So Much to Say, So Little Time

Where to begin? I just finished reading "Contemplative Youth Ministry" by Mark Yaconelli. By far one of the best books I've read in my entire life. Not just because of the content, but mainly because it taught me how to connect with God in a way that's old, new, and refreshing all at once. Let me see if I can sum this up...

The basic idea of Contemplation is realizing that God's presence is everywhere and being aware each moment of our lives of that simple truth. What it means for me is spending time in silence and listening, also using contemplative methods of Bible study and meditation. This allows me to apply the same type of calm listening with my interactions with students. Looking for moments when I can see God in them and in the things around me.

I'm not there yet, and I may never be "there", but I can say that I'm on the journey. I'm looking at youth ministry and students in a whole new light. Maybe I wasn't called into youth ministry More...because I have some great gift that students need, maybe I was called into youth ministry because God knew it would keep me dependent on Him, He knew it would make me more like Christ, He knew I would listen more, be more, do more. I've always thought I was called to do something great for students, but maybe I was called to have students do something great for me.

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