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Know what it is like to face a challenge? Then you know what it is like when God sends someone to help.

CHAMPIONS CAMPAIGN FOR AT-RISK KIDS The Champions Campaign for At-risk Kids funds the after-school programs of Youth Life Learning Centers. We invite you to step forward, accept the challenge, and champion the cause of these children in inner-city Nashville with a monthly gift. More information at info@YLLC.org or call (615) 333-7672.

Really hard times reveal many really good things. The economic recession of 2009-2010 is reminiscent of a story from the Old Testament. It is a children's favorite — straightforward, easily understood, no explanation required. "You send out your champion, and we'll send out ours… winner takes all." Goliath-sized challenges tend to reveal true champions. Courageously stepping forward when everyone else is carefully stepping back is not done without risk, nor is it done without faith. Yet, over and over again individuals emerge from the crowd. They are the ones (sometimes the unlikely ones) who have a clear mind about what is at stake and the determination to make a difference.