What choices would Jesus make at homecoming?

    School is back, and the real fun starts as teens get excited making their plans for the big homecoming dance.
    So many choices to make and yet, has anyone been thinking about WWJD (What Would Jesus Do)?
    I know this is a clichéd phrase, but in prayer I heard the Lord sharing with me things that he wanted teens to ponder this homecoming.
    ➤  WWJRW? (Who Would Jesus Ride With?) Are you getting a party bus or stretch limo? Are your parents driving you? Regardless of how you get to the dance, it’s important to surround yourself with people you can trust and who will help you make good decisions and won’t use drugs or alcohol.
    ➤ WWJW? (What Would Jesus Wear?) For girls, shopping for the right dress can be fun yet difficult, but remember that it’s one night, and you shouldn’t get your parents to spend hundreds of dollars they really can’t afford. I don’t think Jesus would have aggravated Mary and Joseph for $300 to buy the, nicest suit. And, of course, remember to dress modestly!
    ➤ WWJI? (Who Would Jesus Invite?) As you start to put together your group of besties, remember to invite a person who maybe doesn’t have many friends or is left out at times. Scripture is clear that Jesus often invited those who were outcast by others, so be a witness and invite an awkward person (who is a child of God and deserves inclusion) to be with your group for the night. You may never know the difference you make in their lives.
    ➤ HWJD? (How Would Jesus Dance? I like to imagine Jesus getting down on the dance floor, but I highly doubt if Jesus was attending your high school’s homecoming that you would find him bumpin’ and grindin’ like Miley Cyrus at the VMAs. Have fun, dance it up, get crazy – but keep it clean. Respect your body and others.
    ➤ WWJD? (What Would Jesus Drink?) If Jesus was a teen at your high school, I’m sure he would be steering clear of alcohol and just enjoy water, Coke  or punch to keep him dancing.
    ➤ WWJAP? (Where Would Jesus After Party?) I know everyone is looking forward to the big after party. I imagine Jesus at a fun house party singing Karaoke, swimming, eating, playing games and enjoying his friends all night, making memories that they won’t regret on Sunday morning, completely free of hangovers and headaches.
    ➤ WWJK? (Who Would Jesus Kiss?) We all desire to love and show affection to the one person we really have our heart set on, but remember that your body is a gift from God and it is to be treated with respect and purity. Don’t ask the question: “How far is too far?” Ask the question: “How can I love him/her in a pure way that truly expresses my feelings.” #romancewithoutregrets
    I hope and pray that you will ponder this WWJD guide and know that I’m praying for all you to have courage to make decisions with Jesus on your mind and in your heart.
    Lindsay Hymel Binder is youth minister at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Slidell.