“Mr. Genders…I heard you are a Youth Pastor. Is that true? Can we talk?” I was recently substitute teaching at MTHS when a student I didn’t know asked me these questions. I was in the school to teach Geometry & Algebra for a few weeks, but it seems like God had additional plans for my time. I had chosen to “dwell among” students for a brief period of time, and God chose to use my presence for his purpose. Imagine if Metamora YFC had a plethora of leaders on-mission in places where students already gather - classrooms, sports teams, extracurricular activities, special events, etc.?
Jesus tells us that “the harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.” (Matthew 9:37-38) Metamora Youth for Christ is seeing more people join our team as Ministry Leaders. These are men and women who work on the frontline with students sharing the love of God through Authentic Christ-Sharing Relationships. They are staffing the Center after school. They are running Campus Life and leading Bible studies. They are coordinating service projects. They are attending games, concerts and special events with students.
We are seeing an increase in the number of leaders, but we are also seeing a greater harvest field than ever before. Students are desperately seeking purpose and community. We need more leaders who will “dwell among” students and be available when students have tough questions.
Would you join me in praying for more workers for the harvest? Or maybe you don’t need to pray; maybe you are that worker. If the ministry of YFC intrigues you, send me a message at (309) 573-5175 or cgenders@yfcpa.org to discuss your next-steps!
Chris Genders