Fellowship Matters
For the past two years I somewhat dreaded contact with kids under two years younger than me. I adjudged them dumb, immature, and usually gossiping attention whores. The upperclassmen and I collectively decided that when we were that age we were no where near as horrible.
Despite how flawless and spiritually mature [we thought] we were, I can’t honestly say we’re so perfect now (or even really striving for perfection). At one point or another we’ve fallen away from God and into drugs, alcohol, sex, pornography, and who knows how many of Satan’s other traps. It’s been a discouraging downward spiral to see my friends and myself struggling… especially when we’re supposed to be setting a good example for underclassmen and junior highers.
Over the past few months I’ve gotten to know the younger half of the youth group a bit better, and it’s so encouraging to see their hearts for God as they go through life. I’ve realized that I was wrong - they’re not dumb, immature, or attention whores… they’re insightful, mature, and incredibly fun to chill out with. However, I also realize that they will come face to face with lust, pain, and apathy, and they probably will make a few mistakes along the way.
My prayer is that NW youth group becomes unified so that when challenges present themselves… we can trust and support one another through those times. That is, after all, what God created fellowship for. I trust that no one will judge you or think less of you for your follies… because we’ve all had our own fair share of screw ups. I know I have.
