Whenever a major event occurs in the history of mankind, it is not the event itself which causes the greatest change; it is the fallout. They are the smaller, but numerous events that occur because of that great event.

For example, when Jesus gave His life for us on the cross, events were set in motion that would only grow as time passed. Twelve men had been given instructions, and by acting on those instructions, they turned the world upside down. You see, the disciples were the fallout. They spread out and burned through the ancient civilized world like a fire spreads through dry brush in a desert. Their passion ignited the passion within others, and eventually their passion led to the passion that is within your heart as you sit and read this article. Because of the disciples’ sacrifice, the fallout continues in your life, in your home, in your church, and in your community.

North American Youth Congress 2017 is a major event in our country this year. As tens of thousands of young people gather in Indianapolis to reach for a higher calling, the fallout is incalculable. This is the kind of spark that can set the dry brush of American Christianity on fire again. Whether you are reading this before or after NAYC does not matter. What matters is your reaction. Will you become part of the fallout? Will you carry the torch to your neighborhood, to your school, to your workplace, to your church? The fields are white for the harvest.

As young people, we are constantly challenged by our pastor, by our teachers, by our mentors to make a difference—to step outside of ourselves and do something for the kingdom of God. NAYC is just one more call. A call for you accept your purpose. A call for you to reach your family. A call for you to be that preacher, that Sunday school teacher, that prayer warrior, that missionary to India, that worship leader, that effective witness. We can do amazing things through God. We can reach people no one else can reach. We can be exactly what God has called us to be. It’s not an ability problem. God has given us the power of His Holy Spirit.

So how can you respond? Maybe you will dedicate yourself to prayer, promising to build a dependable prayer life. Maybe you will get a Bible study together with your friends and family on Tuesday nights. Maybe you will start a P7 club at your local high school. Maybe you will give up your weekends to help your pastor at your local church. Maybe you will head up a fundraising campaign for Sheaves for Christ.

In the end, it’s not what you did you will most regret; it’s what you didn’t do.
NAYC 17 is a major event, but the fallout is coming. This is that. Be the fallout. Change your world. I’ll see you out there.

Currently, I am seeking to finish a master’s degree in theology at Urshan Graduate School, and my wife and I are serving as the youth pastor at Christian Life Center in Nacogdoches, Texas. My passions include God, ministry, young people, and education, while I also enjoy speaking, writing, traveling, hiking, and coffee.