Dear Friends,
Three weeks ago I was in Detroit and now, life is back to a “new” normal. I learned after my first FoC mission trip in 2010 to Montana that these trips change you. This ELCA National Youth Gathering in Detroit was no exception. Events are easy to share, but it is difficult explain what happens inside you. That experience is different for everyone.
It did not take long for me to feel overwhelmed by the immensity of this gathering. There were easily 30,000 different ways participants were able to praise/worship/mingle/share/participate as we made our way through Detroit that week. I was relieved to know that it was safe to do it my own way. There were “high-fivers”, huggers, clappers, dancers, thinkers, watchers, singers, pray-ers, leaders, followers, listeners, talkers. All of them believers, celebrating “The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.” (Mark 1:1) No way was right or wrong – just different.
As each speaker brought up social issues, I began to panic about which one I thought I could make a difference in. I was aware that there multiple viewpoints and angles that were not necessarily addressed by the speakers. Their concerns were complicated, yet important. I began to agonize over the fact that I had no cause that I actively pursue. I feel blessed to make it through a work day, get my kids fed and ensure that they have read 30 minutes per day. There is a young lady in Detroit who invented a coat that doubles as a sleeping bag for homeless people and now, hires only people from homeless shelters to make the coats. Why didn’t I think of that? I do want to make a difference in the world, but where to start…..
I needed a new perspective. I had recently read a few Bible verses that had new meaning and helped me understand the importance of “Rise Up Together” and how individual gifts/differences complement each other and are vital to the whole. “Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.” (1 Corinthians 12: 27) I feel and believe in the power in numbers to fight injustice. Each person plays a part, none are insignificant. 2 Chronicles 20 reinforces the need for us to stand together, take our positions and value the spiritual gifts of those around us. When we seek God and let Him lead, we will find courage and strength to face our enemies. “You will not have to fight in this encounter. Take your places, stand firm, and see the salvation of the LORD; he will be with you, Judah and Jerusalem. Do not fear or be dismayed. Tomorrow go out to meet them, and the LORD will be with you.”(2 Chronicles 20: 17) Whatever your position, it is an important one as a part of the whole. Don’t just stand still, but let God lead when you “go out” to face whatever you need to.
The Cobo Center, where all of the activities were set up, was thoughtfully laid out. The center of this massive space was a large cross, where all walkways converged symbolically; the youth are drawn to the cross and sent out from the cross as agents of change. Youth lined up to donate blood, donate their hair, play games with youth with disabilities, encounter challenges, pack backpacks for Detroit students, and learn about the multiple issues facing people around the world. The greatest realization from this trip is that our youth:
- Live among God’s faithful people
- Hear the word of God and share in the Lord’s supper
- Proclaim the good news of God in Christ through words and deed
- Serve all people, following the example of Jesus
- Strive for justice and peace in all the earth
No matter the bumps in the road or the struggles along the way, these basics are instilled through their baptism and confirmation. I will keep cheering our young disciples on. Sharing this experience with this amazing group of FoC youth along with 30K+ in Detroit singing and praising; Rising Up Together, how can I not be changed forever?
Megan Woods
Family of Christ Conversations 