Measuring 6’5’’ and weighing over 250 pounds, “Troy” is used to standing out in the high school crowd. His large frame and strength have helped him excel on the football field. And yet despite his success on the field, Troy has often felt hindered because of his past. Abused as a young boy by a family member, he became incredibly angry, which led to lots of poor choices and consequences. These series of events (in his mind) began to chain him to his past and define who he was. He was never good enough, constantly ashamed, and always bullying others so he would have a sense of feeling superior.
An invitation to one of our Youth for Christ events (GoMAD–Go Make A Difference) peaked Troy’s interest, and after some initial hesitancy, he decided to attend. While there, he was listened to, cared for, laughed with, encouraged, and faced with the love and truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. On Saturday night, Troy stood in front of 100 of his stunned fellow classmates and humbly shared the surprising hurts and pains of his past. With increasing excitement in his voice, he told of the work that Jesus had done in his heart that weekend and concluded triumphantly with the amazing words, “I am finally free!” John 8:36, “…if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”