In this week’s Dallas Metro conversation, we look at what it really means to put Christ first as we head into Christmas. Clay sits down with Abner, a 16-year-old student from Oak Cliff who shares how a simple invitation from a friend changed the direction of his life.

Abner talks about growing up in a Christian home, finding community at Dallas Metro, serving at summer camp, and discovering his calling as he prays about college and his future. His story is a reminder that God gives every young person a purpose, long before they see it for themselves.

If you’ve ever wondered what our youth camps, DMY nights, or weekly outreach mean to the students we serve, this conversation says it better than we can.

During this Christmas season, would you consider supporting the work of Dallas Metro? Your gift helps us reach more kids and teens who need hope and a place to belong.

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This week, Pastor Clay continues our Advent journey in Luke chapter 2, reflecting on the moments Mary and Joseph never planned for, and the ways God still works through the unexpected. From a manger with no room to spare to the hurried questions racing through Joseph’s mind, we’re reminded that even in a busy season, the real invitation is to pause and ask Jesus, “What’s Your plan for today?”

Clay is joined by Elisha, a sophomore from the West Dallas area and a member of the Sunset High School varsity drill team. She shares how her neighborhood shaped her, what her school means to her, and how dance gave her new confidence and community. Elisha talks about her dream of becoming a dance teacher, the family she’s found through Dallas Metro Youth, and how God changed her life at summer camp. Her story highlights the impact of mentors like Karina, Tito, and her directors at school who helped her grow and believe in her future.

Clay closes by sharing the heart behind the new Dallas Metro facilities and why the vision isn’t about buildings — it’s about building lives. As the city works through the permit process and phase one approaches, he invites listeners to partner in helping the ministry expand and reach more families across Dallas. To learn more or give toward the All-In campaign, visit dallasmetro.org. Be sure to like and subscribe for more Dallas Metro Podcasts!

In this first Advent episode of the season, Pastor Clay opens the by reminding us what Christmas is truly about. Beyond the noise, the gifts, and the stories we all grew up with, Advent points us back to the coming of Jesus. It’s a simple message, but one worth slowing down for—Christ left heaven to step into our world, and that changes everything.

Today’s conversation features Miya Rivera, a student from West Dallas who has been connected to Dallas Metro since she was in fourth grade. She talks about growing up in Villa Creek, moving schools, and the first day her family heard the music from Sidewalk Sunday School echoing through the apartments. What began as curiosity has become a steady walk of faith. Miya shares how she prays now, reads her Bible every day, feels called to serve others, and hopes to pursue nursing after graduation. Her story is honest, grounded, and a reminder of the quiet ways God works through simple faithfulness.

As we look toward the future of Dallas Metro, Pastor Clay shares about the new building project and the opportunity it creates to reach even more kids just like Miya. If you’d like to see the vision, visit dallasmetro.org and click on “All In.” Your support helps us move one step closer to breaking ground and doubling our impact in West Dallas. Thanks for spending part of your Advent season with us. Be sure to like and subscribe so you never miss a Dallas Metro podcast!