Student Stories

We reached out to some students to ask them about their experience on their mission trip this summer. Here are two stories from students who went on a mission trip to Dallas Texas.

I would describe my YouthWorks experience as unexpected because God exceeded what I expected a number of times. On the first day During Devos we were asked “do you think God will exceed your expectations” and I said yes because I knew that he could exceed my expectations but I didn’t totally believe it. Little did I know He was going to do some amazing things for me later in the week that I really did not expect. For example I always love going on these mission trips with YouthWorks but I always wonder if I really leave an impact after being there for only a week. I mostly thought I’m sure the kids love playing with me but I bet they just forget about me when they get home and I’m really not that important to them. However on the last day of this trip God totally blew me away! Three of the little girls that I had been running around with and playing with all week brought us in homemade donuts! This by far exceeded my expectation of how much of an impact WE left because it showed that we did in fact impact those girls and how they appreciated us and that meant a lot to me. I really did not expect those girls to care so much and love us so much and I will always remember them bringing us in homemade donuts. Another time God exceeded my expectations was at the nursing home we went to. I didn’t expect to do or learn much going there. However that is not what God had in store for me! On the first day I went I to talk with this women for 20 minutes and we ended up talking for an hour and a half! We talked about God and how great His love for us is and just how important faith is in general. I even got to pray with her before I left! This was the last thing I expected from going to a nursing home. So what I really got from this trip is that no matter what we expect God has something so much greater in store for us. Whether I realize it at the time or not He will always exceed my humanly expectations.

– Steven Christiansen

I would describe my youth works experience as motivating. I was working with kids in a day care. As we helped them and also played with the kids, there was a lot of time to talk to them. I enjoyed working with the kids and thought that I can make a similar impact with my words towards the people I interact with in my daily life back home. It helped me realize that kind words of encouragement help all ages. Now I try to help others and be kind to them in all types of situations, because we can all use some help, and even learn from others who we are helping. 

– Ethan

Do you have a YouthWorks experience you want to share with us? Email stories@youthworks.com with your story.