The work that was done by those WELS young people was a testimony to the people of Ames, Iowa. They saw that young people can lead the way in volunteering their youth, strength, and knowledge. It also gave an excellent witness to their love for their Savior. I didn't hear one person in our group complain about how hard and dirty the work was. I heard how much fun they had and how satisfying it was to see the fruit of their labors.

They also were wise in how they acted toward outsiders. They let their light shine so that the park ranger had nothing but good to say about all the groups that day. One group was even on the local news. Several young people were interviewed and boldly proclaimed who they were, what they were doing, and why they were doing it. Each of them pointed to Jesus and what he has done for them as the reason and the motivation for their joyful service that day. Lead the way? Yes, they can!

LETTING GO OF THE BATON

I learned a lot from the young people with whom I sat and ate meals. I learned once again that you are no more than six people away from knowing someone in WELS. I met several classmates' children or someone who knew me through someone they knew. This simply reinforced the necessity of our young people's staying in touch with one another for encouragement and strength to deal with the many challenges they will continue to face in this ever changing world. It also reminded me of the importance of adults helping to equip these young people with God's Word so that they are wise and are able to make the most of every opportunity and have conversations that are always full of grace and seasoned with salt (Colossians 4:5,6).

One other highlight reinforced my thinking when it comes to young people leading the way. We were in a discussion on teen ministry issues called "Start-Sustain-Stop." Leaders and teens were talking about how to get youth groups started, how to sustain the teens or the things they are doing, and when to stop doing things. We had some excellent discussion and insight from both the adults and the youth. I shared a thought that adults need to help the young people wherever they need help by encouraging them and supporting them. I also pointed out that the teens need to run with it and adult leaders need to trust them. There were nods and agreement, but not further discussion.

A little later, a young man from Florida raised his hand and said the same thing, but in a way that grabbed the group. People listened and wanted to hear more. He said, "We have been hearing that the baton is being passed to the young people. That's fine, but you can't run the race with us. You have to let the baton go for us to run."