Scripture Reading
     For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith."
- Romans 1:17

     First of all, we go to cool, sometimes cold, Colorado which means we get to leave hot and hotter Texas. This year it seemed colder than normal. In fact, a couple of nights we were freezing. The temperature was not freezing but with the wind and the cold and rain, we were freezing. Even though it was cold, we enjoyed it knowing that before long we would be back in hot and hotter Houston. Secondly, is because of the group of youth who were there. They are always our home grown kids. I have known most of them since they were in middle school. I have seen them grow into outstanding young men and women of faith. I am blown away by the depth of their faith and their understanding and love of God's creation and His plan for each of us. Hearing them sing at night under the stars and hearing their words of faith is awesome. I love this trip.

     Each year I throw out simple themes for the group to respond to and share with each other. This year I talked about the defining moments in our lives. By this I mean the moments or events in our lives where God was ever present and most alive to us or times when we needed God the very most and when we reached out for Him, He was there. I shared a brief history of several of the defining moments in my life. I lifted up the day I got married and the days my two children were born. I talked about the decision I made to drop out of law school way back when. That was a defining moment because if I had stayed in law school the odds would be that I would not be a youth director and have the amazing opportunity to know and love all the youth I have been blessed to be associated with over the years. Of course I shared about the defining moment in my life when I began to work at the church with our youth.

     The group shared some of their defining moments. Most of their defining moments included situations with friends who reached out to them and shared God's love with them in different ways. Some included moments where God revealed Himself to them in amazing ways when they needed Him the very most. It was most special to hear them affirm to each other that God was and is present in most of the defining moments in our lives.

     How about you? What are some of the defining moments in your life? When are some times God revealed Himself to you through someone He put in your life, or through something that happened, or through the Word, or even music? I encourage you to share these times with others and ask them what some of their defining moments are. It will help you grow in faith and encourage others to do the same. Of course, if you want to share some moments with me, I always enjoy hearing from you.

Prayer
Lord of all, You define us with Your love and grace and forgiveness. Amen.