- Pastor Ron Edmondson
1. Value them and their ideas :
Young people will want to do things differently. They see things
differently. We must give them a voice and an access to authority. This doesn’t
mean we have to change anything we believe or teach, but it does mean we have
to listen to them and not dismiss what’s on their heart and minds. I’ve found I
must make time in my schedule for the younger generation. I need to engage them
regularly. They want to know me personally. But, when I do, it’s huge to them –
and I have more credibility to speak into their life. (And, it fuels me
personally.)
2. Give them a place to serve :
Find ways to let young people assist others. It’s a huge value
for them. For the newer generation, it appears service may be the new front
door. They will care more about serving than they will about “membership”. They
want to make a difference meeting real needs. I’ve discovered they like hands
on experiences. And, they usually aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty.
3. Be genuine with them :
Young people can spot phonies. Let them see you are real.
Authentic and transparent have been admired cultural values all their life – so
they will accept nothing else. Be honest with them – about your shortcomings,
your flaws and your fears. Let them learn from your mistakes and the things you
did right.
4. Love them :
Young people want to sense they are loved – even when they mess
up. In my experience, young people want a safe place to be transparent and they
want you to love them even when they do things – and believe things – of which
you wouldn’t approve. If you want an opportunity to speak into their life, they
have to know you genuinely care for them.
5. Guide them :
Young people want direction and they want to learn from your
experience. If you talk about the concept of mentoring – they are into it. If a
more experienced person is willing to invest in them – they’ll listen. This is
a huge opportunity for the church in reaching a newer generation.
These are a few of my observations. Feel free to add your own.
There are so many things drawing our young people’s attention these days. The
opportunities before them are unlimited. And, frankly, church is only one small
option for most of them. We must be intentional and strategic if we want to
reach them.
