Read about the passion of other church members desiring to Pay It Forward.

I was watching the DVD of the movie "Pay It Forward" and a thought occurred to me. There are likely many people who have never worked in with the children or youth in our church, so they may not truly understand the reward of investing in the life of a child or youth.  Each of us has within us the desire to change the world. We may not be able to change the whole world but we can at least change a part of it. We can choose to make a difference.

Grace Point has a particular problem that so many churches only wish they had. That is an abundance of children and youth whose heart is on fire for the Lord. Plus volunteers who serve with youth and children who also feel they are making a difference in the life of a child.  I wonder if there are others who would step up to the challenge of making a difference in the life of a child or youth by supporting this building project. Not only have that but challenged themselves to step up with their gifts to build this facility and to work with the youth and children.

I am reminded of the story of two men walking along the beach after a storm. Many starfish had been washed up on shore. As they walked one man stooped to throw starfish back into the sea. On seeing his friend; in what he deemed a futile effort he commented, "You know they are probably going to wash up on shore again. You really aren't going to make a difference". He paused to look at his friend then stooped to throw another starfish back into the sea. After doing so he looked at his friend and smiled, "It made a difference to that one!"

I think sometimes as teachers, shepherds and ministers, we sometimes wonder if we are truly making a difference for all our labors. We struggle against the worldly influences as we share the wonder of God's love with our respective flocks. Then one day you have an adult come forward for baptism or a child tell you that they want Jesus to be their "forever friend." It is then you realize you made a difference with that one. 

This building project holds the promise of reaching out to the unsaved and bringing more youth to a personal relationship with Jesus. As a church body I think we owe it to the youth to help them to make a difference in others with this facility. I challenge each of us to step and "Make a Difference" in the life of a child. Our children are our future and they are our legacy. God has not only blessed us, He has entrusted them to us. Would He do any less for us? 

                                                                                                Mike Jarrell