“An account of the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah” (Matt. 1:1).
There has been much written in recent years about the various generations—especially the Millennials. In a recent article in Time magazine, it was noted this generation of younger people relate in an almost personal way to their electronic devices, have a rather narcissistic attitude to life and feel entitled. The writer also pointed out this generation has other attributes that will contribute deeply to society and that their spirituality is quite different from that of their parents.
We so quickly can forget that generations have been around for all of human history. There always has been younger and older generations living at the same time, not always seeing eye to eye.
Youth leaders are those who understand these generations gaps, who work to bridge the social and communication divides between the older and younger. This is difficult but necessary work, and we never should underestimate our impact when it comes to the lives of younger teens.
Jesus was misunderstood by His parents (Note: His 12-year-old temple experience) and most certainly was regarded as a young renegade by the older religious leaders.
As we work with our youth, we dare not forget that while their spirituality may differ from our own, Millennials crave a relationship with God and others, as well as have much to give out of their own faith and desire to help. So, we need to tend to this gap as much as possible, speak to it, nurture it, love it. There may be generations gaps, but we are bridge builders.
