I was impressed recently by the contributions made by young adults (under 25!) in a church service. It was not a "Youth service", yet they welcomed, led worship, played in the band, read the Bible lesson, preached, administered communion and even took the collection. But I was also slightly concerned that this might give the impression that real ministry can only happen in a church building.
This fear was reinforced by a conversation I had with a 17 year old this past week, who is entering her final year at school. It is a massive mission-field, with over 2,500 pupils, plus staff - and this particular girl was explaining that she was on the leadership team of the Christian group in the College, was trying to arrange for a concert to be held, had a speaking engagement coming up, and was aware that for some of her non-yet Christian friends this school year may be the last realistic chance for them to experience Jesus.
The conversation was prompted by a decision she has to make - having been invited to help lead a small group in her church for younger kids, which she would enjoy and would do really well - she found herself struggling to prioritise her time and energy.
So - pour yourself into a tough mission field with literally thousands of lost souls to invite into the kingdom; or engage with a small lovely group of kids already surrounded by Christianity? Genuinely a difficult decision. And I fear that 'church' will praise, support and encourage her if she chooses one way, and be totally unaware of the significant leadership role she will be carrying if she chooses the less trodden path.
Too late?
6 years ago
Posts
So how could they (the church) become more aware? What about the young person asking for their prayers and letting them know what she is doing so they can ask her how it's going? It doesn't have to be that they are unaware. But do they need to be asking their young people questions like - what would you like us to pray for? I remember as a young person asking my rector to pray for the school Christian fellowship and I felt valued when he mentioned it in the prayers.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately, I agree with you that 'church' will support her while she is within the 'church' circle.
ReplyDeleteWhile the thought that a Christian community will pray for her in the untrodden path is ideal, I fear that it will be totally dependent on whether the church community literally got behind her. Having experienced some of what it feels like to not be supported by church as one would think - or expect!
A suggestion; I suggest that the young lady concerned approaches the leaders of her church with a strategy-type plan about her plans, & have included in it requests for prayer support, the need for mentor(s), discipleship, finance & resources etc. This way, the church/leadership are aware of what will be happening & (if it is the case) will know they can be supportive in areas they may feel able to help with - &/or are more comfortable with, especially given the 'untrodden' path.
In a 'duller' view, if there is no support forthcoming - we as an evangelistic group of 'church', need to get behind this young woman (& others who are doing similar!) and practice what we say we do - namely, being a group of pioneering evangelists in our local communities!