Full Steam Ahead: FFA Convention Season Brings Gospel Opportunities – by Mike Weaver

Jeff Goss and Mike Weaver at the Tennessee FFA State Convention

We are running full steam ahead in the middle of FFA convention season, and it’s been an incredible opportunity to speak with so many young people and their advisors. These moments allow us to share the gospel and encourage young Christians in their walk with the Lord.

Tennessee was a strong start, always a great convention with so many young believers eager to talk about their faith. Several young Christians asked me to share my testimony and how God led me to serve in this ministry. These conversations have sparked discussions across the country, encouraging young people to think about what truly matters in life. Some talk about happiness, family, or career, but many are beginning to understand that knowing Jesus and honoring God is the most important goal. These questions have led to many deep conversations and meaningful interactions with students.

After the convention, I traveled to near Asheville, North Carolina to move the motor coach to a secure location and haul the tractor back to Illinois.

Sharing the gospel and engaging in meaningful conversations with students at the FFA convention booth

In Nebraska, we reconnected with young people we’ve met over the years. Some come back to our booth each year to share how God is working in their lives. It’s always uplifting to hear how the Lord is leading and growing them.

Missouri was filled with responses to the gospel and many heartfelt conversations about faith. Jeff and I worked together and barely had a moment’s break, jumping from one conversation to another until it was time to pack up. Kansas, which is a one-day event like Missouri, had us packed into a small space with a big crowd and lots of great conversations. John and Aileen Fethkener joined us in Kansas for the day, and it’s always a joy to work alongside others who share a passion for the gospel.

Arkansas welcomed us with open arms, as always. Teachers and students showed great appreciation, making it another memorable stop.

I had a unique encounter with a wealthy man in his 90s whose life is still centered on making money. I used his story to illustrate the deeper questions of life with students, sharing verses like Mark 8:36: “What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul?” and Matthew 6:31–33, reminding them to seek first the Kingdom of God and trust Him with their needs.

Young FFA members proudly holding gospel materials after a powerful time of connection and discussion

In recent weeks I’ve also been to Utah, Wyoming, and Washington. In these areas, we’ve interacted with many Mormon students. Rather than confronting their beliefs directly, I invite them to explore the differences between the Mormon Jesus and the Jesus of the Bible. Many have been willing to take a closer look, and I pray they’ll discover the truth through God’s Word. In Washington, Terry Morrison joined me and was a great help—his energy and love for student outreach made a big difference.

This report finds me back home after visiting the FFA conventions in Mississippi and Louisiana. In Mississippi, several students quickly connected with me and felt comfortable asking honest questions about their faith. Many just needed encouragement and confirmation that they were understanding Scripture correctly. One young lady from the Wyoming FFA was especially excited to talk with someone who had recently been to her state. She is a bold believer and paid close attention to how I shared my faith, wanting to learn how to do the same.

Focused moments of faith conversations

It is my hope that as we continue our involvement in FFA conventions, we will keep encouraging these young people, and that the Lord will strengthen them to do great things in Jesus’ name.