Then, we sit quietley and let the Lord bring names, pictures, random objects, and anything else to mind.  We write everything down and build our "treasure map".  Then it's off to city to find God's treasure.

 

Most people have never gone on this type of treasure hunt, or asked God such specifc questions.  Our fearless group of Rapid City high school seniors were no different.  There was naturally a bit of hesitation.

However, we prayed and everyone received some sort of description of someone they were supposed to bless.  Their hearts were moved for a stranger they had yet to meet.  So with our treasure maps in hand, we jumped on the train towards downtown Chicago and started our adventure!

We spent about 3 hours wandering around the city looking for our "people".  We went to some of the major tourist destinations--The Bean, Navy Pier, and Michigan Ave.  But the whole time, we all searched for the specific treasure God had revealed. 

 

One of the fellas, Alex, had a pretty vague list of clues: bench, man, singing, balloons, sqiurriel.  I'll be honest, those clues by themselves don't really help much on a treasure hunt, but thankfully Alex had eyes to see.

Walking into a park, Alex heard some singing.  Over in the direction of the singing he saw some baloons.  As he walked closer he saw a group of squirrels surrounding a man....on bench.  

You can't make this stuff up.

Alex's excitment overcame him and he quickly jumped into conversation with the man.  They were able to share stories and laughter and the love of a new friend.  Alex blessed him with prayer and even set up a time the next day to talk again.  It was a small interaction, but powerful.  The Kingdom of God at work.

We capped off the night eating the famous (and utteraly delicious) Giordono's pizza.  We all shared our stories from the afernoon, as each person was asked, "Did you find your person?"

Turned out we all found our treasure that day.

We were all reminded that God still speaks, and following Jesus and loving others is quite the adventure.  Everyday can be a treasure hunt, all we must do is open our eyes.