Why bring a friend?

Jordan, Will, Ryan, Rick, Davis, and
Gavin (Davis' friend) playin' in the
corn. 

Every week I tell the youth "bring a friend!" We would love to have their friends be part of us at UMYF. Every event we do friends are welcome! But why? I believe that we can truly make a difference not only in the lives of youth that already come but in those that come as a result of friendship.

I think of Jordan Anderson. Ian Casker brought him last school year and ever since then Jordan and his family have become a big part of Pleasant Green UMC. Jordan just a few weeks ago was baptized in the Eno River. What began as Ian bringing a friend turned out to be the beginning of a cool narrative in Jordan's life.

I think about my involvement in church. It was my friend Mark when I was in 10th grade who invited me to his church. Just like Jordan I got involved, gave my life to Jesus, and was baptized in the span of that year. It surely changed the trajectory of my life. And I am so grateful that Mark decided to invite me to church.

Sure not everyone's friend is going to keep coming back and that is normal. But it is sure cool when we invite friends and like Jordan this new narrative begins in their life.

The bible says "Go make disciples of ALL nations..." and it is exciting to see youth catch on to this and invite their friends. Hope to see your youth and some of their friends soon!