Our congregation continues to be blessed with our vibrant children and youth program. Natalie and Jennifer have led the children's choir again this year, and the children enrich our worship with their singing and their very presence. Kate and so many youth leaders like the ***, the *** and the *** keep our youth busy and growing in their faith.
Yesterday's Youth Sunday inspired me with the themes of Kids Under Construction and Shine for Christ. I was reminded of the song by Billy Joe Shaver (Texas outlaw country singer and songwriter) in which he sings: "I'm just an old chunk of coal, but I'll be a diamond someday." This is perhaps one of the best summaries of our doctrine of sanctification that I have ever heard. We are all under construction, adults and kids alike. And the Spirit of the Risen Lord works within us to strengthen us and guide us along the way.
There are many ways in which we as a congregation can be grateful for our youth program. One way is to express your apprecation to Kate and the other youth leaders who work behind the scenes in loving them and providing an anchor for them.
Another way is to support Camp Wyoming by donating to their annual fund--or to their 50th Anniversary Celebration fund. Make sure your children and grandchildren and their neighbors and school friends are signed up to particapate in this great camp.
Another way is to continue to express an interest in the youth, spend time with them, ask them questions and discover the many talents, gifts and ideas they have. Invite them to church on Sundays! Christianity is nothing if it is not a relationship!
Children and youth are a great gift to all of us. They remind us that we are all a work in progress, but God can use us, even in our incompleteness, to shine the light of Christ with love, compassion and grace each and every day.
Brightly, David
No comments:
Post a Comment