Dnow weekends are funny things. And the way the Lord works is a mystery. Somehow, when you give yourself away by giving up time, energy, love, and joy, you are filled and satisfied. It is a unique experience to serve others and yet be ministered to yourself. It is beautiful to give comfort and be healed in the process. Glowing Heart has been blessed to see God work this way time and again, in the lives of others and in our own. This weekend was no exception. The youth in Perryton, Texas truly encouraged us. In one year the youth group at Community Worship Center has gone from having many leaders in the older high schoolers and in the influence of several college students, to losing all their upper class youth as well as the college leaders. But instead of falling apart or falling into immaturity, the youth group at CWC, now only made of sixth, seventh, eighth, and ninth graders, has risen to the occasion! We were excited to see how God is raising up this younger generation, how eager to serve the youth were, how desirous they were to create a Bible study after we left.

Much of their enthusiasm seemed to be spurned by the movie we went to see Friday night, The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry. The Perryton youth were moved by the example of the characters in the movie, to be bold in their faith and to seize every opportunity to share Christ. The challenge was reinforced throughout the sessions that we had with them, during which we talked about taking risks in our lives as Christians. On Saturday night too, during the worship service, Henry’s message on Romans 13:11-14 was very convicting that time is fleeting and the time to act is now. His message Sunday morning was also very appropriate for many of the youth in Perryton, concerning forgiveness and its importance. There were many wonderful testimonies given Sunday morning about what God taught the youth this weekend and about changes they want to make in their lives for the Lord.

Several of the youth are currently dealing with grief for the death of loved ones. This was a feeling I can personally relate to, as there was a death in my family just last week. But it never ceases to amaze me how pouring into the lives of others brings healing and this weekend was very precious to me, with much joy and comfort. It was also encouraging to see and hear some of the others walking through this same situation come to the Dnow and stand up and say God is still good.

It is never easy to leave people you’ve just become close too, but the CWC youth are in wise and capable hands; Nolan and Salem, thank you for your example of being godly leaders, having a godly family, and of serving so consistently for many years! May the Lord continue to bless you! And thank you Perryton youth for a wonderful weekend! We love you all!