LIFE TO THE MAX
By Jon Cox
Authentic Media. 247 pages. £7.99
ISBN 978 1 780 782 300
Life to the Max tells the story of the founding and development of a Christian youth ministry here in the UK.
25 years ago, Jon Cox had the vision to start a ministry that ‘provided a place where children and young people can be immersed in the serious business of having fun, in a positive Christian environment and learn the eternal truth that they are greatly loved’.
Jon tells the story from vision to reality, showing how at every stage God provided. Since its establishment thousands of youngsters have enjoyed camps which incorporate a range of outdoor activities like rock climbing, canoeing and windsurfing and the invitation to ‘join the adventure of faith’.
It is an easy-to-read account, but though there is much that is commendable and even inspiring, it left me disappointed. It tells of the activities but there is little that tells of prayerful Bible teaching and its impact on young lives. Jon records how he has been repeatedly thrilled to see God’s hand on this growing ministry but I was sad not to read more of Christ and the gospel. Though Bible teaching at the camps is implied, given the use of the motto text John 10:10 – ‘I have come that they may have life to the full (to the max)’ – you could be forgiven for thinking that Jesus came so everyone could have a great adventure experience rather than that Jesus came to lay down his life to save us from hell for the serious joy of knowing God!
