So often, we wonder about the future of the next generation and, as a byproduct, our own impact. Will they have a positive influence on the world? Will they value society as past generations have? How will they pursue Jesus in their ever-changing lives? Can they live without their phones? As a father of two teens, I find myself pondering these questions and many more.

Recently, I had the privilege of firsthand learning about the desires and hopes of the next generation. During this year’s Gobble Kit season, the Student Ministry at River Valley Christian Fellowship decided to give back to their community and partner with Feed the Need Missions. River Valley was fully committed to supporting the Gobble Kit program, collecting 144 kits as a church. These kits represented not only 864 meals but also a desire for people to be fed both physically and spiritually.

In conversation with Jason, their youth pastor, a plan was hatched to invite the youth to pack and distribute the kits to families at our LBA Site. Without hesitation, the youth said YES!

I believe we have a responsibility to align the passions of the next generation with the heart of Jesus. If we do that early enough, we can help give kids a vision for others that impacts a lifetime! Proverbs 22:6 – Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it.

The week before Thanksgiving became “Serve Week” for the River Valley students. Wednesday was our kickoff, and the youth group’s plan shifted. With over 100 students and leaders gathering, we talked about legacy. The question was asked, “What legacy do you want to inspire others toward?” Every student was tasked with repacking the Gobble Kits in a transportable way for distribution.

After repacking the bags, we paused to look at what the Bible says about serving others. Our missional theme verse challenges us to love with the fullness of Jesus. The beauty of asking kids to love others reminded me how fully, authentically, and innocently kids can care for others. They learned that their story matters and that each of them has one!

My 17-year-old daughter Shayla and her friend Ruby taught their classmates how to share their testimonies with others in 15 seconds. When you discover this can be done in words and action, confidence builds.

We broke out into small groups with a challenge: to share their stories and write heartfelt messages to those who will be receiving a kit. At the end of the small group time, we came back together, placed the notes in the bags, and prayed over the 144 kits. There is nothing like seeing kids praying for Jesus to impact the lives of those receiving the kits this holiday season.

To cap off Serve Week, we invited the students to come to our site at LBA in Bastrop and hand out the kits the next night. I am excited to say that we had nearly 140 volunteers show up, many of whom came and brought their families to serve. Every kit was handed out, and students found purpose in sharing their stories with others.

River Valley students have taught me many things about the next generation. Our future is bright when students make other people a priority. Their compassion for those in need gives them insight that we, as adults, forget or can never see. The best part is that when they see the connections between Jesus, themselves, and others, they want everyone to experience it!

So, shout out to you River Valley students and leaders for seeing the value in others. Keep sharing your testimonies and transforming the world one person at a time!