Tonight, Clayton King spoke about passion for life.  It was a very stirring message about not just talking about Jesus being important, but surrendering all to His ways today for tomorrow.  He used the text in John 11:1-16.  It is the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead.  He focused on the part where Thomas (most famous for his doubting faith) makes a huge declaration of faith.  In verse 7 Jesus tells the group they are going to go back to Bethany (the place where people tried to stone Jesus) to be with Martha, Mary, and Lazarus.  One of the disciples (verse 8)tried to discourage him because the previous trip there (John 10:31).  This Jesus shares about life & death, and about dark & light.  Then he concludes that they should go to him (verse15). 

Then Thomas said to the rest of the disciples, “Let us also go, that we may die with him.”  John 11:16

It didn’t sound like hestitation or doubt in this statement to the group.  It sure sounds like a guy who has clear spiritual understanding.  It sure sounds like a guy filled with life and passion to follow Jesus wherever it may lead (including death).  The challenge to our teenagers was to complete commitment to Jesus.  Too many churched teenagers are simply “flying in under the radar”.  Are we satisfied with our kids that make pretty good grades, act polite most of the time, and go to church without too much fuss?  Would that be enough?  Will that be enough to keep a kid whose becoming an adult engaged in church?  Have we settled for something lesser than the pursuit of godliness? 

I truly believe the kids we brought this year have clearly heard the voice of God.  Pray for them as they return to share with their families what God has spoken to their hearts.  Pray for them to put feet (life and breath) to their commitment to the Lord in the coming days. 

Yes, God does speak in the strangest places like Bethany and Boiling Springs!

Tonight, four our kids surrendered to God’s call to fulltime ministry!!!  More details & pictures coming soon!