"Road Rules" 2005
September 2, 2005

     Five packed minivans, 24 students, and 10 leaders, left the Crossroad youth center early one summer morning, and Road Rules 2005 began.

     Like last year, the students had no idea where they where going, or what work they would be doing.  All they knew was the weeks of preparation that had gone into this trip.  They had spent early mornings cleaning youth centers and working on a farm, hauling shale stone, clearing brush, and breaking wood.  They remembered the Bible studies, the prayer, and handing out water to bikers and passerby’s at a motorcycle rally.   Each student recalled leaders praying over them and anointing them with oil, symbolizing their specific calling and consecration to service. 

This year Road Rules took the team west.  Our first stop was Ann Harbor, Michigan, then on to Clinton, Iowa, north to Chicago, Illinois, then east to Cedar Point, Ohio and lastly to Cleveland, Ohio.  At each stop we served at a local church, provided much needed labor, and shared the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

On the first evening of the trip, we had a small worship service.  During this service each of the seniors were given time to share what they had learned the last few years and to challenge the underclassmen.  Each one exceeded expectations and was truly honest.  It was one of the most gratifying experiences for the leaders, many of whom had poured out their lives discipling these students.

     Another great time was the stop at Cedar Point Park in Ohio.  Not only was this a great day of riding coasters, but each student was challenged by wearing a homemade shirt that said “Jesus died for you, ask me why” across the front and back.  If someone asked them about the shirt, they were to engage them in a conversation about Jesus. They were also challenged to explain and give away bracelets designed to share the gospel.  It was amazing to hear the stories later on that night of students leading people to a saving relationship with Jesus on line for roller coasters or on park benches! Just Awesome! 

     Although the team didn’t know their destination, they trusted Jesus to get them through, and each other to help along the journey.  This is the spirit of road rules.  Following Christ, wherever He leads, joyfully serving and loving a lost and broken world.