This year of youth ministry has been unlike any other I have had to date. For the first time, I feel like I really am starting to get together a group of student ministry sponsors who are contributing to the spiritual development of the students of all ages. More than ever, many have taken the initiative to develop their specific role in the ministry and foster relationships with students.
As great as these sponsors have been, their contributions have actually done a lot to show me that they are not the most valuable asset in youth ministry as I had previously considered to be true - that title belongs to the involved parent.
As an individual, I cannot build close relationships with every single student of all ages. I don't relate perfectly with all ages at all times. I don't have shared interests with every student. My personality is not a great match for many students. I enjoy my time around all of them, but they are often naturally drawn to one of the other adult leaders in the ministry. That is natural. That is great. That is the only way a student ministry can effectively reach more than a handful of youth: quality sponsors.
But...
Parents spend more time with the students than anyone else over the course of their youth.
Parents are the ultimate source of earthly authority in the lives of these students.
Parents are the students' primary source of moral, spiritual, and religious education and example.
Parents teach their children how to prioritize, how to make life decisions, and how to act on their commitments.
So the good new is that you parents have a fantastic opportunity to teach you children biblically, nurture them spiritually, and guide them honestly. You have the chance to show them how to walk in the path left by Christ and to apply the lessons of character and charity, forgiveness and faithfulness, caring and commitment.
The other side of the issue? It is not merely an opportunity - for the follower of Christ it is a responsibility, a commandment, a charge. The life of a Christian starts with church and youth group and Bible studies, and personal quite times, and family devotions, and continues on into every aspect of your day-to-day life.
It is a serious task, take it seriously! Start with the basics and teach your children to prioritize their faith life above everything else, then also to integrate their faith life into everything else.
A good student ministry, great sponsors, and an adequate youth minister are not all that is required for you child to grow into a committed follower of Christ, they are merely the well-worn implements of the involved parent.
No comments:
Post a Comment