After a 10 hour travel day, we finally made it to Atlanta. We went through Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and into Georgia. My goal was to take a picture of each state sign, to which I was successful. 🙂 Upon arriving at the hotel, our kiddos immediately changed into their swim suits and headed to the pool. THAT was their highlight.
However, MY highlight was reconnecting with a former youth whom I hadn’t seen in TEN years. The last time I saw Catherine she was an 18 year old headed off to Mercer University. Now, she’s a DOCTOR doing her residency in pathology. It was so fun for me to see her all grown up, living her dream, and hearing all the Lord has done in her life. As a pastor’s kid, she was always in the spotlight (we totally get that), and it was encouraging to hear how the Lord took her on the journey of making her faith her own. Of course, after ten years, you expect for a follower of Christ to grow in their relationship with Him, but what a blessing to hear how she’s using her skills as a MD to bring glory to God. I knew God was going to use Catherine in this capacity, but what a blessing to see it fulfilled.
It was also encouraging for me to see my own journey during this ten year gap. My time in Tifton, GA was filled with some of the best and hardest days of ministry. In my opinion, Youth Ministry is one of the hardest (and crucial) ministries of the church. Students are going from being a kid to a young adult. There are so many hormonal, emotional, and spiritual changes that happen during that six year period, and it’s tempting to wonder if all the energy you’re pouring into them is taking root. I often found myself asking the Lord: “What in the world am I doing here? Are they learning anything from you, or am I just a warm body managing the chaos around me?” Last night, the Father was so good to remind me that He, indeed, was working. I had the proof sitting right in front of me, and she was full of stories of people like Molly, Drew, Brandt, Abby, Melissa, Nick, Lia, and etc. These former youth are now all grown, have careers and families of their own, and serving the Lord in their sphere of influence.
As we begin this sabbatical season, how sweet of the Father to remind us of this truth. Every minister goes through times when they wonder if their energy and passion for their flock is worth it and making a difference. Looking at Catherine, seeing her growth, and anticipating her future, God gave me a resounding YES!! Every tear, every joy, every frustration, every triumph, and every season is worth it. Some of us may never see the impact we’ve made on an individual. But, yesterday, God was sweet to let me see some “fruit” of my labor those many years ago.
Catherine, I’m proud of you and the woman you are. Continue seeking the Lord and allowing Him to use you for His glory. You are one of my biggest ministry blessings!
Catherine with my kiddos. Very surreal!
Amanda and Catherine
