Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds (
The weeks leading up to Christmas are filled with activity and busyness, especially in the church. There are service projects, missions, outreach efforts and those sacred activities and events that every congregation continues out of respect for tradition. In essence, a youth leader’s plate can get very full, and those who serve can find themselves quickly used up or burned out long before they light the first light of Christmas in their own hearts.
Youth leaders, however, may use their time and energies more effectively by spurring others on to good works rather than trying to do it all themselves. The Christmas push can leave youth leaders drained and anxious rather than refreshed and eager. However, the leader’s faith in action may be the guiding force that deepens another’s experience or reminds him or her of God’s grace and presence.
In essence, youth leaders have the awesome responsibility of offering opportunities for good deeds and expressions of God’s love. Not only are there teenagers in our youth groups who need reminders of this grace, but there are many in our communities who can benefit from the gifts and service of our teenagers themselves. Leading teenagers toward these good deeds might be one of the best gifts we can give during the Christmas season.
Take a few moments to consider the good deeds that need to be expressed in your community. There are faces of God’s love among your teenagers. Some of them are ready to serve. Find a need and fill it. Make your Christmas season a bit brighter by leading a brighter expression of joy among the youth themselves.
