I LOVE TALKING WITH YOUNG PEOPLE. By relating to them, I can understand why and how they cherish every moment of their life. I especially enjoy hearing them share their stories, life-experiences and “God moments”.
I believe the youth whom we serve in the schools do not need great ideas or any great programme. All they need is a living model – a woman of God who is passionate about her faith and pointing them to Jesus because it is all about Him. “God has not called me to be successful; He has called me to be faithful.” (Mother Theresa).
God’s Word is still relevant
I have discovered that while logic, conventional wisdom and words are not always effective, God’s Word remains relevant for our young people.
In today’s postmodern world, the youth are aware of so much more of the issues of life and they need to have confidence in the things that will never change – God and His Word. We must teach and inspire them (creatively) to trust that God has the answers they are searching for, and that they must take the risk and experience His love for themselves.
Go to places where they can be found
The best time to hang out with the students is during the school recess or after school is over. Go to where they can be found. While the time we have might be short, every opportunity is used to touch base with the students so that we can hear their concerns and feel their struggles.
Sometimes, it is good to invite them for a session of jamming in the music room – young people love music and to express themselves through music. It is at these informal times where we can truly bond with them and, when the time is right, share God’s love and grace with them.
The joy of ministry
My most joyous moments was when I see former students returning to serve with us in the school ministry – to lead in worship during weekly chapel, to facilitate in Bible study groups, or to help out in our “Discover Jesus Week”.
When we see them in action, we see the fruits of our labour and our hearts are filled with thanksgiving to God.
Ministering to young people is most challenging because often, my own character is challenged.
The youth are very perceptive and they can tell what is real and what is fake. They challenge us to authentic living. I am therefore constantly humbled, and seek to be Christ’s example to them.
In these eight years, I have learnt to be a better listener, a firmer encourager, and someone whose life is centred more deeply in God’s transforming Word.
