Teen Talk
Alyssa Ruzicka
Back to school; let the games begin!! A clean slate and a brand new year...is it all that exciting?? Isn't it just another grade, another year, another one of many miniscule notches in the clock of time? To a lot of teens, the concept of "Back to School: has become tiresome and boring. It is not new or exciting anymore.
But amidst my summer vacation, which primarily consisted of countless makeover shows, sibling controversies and sunburns, I thought about something revolutionary. First, I should tell you a little bit about the way I am. Frankly, I am a wannabe over-achiever, a perfectionist! I always wonder if I am doing something I will be proud of, or deeply regret. I worry about people's feelings, my walk with God, and my wardrobe (like most teenage girls). A BIG thing I reflect on quite frequently is if not only I, but also the Lord and my parents, will be pleased with my accomplishments when I finish High school. I sincerely hope that I will live up to those high standards and expectations. (Pretty deep for a blonde, huh?)
As I thought about these "deep" issues, I came to an important realization. This revolutionary thought took the form of a question. I asked myself, "If Jesus Christ was physically here as my friend, teacher, or anyone in my life; would I be doing anything differently?" Whoa!!! That was an inevitable, yes. This is a discouraging, but enlightening thought because this means that we need to do some very painful-change. I think that if we ask ourselves that question more often, God will show through us a lot more!
So as we break into the school year, and I worry about turning fifteen, starting off my sophomore year, and only having three years left of school (in teen terms, limited time to have fun, goof off, and be an annoying teenager) it helps to think about that simple question that helped me immensely, "If Jesus c=Christ was physically here as my friend, teacher, or anyone in my life, would I be doing anything differently?" This life-challenging question is vital for all to consider, from the perfectionists to the procrastinators, especially when you consider that He really is here with us. We don't need to wonder if He sees. When I think a out this question I realize I have a lot to change and rearrange for Jesus.
God Bless,
Alyssa
"Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith, examine yourselves! Or do you not recognize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you-unless indeed you fail the test?" 2 Corinthians 13:5
Teens, I encourage you to get more involved, write articles, and get to know other teens in the group. Please send me suggestions, questions, or comments for my articles. I REALLY want to hear from you.