Last night, our Friday night youth service was completely run by the students. They operated the sound, led the worship, played an entire band, taught a strong word, served the snacks and even coordinated the rides home for those who needed them.
But what inspired and encouraged me the most was to see the enthusiasm, care and effort they put into making the entire evening a success. They rose to the challenge given them and used the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of their peers.
JR and Toan began their teaching by asking their peers if they had ever been told, “you’re no good” or “you’ll never amount to anything”. Hands shot up across the room.
These young men encouraged their peers to not to believe the lies and not to “let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.” 1 Timothy 4:12
It is heartbreaking to see so many young people who have experienced deep betrayal, rejection, and feelings of worthlessness at such a young age.
They’re looking for somewhere to belong. Looking for someone to believe in them. Someone who will affirm their worth. They're looking for someone to believe that their lives matter and that they can make a difference.
What a great opportunity for these youth, who are seeking answers, to see their peers living with hope, purpose and passion in an environment that often seems unfocused and without direction or purpose. What an inspriration for them to hear that their lives have value and they have something to contribute.
Young people can make a difference.
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