In January, the youth spent time talking about courage.  We had the privilege of listening to the powerful story of PUMC member, Isaac Ergogo, and his journey as an African Refugee.  We talked about God’s angel armies, standing up for others, and being brave enough to go against “the world’s” expectations.  Both adults and teenagers are given daily opportunities to be brave.  But, when you really think about it, how often do we make brave choices?  Most of the time we make easy choices; we make choices that are familiar, safe, and require the least amount of work.  Have you ever felt the pull to talk to a stranger, or to give of your time or finances when you don’t have any to spare?  The Holy Spirit sometimes pushes us out of our comfort zones and into directions we don’t want to go.  What would happen if we all started being just a little more brave?  A well-known verse, 2 Timothy 1:7 says, “For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and self-discipline.”  I have always been a little on the timid side when it comes to trying new things.  But, with the power I know God has given me, I made the brave choice to go back to full time youth ministry.  I pray that you are able to step out of your comfort zones and keep this in mind: We are like hot air balloons, at the mercy of His wind.  If we just listen and obey, we might end up somewhere beautiful.

Cori Fitzpatrick

Director of Student Ministries