At age 62, I am attending my first Nazarene Youth Conference. Lo those many years ago, when I was a teenager, this event was called the World Youth Conference. Only a select number of students attended. Entire youth groups didn’t go. To be selected, prospective attendees memorized scripture and then recited the Bible passages at an interview. The moment the words “memorizing scripture” and “recite at an interview” were uttered, was the day my 14-year-old self said, “I’d rather spend my summer playing baseball than traveling with a bunch of strangers to Estes Park, Colorado.”  

Both of my boys attended NYC (no scripture memorization required). Alex to St. Louis and Ben went to Louisville (twice). Now it’s my turn. I’m heading to Salt Lake City. I’ll be representing Nazarene Bible College, as well as the new Pastoral Center I’m helping create. I hope to rub shoulders with some fellow old-timers as I begin laying the groundwork for the Center.

Still, I have questions.

What does an old guy wear to a youth conference? It’s going to be hot. Mid-90s hot. Can an old guy wear shorts? I’m not trying to look cool; I’m trying to be cool (as in not hot).

I’ve also been told that I can’t recruit among the youth pastors and young adults attending the event. Recruit them to what? The Center doesn’t have a name or logo. I’m not handing out swag or candy or brochures. I don’t have an event to promote. No recruiting? No worries.

As one of the oldest guys at a youth event, am I obligated to yell, “Hey, you rotten kids, get off the lawn!”? None of the lawns belong to me. Why would I care who walks on them?

Since we’re going to Salt Lake City, will I be impressed by Great Salt Lake? I’m from Michigan. We have Great Lakes. Plural. None of them are salty. Impressed?  Probably not.

Another question: Do I have to eat green Jell-O while I’m in Utah? Fun fact: Utah consumes more Jell-O than anywhere else in America. Green Jell-O has practically achieved state-symbol status. Nevertheless, I will probably pass.

Here’s my real question. Will we hear from God?

That’s the only thing that matters. More than the concerts, speakers, crowds or activities. Will we hear from the Lord? 

So let me ask a few more questions:
Will you join me in praying for that end?
Will you pray that thousands of students encounter God in a powerful way?
Will you ask the Lord to pour out His Holy Spirit on this gathering?
Will you pray that young men and women hear and answer God’s call to ministry?
Will you pray that NYC 2027 becomes more than an event—that it becomes a spiritual movement that impacts not only our young people but our entire church?

And while you’re at it, pray that this old guy doesn’t do anything worthy of receiving an “Old Geezer Award.” I’d like to come home without that dubious distinction.