Watch this OnE minute video from Eric Scofield:
THE MORE THINGS CHANGE…THE MORE ADOLESCENTS STAY THE SAME!
Since the Young Life mission started in 1941, there has been change! We’ve seen lots of change culturally, politically, globally, and theologically. Many believe that our current ‘season’ represents more change than ever! Hand-written notes have been taken over by texting and social media platforms have replaced in-person relationships creating an artificial closeness while fostering distance. Young Life staff and leaders are cultural observers and pride themselves on being informed about these shifts and prepared to address them.
I’ve been leading Bible Studies and Campaigner groups with our Young Life kids for over 30 years and have seen so many things that change. Recently I have been encouraged, though, by what has stayed the same!
In the midst of constant pivots and adjustments, let’s take a look at how adolescents and the Young Life ministry have stayed the same.
Over the last three decades, I have been leading various breakfast Bible studies for high school boys. We all come from different schools, zip codes, and generations. Pancakes, syrup, bacon, laughter and a simple thought about the person of Jesus Christ are on the menu each week. I relish the early morning conversations in the middle of the week because they make me hopeful.
While surrounded by constant change, there are a few things that I can count on in the world of teenagers: They are funny, curious, thoughtful and have questions about life, God and what life with God could look like.
Here are FOUR observations that I have regarding Young Life and adolescents from my perspective across the breakfast table.
PRESENCE
Every year I wonder, will kids show up? Moreso, I am reminded that WE should show up too! Time is the currency of today and good Young Life work costs a lot of time.
Last week I showed up for a three-set tennis match. As I walked up, there was a ‘double take’ from the student I came to visit as he yelled “Thanks for coming!” Young Life leaders show up; it’s what we have always done and it is a constant in determining the health of the local YL Club. Presence speaks loudly!
RELATIONSHIPS
The favorite word in an adolescent’s vocabulary is their own name! Knowing kids, their interests, the cars they drive, the sports they play and all aspects of their life lead to a conversation. When those interactions find a home in a lifelong relationship it is a beautiful part of God’s design “We loved you so much we not only shared the Gospel but our very LIVES.” (1 Thess. 2:8). It is encouraging to me that we are built for relationships, community, and being known.
ACCEPTANCE
Kids today need to be heard, seen, and accepted. This year, I am watching 11th graders navigate life. It is different than it was a few years ago when they were in junior high. As I have grown older, I have been reminded of a simple truth: the need to belong. They are going to make mistakes, have break-ups, not make the team, have fender-benders, and struggle with grades. Being the person that shows love, acceptance, and grace highlights a quality of the person of Jesus that is compelling and sorely needed today.
JESUS
The focus on the person of Jesus is foundational to the mission of Young Life. It is both a guiding principle and a core value. Even a student who may be minimally involved with their local faith community can’t help but be drawn to the person of Jesus. The things He said, and the things He did paint a picture of God that is….different. We remind ourselves constantly that sharing Jesus isn’t just part of what we do… it is all we do. The ability to talk about Jesus with ease may be the most attractive quality of the Young Life ministry.
Change is transformation, and changing (transforming) lives is the goal of the Young Life mission. What teenagers around the globe desire today is exactly what the Young Life ministry has been known for over the years.
Here’s to staying the course and focusing on the list above. Now, more than ever!
-Eric Scofield, Principal Gifts Officer, Young Life