One afternoon a young girl came into our youth center at 71Five City at Liberty Park just to hang out. She was probably 10 or 12 with a very gangster look. Dark dirty hair in her eyes, mean looking makeup, ball cap on sideways, a jean jacket and dirty pants all rolled up at the ankle. From my office I could see her as she was walking toward the pool table. I immediately saw the possibility of damage to the table. Not only because of lack of skill but because of the visible anger in her heart. I later learned that she was living with an addicted mom and there was no dad in the home. So, I walked up and said “Hi, my name is Larry what is yours”. Under her breath, she said “Brooklyn”. I told her that I was raised in Brooklyn and “Brooklyn” is my favorite a girl’s name. As I spent time with her, I had the opportunity to share that God loved her and she was beautiful in his eyes. Week by week I noticed slight changes in her as we talked and laughed. Eventually the hat came off and her hair was clean and the heavy makeup was gone. Then one day she showed up in a dress and she said, “Larry, How do I look?” and she twirled. Friends, I have never had a daughter but through my tears, I said, “Brooklyn, you look great.” I never saw her again after that day, but I heard that she was attending church and even got baptized. I also heard that she brought her mom to church.

 

This is what we call moving the needle in a young person’s life. You are moving the needle from a life of hurt towards a life hope with of Jesus. Come join me as we move the needle in the life of so many youth. If you are interested in supporting 71Five or becoming a volunteer, give me a call at 541.890.1819. Thanks for listening, and have a great day.