When it comes to the maturity of Preteens, whether it be emotional, physical, mental or spiritual, there can be major differences between individual students. In fact, I've often say that there is no larger gap between two grades then there is between a 6th grade girl and a 5th grade boy. This can make it feel like, at times, that you are left to minister to students with a maturity level of a 3rd grader all the way to a maturity level of an 8th grader.
Needless to say, this can create significant challenges when you are trying to put together a program for such a wide-range of maturity levels. I'm often left wandering how effective we've been and whether we are effectively reaching students because of these varying levels of understanding.
Thus, when I read the following letter that one of our students had left behind after Preteen Camp, I was most encouraged! This young gal was writing in response to one of the "Time Alone With God" exercises that we took students through. This particular station was called, "Love Letter to God."
Dear God, I love you so much. But I know you love me even more. I want to do what you say to do. Make your word clear to me. Teach me your ways, not mine. I want to know you. So please reveal yourself to me. Thank you for making it possible that I could come to camp. I am being moved by you and I can feel it. Thank you Jesus. I love you.
I was reminded to never underestimate what God can do in the heart of 5th & 6th graders.
1 comment:
I know just what you're saying...that age is tough...but moments like this are what keeps you going, arent' they? Those times, if ever so brief, when you see the light bulb turn on and they truly lock in and understand...that is priceless, isn't it? Keep fighting the good fight...and I'm still praying for you and your wife.
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