Gripped by Jesus

What do we really want to happen among our young people? Why a youth ministry? What is the goal for our youth? These questions have gripped my mind over the last month—more than usual.

I know, from comfort-shattering conversations I’ve had with my son about his experiences at school, that our kids face unnerving challenges to their faith and innocence. What can we do to stop the madness? How can we fight off the tide? Haunting, isn’t it?

In wrestling, fighting and struggling with these doubts, I’ve failed to produce a program, a secret or a formula to insure a positive outcome. But here’s the answer I’ve settled on. I’m not supposed to…yes, I know, it was hard for me to swallow. But think about it. Unless our kids are gripped by Jesus nothing I do, or anyone else does, will matter.

We simply must turn it over to him, join him and participate in his work to reclaim the hearts of our youth. God wants to envelope our kids in his love. Do we believe that? Do we truly acknowledge that God has a youth ministry too? May we have the strength and courage to trust him and get out of the way!

Now, how do we do that? Well, I’m still engaging that question. Want to talk?