Our Next Generation

There are so many exciting things going on this summer at Mercy House. We have been blessed with amazing resources that have allowed us to continue God’s mission here in West Montgomery. One ministry close to my heart is our children and youth summer program. Not only do we have some teachers working with our students but we also have some incredible men and women who just graduated from High School who are helping facilitate the programs we are providing. I sat down with some of these incredible interns and asked them to share about how God is using their time and talents before they head off in the fall to further their education.  

They first thing they shared about is how grateful they were that public school was over. Remote learning was extremely difficult for them and the pressure to complete assignments and earn the credits to graduate strictly online was very stressful. It was also very important to them that we know how blessed they feel to have the opportunity to work for Mercy House. They spend their days making sure things are kept clean and sanitized, that the supplies are ready for each day, and they are working one on one with children on their school work. They also shared that even more than helping kids get on grade level, it is important that they are intentional about taking care of the children spiritually and physically. “We grew up and live in the same neighborhood that these kids do and we know what to look out for.” “Kids need to know that they are being seen and heard. Sometimes they come in lonely or hungry. We check-in with each one to make sure that if there is an issue at home, we are here to help. We are their shoulder to lean on.” As they shared their insight into meeting the needs of their students , I couldn’t help but smile and think that these summer interns are right where they need to be - doing their Father’s work.

When asked about what they have learned from their first full time job experience, they mentioned their developing work ethic (which I can tell you first hand is one to be copied). They mentioned the importance of “being available” and “always doing above and beyond”. They had pride in their eyes when they told me “Mercy House is investing in us and more importantly they are trusting us to work hard. I know so many people that would love to have the opportunity we have been given, so we are striving to be worthy of the work God has made possible for us.” 

After talking with these young men and women I am reminded of Colossians 3:23-24 “23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” Our summer interns are living out this scripture in a way that humbles me and makes me proud at the same time. They are very well spoken and they carry themselves with a purpose. God has big plans for these young people and they know it. I think that when you know that God is using you for good and for His glory, you walk in the confidence that you are made for more. They certainly are and we wait confidently to see what is next for each of them. 

God Bless,

Pastor Ken Austin