The quest for spiritual fulfillment often leads individuals on unexpected paths. For Ross Johnston, this journey began in a two-mom household, where questions of identity and belonging intertwined with a profound longing for a father figure.
Growing up in a secular environment, Ross’s upbringing was unlike many of his peers. It was not until he encountered the presence of God at 16 that the layers of his spiritual journey began to unfold. His story is a testament to the power of divine love and the search for one’s true identity.
In this exploration of spirituality, we delve into how Ross's experience of fatherlessness shaped his faith and understanding of God as Father. The moments of clarity amidst confusion reveal a deeper narrative about belonging, identity, and the transformative power of faith.
From a Secular Upbringing to Spiritual Awakening
Ross was born via artificial insemination to a lesbian couple, a reality he accepted without question for much of his childhood. It was not until his teenage years, particularly after he committed his life to Christ, that he began to reflect on his unique upbringing.
He recalls, "When I came to the Lord, I realized this is not how God designed the family to operate." This revelation stirred a longing within him for a father, a longing that had always existed but had gone unrecognized.
Ross's initial encounter with the church was pivotal. For the first time, he felt the presence of God, which contrasted sharply with his home life. It was a moment of awakening, where he began to understand the fatherly love that God offers.
The Longing for Fatherhood
Despite being raised in a loving household, Ross felt a void, a deep longing for a father figure. He describes this feeling as an “orphan spirit,” a sense of isolation despite having a nurturing mother.
"I didn't know what the language was, but I was longing for a father who would provide and protect," he shares. This longing became more pronounced as he grew older and began to explore his faith.
"“When I met the Father, He became my father and taught me how to be a man.”"
REPLAY | Donor-Conceived, Lesbian-Raised & Born Again | Guest: Ross Johnston
Through his relationship with God, Ross found the fulfillment of that longing. The transition from seeking a biological father to embracing the divine Father provided him with a sense of belonging and purpose.