Jesus is the Reason for the Season at Roosevelt
When three ministries unite around a BBQ pit, students discover what Christmas is really about
Read time: 3 minutes
Gospel Imperative
The Gospel is best shared around tables, through relationships, and in community. When ministries lock arms for the same mission—Jesus—walls come down and hearts open up.
"How good and pleasant it is when God's people live together in unity!" — Psalm 133:1
It was the Monday before Christmas vacation at Roosevelt, and three ministries came together for one mission: Jesus. House of Worship Church, Community Bible Church, and FCA united for a cookout that turned into something way more powerful than just hamburgers and hot dogs.
House of Worship bought all the hamburgers, and the pastor's wife cooked them right there on the spot on a BBQ pit in the parking lot by the football field. Community Bible Church brought the Gatorades and drinks, and the coaches got the hot dogs. We just had one big meal together, and it was amazing.
As daylight turned into darkness, something beautiful started happening. Students began singing Christmas carols and gospel music. But here's where it got really powerful: Coach Barnes got everyone circled up as they were eating the food, and a student led us in prayer to open. Then we went around the whole circle, and each kid shared about the impact the Lord has made on their life and what they're thankful for. Every kid answered. Every single one.
Then a student closed us in prayer. Hearts were overflowing with joy, fully embraced by Jesus.
At the end, Coach Barnes did something that shows exactly what coaching God's way looks like. He asked if anybody didn't have a personal relationship with the Lord—they could come to him then, or come to his office during the week, and he’d be glad to hear about it. That open door, that safe space—that's the ministry of presence creating opportunities for kids to step into faith.
When you can bring different churches, different ministries together for the same cause, that's a beautiful thing to see. This is what happens when we show up, build relationships, and create space for God to work. We locked arms in that gratitude circle, and voices exploded one by one with thanks for Christmas joy and overflowing blessings. Students experienced what it means to be part of something bigger than themselves—part of the body of Christ, united around Jesus.
Heart Check
What would it look like for your church or ministry to partner with others in your community for the Gospel?
Are you creating opportunities for students and families to experience Jesus through relationship and community, not just programs?
Join the Mission
Cookouts and Christmas celebrations—these aren't just events. They're opportunities to show students that Jesus is real, present, and worth celebrating. But ministry of presence requires resources: food, time, and people willing to show up.
Your support makes these moments possible. When you partner with FCA and my mission across San Antonio schools, you're helping create spaces where students encounter Jesus through authentic community and Gospel-centered relationships.
Will you help us continue bringing ministries together, serving families, and showing students that Jesus is the reason—not just for the season, but for everything?