Last January after praying with a high school student, I asked if he knew Jesus? He responded, "Who? What's His name again? Jesus?" I said, "Yes, Jesus. You know, the one Christmas is all about?"
Many might assume that American students are familiar with Jesus because of the national and federal holiday called Christmas, but they are not. It makes me wonder if they understand the meaning of Easter.
Engaging in conversation with students in more than prayer is fascinating and eye-opening to say the least. When the student questioned about Jesus, this was an ideal moment to explain His virgin birth and life of our Savior.
Most of us know the biblical names of Jesus: Emmanuel (Isaiah 9:6, Matthew 1:23), Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6), Son of God (Luke 1:35), Light of the World (John 8:12), the Word (John 1:1), Bread of Life (John 6:35), Good Shepherd (John 10:11), Lamb of God (John 1:29), Resurrection and Life (John 11:25), Savior (Matthew 1:21, Luke 2:11), the Way, Truth and Life (John 14:6); just to name a few!
But, how do you convey the names of Jesus to Gen Z, the unchurched, or non-believers in a way that resonates with them? When they ask for prayer for their math or chemistry grade, we share that Jesus sees their struggles and desires to relieve their anxiety, replacing it with His peace. We assure them He will provide understanding and knowledge if they set aside distractions and call upon Him, the one who meets all their needs. He takes joy in them and sings over them. He loves and cares for them.
Jesus knows what it's like to be abandoned by friends, bullied, ridiculed, laughed at, and to feel isolated. He has endured every intense pain, suffering, hunger, temptation, and emotion that we have ever experienced. He is God incarnate. This is Jesus!
Christmas celebrates the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies through the birth of our Savior. During this holiday time with family and friends, I hope you get to share Jesus in a way that connects with them and inspires a desire to know Him intimately.
As we wind down 2024, we have much to give glory to God for the miraculous encounters we've had with students, club advisors, and prayer teams. In November, we hired a former student and club president from Hemet high school to assist us with our social media. We aim to establish a prayer team at every California public high school and eventually nationwide, using social media as a means to ignite enthusiasm throughout the state!
If you haven't already done so, please connect and subscribe with us on our social media accounts, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. It does make a difference!
Would you consider a year end or monthly recurring gift to support with volunteer supplies, administrative and training costs? Thank you for your continued prayers and support as we see "Prayer Reach All Youth!" (PRAY) O' Come Let Us Rejoice! Merry Christmas!
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