Jacob Bursavich

Jacob Bursavich

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Jacob Bursavich talks matter-of-factly about the past weekend.His name appeared in the paper for days, promoting Neville's presentation of Julius Caesar in which he played Antony.Much of the preparation was part of his speech class, but there were still hours of additional rehearsals.Jacob lists the days and times, commenting that they seemed "more like minutes than hours."He is very low key about the play, but it is obvious this was an event he enjoyed.

As Jacob talks about school and daily activities, he volunteers that his life wasn't always like this.He started getting in trouble at about age 12.He is very open about his past-getting involved with the wrong crowd, the things they did.Looking back, he describes specific events in which he now feels there was Divine intervention that spared him from serious injury or that protected others who were, unknowingly, in the path of his friends and their activities.It was intervention by people who cared for Jacob and wanted a better life for him that finally brought him to LBCH.

Shortly after his arrival on campus, Jacob made a life-changing decision, accepting Jesus Christ as his personal Savior."It was at a Youth Impact. . . . I almost got kicked out that night for acting up.Then everything changed."His decision and the supportive environment of the Children's Home have helped turn his life around.Since that night, Jacob increasingly feels a responsibility to show his friends back home the reason for the hope in his life."I feel like God can really use me to help my friends and a lot of other kids in trouble," says Jacob."I know what they're thinking, I know what they're feeling.I was one of them . . . and I want to show them it doesn't have to be that way any more."During his one and one-half years at LBCH and as part of the First Baptist Monroe church family, Jacob has continued to grow in his faith.He is currently participating in F.A.I.T.H. evangelism training, and he loves going to church and the many youth activities offered.

Jacob also enjoys school.He first says that math is his favorite subject, but quickly adds that, "Honestly, I like all of my classes."He is a good student and is looking forward to college, even though the school and major are undecided at this point.He wants to ensure that his career choice is not based on "status" or potential earnings; he just wants assurance that the path he chooses is God's will for his life.Cottage parents Eddie and Donna Rhymes confirm that this is of great importance to Jacob, and he frequently talks with them about his future.

Jacob has a great relationship with both cottage parents, coming to them sometimes one on one, sometimes when they are together.While he frequently asks them to pray with him about a concern or event in his life, he often asks what special prayer requests or needs they may have as well, says Mrs. Rhymes.This sensitivity to others is evident as you talk with Jacob.As he puts it, "I love people and communicating with them."His jokes often bring a smile, but Jacob also enjoys sharing testimonies and life experiences.He has a lot of questions for those who will share with him, but he first confirms with that person that it's not an uncomfortable subject for them.The Rhymes and some of Jacob's cottage mates describe him as being an excellent musician.He loves music, especially playing the piano.He also enjoys art and drawing and says that drawing people is one of his favorite activities.

A former middle linebacker at Neville, Jacob was sidelined by an injury; but he still enjoys sports and staying active.He likes TV or movies--depending on what's on and if there's someone around to watch with him, but mostly he likes "staying busy and being active."Jacob feels that administration is one of his gifts; he likes to "think and organize."He recently developed a proposal outlining ways the cottage families could become involved with needs in the community.He enthusiastically describes the organization chart he developed that outlines his concept in great detail.He hopes that some of his ideas will be implemented soon.

The holidays are here and Jacob is looking forward to spending time with his family and friends.During this season of good will, his prayer is that those he loves will receive the greatest gift of all-the gift of everlasting life.

Louisiana Baptist Children's HomeHelping children for 100 years.

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