One of my favorite quotes is from the American poet Robert Lee Frost: “Now that I am old, my teachers are the young.”
The world is in the midst of a generational shift. A mega shift the likes of which has not been seen since the mid-sixties. It is primarily a shift in values-led largely by the youth. Some of this “shift” is less than desirable and stems from rebellious hearts. However, a lot of it is good. Politicians, parents, and people at large need to be taking note. We have something to learn!
Quite frankly, I am inspired by the idealism and zeal of young people who are becoming the voice of conscience on many issues. They are speaking out forcefully on global issues like injustice, racism, equality, economics, national debt, wage inequities, environmental catastrophe, climate change, refugees, immigration, and other key concerns. Young people are demanding a place at the table to talk about the impact of these things on their future and the world their children will inherit. In nations like Canada, Hong Kong, Venezuela, Nicaragua, France, England and the USA, among others, their voices are becoming louder!
In Scripture, young Timothy displayed concern for the spiritual health and vitality of the Church but obviously exhibited some apprehension in being too expressive about it. The aging Apostle Paul sensed this and spoke these words of wisdom into his life. “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress.” (I Timothy 4:12, 15 NIV)
Our young people’s crusade for change and freedom has just begun as they write the next chapter in the story of man. I say to them: “Keep going! Keep speaking out! Keep marching! Keep participating! As former US Secretary of State, Madeline Albright, has said, ‘Democracy is not a spectator sport.’”
To a younger generation of Jesus followers, I likewise say: “Even though this is not an easy time to be young, it is a great time to be young and for you to make a real difference in our world. Keep going! Don’t stop! It’s your time – and your voice matters! Let your energy, zeal and Christian idealism be an example for us all as you follow the mandate of the Lord of the Church to share the good news of redemption to the farthest corners of the earth and make disciples of all people. (Matthew 28:17-20) Keep involved! Christian discipleship is not a spectator sport!”
“But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him.” (II Corinthians 2:14 NIV)
Be blessed my friend.
Glen (Pitts)
The Barnabas Group / Loads of Love
