Glancing down at the empty street and back at the address written on the invitation in bubbly handwriting, I kept thinking this cannot be right. So hesitantly, I knock on the door and it is slowly opened by the birthday girl herself standing in her carefully coordinated outfit with tears streaming down her face and an empty room decorated with streamers and balloons; it becomes evident that I, a 22 year old Young Life leader, am the only guest present besides her family. Immediately, I embrace the birthday girl into my arms, fully realizing that the only crime this sixteen year old was facing was being the victim of the harsh and often self-centered reality of high school.

It was in that moment and sadly many other gut wrenching experiences similar to it that I began to truly realize that the world that we live in is a harsh and broken place. However, it was also in that moment that I began to understand that as a Christian, I am instilled with the love of God and called to pour out that love onto others. I am called to comfort those who are disheartened, to be there for those who need a friend, to speak truth to those who are lost, and to provide hope of another life.

During my years as a Young Life leader, I was able to see God chiseling away at my heart, instilling the above beliefs within me, and honoring me with the privilege of introducing that teen and many others to Jesus Christ. I discovered that the majority of the time people just need someone to be there, wrap their arms around them, and listen and then God will opens the door to reveal himself. I believe in perseverance, patience, and comforting love.

Here are some pictures from Young Life...