God Goes Beyond Our Small Thinking and Small Faith

It’s here! You are invited to come and check out the renovated Downtown Teen Center at the Community Open House on October 3rd, between 10 am – 1 pm. Enjoy food and fun as we kick off the new programming at 1401 E. Divisadero St., Fresno, CA 93721!

Throughout this process, I have experienced God’s clear leading. In the very early days of dreaming about how we could and should do more for our youth, God providentially brought wise counsel to expand the vision for the project beyond “just the bathrooms.” God graciously intervened in our small thinking and small faith to pursue what was really needed: a safe and welcoming building for the gospel that was youth-facing and accessible to all.

And then God brought the resources, generously given and always timely, that enabled us to make the plan and start the work. As you walk through the building, you will see some of the names in various rooms. The point of these signs is so a teen can know that there’s a whole community of people that care about them and want them to know the life that comes only from Christ.

One great unknown, amongst many along the way, was who would take the reins and lead the programming. God’s perfect timing again brought Jacob Hernandez to the team this summer. Jacob is no stranger to YFC, having served as a volunteer and intern. He is full of energy, excited about Jesus, and passionate about the next generation discovering a relationship with God that changes their whole life, starting now.

Jacob actually first connected with YFC through staff members who helped him as a new Christian learn to read and understand the Bible and how to grow in a relationship with God. That’s why when I asked him, “What are you looking forward to as you get started?” he said, “I want to see these kids enjoy the
programs, learn the life skills, and live into the promise of God where He will pour out his spirit on the young men and women. I want to see that transformation and to be involved in it, and to serve alongside a team that’s all about it.” Needless to say, I agree, and I’m pumped.

It’s been God from the beginning – and it still is. So, would you join us in prayer right now? We are praying over God’s final designs for the weekly programming, praying against spiritual warfare, praying over the harvest of teens who will come to know Christ, and praying for God to send the laborers who have His Spirit and wisdom. And yeah, I forgot to budget for a few small things like tables and chairs, so I’ll add prayer for God’s ongoing provision for His vision!

We’re nothing but excited about opening up the doors and getting things going with teens at the Downtown Teen Center. The week after the open house, we’re already booked on Monday night for Teen Night; Tuesday night is our Student Leader Kickoff. Then Open Gym and Bible Study on Wednesday. On Thursday, Urban Story is doing discipleship, and yeah, Jacob is going to be tired! If you want to offer help, encouragement, prayer, or support, let me encourage you to drop a note to Jacob at Jacob@yfcnow.org.

You and I both know that as amazing as the building is, the point of it all is the kids. I want them to know they belong here, that they are safe here, that we can have fun and get deep, where they can experience God’s presence and hear from His word. May this place be a leap forward for every lost teen towards His Kingdom and His Church.

See you on October 3rd,

Jameson