MOVE Day 4

Another great day at Move here in Michigan. It was a unique day for a few reasons.

1. We watched the film "Love Costs Everything" during the morning session. It is a full-length documentary (hour and a half) about the persecuted church around the world. I have seen documentaries of all shapes and sizes, but the stories presented in this film are heart wrenching and inspiring at the same time. Some students responded with sadness, some with anger, and still some just needing time to process what they had seen. The students were challenged to pray for the persecuted church--not that the persecution will stop, but that they will have the strength to endure! We look forward to getting to share the film at Carterville this fall hopefully.
- Daniel 1 and 3 (Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego) was the topic of the day, and how these boys started with simple disciplines (sticking to the right diet), and how that led to the ability to stand strong even in the face of death (fiery furnace).

2. Extended Rec time at the beach! The water temp was about 73 degrees, but it was awesome, and we had a blast. There were baptisms in Lake Michigan, people buried in the sand, ultimate frisbee, and more.

3. Ahbijeet Lall (sp?) was our speaker tonight (son of Ahjai Lall--pastor in India). He told incredible stories of his encounters with persecution in the Hindu and Muslim communities. He powerfully challenged the students to not be idle, and to stand up for Christ even and especially when it's hard. And then our youth group had the privilege of having Ahbijeet come and have a question/answer time just with our students after the main session tonight. He is only 21 years old, but has so much wisdom and maturity!

Lots of great things going on. I absolutely know and believe that your prayers are being heard and answered. Thank you so much - one more full day of Move until we get up and head home on Saturday!

...and pray for Shayla and me if ya would - tomorrow (Friday) is our 5th anniversary!!