Balefire is the name given to the youth group at my church here in Fayetteville. It symbolizes their desire to be a beacon of light for Christ through their thoughts, words, actions and deeds. One of the many ways God has blessed my life is to allow me the privilege of working with these amazing young men and women. As we're preparing to kick off the new school year and new programming for the youth group, I wanted to take a minute and reflect on this particular journey.
When I was a teenager, I belonged to a huge youth group and we had many youth counselors, most of whom were parents. They were such positive examples for me and I was constantly encouraged by their wisdom and insight. Adolescence was painful for me and I'm sure I was quite a handful at times, but they treated me like I was important. They treasured my uniqueness without making me stand out from the rest - something every teenager wants. It was a very special time for me and I have always been thankful for those who took time away from their families and priorities to spend with me and help me grow in my faith. When I left the youth group and went on to college, I asked God to please grant me the opportunity to be for some other teenager what my youth counselors were to me. My prayer was answered twelve-and-a-half years later when I moved to Fayetteville. I knew this was where I was meant to be and was so excited to jump in with both feet.
That was in January, and what an adventure it has been! They have allowed me into their lives and I am loving every second of this wild and crazy ride I'm taking with them. As we move into the Fall and things start back up again, I am so excited because we are all taking this step together. I am so thankful God has placed me in this position with Balefire. I am thankful for each and every member of this group and for their love for Christ and willingness to grow in their relationships with Him. I pray God will continue to use me and all of my imperfections and that I will trust His wisdom in all that He places before me.
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