22
Nov '21
Despite their beliefs
22
Nov '21
Despite what’s happening in the world our mission as people of God hasn’t changed a bit. We still have the same purposes of loving God, loving others, and making disciples. As a leader I often reflect on whether 71Five is doing a good job on our mission. I think this story shared by our Campus Ministry Director sheds light on how we’re doing.
“Hi, I’m Joe and I’m an atheist.” That’s how one of my students started his “testimony” of how God had worked in his heart at 71Five Camp. There were a lot of impactful testimonies shared that night. We heard time after time of tragedies that God turned into a redemptive story. But Joe’s story was different. He started with being clear he’s still an atheist. Joe went on to share how, despite his being an atheist, he sees how much love he gets at 71Five from “you Christians and your God.” Even though Joe doesn’t believe in God, he sees a difference in us. He knows we love him unconditionally, even though we don’t agree with him. Wouldn’t it be nice if the rest of society worked like that? Joe found safety and love at Youth 71Five Ministries, like a lot of kids do. Joe hasn’t found Jesus yet, but he’s honest with us about where he is spiritually.
I love this story; it shows how in our love for God we authentically love young people despite what they believe or how they act. Joe knows we disagree with him and his beliefs, but he also knows he is truly loved. Likewise, he knows what it takes to follow Jesus offered through the trust that’s built on real love… (our mission lived out)!
Thank you for bringing the trust that leads to hope to any young person!
BUD AMUNDSEN, 71Five Executive Director
(541) 779-3275 | bud@71Five.org
“Lord God, you are my hope. I have trusted you since I was young.” Psalm 71:5 ICB
