Making disciples does not end with a person’s acceptance of Jesus Christ, for that is not the end of the process, it’s the beginning, and we can’t simply leave the new Christian all alone to struggle and despair by themselves… as so often is the case.  This whole aspect of relationship is every bit as crucial in helping young believers (of any age) as they move forward toward spiritual maturity.  Love, trust, and mutual respect are critical factors in mentoring one another, and we need to be just as intentional in building these relationships, as our Lord was when He demonstrated for us how it is done.

For me personally, this is the most exciting part of my life, when I see a younger Christian begin to grow spiritually.  The nature of their questions begins to change, you can usually tell by their questions just where they are on the journey.  Then their attitudes about various things begin to change, and then their behavior begins to change, until one day I see the person serving selflessly, often in a manner that I didn’t expect, but for which God has given them gifts of service. Yep, for me there is no greater satisfaction and joy in life; it is life to the full!

I realize that, once again, I have spoken in general terms, but remember that his road trip is not intended to be technical or academic, but rather a journey of ideas and discovery.  Tomorrow, back at base camp, we’ll have our closing rally, see you there!