Did Jesus ever worry about numbers?

Many of us get wrapped up in numbers. We grade our success by the number of participants we have in any given event. As an example, we just completed our seventh and eighth grade camp, where we had only 22 campers. Not a great number, but a number that allowed for one-on-one contact with the campers and counselors, and a solid camping experience because everyone was able to work closely together. A small number lead to a powerful camping experience for everyone.

However, I still wonder, where were all of the other youth? There are probably around 1,000, seventh and eighth graders in our diocese. Why then would we have only 20 attending camp? Only God knows! But on the flip side, we have to be very thankful for the 57 fifth and sixth graders who attended the first camp, and for the wisdom that they brought to camp. For myself, the end result is simple. Don’t get wrapped up in the numbers, as every individual who attended camp truly grew in their faith and relationship with God.

Think about it -- did Jesus get caught up in the numbers? I don’t think so! Sure, he fed the 5,000, and wouldn’t anyone be happy with 5,000? But on the flip side, after Jesus had told the people that he was the Bread of Life, everyone left but the twelve. And of course, he simply continued to teach the twelve.

I have always struggled with numbers, always wanting more. I would like to share with you some recent experiences of how Jesus has taught me through others, not to get wrapped up in the numbers.

The first time was in March around the time of our high school youth rally, and I was concerned about the small number of youth attending the rally. Yes, God knew what he was doing and sent just the right number to the rally, but in the process, one of my co-workers challenged me to focus on Thomas, to not doubt as he had, but as Jesus said, "to have faith." Her simple words were that, through my ministry, I was doing a good job and making a difference in the lives of many people. Simple words, but oh, such a powerful message, and a message that has touched me deeply in recent weeks.

The first was in May, as I traveled to several youth events and graduations. I continually experienced gratitude from the graduates for being part of their special day, and often from the parents who time and time again thanked me for what I had done and continue to do for their children. What a wonderful affirmation! I truly am grateful for these words of encouragement. A renewed energy flows from each of them, words that simply said, "Have faith Steven, for the work you are doing is making a difference."

Most recently, I had the wonderful opportunity to be a part of Jessica Penka’s (Dighton) and Adam Schneider’s (Olmitz) wedding. A young couple who met through our TEC (Teens Encounter Christ) movement, and who were involved in other rallies and diocesan events. What a special day it was, as everyone witnessed two young people who will celebrate this wonderful sacrament and live this vocation daily. This day not only brought about Jessica and Adam’s covenant, but a reunion as well. For there were young people from all over the diocese who came to celebrate this day with Jessica and Adam, each person having met through some diocesan youth event. From Great Bend to Dodge City to Ulysses, to Garden City and Marienthal, young people gathered to share in this day.

And in this sharing came a reunion, a time to share stories and experiences of how TEC and other diocesan events had brought each of them together and formed friendships which will last forever. I spent the day humbled, as many people continued to thank me for my ministry and for the role models my wife, Pam and I have been to these kids.

As I think back on these events, I can’t help but remember all of the stress that I put myself under, worrying about the small numbers registered for TEC weekends or rallies. And then, when I am part of these days, I think, "Why do I get wrapped up in the numbers? God knows what he is doing. Just look at the community that has been formed through the grace of God."

People continue to thank me for everything that I have done, and I guess that I have accomplished some things. But, I quickly have to take a back seat and say that I have not done anything. It has all been through the grace of God, and because God had used others to speak to me. These words have gotten my attention, and have helped me continue to take steps to hopefully allow more people to encounter Christ and His infinite love in a new and special way. People have continued to tell me "thanks." Funny, I should be telling all of you "thank you."