A pastor friend told a story about a young man he knows named Jake. When Jake was in high school, he had a wild reputation. He hosted parties when his parents were out of town, skipped class, and spent his weekends making unwise choices. Then, because of a persistent church youth leader, Jake opened his heart to hearing the Good News. His entire life changed, from the inside out.

Jake used his popularity at school to share the Good News with a bunch of his friends. He invited people to youth group, and started hosting Bible studies. Jake didn’t just “talk the talk” though; he truly lived out his faith. He stopped partying and began living for Jesus.

Fast forward several years and today, Jake is married and is, himself, a youth leader. He shares his story of redemption to encourage kids. As Jake put it, “My story shows that God can redeem anybody. God can make any life new again.” Ephesians 1:7 in the Bible says, “In Him, we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace…” Share God’s story of redemption with someone in your life, today.

This is Luis Palau.