Confession: Relationship Really Does Matter

Confession: Sometimes Youth Pastors and Youth Staff trick themselves into believing that it is our incredible planning, teaching, worship, studying, leading, etc. that really sets a student up for life change. Ultimately we know it is God's Word that transforms lives, but we have moments and even seasons where we are deceived. Please don't hear me saying that these things don't matter, because structure and preparation are vital to a thriving ministry, but when the rubber meets the road relationship is most often the avenue that life change occurs through. Relationship, is the conduit through which faith and truth take on flesh. This is not a new concept, but it is something that we always need to keep at the forefront of our minds as we lead and love students.

This is a picture of a group of guys I had the awesome privilege of walking with for 7 years (6th-12th grade) as their leader. These guys mean the world to me, not because they are so cool (which they happen to be), but because in leading them I learned so much about God, faith, spiritual formation, community, and the list goes on, and they learned the same from me. These guys graduated 2 years ago, and due to my role, so did much of my direct connection with students.

Over the last few weeks I have had the opportunity to intentionally spend some time with a group of students. I have re-learned a lot in this short period of time, but more than anything I have been reminded that time spent with students is time well spent. As a youth worker we will never have the opportunity to influence a student the way that their parents can, but we can be a significant adult voice in their life cheering them along, speaking truth, and offering accountability. The time we designate to calling, texting, IM'ing, Facebooking, showing up at events and especially meeting with them in person opens doors for them to see Christ in us and through us. In addition we get the opportunity to be reminded why we do what we do.

In the midst of a crazy schedule, please take time to spend with your students. Remember who they are, remember why God put you where you are, and most importantly allow them to see Christ through you.