“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” -Hebrews 11:1
This past week, I, like many others, had the opportunity to attend YF Ardmore. YF (Youth Force) Ardmore is a mission trip that blesses people in many different ways, whether it’s the youth attending, the leaders who planned the event, or the homeowners themselves.
This was my third year to attend YF Ardmore. The camp has always been a part of my life, even before I was old enough to attend it myself. My grandparents attended YF, my parents attended, their friends went, and eventually so did my older sister. Every time my big sister (Ella Kate) would go to YF, she would go with all the excitement in the world. She would return upset that it was over. Personally, this always confused me. What was so fun about working out in the hot sun all day? Then in 2021, I got to go to YF for myself. It was like nothing I’ve ever experienced before, to see how many people would take time out of their summers to help others in need was extraordinary. But not just that, the joy and hope in the homeowner’s eyes is the highlight of every trip. To see them watch as we take what was, and make it new, generates an indescribable feeling of joy and fulfillment.
One of the most interesting things that I have seen over the years is the homeowner’s faith in God. This year my homeowner told my fellow God Squad members and me that, “You won’t make it without God kids; believe in Him and you’ll succeed.” In Hebrews 11:1, it says; “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” Each time I attend YF, I see God at work. It strengthens my faith and reminds me that God is at work in all our lives.
– Mary Beth King, St. Luke’s Youth
