Let the Kids Do It…
Let the Kids Do It…
Not Just the Future, But the Present of the Church
One of my mentors used to say often to church members and churches, “Let the kids do it.” He was a great visionary who was not afraid to engage young people for the cause of Christ. He knew that teenagers and young adults were the key to the gospel message going forward and for the work to be finished. He never wavered from that understanding.
His influence had an impact on my life. Over the years of doing ministry, I have found when the church embraces the youth and young adults in ministry as partners, or equals, the church moves forward in a powerful, meaningful way.
My dad would often say that young people never knew they couldn’t succeed. Their energy, love for the Lord and vision would carry them beyond their experience. He was right. Young folk are not afraid to dream and vision about the present and the future. This is essential to the church.
Christian author Charles R. Swindoll says, “Vision is the ability to see God’s presence, to perceive God’s power, to focus on God’s plan in spite of the obstacles.” He continues, “When you have vision it affects your attitude. Your attitude is optimistic rather than pessimistic…So, when a situation comes that cuts your feet out from under you, you don’t throw up your arms and panic. You don’t give up; instead you say, ‘Lord, this is Your moment. This is where You take charge. You’re in this.’”
“Vision requires determination,” Swindoll says, “a constant focus on God who is watching and smiling.” I find that our youth and young adults often have this vision and determination. They simply need the opportunity to exercise it.
We find in Joel 2 and again in Acts 2 the promise of God outpouring His Holy Spirit on those willing youth for His service. The truth is we need the young to be engaged. They are a vital part of the body of Christ. Far too many churches in North America are suffering because of the lack of youth in their congregations.
Our trend needs to change, must change. To have that change we must give our young folk the opportunity to take leadership and be supportive and encouraging. I have often heard that, “the youth are the future of the church.” Frankly, if we are to finish the gospel soon, the youth and young adults are the present of the church! Let’s make every way possible to help them lead with Holy Spirit vision.
By Richard C. Dye, Sr., President
