Sayuri Ayers, JJM’s Administrator, created a teaching called “The Origami Gospel”. She presented “The Origami Gospel” at the Easter Service at the Franklin County Juvenile Detention Center. Here she tells how the youth responded:
During The Origami Gospel I showed the youth how to fold Japanese paper cranes. Cranes are a symbol of hope in Japanese culture. I explained to them that when we give our lives to Christ, He transforms our lives, just like an artist transforms a plain piece of paper into a work of art.
As I held up the poster board with 2 Corinthians 5:17:
If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has gone, the new is here!
my hands trembled. This was my first time presenting with the youth, and my head swarmed with doubt:
Would they listen? Would I be able to make an impact?
But God gently reminded me, that HE would be working, not me.
When I lead the salvation prayer, a youth in the front row, “Matthew,” bowed his head and prayed. Matthew had been talking with one of our chaplains days ago, and had been thinking carefully about Jesus and His love for him. Matthew’s face transformed from great darkness to light and peace as he quietly accepted Christ into his life.
During another Origami Gospel presentation, "Marcus" and "Anthony" exclaimed excitedly: "This is what we were just talking about!" as I explained Christ forgiveness. Marcus accepted Christ, saying, "I REALLY feel forgiven!"
THANK GOD for the way He loves these youth. Please pray for Matthew, Marcus, Anthony, and all of the other youth who heard the Gospel message. Pray that this message remains in their hearts -- a hope that will never fade or disappoint. Please pray that they will never forget God's love or forgiveness -- that they can and will be transformed by Him who knows them best.
