This past weekend, tens of thousands of young people, gathered in hotels and convention centers around the country to participate in faith-building conventions.
These young people were joined by parents, coaches, sponsors, elders, and other wonderful Christians who encouraged them in their efforts.
Many of them were joined by their preachers and youth ministers/leaders. Over and over again throughout the course of the weekend, we heard these people speak of how these conventions were produced through team efforts.
It was exhilarating to see how many preachers and youth leaders are an important part of this team effort. It was impressive to see preachers listening to these young people, shaking their hands, hugging them and otherwise encouraging them in their work.
It was just a reminder of how much preachers are needed. Not just to preach, not just to teach, not just to support elders in their work, not just to visit hospitals, not just to conduct funerals, not just to perform weddings, and not just to counsel those in need.
Preachers are desperately needed to help young people along their journey of life. Yes, our first responsibility to our own children, our own families. However, there are young people and children who we see every week who need our encouragement.
One way we can endure difficult situations when we become uncertain about our ministry is to spend some time focusing on young people. This will help us want to keep going through tough times. Whether you feel needed or wanted by older church members, one thing you can know for certain. The young people need you.
They are not aware of what might be going on behind the scenes but think about what it will mean to their lives if we take time for them.
We can speak to them, look them in the eye, call them by name, ask them how they are doing in school or how their team is doing. Show some special interest in a young person and it may just strengthen you.
