ChristQuest

In a world that is overrun by depressing and scary news stories that never seem to end we need something positive to move us forward.  That sort of impetus would have to come from God, and this weekend I have been witness to just sort of an event.

In the scenic Ozarks of Arkansas an event known as ChristQuest has been going on for several years early each August.  This event brings together hundreds of youth and their parents, supporters, and ministers from a wide area that includes 3 states (Arkansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma).  The attendees are attempting to build their spiritual muscle in order to better serve the risen savior Jesus Christ, in a world that is challenging them at every turn.  This muscle building is accomplished by singing, studying, and fellowshipping with one another.

Among the most powerful elements of this particular event is a group singing that is done where each of the four vocal parts are placed together by sections facing one another.  The result as you can see from the video excerpt above is amazing!  I am someone who loves music, but has little musical ability of my own, and this type of performance makes the hair on my arms stand straight up.  If you are in attendance and are not moved by the beautiful blending of these voices in acapella singing you may need to do some soul searching.

In addition to the singing there are challenging messages delivered and classes that initiate thought.

These kids are doing what the very title of this blog site is all about; Working out Their Faith.  If you are a Christian and are concerned about the direction the world is taking, there is hope.  Christquest is actually only one such event occuring on any given weekend among the churches of Christ, each with its own unique traditions and method for building the faith of the young.  For many, especially those from small churches with few youth this is an opportunity to be around others of a similar mindset and to gain encouragement for the days ahead.

Vocationally I work with geriatric medical patients and their families, and have told many people that "there is nothing easy about getting old."  Similar to that there is not a lot that is easy about growing up either.  Events like this presented by caring adults who desire to see the remnant carry on into the future can only strengthen the youth.  We cannot just sit back and allow our children to find their way with little or no direction.  We are seeing the devastating results of this type of laissez-faire parenting throughout our society today.

We must follow the Godly pattern of scripture, and as my favorite author, Andy Andrews, has stated in his writings, "it is not our goal to raise good kids, our goal is to raise good, God-fearing adults."  I am so thankful to have participated in Christquest this weekend and in several other similar events throughout the year.  My spirit has been filled, now I must take that momentum and Do Well.  Will you seek Him and Do Well as well?