Light Shines in Truman Public Schools

Pastors Anthony & Stephanie Patterson




Pics with the Middle & High School Principals


Let me ask you a question. What if someone came to you and said, “We want you to speak to our public school but you cannot mention, GOD or any religious language”?

Well, it just happened to me over the last week. My answer: YES. In fact, bring it on!

Did it offend me that they would put a muzzle on me about the God I love?

Did it offend me that I cannot even mention the giver of Life, Hope and Salvation?

Not for one second. In fact I was so energized by the opportunity, it changed my life.

In an hour and a half I spoke to 900 students from 5-12 grades in 3 different sessions. I can’t help but think that most of us don’t speak to that many in months.

The connection came as I talked about being LEADERS. Leaders have perspective. Leaders care for each other. Leaders maximize the simple moments in life.

After I stepped off the stage, the flood gates opened. The mic was off, and guess who I talked about: JESUS! My facebook is flooded with kids from that school everyday wanting answers.

The local pastor (Anthony Patterson) was such an instrument to get us in the school. He is hearing from kids on a daily basis. We got an email that said the softball team has started praying before games because a leader stepped up.

It was so cool that the press was there, and the lady from the press came and hugged me and said, “I was having a horrible day until I heard your talk and now it’s brighter.”

Our lives should SCREAM OUT about who we are and who lives in us. So, I can’t say it verbally, but you can see it. If people can’t see it in you, then you are missing the point of your witness.

By the way, we have been invited back for the next school season (cha-ching!), and we will be doing an evening event and guess who we get to talk about?

Matthew 5: 14-16 “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”