It was real today.
It was the start of something new, it was meeting new people, it was seeing familiar friends.
It was interesting, it was eye-opening, it was energising.
It was exciting, it was nerve-wracking, it was fun.
It was talking, it was drinking, it was playing cards.
It was a lunch time, it was busy, it was a time drenched in prayer.
It was hot, it was raining, it was a rush.
It was finally here, it was active, it was tiring.
It was the Lord’s work, it was schools ministry.
Over the last 24 hours I have been reading a book regarding youth ministry by Tim Hawkins. Tim has been involved in youth ministry for years here in Australia and this was his second book. His first book, “Fruit that will last” was written in the 90’s and is the foundation and strategy by he runs his youth ministry. It’s a good book and I’d recommend it to anyone in youth ministry. His second book, published in 2002, is called “Leaders who will last.” It is this book that I have just finished and again I would recommend it. However, this book is not only to those in youth ministry on a paid basis but for also anyone involved in a voluntary capacity.
“Leaders who will last” is grounded in scripture and gives some good advice for youth leaders. There are tree main sections of the book, one on leader vision, one on a leader’s character, one on leader’s skills.
It is under visioning that the main biblical foundations are set. The issues of calling, shepherding and servant-hood are described and rightly portrayed as important. The main characteristics of a leader are to be faithful, reliable and a follower of those in higher authority than you (i.e. senior pastor, youth pastor, lead leader etc). In terms of skill, the main things to focus on are to be a Bible teacher, at least think about leading a small group and Tim also describes, in 16 points, what a youth worker can be. i.e. a prayer, an organizer etc.
Overall, I thought the book was good. An area of improvement would be a deeper theological basis for youth leadership and youth ministry in general. While a Biblical theology of youth ministry is not what this book was on about I am continuing to search for such a book. I haven’t found one, even in all the youth ministry books I have out at college! Maybe I should just come up with my own!
Anyway, back to the book. Much of it applied directly to me, particularly the issue of getting right with God and staying right. I must set my heart on His things and His agenda. This book pushes me to pray more, I don’t pray nearly enough for my leaders, my peers, my kids, my church even. And finally, it is a book that I will be recommending to my fellow youth leaders. There is much information in this book that is helpful to any leadership position, but specifically to those in youth ministry.
This past week i have spent time reading the book of Romans. I loved it. It is such a great book.
Paul beautifully sets the foundation of the faith in chapters 1-8, focuses on God’s hand and work in our lives in chapters 9-11 and then makes it all practical in chapters 12-16. It is a wonderfully written sermon which really nails the gospel of God better than anyone I hear these days!
In recent days mission, outreach and evangelism has been a been on my heart for the first time in a long time. My ministry as a youth worker/pastor needs to be focused on these things and Paul reminds me of their importance in Romans. The gospel is needed desperately in the inner-eastern suburbs of Melbourne and very much needed by those in high school. A vision of the Almighty needs to be cast for young people to see that there is hope and purpose in this life. There is no point in carrying out a ministry which does not bring the hope that is in Christ to the fore. He should be put up high, worshipped, magnified and made known to those who need Him – the next generation. There is surely something more satisfying than Facebook, Flo-Rida and McFlurry’s! Where can hope and purpose be found? Christ. Not just what He has done but also who He is.
As I continually evaluate how to be culturally appropriate to those under my care I continually think of how I can magnify Christ to them too. May the Lord give grace upon grace in reaching this generation.