On Thursday, August 19th, we broadcasted the second annual Nine Month Mission Trip live stream. Friends from First Priority, Claim Your Campus, and the Campus Alliance challenged students to make this school year a nine month long mission trip. We urged them that instead of thinking of school as a place where they have to be, they can see it as a place God is sending them to make a difference. We challenged students to cover their schools with prayer, to show their classmates that they care, and to use creativity and courage to share the Gospel. After the live stream, we got this email from a student in North Dakota.
"What's your mission field?"
When I heard that question, a lightbulb went off and my excitement to return to school started to grow. Now is the time to share Christ with my classmates and community! I immediately decided to join the Nine Month Mission Trip.
Today was the first day of school, and I saw God at work in so many ways!
I've been nervous to go back, as the last time I sat in a classroom was 529 days ago. This morning before school, I prayed that God would silence my fears and use me as a light for Him, fulfilling the purpose He has given me to influence those around me.
Two things happened that were a direct answer to my prayer.
First, at lunch, a freshman sat with me and as we talked I got to know her a bit more. I looked at her and said, "Crazy question! Would you want to come to my youth group tonight? We have a weekly bonfire and we'd love to have you!" Honestly, I didn't expect her to show up, but SHE SHOWED UP!!! She came to youth group, worshiped with us, and got to hear more about God's love. She told me that her family only goes to church a few times a year. She doesn't have a relationship with God, but she really enjoyed the experience tonight and wants to come back. God is so good!
Second, all my fears and worries were completely gone. I walked through the halls, and it felt like God was saying "I made you to be different! You are chosen, purpose-filled, and born to be unique. Own it!" Not once today did I feel less than, lonely, pressured by peers or perfectionism, sad to be back, etc. Thank you, Jesus!!
"Fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you. For God has not given you a spirit of fear or timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. So never be ashamed to tell others about our Lord." - 2 Timothy 1:6b-8a NLT
Can't wait for tomorrow!
Needless to say, this testimony made us even more excited to see how God will work through students this school year. We invite you to join the movement, too.
You can watch the Nine Month Mission Trip live stream here. You can also download Nine Month Mission Trip resources here. All Nine Month Mission Trip materials are produced by Teens For Christ of Pittsburgh in partnership with NNYM.
Connect with Travis Deans on Twitter @TDeans.