Teenagers, Young Adults and College Aged People…
Usually the thought of working with teenagers/young adults that I don’t know makes me cringe. I am a big believer in discipline and respect. Let’s face it, the average American teenager (and many adults) today has little of both. I would rather work with younger children who are still teachable, eager to learn, and don’t think they “know it all.”
This week I have had the privilige of working with a wonderful youth group on what we call a rural mission trip. They are sleeping the woods in cabins with no electricity, running water, or privacy. Their leader even took a picture of a bears paw print on the trail this week! Lions, tigers and bears O My! 🙂
We have thrown them our own curve balls with team builders, and have attempted to help stretch their faith with some spiritual challenges as well. We all received major curve balls when ministry plans didn’t work out but I haven’t heard one complaint all week. Even when asked to pick up trash left around in a park and parking lot, they jumped up and complied with smiles on their faces and songs in their heart. (not part of our ministry time – just because it was there and needed to be done!)
The biggest thing I noticed is that they came hungry for the Lord. They are all seeking Him for various reasons but have been soaking up His goodness, asking questions, and really pressing in to the hard things in their lives and allowing God to heal their broken hearts. Worship time has been sweet and prayers lifted up just this week have already been answered. We experienced a major break through with the Lord both as a team and individuals last night. Tears flowed, healing happened and freedom was released! The fruit from this time is sure to be seen for years to come. My prayer is that they will go back to their home town and light some majors fires for the kingdom!
This week has been tough but good. God didn’t promise that life won’t be hard. He promised that He would be with us in the hard times. Tears will come, but they are signs that healing has begun. We have all been reminded that weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning! (Psalms 30:5)
Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, It’s about learning to dance in the rain! God reigned over us last night and we are still dancing this morning!
