1/21/2025

Serve and Ski is an annual tradition for Journey Youth, where we dedicate the long MLK holiday weekend to a blend of service and adventure. This year, we once again headed off to Bland, VA, to assist at their ministry center. Our weekend was packed with hard work, fellowship, and unexpected weather challenges, but it was an experience that left us all inspired.

The heart of our trip is always the service. We stayed at the ministry center’s volunteer house, ready to contribute to their mission. Our primary task was at the food warehouse, where we spent the day assembling and distributing boxes of food to feed roughly 1,000 people. Despite the cold temperatures and the open bay door letting in the chill, our teenagers worked tirelessly.

What stood out the most was the spirit in which they served. There was no complaining, just diligent, joyful work. The warehouse echoed with the sounds of singing, laughter, and camaraderie. Our youth not only connected with each other but also formed bonds with the regular, often elderly, volunteers. They were respectful, joyful, and hardworking, embodying the very spirit of service.

One particular story stood out. An elderly gentleman, who had recently lost his wife, chose to stay and serve alongside our teenagers rather than go home to an empty house. He found solace and joy in their company, a testament to the incredible impact our youth had on everyone they encountered.

As the workday wrapped up, they took to the snow, engaging in snowball fights and sledding. It was a sight to behold—pure, unfiltered joy that even drew the regular volunteers to stay and watch. They wanted to soak in the happiness radiating from our group.

A highlight of the weekend was when the staff person in charge of the food warehouse took a moment to thank our teenagers. He expressed how impressed he was, noting that our youth were defying the negative stereotypes often associated with their generation. His words of appreciation and the open invitation for our teens to return anytime were heartwarming and well-deserved.

After a full day of service, we received the unfortunate news that we would have to head back early due to incoming inclement weather. This meant that, for the second year in a row, our much-anticipated skiing and tubing adventures would be canceled. One might expect grumbles and disappointment, but instead of complaints, they embraced the situation with grace. They understood the importance of safety and took the news in stride. It was a testament to their maturity and the joy they find in serving others.

Reflecting on this experience fills my heart with pride and gratitude. Watching these young people serve joyfully and grow in their spiritual walk is a privilege. It’s a reminder of the profound impact that serving others can have, not just on those we help but on ourselves as well.

So, here’s my challenge to the rest of the Journey family: Are you serving? And are you serving joyfully? Take the next step and see just how good God is. Don’t just take my word for it—ask one of these tremendous teenagers!

-Jackie Taylor