A Spark of Hope, A Blaze of Deception

This past weekend was the National Youth Workers Convention. Not only was it a time to recharge, but it also gave me a glimpse of traditional youth ministry at large. The oddity of being surrounded by youth workers who have a ministry that looks nothing like mine was combined with the peace that we’re doing the right thing. In the midst of all the books and resources and t-shirts and technology and everything else that tends to distract from being the church that God is calling us to be, I saw a spark. There was a little hint of something in their eyes that knew that there is something more, something worthwhile. This is not to say that I have it all figured out. On the contrary, I feel like I’m stumbling around in the dark while God does miracles all around me. However, I saw something this weekend that gave me hope for the church in America: something about outward-facing youth ministry, something about using the church in Acts as an example, something about discipleship happening in the midst of mission, something about the kingdom. It was just a spark, but it was there in some of the youth workers.

Unfortunately, I also saw some deception. While some are drifting toward acting like the church, others are abandoning truth. They say that love doesn’t include challenging people to repent and follow Jesus. They say that the word of God is just a big allegory. They say that the poor have some special divine presence. They say that the words of Jesus are limited to the “red letters.” They say that relationships are ultimate, not God’s glory. May the Holy Spirit lead people through this maze of hope and deception. Without Him, it’s just a giant ball of confusion. (By the way, I’m not going back next year).

Death Must Die

If I hear of one more person dying, I think I’m going to lose it. Death is tragic. Death is an enemy. Death is the result of a fallen, sinful world. Jesus cried because of death (What do you know? Me, too). One of my high school basketball coaches died on Saturday. He was a great guy who loved Jesus, adored his family, and lived out his faith. As a Christian, he had hope, something to look forward to. Not everyone one has that. But, death doesn’t win. Jesus wins. “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting? The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15: 55-57). A beautiful verse for tumultuous times.

Hope. Hope in the midst of turmoil. Hope: the return of Christ. “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order or things has passed away” (Revelation 21:4).

Here’s a final reminder from This is My Father’s World: “O let me ne’er forget that though the wrong seems oft so strong, God is the ruler yet.”