Last night I attended the memorial service for a 14 year old boy who died suddenly last week. I personally did not know the young man, but many who attended our Awana club last year did and so I was there to support them.
This young man was active in his church and many shared stories of his spirit of giving, often sacrificially, for others.
One thing that hit me was that as we walked in, there were items from his life that he had accomplished and enjoyed. One thing was a Lego display, much like one some boys in my ministry would have done. That hit real close to home.
It is a sober reminder that we never know what people are going through, and how short life can be. This young boy was an example to many (1 Timothy 4:12).
As you go through your Awana year, remember, it’s not just about passing sections and completing books. It is about children coming to know Jesus and serving Him. We should rejoice more if a child passes one section, comes to know and serve God, than if a child completes a handbook and does not know Jesus.
You never know when a life will end. Build relationships with your clubbers and tell them about Jesus!
That’s such a terrible thing, for someone so young to pass away. When I was a sophomore in high school, a classmate died after a tragic car accident. It was definitely a reality check for all of us kids, and for our parents, too. Dealing with the death of someone so young is never easy, but it does remind us to enjoy every minute of life we’re given.