Last night 11 of us crowded around a small table, shared dipping sauces and passed the bag of chips around the circle. Multiple conversations going on all at once and lots of laughter filled the four cornered cement building where we meet.
It isn't fancy, it's a little cold and empty at times. The water only runs cold and so we boil water in order to wash dishes at the end of the evening. There is a continuous rattling noise which causes much concern and fear for the girls coming from an old heater behind a locked door. But given all of these things we are so excited to finally be able to use this old building that has stood empty for so long in the heart of the community.
As we began the time of bible study my co-leader asked a follow up question from last week's discussion. "Who do you say that I am?" A question Jesus had asked his followers.
We waited in that uncomfortable long silence desiring for the youth to share were they thought they were at with Jesus, and who He is to them. We had a back up plan in case no one spoke but it wasn't long before the first brave girl spoke up. "Well I am kind of confused about all that Jesus stuff right now and I just don't know, so I come here to learn more". She quickly turned to her friend and put her on the spot. One by one they all took a turn sharing. "I'm not really talking to Him right now, it's hard", another slowly spoke up, " For me He is Christ and I have accepted him, but I want to learn more". A young man spoke up," I talk to Him when I have no one else and I come here to get away from my family, it's like a second home" another, "I know that He is the Christ but I don't think I have fully accepted Him yet, but I want to get there." Honest, real answers.
I am so proud of this group of youth and their desire to grow, each in there own place making little brave steps in a good direction whether it's after months of isolating herself, coming out for the first time or being brave enough to ask questions, encouraging one another. I am so thankful for the Thursday evenings I get to spend with this group.
- Please be praying for myself and Jordan my co-leader as we seek to challenge, grow, love, lead and hold accountable this group of youth through our Thursday night gatherings.
- Please prayer for the youth as they come out, that it continues to be a place where they feel safe and not judged, a place for them to be real and to learn no matter where they are at.
- Please prayer above all that the Spirit would be present and be moving in the hearts of us all as we dive into the word together.
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