This Month at PAYH: Monthly Newsletter, February 2023

The Most Important Thing

By Stephen Leonard

Jesus’ answer to the question put to every man of what the most important thing in life was, “Love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, soul, and mind; and the second (most important thing) is like it, love your neighbor as yourself.” We all presumably know who God is, but who is your neighbor?

Jesus answered this question with a story, the Parable of the Good Samaritan: A man fell among robbers and was stripped, beaten, and robbed on a country road. A very religious man traveling the same way passed him by and did not help him. Then a very law-conscious man, a justice warrior, perhaps, did likewise; he also passed him by.

Finally, a man who was from a disliked minority group saw this man, had compassion on him, cared for him, and made sure he received what was needed for his healing and restoration. Jesus then asked, “Who was a neighbor to the man who was beaten and robbed?” His hearers said, “The one who showed him mercy.” Jesus then declared we should all do as the Samaritan had done; show mercy to our neighbor.

After loving God with all that is in us, the most important thing we can do with our life is serve others and show mercy to our neighbors. These two things should be at the very top of your list of what you do in life. It is more important than making money, excelling in education, becoming famous, having success in a political career, becoming a movie star, and inventing a profitable invention.

Who says? Jesus did! It is not that it is wrong to be very religious, or to be strongly law conscious, always trumpeting justice, or that it is best if you are a disliked minority. What is most righteous to do, whoever you are, is to show mercy to your neighbors. In fact, it is the second most important thing you can do with your life. Become a servant to others!

As you seek to serve others, to give rather than take, you treasure Jesus’ words as precious. You seek to be merciful to others. You love your neighbor as yourself!

Congratulations Evan!

“There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.” —C.S. Lewis

Beginnings can be difficult first entering PAYH. However, as these young men develop throughout the program, we see the change that propels young men to greater things.

There is a bright future ahead for Evan as he recently graduated from PAYH. He has worked hard, overcame challenges, and finished strong in his endeavors. We are so proud of Evan, and we cannot wait to see what the future holds for this young man!

To view Evan’s graduation service, click here.

2023 Chick-fil-A Road Race

It is so hard to believe that the 2023 Chick-fil-A Road Race is right around the corner. It was an amazing last year with lots of fun for all ages. The proceeds go to benefit PAYH, Vidalia Heritage Academy, and WinShape Camps. Plus, it’s a great excuse to get out and get some exercise and make new friends in the community. We’ll see you at the finish line!

PAYH Scavenger Hunt

You’ve heard it said, “All work and no play leaves Jack a dull boy.” We believe that PAYH, too. Recently, the young men participated in a scavenger hunt that allowed them to locate certain geographical locations of significance to the Home. They were charged to take a picture of each location. Enjoy this recap of the day’s event!

PAYH Christmas Flashback

We fondly remember Christmas at the Home from this past year. It was a joy to celebrate the birth of our Savior with the boys, and to reflect on the true meaning of the season. Only 327 days until next Christmas!