NEXT

What I love most about this conference happened at a girls’ session in 2004.  I know it’s a bit odd for a guy to say that, but it’s true.

Of course, there are a lot of things I love about NEXT.  I love the laughter and fellowship with friends.  I love worshipping God with thousands of other young people who are passionate about Jesus.  I love the teaching, which has had an enduring impact in my life.  Last May, I remember having pizza with my friends Matt and Tim after C.J.‘s sermon on Christ’s death; all three of us had tears on our faces by the time the meal was over.  (I never did find out what the server thought about three guys in their twenties who had to ask for more napkins to wipe off their tears.)

But none of those things are what I love MOST about NEXT.

Back to the girls’ session in 2004.  A girl from our church (Sara) met a girl sitting in front of her (Katie) who had moved to our area just days before.  It turned out that they lived within a few blocks of each other.  They almost immediately became friends.  Sara invited Katie to visit our church.  And then, after the girls’ meeting was over, Sara introduced Katie to me (because I led a small group in the same part of town).  Today, I’m so glad to say that Katie is a faithful member of our church, the mother of my favorite kids in the world, and the wife of a guy who cries at pizza restaurants.  (That’s me, in case you aren’t connecting the dots.)

The moral of the story? This year at NEXT, many people’s lives will be impacted by the teaching.  Many friends will experience memorable fellowship.  Many people will build new friendships.  Some people will find a local church.  And a couple of people may even meet their future spouse.

I’m not sure what God would have in store for you.  But, if I were you, I’d sure be eager to find out!