I DEDICATE THIS BOOK TO FIVE
very special people in my life: My parents and pastors, Michael and Maria Durso; my best friend, the mother of my children (my babies momma), my beautiful wife, Yahris; and my two babies, Dylan Christopher and Chloe HudsonI pray youll both become everything God wants you to be and carry on the MISFIT torch. I love you both with all my heart.
Thanks to
Mom and Dad for raising me in the way I should walk. You are both amazing models of how to live godly lives. Dad, thank you for praying for me way before I got up every morning. Thank you for showing me how to lead a marriage and be a man. Mom, thank you for praying for me throughout the night, every night. Thank you for never giving up. Your role as a mother was constant, and you never took time off. Thank you for showing me how to pray. Thank you for showing me what characteristics to look for in a wife.
Mom and Dad, you never gave up on me even when doctors said I was too difficult to deal with. Thank you. I love you both more then you will ever know.
Yahris, you have pushed me to work harder and dig deeper than I ever have. Thank you for believing in me and constantly praying for me and lifting me up before God. Your encouragement and cheers do more for me than you realize. When it comes to me living out my calling, you never get in the way, question it, or complain. Thank you. Youre an amazing wife, mother, and woman. I am surely blessed. I love you with all my heart.
My brother Adam for passing me the baton.
My brother Jordan for always being there.
My brother Ralph for encouraging me to push the envelope a little further.
My associate Jon Rodriguez for helping me lead Youth Explosion.
Dave Rodriguez for all the late-night and early-morning writing sessions.
My best friend Junior for being a best friend at all times.
Nancy Beach for writing that email to Zondervan!
Every leader, staff member, and teen from Youth Explosion. I love you guys!
Above all, thank you Jesus for this opportunity to represent you publicly, for your salvation, and for your grace. This is all for you. Without you, this book would be meaningless.
Epigraph
In his book, Chris clearly describes a group of individuals whom he calls misfitsthose who wholeheartedly follow God and resist pressure from culture, fashion, and the media. In my years of ministry, Ive found that these outcasts who go against the grain end up shaping their culture and influencing their world. As you read this book, I hope youre challenged to join this group of misfits who will impact this generation for the glory of Christ.
Ron Luce, Teen Mania
Chris Durso lives what he writes and preachesand that truly sets him apart as a leader in our generation. This book is a must-read for anybody interested in living life as a misfit in a culture demanding conformity. The message in this book is urgent and important.
Carl Lentz, lead pastor, Hillsong New York City
In Misfit, Chris Durso unpacks a truth that not only can save you a lot of heartache, but also can inject a lot of life into your walk with Christ. Recognizing that youre not created normal and that being different is actually a great thing should be very liberating and energizing for all of us. My prayer is that, as you read this book, youll discover the incredible gifts and talents God has placed in you and thrive like never before.
Dino Rizzo, lead pastor, Healing Place Church
Christopher bleeds pop culture in a way that very few dohes an innovator. He doesnt just write about misfitshe is one. And hes blazing a trail right to the heart of this generation.
Rev. Adam Durso, D.D., founder of Youth Explosion Ministries
In his book, Misfit, Chris Durso exhibits his unique ability to speak specifically to the needs of a generationsomething that most of todays leaders have been unable to effectively understand or address. His deep insight into the heart of this emerging generation comes from the eye of a true shepherd and will greatly benefit not only teenagers but also those seeking to reach, understand, and impact them.
Dr. Chris Hill, senior pastor, The Potters House of Denver
Christopher Durso is a delightful misfit whose voice ennobles others seeking their places in our world. Im thrilled especially for artists and other creatives to learn from this young man who expresses his faith and creativity in bold and refreshing ways.
Nancy Beach, champion of the arts, Willow Creek Association
Im excited about the vision for Chris Dursos book, Misfit. God is calling us toward a holy discontent regarding the way things are. And when we fight against the tendency to give in and give up, the world will view us as misfits. So let it be. Vaya, Chris.
Nicky Cruz, Outreach Ministries
The Bible promises that our young men will see visions (Acts 2:17). Misfit reveals the great potential within our young people to influence and affect change. What a challenge for them to make a significant difference in the world without apology.
Rev. Michael Durso, senior pastor, Christ Tabernacle
Misfit is a must-read for youth and young adults in pursuit of greater relationships with God.
Canton Jones
This book doesnt fit our cookie-cutter, clich-ridden church culture. Thats because Chris is a misfit. Chris has the authority to write this book because he IS this book. Allow it to make you a misfit, too!
Tim Ross, www.TimRoss.org
Misfit was written for those who believe they dont fit inor dont want to fit in. If this is you, read this book.
Marty Sampson
In Misfit, Chris Durso takes an authentic look at the tension we experience when we begin to stand out and live beyond the established norm. Its a must-read that will challenge you to accept the fact that youre meant to be differentand to live that way.
Pastor Joe Champion, Celebration Church
In a world where church attendees often are mistaken for true Christ-followers, Chris Durso brings us words to alert and strengthen us. The Bible says we will be hated by others for the sake of Christ, but we are not to run from rejection or unpopularity. Rather, we should embrace and use our misfit-status as fuel to love our enemies into submission to Gods will. Thanks, Chris, for reminding us what this walk is all about.
John Gray
As the chaplain of the New York Yankees and New Jersey (soon to be Brooklyn) Nets, Im used to being around playmakers! Misfits are playmakers and game-changers! Misfits are not intimidated by the scoreboard. They see a problem and find a solution. Chris Durso gives us the playbook for becoming a MISFIT! A must-read for anyone who is uncomfortable with the status quo!
Willie Alfonso, Chaplain of the New York Yankees and New Jersey Nets
Contents
FOREWORD
BY JIM CYMBALA
ONE DAY YEARS AGO I WALKED into the house of a young couple who attended the church I pastor. They were already in leadership positions, and it was evident to our pastoral staff that Gods hand was upon them for future involvement in ministry.