H7 Story: Jesus Remains Undefeated
By Ainsley Ford
Cross Conference 2024 was an amazing event. In Louisville, KY—which is apparently known for its fantastic tap water?!—30 people from FCC and Longview Ranch joined 11,000 other young adults to learn more about our mission for the world. Over the span of five sessions and seven speakers, I learned that we are called to make disciples of all nations, as Jesus says in Matthew 28:19. This might mean going overseas or staying right where we are. Either way, we have the opportunity to share the Gospel with those around us.
This conference helped teach me that God can work through me despite my sinful nature. I was reminded that although this world is broken and I will face opposition, Jesus remains undefeated! I was taught that to be a Christian is to be different than everyone else. As Shai Linne put it:
Cross Conference 2024 was an amazing event. In Louisville, KY—which is apparently known for its fantastic tap water?!—30 people from FCC and Longview Ranch joined 11,000 other young adults to learn more about our mission for the world. Over the span of five sessions and seven speakers, I learned that we are called to make disciples of all nations, as Jesus says in Matthew 28:19. This might mean going overseas or staying right where we are. Either way, we have the opportunity to share the Gospel with those around us.
This conference helped teach me that God can work through me despite my sinful nature. I was reminded that although this world is broken and I will face opposition, Jesus remains undefeated! I was taught that to be a Christian is to be different than everyone else. As Shai Linne put it:
”The sinful acts of today will seem normal, and the righteous acts of today will seem weird.”
Some of the best parts of the trip came from simply being in community with other people. I got to share meals with the people on the trip, lamenting over the cold weather and the long wait time while also rejoicing in good food and good company. I got to ride in a van for four and a half hours, talking over deep questions and playing silly games. One day, between sessions, a group of us sat in the lobby of the hotel, laughing together and completing our devotionals. I got to talk about my day with the other girls on the trip, going over our favorite parts and discussing and answering our questions. This trip reminded me how important Christian community truly is. I have had so many friends tell me that the most challenging part about college is finding a good community. Pillar does a great job of supplying that need in a way that glorifies God.
My favorite parts of the trip were an interview with Rosaria Butterfield and the worship. In a world so big on acceptance, Rosaria pushed the importance of standing firm in our faith. She spoke about how, as Christians, we are to play the long game with unbelievers. We are to be loving and gracious without accepting their sin as all right. Additionally, it is tough to get people to change their beliefs if they don't think their beliefs are sinful. Rosaria put it best when she said:
”Every other religion on this planet will deceive you, but Jesus never will.”
In addition to the talks and interviews, the worship was wonderful. I loved it when the worship leaders would step away from the mic and 11,000 voices would fill the auditorium. I was in awe of how loud it was the first time it happened. It was absolutely beautiful to hear everyone singing together to our Savior. It reminded me that, though I can often feel alone in this world, people are walking alongside me in the faith.
While this may have only been my first year at Cross Con, I sincerely hope it is not my last. I cannot wait to go back and experience the growth of my faith and praise of our Father again. For now, while I am at college, I will strive to put God first and spread His Word throughout my daily life. As John Piper said:
”God is most glorified by you when you are most satisfied by Him.”
