "California Will Be Saved," seeks to address these very divisions by spreading the gospel in some of the state's most influential cities.
Amidst a backdrop of increasing tension surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and traditional family values, Johnston's work stands out. He argues that California's narrative is crucial not just for the state itself but for the entire nation. As he puts it, "What happens in California gets exported to the whole world." This underscores the importance of engaging with the cultural dynamics at play.
"“If we don't walk in the design of God, we can't walk in the blessing of God.”"
REPLAY | Donor-Conceived, Lesbian-Raised & Born Again | Guest: Ross Johnston
Johnston's mission stems from a belief that the state has a rich history of revival. As he recalls, his ministry began in response to the pandemic when Governor Gavin Newsom attempted to shut down churches. Instead of retreating, Johnston and his team organized gatherings that blended worship and outreach, effectively countering the narrative of despair.
Insights on Family Dynamics
Johnston's insights into fatherhood and family structure are particularly relevant in today's discussions about parenting and societal values. He reflects on the "fatherlessness crisis" in America, noting that many individuals, like himself, feel the impact of an absent father figure.
He explains, "There are three ways to look at this: you didn’t have a father, you had a father who didn’t know the Lord, or you had a misrepresentation of the father." This perspective encourages a deeper examination of family dynamics and their implications for personal development and spiritual growth.
"“When you meet the Father, He becomes your father.”"
REPLAY | Donor-Conceived, Lesbian-Raised & Born Again | Guest: Ross Johnston
Johnston's narrative challenges the notion that a conventional family structure is the only path to fulfillment. Through his relationship with God, he found the fatherly love he lacked, which he now seeks to share with others through his ministry.