Friday, April 19, 2013

The Big 3


Kurt Johnston had a great article over at the Junior High Ministry blog. In his blog he discusses what he believes are the three most important aspects of youth ministry. He clarified that pointing young people to a relationship with Jesus should be assumed, and so did not include that in his answer. I would encourage you to go and check out his input and below I give you mine. I think the "Big 3" is important to think about periodically because it helps us to remember the big picture of our ministries. 
1. Sustainability–Is what we are doing sustainable for the long-haul? Are we building a healthy ministry? Is the way we are doing ministry depleting our resources and leading us to burnout? 
2. Sanctification–Our youth ministry needs to help people “grow up in Christ” (Ephesians 4:12-13). One question I ask myself: “Is the way I am doing ministry allowing me to grow closer to Jesus?” If not, then I need to reevaluate what I’m doing. If I’m not growing, how can I expect my volunteers and students to grow?
3. Developing a Team of Youth Workers–Creating a group of adults who are not merely chaperones, but are caring and supportive youth workers. Young people need adults who will invest in their lives.
What are your Big 3? Anything you would add?

Thursday, April 4, 2013

Always Greater


“When I saw him (Christ), I fell at his feet as dead. But he laid his right hand on me and said, ‘Don’t be afraid! I am the First and Last.’” Revelation 1:17

The season of Easter always remind me of the greatness of Christ. Jesus is bigger than we can ever imagine. He is more than a friend, pal, or good teacher. He is all these things…but more.

In Revelation, the Apostle John sees the risen Christ and immediately falls to the ground. Jesus is unspeakably glorious. He is beyond description…he is beyond words.

I always want to be awed and amazed by Christ. I never want to treat my relationship with him as unimportant. I never want to be indifferent or casual about worshipping him. I want to be overwhelmed by his presence because he is the Alpha and Omega. He is the king of kings and the lord of lords.

It is amazing that such a majestic Savior would offer us love and friendship. No one is greater than Christ. No love is higher than his love. Yet, he offers himself and he offers his love to any who will receive him. His grace is truly amazing…and his grace even includes me!

“The secret of the mystery is: God is always greater. 
No matter how great we think him to be, his love is always greater.” –Brennan Manning