Youthful Kingdom Work

Every Sunday, amongst the fantastic adult (18 years +) volunteers, you will find equally remarkable students (JH & HS) and 5th graders serving in various areas of the Children’s Ministry. Yes, you read that correctly, 5th graders. I tell the children in the K-5 ministry once they are in 5th grade, they will have the opportunity to serve in their area. Last Sunday, I had two fifth graders working in the tech booth in the Kid Zone Warehouse, one was managing slides on the computer, and the other was taking care of sound and lighting. I had a moment during the service to look over and watch them serve, and I just had to marvel. They knew what was necessary to help the worship service be enjoyable for others. Further, some of these “veteran” 5th graders are training others to do the same. Truly, amazing.
 
In his letter, the apostle Paul encourages his young protégé to continue his ministry – "Command and teach these things. Don't let anyone despise your youth, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and purity" (1Timothy 4:11-12). I am sure Paul was amazed at young Timothy and his observation of God's ministry work through him. To be clear, Timothy was not a 5th grader but a man less than forty years old (scholars speculate) – nevertheless, the truth remains the same. God can utilize anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, for His kingdom work. That is next-generation ministry.

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