Time of My Life

"Hey Angel, how were the holidays for you?" I inquired of a sturdy fifth grader just stepping into the classroom after the Christmas/New Year's break.

"It was pretty good," was the cryptic answer.

Steadying my gaze on this disheveled young man, I prodded, "Do anything special?"

"Not really. Just watched my friends get drunk," he honestly replied.

"Get drunk? Were these older friends of yours?" Remembering that he had an older brother that was in and out of the juvenile correction system.

"Naw, just these eight, nine, ten and eleven year olds. They were drinking to get drunk, " he confessed as his eyes dropped their gaze from mine. "But, I didn't drink with them. I told them that it was stupid, " he quickly clarified.

As Angel caught sight of a friend and walked off I was left standing there, trying to process what I had  just heard. Eight, nine, ten and eleven year olds drinking to get drunk?! I knew kids in this neighborhood had to grow up fast...but really? A wave of sadness swept over me as I scanned the classroom, wondering what these children, all 35-40 of them were going home to that day.

Whether we acknowledge it or not this is the grim reality for many children in our communities. In the midst of the hurt there are people reaching out to bring the message of hope and truth to these young lives.

Child Evangelism Fellowship is one such group that is endeavoring to impact kids with the gospel. Thankfully, they are allowed to provide an after-school program called Good News Club to schools throughout the county. Run by volunteers on a weekly basis, they reach out to kids in your backyard through songs, games and poignant Bible lessons. {See pictures from the club I volunteered with this past school year.}

Unfortunately, these efforts often are hindered by the lack of volunteers. The club that Angel attended this past school year is waiting to begin again but can't because it doesn't have enough volunteers... yet. Would you prayerfully consider lending a hand? These Good News Clubs throughout Pinellas county are seeking people willing to invest in these children's lives for the gospel. Teaching a Bible lesson or a memory verse is not mandatory. Getting to know the kids and share the love of Christ with them is priority.

It makes a difference. An eternal difference.

Contact me for information on where you can find a club in your immediate area.