God is Hovering Over the Chaos
We have a chalkboard in our youth centre, and we've started to use it during drop-in. We've invited students to vote on silly little things like whether a hotdog is a sandwich and if pineapple belongs on pizza. This time, we posed a question: What if it's true there is a power in the middle of ALL the chaos you see that is ready and able to start putting it all into order and setting it right?
Without lifting his head, a student says, "That's Jesus," and continues to draw.
This student has little church experience, yet he recognizes the power is Jesus Himself.
I wonder if I'm aware of Jesus' presence in the middle of all the chaos, being able to see and claim it to be true with such confidence when things are crumbling all around us. Mental health crises, broken relationships, profound grief, families deteriorating, substance abuse, not having the hope to live– it's everywhere. It seems like the chaos has been seeping into deeper and wider places over the last few months. We can't fix it, yet somehow and in some way, God invites us to be a part of what He's already doing in making all things new. Piece by piece, God is putting all things into order and setting it right. This is what we're a part of at Youth Unlimited YFC, and I'm incredibly thankful that you are too.
SCHOOL OPPORTUNITIES
It is a gift to walk with the senior girls’ volleyball team. They are ambitious, kind and hard-working. It’s been a joy to coach the sport and walk with a few of them in life. Kevin and I were supervisors for a winter camping trip, and I reconnected with several students I know. We hiked and sat around the campfire, listening to students laugh, share stories, and joke around, and they offered me hot chocolate (so sweet-- literally). Thank you, Jesus, for moments to build trusting relationships and to make new connections.
GAINS
As Kevin transitions into a new role at Youth Unlimited YFC, I have officially taken over the full responsibility of leading Gains, our leadership development program. This year, we’re focusing on a four-week rotation highlighting teaching, sharing a meal once a month, serving, building community, and having fun! We’re diving into Be Still: A Simple Guide to Quiet Time by Brian Heasley for our teaching component. It’s brought rich conversations about what it means to follow Jesus in our current cultural moment.
PRAYER
Thankful for the opportunity to reconnect with staff from across Eastern Canada at our annual YFC Eastern Regional Conference. It was a great time to learn and be refreshed (photo)
For continued wisdom as we walk with students through difficult situations
For small pieces of growth and healing in C’s life!
Christmas Campaign Update!
I'm SO thankful for the people who said 'yes!' to being a part of what's happening in Listowel by joining my monthly partner team. I continue to depend largely on monthly giving for my fixed salary, and there are five spots left!
Big picture: you're investing in me to be a safe, caring presence for young people who often go without.
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The work of Youth Unlimited YFC is literally changing lives. Have questions or want to connect? Simply respond to this email!
My Youth Unlimited YFC journey started in the fall of 2016, and words can’t describe how thankful I am for your prayer and support throughout the years. I may be on the frontline, but you are just as a part of what God is going in Listowel. Thank you!
All for His Glory,
