Written by clergy and lay people across our Diocesan community, ‘Sunday Devotions’ is a column of short reflections based on a Lectionary reading of the day, suitable for small group discussion or personal use.
Main Readings: Acts 2.1-21 or Numbers 11.24-30; Psalm 104.26-36; 1 Corinthians 12.1-13 or Acts 2.1-21; John 20.19-23 or John 7.37-52
Supplementary Readings: ‘Song of God’s Children’ (APBA p.394); John 7.37-52 or John 20.19-23; Joel 2.28-32; Psalm 103.13-22, Galatians 5.13-26
“Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” (John 20.21)
I participated in a meeting last year which many adults attended to discuss youth engagement in the Church. Being 24 years of age and having seven years’ experience in youth ministry, I had quite a few suggestions about how we could improve our engagement with young people. However, my first suggestion was met with surprise, was then challenged regarding its feasibility and ultimately was never followed up.
Jesus doesn’t just send out adults with 30 years of experience. He calls each of us to contribute in our own unique ways to the Church’s mission. Young people are ready and waiting to take on roles that go beyond mere serving. We are ready to help with decision making and building toward the future of our Church.
We see throughout the Old and New Testaments God calling young people to step up, including Samuel, Jeremiah, King David, Mary the mother of Jesus and John the Apostle. However, my favourite example is Timothy who, in his early 20s, was chosen by Paul to accompany him on his second missionary journey. Timothy eventually went on to become the Bishop of Ephesus.
I encourage the youth within our Diocese to make themselves known within their parishes, to get involved and to speak up. You have a lot to contribute to your church community.
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