Letter to Mt. Pleasant Church

I’m sitting in Panera as I write this letter, which I’ll say has been my second office for the past couple years.  I sit here and reminisce about all the times I’ve sat in this same chair, scribbling out a lesson or two for Sundays. I also remember finishing the first youth newsletter here with the main headliner, “Turkey Bowl”.  Another time I was here by myself till closing, getting inspired to write the first 6:13 Worship sermon.  There were two Greek words we discussed that first service. You probably don’t remember them, “Logos” and “Zoe”. The first was the reference to Jesus and the later was used to describe what happens when we accept Jesus Christ into our lives. We finished that night by lighting candles, symbolizing Jesus shedding light on all the sins and brokenness we hide in the darkness. 

Speaking of candles, last month during the 30 Hour Famine we used those same candles to represent lives of children around the world. Every seven seconds we blew a light out because that’s how often a child dies in the world from malnutrition. We were able to let one candle remain lit because together we raised money to help feed and care for a child for well over a year. We literally saved a life that day.

I’ll admit spending a week with you in a minimally air conditioned church in the middle of summer in Cincinnati has been my favorite overall experience. Watching you worship every night and care for others everyday gave me a glimpse at what Jesus meant when He called us to His hands and His feet. Several of you finally came out of your shells and took a big leap of faith that week. I will never forget the courage and compassion all of you brought to that mission trip.

Since I’m talking about mission trips I almost forgot about the weekend trip we took to McDowell County, WV. I barely knew any of you (which made my life so much easier that weekend), but we all worked hard painting and replacing flooring. I will never forget one particular person getting shot in the neck as we prepared for a Christian air-soft battle in the old auditorium. The school we stayed at I think was haunted and in every way creepy. I think that also was the first time that weekend I got to know some of the youth leaders. 

I will always be your friend and supporter. I will still call you out when I see/hear you doing something you shouldn’t. I will also be there for you when you’re struggling. I promise to visit when I come back from my trip as we’ll all be one year older. Some of you at this time next year will be set to graduate and others getting prepared to enter high school for the first time.

God’s got a plan and purpose for you. Are you willing to accept it? I know I am. I hope and pray that you are too!