Testimony ~ Be a Friend - Caroline

Let me start the ball rolling in our Testimony Series from our youth leaders.

I have been in the youth ministry ever since I came back from KL in mid June 1999. God impressed upon my heart this phrase which I have kept to this day, 'Be a Friend.' I must admit over the years there have been often times I felt this phrase somewhat lacking, especially when I hear other youth leaders talking about their youth, what are they doing in their ministry, their plans etc. and here I am, with a phrase I hardly talk about (until now) but which has shaped my approach in the ministry; be a friend. But over the years and in many occasions, God kept reminding me the value of this phrase and I praise God for that.

To me, youth ministry is about relationship. There must be that openness of both parties to talk and listen to each other. I learnt also that you must earn the youth's respect and when you have earned it, then basically, you're all right. Of course, when you are a youth leader, they do listen to you, but that kind of respect is different. They respect the position of the leader, but they might not respect you as a person. It is when they respect you as a person and as a leader, ah, that's when the relationship starts. And when you have that link, that bond, well like I said, you're all right, in the eyes of the youths la (although not necessarily in the eyes of the adults! yikes.... but that's another story, hehe) Another thing I learnt about youths is that they can spot a fake from far. You may talk a lot, but they know whether you're fake or not, whether you truly care about them or it's just lip service.

I didn't start youth ministry with a bang back in 1999. I had returned home from KL all drained spiritually and I knew I was in no shape to help. But things were a bit urgent then so I stepped in, willing but drained. And you know what, God truly knows everyone of us. God placed me in the youth ministry not just for me to help the youths, but more for them to help me! It was through the youth ministry that God steadily pulled me up from where I was, and He reminded me that I couldn't bear fruit unless I remain in Him, and He in me. We cannot do things without Him, it will not bear fruit.

I just realised that this year will be my 10th year in the youth ministry! Like CCL celebrating her 40th anniversary, I should celebrate and reflect in my 10th year. I sometimes ask myself whether I have outlived my welcome and usefulness in the youth ministry, and whether I am still relevant to them. I told myself that the day I no longer know what they are talking about, when I am no longer relevant to them and I become just another adult in their eyes, that will be the day I pack. May God grant me the wisdom to know when it's time. But until that day comes.. I serve faithfully. Amen.