Well… we made it! Never imagined I would EVER travel with 16 young adults (and I am sure Dana and Nick feel the same way)! The travel went smooth, although we just made the plane in Atlanta… phew!
Our first two days were pre- NYG and so we used that time to explore the area, to experience the culture and to enjoy the company of one another! To say this time was uneventful would be a lie! There has never been a dull moment with this group. From Pigeon whispering, pastor participating in a street show on Bourbon St. or his getting lured in by street vendors-Despite Dana’s caution, to our youth getting stuck in the elevator requiring New Orlean’s Rescue Squads response, touring a New Orleans Fire Hall, experiencing the French Quarter, the Whitney Plantation, riding the trolley or experiencing the unique and fine cuisine; all the same, the experience has been a true blessing thus far.
Last evening was the official kick off of the NYG. The youth were able to experience the event center and fun zone, but the highlight of the day was the opening mass gathering event at the Caesar Dome. The event gathering theme “ENDURE based on Hebrews 12 was introduced and our youth joined with 20,000 other youth in song and contemplation. The large mass gathering concluded with an authentic New Orleans band playing “When the Saints Go Marching In” and a middle school marching band performing and marching throughout the arena. Pretty powerful moments to say the least. Our evening concluded with a stop for some food, the sharing of High’s and Low’s and the grounding of ourselves in our Jesus before we closed our eyes in sleep! Long day, but truly remarkable!
This morning was the first of our daily mass Bible studies. We once again considered the theme from Hebrews 12:1-3. Our youth were presented with contemplating question on what it means to endure, then we considered who Jesus is and what he endured for our sake. Finally we considered how Jesus’ enduring rejection and suffering on the cross make all the difference for us in our own struggles, rejection and challenges. Because of Jesus we have a good shepherd who never forsakes us or leaves us to ourselves! Instead he gives us the model of his own life and he gives us his presence and strength through the valleys we so often know! And because he does…. WE CAN ENDURE AND PERSEVERE!
Significant and good message for all of us! Even message worth sharing with our faith family back in DEPEW!
We are sure to know challenges. We are sure to know rejection and hard times, but they dont define the rest of our days… Jesus does. And its Jesus who strengthens us and works for us new life- even from the things things that seem so difficult from our perspective; even from the things that have us feeling as though we are sinking or even drowning. It’s Jesus who gives to us his power and presence filling us with hope and optimism. It’s Jesus who gives to us one another to love and support! And with these things we are sure to endure and persevere!
Peace be with you all friends!
Endure and Persevere,
Pastor Galen