ZPCBlog

Left to right: Lily H, Melanie W, Isabella C, Caroline K, Heidi L  

About the author: I’m Heidi, a 15-year-old student at Zionsville High School. I was introduced to ZPC last year, after my friend invited me to the high school ministry. I instantly loved it but was still too nervous to go on my own. I eventually got the courage to try going without my friend since she was unavailable, and I’m so glad I did. I’ve been going ever since and made some incredible relationships with the amazing people of the church. I’ve gotten to strengthen my relationship with God over the past year and am so grateful to him for the new friendships youth group presented me with. The picture I chose was from our summer boat trip, one of the best memories of my life!  

The Gospel of Luke describes the birth, ministry, death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ. It discusses the gift of Jesus, which is all we need. 

Luke 2:8,10 “There were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flocks by night...the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid, for see, I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people.’" 

As I get older, I develop anxiety about my future; college, career, the responsibilities of being an adult... I used to frequently cry about the thought of growing up. But I realized being one of God’s children means I will always be a kid. I will always have a father figure taking care of me and leading me to the exact future he wants and expects. 

The Lord is our shepherd leading us blind animals around, keeping us safe from the dangers of our earthly life. I have a difficult time accepting that my fears are nothing when compared to God’s capabilities and faithfulness. The enemy tries to steal your joy by preventing you from remembering that God is bigger than your fears. But Advent reminds us just how much God loves us and wants the best for us; even when things look bleak in the moment, what he has in store for us is bigger and better than anything we can dream of for ourselves. He redeems all our pain, which is why we should never waste our suffering. 

The Advent season is one that promotes comfort provided by Jesus. This protection can take many forms, some harder to acknowledge. In the next few days, I want you to focus on letting go of the things you are worried about, especially things out of your control. The best way to manage stress levels, is by handing those problems off to God for him to resolve. He doesn’t always solve things the way you expect but knows what's best. This guided prayer may be one way to relieve yourself from the burdens worrying will put on you. 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your one and only son to die for our sins. I can look to Jesus to inspire me to live more like you. I know that I can always trust you in times of struggle and thank you in times of prosperity. Give me the courage to let my worries go and look to you for the answer. Amen. 

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