As I would gaze across the room, Johnny would always capture my attention. His interpretation of participating during the lesson meant hoodie over his head, strings drawn tight, and to stare at the floor. On the surface, this behavior can be seen as disrespectful, rebellious and disobedient. Johnny’s been attending 71Five Campus clubs, field trips, and camps for over a year now. Gradually, I noticed the walls coming down, the hoodie coming off, and he began asking questions. After I shared about baptism, he raised his hand and asked, “Can I do what Sam did?” Sam had been baptized during our winter camp and even though Johnny didn’t know how to describe it, he knew he wanted it for himself. “Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity.” [1Timothy 4:12] Slowly Johnny’s faith was strengthened by hearing the Word and by watching Sam.

 

You see, all along, Johnny didn’t understand what was being taught. His response was to hide in hopes that he didn’t have to participate. Just as Timothy did, we at 71Five have set out as co-workers in God’s service to spread the gospel of Christ to strengthen and encourage them in their faith [1Thessalonians 3:2]. It takes time to build trust that leads to hope. By providing places where youth feel secure, and people kids can truly count on, you are transforming lives. FARRAH GUTHRIE 71Five Campus Coordinator – Grants Pass (541) 779-3275 farrah@71Five.org