John 13:35 In Action

THE POWER OF INTENTIONAL TOGETHERNESS

Author: Jonathan Scheffrahn, Youth Pastor

Focus 2025 is our annual Grace Youth Ministry high school retreat, 24 hours set aside to focus on our relationship with God and with each other. This year, our theme centered on John 13:35, where Jesus says that people will know we are His disciples by the way we love one another. That was and is our goal: to love well.

What stood out to me most during this retreat was how often I heard students say how much they just enjoyed being together. We played sports, read the Bible, shared meals, sang together during impromptu worship late at night in the hallways, and yes, even disarmed a few “bombs” together (don’t worry, no students were harmed in the execution of that game).

We also took a trip to Slick City, a nearby indoor slide park, where both students and leaders pulled off some pretty crazy stunts. But more than all the fun and craziness, what really stuck with me was how intentional everyone was about being together.

That kind of togetherness, the kind Jesus calls us to, can be hard to find time for in everyday life. But at Focus, we made time. We ended the retreat with a moment of encouraging one another, especially those who were feeling discouraged. Many students heard that they are wanted, accepted, valued, and appreciated.

I’m so grateful for what God did during this weekend, and for the incredible group of students we have here at Grace Youth Ministry. God is doing something really special, and I’m thankful to be part of it.