The Energy and Audacity of Youth

Preparing to depart from LA.

Having previously blogged rather one-sidedly--and perhaps unfairly--about the "energy and arrogance" of youth, a chance encounter today offered a glimpse at the other side of the coin.  Four impressive young believers engaged in a tremendous endeavor for the Kingdom of God reminded me that youth is not necessarily wasted on the young!

 

The Southern Walk is HOT!

I came across Jessica, Amy, Joe and Nancy at a Starbucks just minutes from my house, as they prepared to complete the final leg of their journey across the country with Crossroads, an annual pilgrammage which draws attention to the plight of the unborn and promotes a culture of life in America.  These four college students were members of the Southern Walk, and were nearing their destination in Washington DC, where all 40 walkers will converge on August 13th.



There are many ways to draw attention to the outrage of a million or so children destroyed annually in America.  (Note:  If we settle for the more conservative estimates of over 800 thousand, is it really that much less appalling?).  For those who don't understand the Christian revulsion against this practice, it is only that we treasure all those handmade by God to carry His image:

The walkers gather for prayer outside an
abortion clinic in Abilene, Texas.



For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb.

I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.
Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.
My frame was not hidden from you,when I was being made in secret,
intricately woven in the depths of the earth.
Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them,
the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.

- Psalm 139:13-16

Surviving the trek across Texas
is something to celebrate!

It's true, an unfortunate few resort to violent or simply obnoxious tactics, and Christians must continue to speak out against any repayment of evil for evil.  Even so, the willingness of this peaceful, cheerful, prayerful and dedicated band of young men and women to "walk the walk" on behalf of those who literally have no voice is a powerful antidote against cynicism and despair.



They will walk and not grow weary ...
(no, I won't reveal whose foot this is)



I thank you, my dear brothers and sisters, for remembering your Creator in the days of your youth, and expending your strength on worthy pursuits.  Thank you for standing up for righteousness, justice and compassion, and for daring to make a difference.  I salute you all in the words of the Apostle John:

I write to you, young men,

because you are strong,

and the word of God abides in you,

and you have overcome the evil one.