Oregon Youth Convention

This past weekend, I had the pleasure of taking my youth kids to an event called Oregon Youth Convention. I have gone before as both a student and a leader - actually, this is my 11th time. But let me tell you, of all of them, this was the best one.

If you have never heard of Reggie Dabbs, you HAVE to youtube him. Seriously. This man is amazing. He is one of the funniest, most genuine, most unique, most passionate individuals I have ever met.

If you've never heard the band Worth Dying For, you need to. They not only are very good live, but their lyrics are just plain good. We bought their newest album "Love Riot" for the youth group.

But honestly, those weren't even the best part. Something happened inside of me... an awakening. The only way to describe it is a breaking free and an eye-opening, life-altering experience with my Lord. When I looked around me and saw my youth kids raising their hands, crying, and singing, all for God Almighty, something began to stir. At that moment, a new-found passion for their souls and urgency for them was birthed.

On Friday night, I had the privilege of going to the front of the stage with all the other women leaders and just hugging, loving, and praying for the kids - kids who were suicidal, kids who were addicted to anything, and kids who just wanted to be loved. As I stood there, holding these kids who were just crying in my hands, I wept for them. I saw them come up to the stage and throw condoms, drugs, bracelets from the boy who stole their virginity, all at Jesus' feet. During this time, a burden fell into my heart like nothing ever before.

I have a passion and a burden for Africa that was unmatched up until that point. All of that changed Friday night. Now, I will work just as hard and diligently and willingly as I do for missions and Africa. Daimian and I both felt God impress on us that we need to find a cheaper place to live, even if that means its smaller. This is so that Daimian can not work as much and focus on the youth as well as be able to give to things like Speed the Light and sponsor kids going life changing events like this one.

Has my calling changed? No. Someday, I will impact Africa. Heck, maybe one of these kids I am mentoring will go to Africa and impact it as well. My passion has not changed for that continent, but my passion for the youth has. This burden is still here, stronger than ever now. Nothing can stop me. Nothing can stop these kids.

Watch out, Oregon. These kids are going to rock you.