THE POWER OF SHOWING UP: RYLEE’S STORY

If you’ve spent any time at our Bastrop South Site, you’ve likely seen Rylee. He’s the one quickly breaking down tables, picking up trash, restocking supplies, and doing it all with a smile. He is known around the site as someone who gets things done — a dependable, hardworking young man who shows up week after week with a cheerful heart and a servant’s attitude.

I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Rylee and learn more about his story. Although I had seen him around the site before, this was our first real conversation, and it left a lasting impression.

Rylee, now a high school senior, is juggling classes, soccer practice, and all the busyness that comes with the final year of high school. Most mornings, he gives a friend a ride to school before starting his packed day. However, no matter how full his schedule becomes, Rylee continues to prioritize serving with Feed the Need Missions.

His family moved to Bastrop four years ago, and the South Site has been a significant part of his life ever since. He began coming because his dad heard about it through their church. What started as a visit soon turned into a weekly rhythm — one that has shaped Rylee more than he expected.

This October was especially meaningful, as Rylee’s father returned home after serving overseas in Kuwait for 9 months. Their family was overjoyed to welcome him back, grateful for his safety and the chance to be together again. Since his return, Rylee and his dad have already been serving side by side at the Bastrop South site.

When I asked Rylee what had impacted him the most, his answer was simple and sincere: “The role models.” He spoke about the strong spiritual men and women who have poured into him, helped him answer difficult questions, and guided him in his faith. Those relationships deeply shaped him during a time when he could have felt lost or isolated. Rylee found faith-filled mentors who reminded him what steady faith and humble strength look like when lived out.

Serving at Bastrop South has also changed Rylee’s perspective. He explained that the Lord has been teaching him gratitude, humility, and what true servant leadership looks like. It has helped him slow down, notice others, and recognize how blessed he truly is.

Rylee is naturally a doer. He jumps in, works hard, and keeps moving. But recently, he has learned that some of the most meaningful ministry occurs when you take the time to truly see someone. Rylee excels at this. Even on the busiest nights, he pauses, looks someone in the eye, and meets them where they are. That kind of intentionality is rare and leaves a lasting impact.

He has also learned that God can use conversations that don’t “go perfectly.” Some discussions may be emotional or messy, but those moments can still plant seeds. Rylee is discovering that faithfulness isn’t measured by how smooth a moment is, but by whether we choose to show up with love.

When asked what he would say to someone considering volunteering, his answer was spot on: “It’s a great place to share your faith and talk about Jesus.”

Our conversation left me deeply encouraged. Rylee embodies what it means to serve like Jesus: with joy, intentionality, humility, and purpose. He reminds us that when we show up faithfully, God works to shape not only the lives of others but also our own.

We’re grateful to have Rylee as part of this community and are excited about what God continues to do in and through him. Please pray for his soccer season and the rest of his senior year!