Happy Retro Day! No matter who you are or how old you are, you can make a difference in this world. But the type of difference you make is entirely up to you. I hope this article inspires you to roll up your sleeves and make a positive difference in someone’s life. Enjoy! ~ Halee

Making a Difference: An Interview with Jake

by RTF Staff Writer Jamin Goecker

Try living a day without hearing bad news. If a politician hasn’t lied, then the economy has shrunk. If the economy’s intact, then someone died. If someone hasn’t died, you spilled milk over the newspaper.

What can one teen do in this world? Jake, a homeschooler from Texas, could tell you.

Jake volunteers at a nondenominational street ministry called House of Faith. A group of teens go to schoolyards in rough parts of town every week and engage the children with games, Bible lessons, and snacks. (more…)

Tell us what you think in the comments.

By RTF Staff Writer Derek Hanisch

You can read Derek’s exclusive interview with drummer Mark Graalam here.

When Sanctus Real’s new album Pieces of a Real Heart was released, the song Forgiven made a big splash in the Christian Music industry. It quickly reached the top five ranking on the AC (Adult Contemporary) chart, giving listeners a small indication on how big of a success this new album would be.

As I listened to Forgiven, I was struck by the sincerity of the lyrics. (more…)

By Staff Writer Derek Hanisch

With the recent release of Sanctus Real’s Pieces of a Real Heart CD, I was given the opportunity to interview Mark Graalman, the drummer in the group.  Mark had some great answers to my questions. I hope you enjoy getting to know more about Sanctus Real — I know I did!  (Thursday I’ll let you know what I thought of their new album.) (more…)

Real Question: How do you view yourself?

How do you think labels affect your view of others?

If you entered the randomly chosen commenter contest and didn’t win — stay tuned! We’ll be having contests in the near future, including one that involves being chosen as a staff writer. Our winner for this time is… (more…)

By RTF Editor B.J. Hamrick

Here I am again

Back at square one

I thought this would end

It’s only begun

This circle of grief

Traced into my soul

Cracks open and bleeds

I long to be whole

(more…)

Be strong and courageous.

Do not be afraid or terrified because of them,

for the LORD your God goes with you;

he will never leave you nor forsake you.

Deuteronomy 31:6