Honestly, it's one of those days. Every part of me didn't want to write tonight. But, here I am. It's Sunday- usually the day I can't decide which thing to write about. This moment, I'm at a loss as to what to write. Of course God was all around me. Every part of me knows that.
But, frustration has set in today. And, at this moment, it's where I'm at. I don't remember this ever being a part of my middle school years. When did "becoming atheist" become cool? Of course, I realize that most of them are questioning and feel they need to put a label on it so it becomes atheist. But, it's sad- and frustrating! It's exciting when youth go from knowing what they've learned from their parents and Sunday school teachers to figuring out their faith for themselves. I know in order to do that they have to search and question. I just feel sad for those that search in all the wrong places. And, I feel frustrated for those who are afraid or too stubborn to ask questions or search in the right places.
We all have moments of wondering what we're doing. At least I think so. That's me today. I wanted to challenge my high schoolers. But, unfortunately, they weren't ready. That makes me look back and wonder where I dropped the ball. I want them to be able to focus on their Christianity every day- not just Sunday. Shouldn't we all? But, although some tonight said God was one of their top 2 priorities, none of them could tell me they were absolutely going to do that- in fact they were pretty sure they weren't. I don't understand that- without thinking their original answer of God as their priority was just saying what they thought they should say. Either way, I'm wondering what to talk about the rest of the year when they will participate in the great discussions we have and then walk out of the door to the rest of the world.
The other adult with me tonight was talking with them saying he doubted they realize how much they are influenced by everything we do- that they just don't put the Christian label on it. But, then, how do they share it with others if they don't acknowledge it themselves? So, although if that's true it's better than nothing, I still want more. Maybe that's the problem- I expect too much? But, I also see so much potential and if I don't push them, who will?
So it all started with an assignment 2 weeks ago. They were to message me, talk to me, call me, etc about where they were in their journey and with questions or ways I could help them continue on their journey. It was kind of a beginning on the year thing to see what we should discuss, etc. I got nothing. So, it makes me wonder if I'm devoting my life to teaching youth about God and being Christian and none of them can spend a couple minutes to send me a message about their spiritual life, am I failing?
So, where did I see God today? I'm sure He's there. I'm sure this will all make whatever comes next in our group more appropriate to what my youth need. And, I know they are amazing young people who are His children and He's there watching over them. I'm counting on His guidance to direct my next step in teaching them.
Mark 11:22 (NIV)
Jennifer
But, frustration has set in today. And, at this moment, it's where I'm at. I don't remember this ever being a part of my middle school years. When did "becoming atheist" become cool? Of course, I realize that most of them are questioning and feel they need to put a label on it so it becomes atheist. But, it's sad- and frustrating! It's exciting when youth go from knowing what they've learned from their parents and Sunday school teachers to figuring out their faith for themselves. I know in order to do that they have to search and question. I just feel sad for those that search in all the wrong places. And, I feel frustrated for those who are afraid or too stubborn to ask questions or search in the right places.
We all have moments of wondering what we're doing. At least I think so. That's me today. I wanted to challenge my high schoolers. But, unfortunately, they weren't ready. That makes me look back and wonder where I dropped the ball. I want them to be able to focus on their Christianity every day- not just Sunday. Shouldn't we all? But, although some tonight said God was one of their top 2 priorities, none of them could tell me they were absolutely going to do that- in fact they were pretty sure they weren't. I don't understand that- without thinking their original answer of God as their priority was just saying what they thought they should say. Either way, I'm wondering what to talk about the rest of the year when they will participate in the great discussions we have and then walk out of the door to the rest of the world.
The other adult with me tonight was talking with them saying he doubted they realize how much they are influenced by everything we do- that they just don't put the Christian label on it. But, then, how do they share it with others if they don't acknowledge it themselves? So, although if that's true it's better than nothing, I still want more. Maybe that's the problem- I expect too much? But, I also see so much potential and if I don't push them, who will?
So it all started with an assignment 2 weeks ago. They were to message me, talk to me, call me, etc about where they were in their journey and with questions or ways I could help them continue on their journey. It was kind of a beginning on the year thing to see what we should discuss, etc. I got nothing. So, it makes me wonder if I'm devoting my life to teaching youth about God and being Christian and none of them can spend a couple minutes to send me a message about their spiritual life, am I failing?
So, where did I see God today? I'm sure He's there. I'm sure this will all make whatever comes next in our group more appropriate to what my youth need. And, I know they are amazing young people who are His children and He's there watching over them. I'm counting on His guidance to direct my next step in teaching them.
Mark 11:22 (NIV)
"Have faith in God," Jesus answered.
Blessings,Jennifer
I am not for sure what advice I could give you Jen...but I do know that it took only one Samaritan women at that well that couldn't understand the living water that Jesus was offering..but then she acknowledged her sin and seen the living water for what it was...Jesus...she seen the Messiah. It only took the one sinner at the well..that Samaritan woman....to go into the town and many of those Samaritans heard about Jesus and believed on Him..because of the one...it only takes the one. I love you dear friend...keep on going...you are exactly where God wants you to be and because of that...the one will hear and tell..and will catch you completely off guard..it will be surprisingly sweet!
ReplyDeleteHmm, that's the age group that I teach in what we call Bible Discovery (formerly Sunday School). This is the first year I've worked with this group so they're still checking me out. They're pretty good people but they're at that stage where their parent's faith becomes their own or they drop it altogether. Scary stuff. I'm just glad that God is in charge.
ReplyDeleteGod Bless
See you there!
Thanks Tracy! I needed to hear that right then. Miss you! Love you!
ReplyDeleteThesauros, I agree completely! Good thing God knows what he's doing! Blessings on your ministry with your group.
ReplyDelete