I got to Luton again today to meet with some YFC people about our integrated mission project, and them to join the year out trainees for lunch at Luton Uni.

It’s always great to see our gap year and volunteers. I always find it really inspiring. I don’t know about you, but being involved in ministry can sometimes result in a cynical edge developing which I try to exhibit some control over, but it is there none the less. I like to think I have some control over it.

Just seeing the enthusiasm and desire to serve God of these young people is excellent. It reminds me why I started in ministry. It reminds me that it is not about me but about serving others. It reminds me that its not about the newest or best idea, but about being open to God. It reminds me that its not even about my area and role, but about being willing and open to God. It’s not about looking and doing good, its about helping others to look and do good.

Experiences like this remind me why it has been so easy to remain in youth ministry for around 20 years. Of course the calling from God is the real reason, but it has been made easier by the constant bring down to earth process that young people are so able to do with ease:
the way they disarm so that you have to cut through the crap;
the way they challenge so that you don’t start to be up yourself and think you know everything, or best;
the way they care and demand reality so that you stay earthed and real
he way you see them transformed when they allow God to be at the centre

Currently I have been thinking a lot bout the theology of mission. Soon, I have to do some assignment on mission. I used to think I knew what mission was. I think I may use this blog over the next few days to start exploring those ideas and thinking out aloud. Maybe this blog will stay silent as I have so much reading to do as you may have picked up from the sidebar.

Whatever mission is, it needs to be mission that is based in reality, down to earth, without self importance, rooted in and emanating from God, challenging and grow from a desire to serve and share the love of the creator. It needs to be transformational! Maybe to get an answer for this puzzle I need to go and spend a bit more time with young people!

mission discussion to re-commence sometime soon …