Lessons from Jesus People

Sometimes God works in ways you never expect. Sometimes he just hits you up in the most creative ways. Last night I was invited to go out to the Cornerstone Festival grounds to hang out with a group of people who I had never met before. ...I went. The group that was staying out there was with the organization called Jesus People USA. (JPUSA) They are based out of Chicago and own and organize the festival. Pretty much, they're really cool people. And since they own the land, sometimes groups of people stay out there just to vacation and chill. So I was invited to go join them last night. It was really random and kind of awesome. And they taught me things.

I went and sat in a small trailer with a group of mud-covered, alternative looking Jesus freaks in desperate need of showers. I sheepishly looked around, feeling kind of intimidated by the overwhelming amount of gauged ears, pierced lips, and ripped clothing I was witnessing. I sat quietly and observed, soaking in the surroundings. Then my friend looked over at me, looked around, and said "They're all so happy."

WOW. They were all so happy. These smelly, dirty, nonconformists were living in JOY. They didn't care that they looked different. They didn't care that they acted different. They didn't care that that trailer was probably only made to fit half as many people as were present there. I looked around again. And I saw peace. I saw smiles. I saw people who weren't bogged down by worries and stress. I had barely talked to anyone, but I knew that these people were free. They weren't carrying burdens. They weren't self-conscious. They danced to blasting music while they poured insane amouts of waffle mix into a bowl for dinner. I didn't say anything. I just wanted to watch.

I desire what these people have. Freedom from stress and worry and burdens. They lived carefree. And I know why. They were surrendered to God. Full. Surrender. And it worked. It all made sense. Life fell into place. They were living for today and not worrying about tomorrow. Everything makes sense when you surrender. I want to live more carefree.

The Jesus People taught me much. Not by words, but just by living. What an adventure, God. Thanks for inviting me.