MFUGE student sees Mission First as the "presence of Christ in Jackson"

Shelby Gibson
FBC Meridian

Meridian, Mississippi
Age: 15

This past week at Mission First has been such a blessing to me and the other students at M-Fuge. Coming to M-Fuge, I always feel that God is going to place me in the mission track that He wants me to be in. This year as I stood in front of the table where we would choose our track, I was faced with a decision. I was trying to choose between the children’s track and the social track. It was such a tough decision, but as I stood there I felt God telling me to "pick children’s." As much as I would have liked to put the social track, I ended up writing down children’s. Sure enough God blessed me with my decision throughout this past week.

My first day at Mission First I wasn’t sure what to expect. My Bible study leader, Nick, told me that children are sometimes a challenge. No matter what, he knew that our experience at Mission First would be amazing. And sure enough, Nick was right! During my first day I had a a little frustration, I must admit, but as the day rolled on I began to calm down and really get to know the kids. As the week continued I realized that God truly put me there for a reason, and I was starting to see what that reason was. Everyday when we arrived, the children would shout our names, and I could really tell that it brightened their days just to see us there!

Who knows, maybe just our presence there planted a seed in one of the children’s hearts. I am so thankful for everything that has happened this past week at Mission First. The kids there are so special and are blessed to have a wonderful staff teaching them about God’s amazing love!! All of the staff members at Mission First were so welcoming and loving. You could tell that they really put their hearts into their jobs. As I leave this week, I pray that God will continue to watch over and bless everything that goes on at Mission First. Mission First is the presence of Christ in Jackson, Mississippi.

MFUGE: A seed planted two years ago has grown and multiplied!

Joshua Owen
Memorial Baptist Church
Murray, Kentucky

This past week at Mission First has been one of the most loving and most unbelievable experiences for me! This was not my first time at Mission First. I had the opportunity to serve here two years ago. At that time, I was searching for a way God could use me and my life. I didn’t know what my gifts and talents were, and if I really had any. But, the impact the students had on my life was simply amazing. I thought I was here to teach them, but God proved me wrong. While I was here Coach Bridges said something to me that I will never forget. He said, “nothing is impossible with God.” I asked him, “Where is that in the Bible?” He replied, “Luke 1:37.” This small word told me that getting plugged into God’s work WAS possible for me. The love of God showed up in me as I served.

This year, I will be going on my first overseas trip, and I got to serve again at Mission First where I had the chance to tell my story. I hope they have been able to see the light of God in my life. I want to thank Mission First for planting the seed in ME!

Shocco Springs summer staff serves with Mission First

M-Fuge shares faith with children

Abi Thornton
M-Fuge Week Two
Children's Educational Program

It has been a tremendous experience to work with the children at Mission First this week. The facilities, staff and environment showed me that sharing God's love was a top priority here. My only regret is that I don't live close enough to be an active part of this ministry on a regular basis, but I definitely plan on coming back with my family. It was a blessing for me to have the opportunity to share God's love with these students!