Hearts Transformed

This one is a little long but well worth the reading! This from a collected work of the former Mike Yaconelli, a pioneer and mentor to many in youth ministry. This is a summary from a November 2000 article. Due to illness a reluctant youth volunteer, Daryl,  attended the nursing home church service the local youth group conducted once a month. He felt awkward and out of place and chose to stand in the back against the wall. Just as the service was ending someone grabbed his hand. Daryl looked down to see a very old man in a wheelchair holding tightly to his hand. His name was Mr. Leak and he was still and expressionless. As everyone began to leave Daryl did not want to leave Mr. Leak but knew it was time to go. He leaned over and whispered, "I'm...uh..sorry, I have to leave. I will be back. I promise." Mr. Leak responded by squeezing Daryl's hand and then let go. Daryl's eyes filled with tears and inexplicably said, "I love you." Daryl came back mo...

Haman went out that day happy and in high spirits. But when he saw Mordecai... Esther 5:9 Haman had just left a banquet at the King's table. Did you catch that? Often times I tell the students everything in our lives can be changed with perspective and attitude. And here is another really great example. Haman lost his perspective. He focused on his hate for Mordecai. How often do we meet with our King, leaving happy and in high spirits only to be miffed soon after by the object of our fear? Today, I encourage you to keep your perspecitive and focus on the King and your seat at his table. Fear is a tool of discouragement and distraction. Let's keep our heads up fellow traveler. Don't lose sight of the big picture.