Over the years we have heard many different songs that connect us to the scripture passage, I am the Way and the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through me (Jn 4:6). I have often been drawn to this scripture and I always find myself engulfed in any music relating to it.

I believe too, that if we would ask each of our young people if they believed in this scripture, we would hear an overwhelming YES! They know that Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life, and yes, they believe in Him. My concern is that as much as they believe this, do they really live it in their daily lives? This, I believe, is where we as adult members of the Body of Christ can help.

Last month we were forced to cancel another Teens Encounter Christ weekend because of lack of numbers and recently, our numbers were a little lower for our annual Junior High Rally. For the most part, I don’t think that it is the fact that our young people are not willing to attend things of this nature, the fact is our young people are extremely busy. During the TEC weekend there were high school plays and musicals, and for the rally weekend, a pre-season basketball tournament.

So what do we do? The answer is simple: We continue to hold the many diocesan events, and when possible, get our youth to attend because we all know how lives can be changed when we gather as community. But too, we must seek to always help our young people find the presence of God in their daily lives.

As we celebrate this Advent season, I ask that we find a way to slow down, to teach our young people to slow down, and truly remember Jesus’ words, I Am. How can we get our youth to pray, Jesus I know that you are the Way and the Truth and the Life, please help me to believe more deeply in you and recognize your presence in my life through all people and all things?