The following was written by Stina Wilson, of South Coast Young Life in Laguna Beach, Calif.

Each year when camp rolls around, leaders never know what to expect — the games, the program, the lack of sleep and the issues the kids bring with them. This year I didn't expect to be deeply impacted just by watching what happens when a leader relentlessly pursue a kid.

Paul* was the kid who came to club high and sat in the back with an "I'm-too-cool" expression. He grew up without a father, struggled with anger issues and made marijuana a part of his daily routine.

I remember asking some of the girls why Paul kept coming to club when he seemed so miserable. They replied, "Paul thinks Isaac is soooo cool." Isaac is one of our leaders. He is a goofy thirty-something guy, who has a passion for Christ and people. After I informed Isaac of his admirer, Isaac began to pursue Paul. In fact, for almost the entire school year, Isaac was Jesus with skin on for Paul.

Paul allowed Isaac to peak into his heart and see the world from his eyes. As their friendship grew, so did Isaac's understanding of Young Life ministry. Sometimes, Isaac would get a text from Paul and say, "Gotta go. Just got a text from Paul." He would always add, "Pray for Paul." In the meantime we prayed and prayed.

A year later Paul agreed to go to camp — only if Isaac was going. Then, on the last day of camp, we all tried to compose ourselves as uncontrollable tears ran down our faces when Isaac stood by Paul's side in front of 400 people as Paul confessed, "Hi, my name is Paul. I go to Laguna Beach High School and I gave my life to Jesus this week."

*an alias