I learned in youth ministry... God is Still in Control!

      I want to tell you about a youth ministry story in which I learned about the faithfulness of God. Over thirty years ago, two other churches, Fairhill Manor and Taylorstown Christian Churches joined our church, First Christian Church, Marianna in planning an overnight trip to Cedar Point Park in Ohio. We met at the Fairhill Manor parking lot in Washington, PA. About fifty (youth and adults) were driving on this four hour trip to the amusement park. We had ten cars to keep together. As we began driving north on Interstate 79 in Pennsylvania, and as you know, some folks drive faster than others (you know like, 70 mph and others 55 mph!) Eventually, we all became separated from each other. By the time we arrived at the Ohio state line toll booth, some of the faster cars drove on without us. I didn’t even know where Cedar Point was. We were just following the cars and now we are lost! I searched for several hours. We couldn’t find anyone. No one had cell phones. The only means of communication we had was a CB (that was like having the internet today). Still, we couldn’t find the people who knew how to drive to the amusement park. Eventually, I stopped at a church to call back to Washington, PA to find someone who may know their whereabouts. I couldn’t get in touch with anyone. No one answered at the church. The three kids who were in my car, went into the church sanctuary to look around and pray. As I gathered everyone to leave, we drove out of the church parking lot. This church had one of those big marquees by the road. I can’t remember the name of the church but it had a well-known phrase on the sign. The phrase said,

                        “GOD IS STILL IN CONTROL!”

        The young man, who was sitting in the back seat of my car said, “Hey, pastor, do you see that sign?” I was frustrated at the time and really didn’t want to read it. He chirped out,

“We'll he better be, because you’re sure not!” They laughed!!

            We finally did find everyone but it was a moment I will never forget. I am glad a young person could teach me about the faithfulness of God. It’s a thought that has helped me for 30 years, ever since I’ve been in the church ministry.

​God better be, because I'm sure not!