Crazy times we are living in for sure! It’s unlike anything I or many of us have ever seen. When I think about Covid-19, it intensifies some of the things that so many teens often struggle with. Honestly, it could even describe a lot of adults as well (including myself). These struggles and trials are a reminder of the importance of what God has called us to do here at Christian Adventurers, and why so many of you are partners with us in this ministry prayerfully, and financially.
One area that comes to mind is Fear. There is so much out there (media, etc. some factual, some not) that if we aren’t careful it can paralyze us. When we think of fear, so much of what we are afraid of is really the unknown. It’s one of the great weapons of the enemy. Whether one is afraid of physically getting the disease, or if their family will have enough money (with parents out of work) to pay the bills during this crises, these are thoughts and emotions that can control their life and ours if we aren’t vigilant in fighting against it. The virus aside, I often encounter students who are afraid to pray out loud in front their friends or tell someone about their faith. Many are afraid of being rejected, or maybe not being able to follow through on their commitments to the Lord. I John 4 says “God is Love”, and verse 18 says “there is no fear in love, but perfect loves drives out fear…”. It is our goal to show and share that love with people young and old here locally as well as on our mission trips. Because of God’s grace and your help, we’ve have been able to do that with kids and adults throughout this area as well as in 3 other states.
Another reason this time is so hard for students, and people in general is because so many feel isolated. Even in the day of social media, there still is something about face to face time and being with your friends. Being social (not just on a media device) is how God created us. Some are more social than others, but we all were created for relationships. We were not created to just for ourselves, but for the good of others as well. One of the great things about Christian Adventurers is that God has allowed us to provide an avenue, and a “safe place” for students to come together to build positive, godly friendships. Whether it’s through our weekly meetings, our sports teams, or through our mission teams, we see friendships that are eternally impactful and last a lifetime. Most importantly, we praise God for many who have come to know the greatest friend anyone could have and that of course is Jesus. He is the one who will never leave us nor forsake us (Heb. 13:5).
Lastly, a big struggle during this time and in the life of a teenager is that of the future. I keep hearing questions like “when will this end?”, “will we go back to school?”, “will we be able to have a graduation ceremony?”, “will I be able to start college on time”. Many already struggle with life decisions such as college, a future mate, or simply facing the next day or “are my parent’s going to make it?” Obviously, we can’t predict what tomorrow holds, but we do tell them about the one who holds tomorrow. It’s more than a cliché, it’s the truth of God’s word (Ps. 139:16, Job 14:5, Jer. 29:11-13). God has a plan for them. One of hope and a future. This hope is not just for this life, but for all eternity if they put their faith in Christ alone for salvation (Eph. 2:8-10). This is the message of hope God has given us. We so appreciate all of you who continue to stand with us through your prayers, encouragement and financial support. It allows and assists us in sharing this life changing message during such troubling days. We know these are challenging times for all of us. If we can be of assistance to any of you (especially our senior citizen friends), please do not hesitate to call us. It would be our privilege to serve and help you anyway we can.
Mark
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