Spend the Day With Your Kid

He’s going to college in a few short months.

I always knew this day was coming.  And it hasn’t taken me by surprise – although I’m sure my checkbook will be hemorrhaging money and consternation in the not-to-distant future.

Today was a normal day….pick up some junk food for a movie party he’s having, order his glasses, grab a quick bite of lunch, head home so he can  finish last-minute homework.

And just like that, the mundane has become precious…and I wonder why these moments were ever ‘average’ in the first place.

The days are fleeting.  That makes them more than mediocre….everyday….all the years….every moment.

 

 

10 REAL Secrets to Being an Unforgettable Youth Pastor

So, yeah, in case you missed it…that list from Monday.  Farce.  Not real.  Don’t do it.  Try these instead.

10.  Invest in parents.  They’re the most important spiritual influence their kids have (good or bad).  And most are desperately trying to hold their heads above water.

9.  Know your pastor.  Chances are, no one is ministering to him/her.  Maybe you are here for such a time as this.

8.  Balance mercy and justice.  Students need grace, but they also need guidelines.  Giving them both, with love, is a non-negotiable.

7.  Set boundaries for your family.  Not everyone will like that – but they’re all watching to see how your family ‘rates’ in your life.  It could be the most teachable moment you ever offer them.

6.  Invest in getting better, not smarter.  Regardless of how you pursue continuing education, make sure it’s sharpening your skills, not just your intellect.  (Nothing worse than a youth leader who knows all the answers, but has no idea how to deliver them!)

5.  Never go over budget.  Period.  We prefer the term frugal over cheap.

4.  Be seen.  The whole world is a red carpet and you are Lady Gaga.  Football games, grocery stores, and the church office.

3.  Guard your heart.  Though most will never know directly the accountability measures you set for your life, they’ll sure find out if you fail to have any.

2.  Sabbath.  Wherever you can for as long as you can.  Which if you’re being unforgettable in a lot of other ways, may not be much…and only in the bathroom.

1.  Love students.  People notice it.  And then they catch it.  And that’s when you truly become most memorable….