Tonight I went to the church to pray and watch the high school youth portray the Stations of the Cross. The evening started with the music group singing one of my favorite songs, “Above All”, by Michael W. Smith. The lead singer had a wonderful voice and played the guitar. There was also a keyboard player, a bass guitarist, flute player, and additional singers. The majority of them were high school youth. They did many songs during the prayer time and it was beautiful. A group of about 12 high school youth acted the 15 “Station of the Cross” – a point in time during the condemnation and crucifixion of Jesus Christ. When the lights were out, the youth would get in position to depict each scene. Then the lights would come on and as we gazed upon the live tableau, a prayer and reflection was read. Songs were intermingled throughout. At their suggestion, I closed my eyes when the lights went off and meditated on the scene and prayer I just witnessed. I thought about how Christ chose to go through this agonizing death even though He could have stopped it any time. I thought about how much I have experienced His love and mercy. And I realized that He loves and is present to everyone in that church (and beyond) just as much as me. It was a lot to ponder. I also thought about all the Stations of the Cross presentations that I have seen and helped with over the years. There have been many different versions and many different youth participated. Most of those I know are young adults now, though a few are still in high school. They are in all different places in their faith journey. I prayed that each of them take their experience to heart and allow God into their lives a little bit more.

I Found God today in the faith and openness of young people, and in the realization of the grace that came from Jesus’ crucifixion.