I think you're beautiful.  I want to be with you all the time.  Is that okay?

As I heard these words yesterday, I gazed back at the one who spoke them to me and my heart smiled.  What girl doesn't love to have something so wonderful said about her?  But, it's not what you might think...

A couple of days ago, I met an amazing young man named Duke.  16 years old, he and his youth group have come from Wyoming, Ohio to serve with me on a Chicago Mission Project this week at New Community Church in Dolton.

Duke has William's Disease, a disorder that manifests as extra energy and lack of filter.  Rather exuberant, and almost always happy, Duke cannot help but say what he means.  As soon as he thinks a thought, it comes flying out of his mouth.  Unlike the rest of us, he has no filter.

This morning, Duke and I walked laps around an indoor track at South Holland Community Center while we waited for the rest of the team to take showers.  As we chatted about life, Duke mentioned his fear of dying, and I dug a little deeper. Soon I found myself sharing how I do not fear death because I trust in Jesus.

I tried to keep it simple.  

I wanted him to understand, and he did.

With child-like simplicity, Duke clasped his hands together and began talking to Jesus:

Forgive my sins.  Take control of my life.