Studies show that when you devote at least a year to a mentor relationship it will make a life-long impact. Chayton was 15 years old when I first started mentoring him. He is now 22 years old, and the testimony of Jesus in his life has been amazing to see, and a blessing to be a part of. Recently, while I was on the phone with him, he mentioned that when he was still a teenager he often got annoyed at how intentional I was in making sure that he was on the right path and growing in his relationship with Jesus. But as we were chatting on the phone, he said, “I see now, that it is the most important thing to continuously point people to Jesus. Thank you for being consistent!” 

 

Chayton now studies the Bible daily, and has a deep desire to share God’s message of hope with those around him. He went from pursuing worldly passions to seeking God with his whole heart, and that is only something that God can do, and I got to be a part of his story, and continue to witness the transformative work of Jesus in this young man’s life. Thank you for providing the opportunities and safe places for mentoring relationships like this one at 71Five.