They were busy working in the sweltering sun, with sweat on their brows and joy in their hearts.
I found myself greatly inspired this week by a group of teenagers at a summer mission camp.
I was sent to do a TV story about this particular camp. The story turned out fine, but the teens probably don’t know that they witnessed to me during our brief visit.
Oh, to be young again.
I’ve written about this turning 50 thing before. The AARP card. The senior discounts. The black birthday cards. I had no problems at all with the big 5-OH I told myself. I thought I’d even convinced myself. Then youth steps in and causes me to have second thoughts while stretching my aching back.
The teens were engaging, spirit filled and hard working. The young men were busy swinging sledge hammers, making a competition of sorts out of tearing down a dilapidated shed. For their part, I think the young ladies could also have mustered the energy to swing the sledge. They, however, did the lady like thing and let the boys have their muscle man competition and display.
These teens came from various United Methodist congregations throughout the state of Mississippi.
What started four years ago as a Hurricane Katrina outreach, has blossomed into a youth summer camp and mission opportunity. The program is called MOSAIC. I learned it stands for “Making Our Souls Alive In Christ”. They’ve got a witness here.
I found their souls very much alive in the Lord Jesus Christ. What’s the old adage: Share the Gospel of Jesus daily. If necessary, use words.
The sweat and smiles of these young people spoke volumes to me about their faith. I pray that their enthusiasm and commitment will continue until they turn 50. The whole purpose of this summer camp program called MOSAIC is to do good deeds around the community. The youth divided into nine different teams and spent the week doing 20 plus work projects. The projects ranged from clean-up, to painting, to raking, to putting up dry wall.
Don’t listen to cynics today who will lead you to believe that the next generation is hopelessly lost or incurably lazy. It’s not true. The teens I met this week at MOSAIC left me feeling good about the future, because I saw youthful optimism in their eyes. They put their hearts into their work, understanding the joy that comes from fruitful labor. But they also understand the deeper things that flow beneath the cover of good deeds and work projects. They appreciate the opportunitiy for relationships.
These teens will grow closer together this week, making new friends and sharing their faith stories and challenges with one another. They will also reach out in relationship to the various home owners who are the beneficiaries of their labor.
I met one elderly couple that was on the receiving end of MOSAIC. The kids were painting their large, historic wooden home. The couple was touched by the kindness of these Christian kids. They couldn’t say enough about the fine job they were doing on the house. They were pleased with their new young friends, and proud of the work.
Never underestimate the impact your Christian walk may have on another’s life. Your living out your faith may touch people in ways you least expect. I’m certain these teenagers had no idea their work and witness spoke so strongly to me this week.
I pray for their continued commitment to Christ and desire to reach out to others in fellowship and witness. Them “Making Their Souls Alive In Christ” also touched the soul of a 50 year old reporter who shared a brief encounter.
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