Transformation With Time

This past weekend I headed off with Matthew, my 10 year old son, for a father-son weekend at Camp Piankatank. We’ve been for four years and we always look forward to it. We get to play sports, canoe, swim, practice our archery, swing from the ridiculously high V-Swing (I am afraid of heights) and even sleep for a few hours. The best part is being able to walk around, talk about things going on in our lives, and to share some of how we have changed in the past year. As I was driving down to camp, I thought back to all those years in youth ministry and how the most memorable moments took place when I was spending time with students outside of the regularly scheduled programming. Hanging out after worship, talking at the beach, working in a missions setting together, praying in my office, or just being together and sharing our lives.

How much of what we do as parents, friends, educators, or ministers actually encourages the transformational work of the Holy Spirit? Worship services, Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and all those meetings have a place in our spiritual growth. But can these regular events provide for all of our growth?

One of the best things about Youth Ministry is people expect you to hang out with the students and to plan events outside of the weekly times of gathering to help youth grow in the their understanding of what it means to be a follower of Christ. As I continue to figure out what a senior pastor is supposed to do, I’m wondering if I’ve got the balance right. Sons and daughters need parents to be with them to hear their stories and to share ours. Youth and children need caring adults to be with them and to share with them the challenge of following Jesus. Adults need this as well, but our church usually only gives them the challenge of staying awake while I preach.

Is the balance right? Do we assume adults understand the need for time away and time to explore their faith with others? Do we spend our time doing what is truly transformational, or is it easier to write the sermon and teach the lesson and go home?

Well, I’ve got a sermon to write…

On the journey together,
Greg