Youth Group was very interesting last night. The two youngest members of the team ran the group. Two young ladies that did a superb job. Youth ministry requires youth. I know there are exceptions to the rule. I have seen several models of the older guy or woman that has been at it for 50 years and they can really connect to youth. They run really successsful youth groups that ar both fun and dynamic.
However....I don't see a lot of that model. Who does get involved with youth ministry? .
1. People that have children of that age
2. Children that have been touched by God...(which is a great thing!) (my favoirte leaders too!)
3. People that can'f fit into any other ministries.
4. People that have a passion for youth.
I fit into category 1. However, an interesting thing has happened where I live. The Kidz Klub, which is a youth group I run on Thursdays has had an interesting twist. Kidz Klub used to consist of my children and most of their friends. I always kind of thought that when my boys got older...Kidz Klub would float away. However, I have this influx of 5 and 6 year olds that have nothing to do with my kids. They love me, they love their games, they love their snacks, and they are growing in Christ. So...God has sustained the ministry without requiring my children. What is even more interesting is the children that were 5 several years ago...are now 9 and 10 and they are my leaders/helpers. God has also bought in two young ladies that truly believe Christ and prayer are the answer to all of their problems. And they got that from Kidz Klub.
So....the Lord continues to bless. A ministry I thought was going to die is still thriving. We compete with good weather...and take a few breaks here and there.....but Ministry is good.
Back to last night's group...there were so many different things being done...it truly was a blessing. I came to realize....that even the kids you do not think are listening....they really are..... I have to keep that in my heart as a reminder when I get a little “short“ with children that have their own agenda.
Well...we need more time on Wed. night...which frustrates me. Time and space....that is what we need. That is what youth need....