Students at GatheringNW have developed a partnership with The House to create a weekly outreach program for middle school students. I can’t tell you how much I love the heart and the vision behind this idea. I love it because it was created and designed by our students. I love it because it makes a real difference in the lives of these middle schoolers. And I love it because it just might be the thing Jesus would do with His Saturday if He was here.

I wanted you to hear about what God is doing at The House from one of the student leaders who has designed this ministry. Here’s what Candace emailed me yesterday:

“It was awesome to see the way God worked this Saturday at The House. Never before has a single outreach we’ve done gone so smoothly. Everyone was on time; instead of people calling to cancel, they asked to come. Volunteers showed up from American, Mason, and GW. Logistically, God answered every prayer.

However, when 2 o’clock rolled around and no middle schoolers were showing up I was slightly concerned. Instead of sticking to our plan for what the day looks like we got flexible. All the volunteers were amazing. They were willing to do whatever it took. Groups walked around the neighborhood inviting the kids they saw. The high schoolers who are working with us went out and found their younger friends. We even took on a group of about 25 in football. A deal was made – we win, they come to The House; we loose, we keep playing.

When we had only an idea of what today would look like it centered around the idea of a relationship. We knew that would be the most important thing. As we planned for this ministry we got more structured but always kept that in mind. However, we planned and were creating activities to do. Instead, God brought us to a point where we went and hung out with these kids doing what they wanted to do. I think that’s the best way to start to show someone you care. From this starting point we can build trust and relationships.

After the football game, we got everyone inside over at The House where they took advantage of all the opportunities for them. There were groups of kids on workout equipment, playing pool, air hockey, pinball, ping pong, video games, making music, and just hanging out. Everywhere I looked volunteers were mixed in with the groups, talking and getting to know each other. I love how God brought us back to the main point – sharing His love with these kids through relationships. It was a great day and I’m completely excited for the rest of the semester.”

Can you see why I’m hoping you’ll all be a part of this?