10/03/24 A GEM OF AN AGE

10/03/24 A GEM OF AN AGE

As a young pastor (early 1970s), I came to realize the extreme treasure in Junior Hi kids. Most folks preferred working with Senior Hi kids, and even cringed at the thought of trying to work with early teens. They were super energetic, awkward, mischievous, and totally disorganized. But I found them to be enthusiastic, genuine, and very receptive to the gospel. My perception in the 1970s has continued through out my pastoral ministry. Some of my friends on Facebook today were converts to Christ, going back to the early 70s.

It was popular in those days to hear the adults in a church refer to the young people (of various ages), as "The Church of the Future." I saw some really on-fire young people, who meant business with God and I told folks, "Young people are not the church of the future... they are the church of today."

Christians (of all ages) do not simply spectate, watching from the bleachers, they participate on the field. Those who are spectators are not really the church. They may be the church of the future, but they are not the church of the present. Certainly they are not the dynamic church, the Spirit filled church, the church that charges the Gates of Hell.

Sadly, there are few adults and few young people who are active, driven, empowered, excited. The old saying is worth asking, "What kind of church would my church be, if all of the members were just like me?"

Too often the pews are occupied by hearers and watchers, instead of by doers and movers. The world rushes to hell, while the bench warmers don't even know the score.

Imagine a rescue vessel being manned by people who just enjoy the boat ride, while shipwreck victims are being swept into eternal torment. That is what it is like in a church where folks are wearing the uniform, but saying, "Not today, coach. Don't put me in."