Operation Mobilization missionary Andrea McCourtney writes of Running the Winning Race, the youth ministry in Podgorica, Montenegro:
Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.
Colossians 3:1-3
Podgorica, Montenegro is one of the least visited capitals in Europe. Located on the Zeta plain in a country that is 90% mountainous, Podgorica gets HOT, and all her inhabitants flock to the coast, making it a virtual ghost town in August.
But school started punctually on September first this year and the change of season ushered in a city full of life, traffic, and kids all over the streets. In a season of new beginnings it is easy to set our minds on our school and work schedules and goals.
Fall is also when the Brethren Church begins regularly scheduled youth meetings. Our first monthly youth meeting including the Roma Church teenagers and the Brethren church youth, we met on Saturday, September 7th. It was a time dedicated to setting our minds on God. We had a time of worship, repentance, meditating on the attributes of God, and praying about our identity in Christ through prayer stations. It was a wonderful time for the kids to be touched by the Holy Spirit of God.
Growing up in the United States, I take for granted that spending time with God in my own private room was not only allowed, but encouraged from my parents. Many of these kids are the only believers in their schools or families and it can be difficult to find space and time to set our minds on the things of Christ. It is an honor and a privilege to give these teen space for God to speak to them.
