I have a belief in youth ministry that our main purpose is to walk along side people as they follow Jesus. I don’t think this is just for youth but for all those around us as Christians.  It is one of the hardest things to do in ministry.  I actually don’t like to do it. I would prefer to be the guy up front of the room or the guy pulling the strings from the back like a great director.  But as I continue in ministry I think my calling is to walk with students, parents, pastors, friends, and family.

What is the difference you may ask?  Well I think we help people the most when we walk with them.  We should avoid telling them how to walk, or where to walk unless they are asking.  You see when someone talks from the front of the room they are telling you what to do but that doesn’t mean anyone is listening.  It doesn’t mean anyone is hearing us.
When you walk with someone you are experiencing their lives with them.  You are at least trying to see things from their perspective and being that close to someone allows you to hear them more clearly and also offer advice that they are ready to hear.  Many youth workers will tell you people are messy.  People make this vocation difficult.  I know most Church workers will tell you this job would be amazing if it weren’t for all the people.  People are difficult to work with and walk beside them.  But that is what we are all called to do.
As we try to continue in our walk with Christ I can think of nothing more important than walking with people.  Christ did it for us and he calls us to do the same for each other.  I pray you continue to understand sometimes people don’t want you to walk with them, sometimes they are trying to have you carry them and make their decisions, but we are called to walk with them. we are called to share with them the good news and offer help. How are you walking with those whom God has placed in your life? Your friends, parents, children, others.

in Christ,
Steve Wilson