NYC Day 6: Sessions 5, 6, and Ministry With Others

A 4th of July Like No Other

Our day began with Session 5: Belong.  Allison Springer brought us the Word with a sermon titled "Operation One Flock."  She guided us through what she called the preparation for landing where we come down off this spiritual high not in a crash but by applying what we've learned wherever we go.  Allison used John 10:11-6 to explain our need for each other as one flock (STAY LOCKED).  We partner with light to drive out darkness which tries to isolate and scatter.  Where the devil isolates, Jesus gathers; where the devil steals life, Jesus gives abundant life; where the devil attacks the sheep, Jesus lays down His life for the sheep.  We must not isolate, but stay connected to community.

After the session, we were dismissed for MWO (Ministry With Others).  We gathered on buses and made our way to a church where we received some orientation and then split up into family groups for prayer walking.  Family groups walked and prayed over the homes, families, students, schools, businesses, and more in the Salt Lake City area.  Students took on different roles as they primarily led this activity together.  After prayer walking, we returned to the church to pack crisis care kits in partnership with Convoy of Hope.  Each district brought items with them to NYC, and together, we packed hundreds of boxes filled with dozens of hygiene care kits that will be delivered where needed during times of disaster.  This is such a key part of NYC where students don't just passively receive information or entertainment, but engage in actually living out the Gospel by serving and praying for others.

After MWO, we headed to Session 6: Pursue.  The message for our penultimate session was brought to us by General Superintendent Dr. Gustavo Crocker.  He brought us "Christmas in July" as he preached about the Christmas story in Luke 1:26-38.  Dr. Crocker reminded us that like Mary and the manger, we are highly favored and chosen and can be transformed even though we may consider ourselves ordinary and unlikely.  As the manger became a waypoint for finding the Savior, so can we.  The pursuit happens by just saying "here I am."  God does not come because we are able; He comes because we are available.

After the session, Elevation Rhythm performed an incredible concert that really just felt like an extended time of worship.  The energy was electric as our students gave themselves over in complete surrender, praising the Lord with everything they had!