As youth pastors, we have all received the age-old question from inquiring minds that discover we are full-time employees of the church: “So, what do you do all day?” And the truth is, you better have a dang good answer for them. No, really…practice how you answer that question! If you can’t justify your job, then why should they? To many outsiders and parents, it appears we just put on two programs a week. While we both know there is much more to youth ministry (i.e. evangelism, mission, discipleship, fellowship, service, worship, parent ministry, etc.), I want us to step back and give an honest assessment of our output. Are you producing more than just two programs a week? Furthermore, are you creating or simply executing a rehearsed weekly routine? Let’s break this down…
- Are you producing more than just two programs a week?
Be honest with yourself full-timers. While we want our weekend and mid-week services to be stellar, if you were operating in the corporate world, would a boss who is regularly monitoring your output be satisfied? Would you even have a job?! Now before you start justifying how you are spending your time, remember that our bi-vocational friends execute two services a week and still make time to disciple parents and students.
So let me ask again. What will you accomplish and produce this week?
Ephesians 5:15-17 states, “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.”
Could you honestly say you are making the best use of your time? Want some help creating an Ideal workweek? I’ve done multiple previous posts on how to maximize your week.
- What are you creating?
I believe that God creatively created us to create. Rather than continuing to do what you’ve always done, create something new this week? Shoot a video that trains parents on social media. Brainstorm four new ideas that require you to get outside the walls of the church to reach students for Christ. Find ways to get students outside the church to serve others.
“Serve God by doing common actions in a heavenly spirit, and then, if your daily calling only leaves you cracks and crevices of time, fill them up with holy service.” Charles Spurgeon
We have all fallen into the trap of mediocrity by simply doing what is required of us. So what will you create this week to bless and serve your church? What would make parents take notice that you are there to serve them, not just serve students? Be creative!
Click Here to Join the Party
& Get a Freebie!
[guestpost]
David Hanson: Texas native, Texas Tech Red Raider, M.Div. at Truett Seminary, husband to Ashley, father to Ava, Ben & Madelyn, Student Pastor at The Fellowship in Round Rock, Tx, table tennis (ping-pong) extraordinaire, addicted to coffee. For anything else…you’ll just have to ask.
[/guestpost]