When challenging his leaders in relation to serving students he said there are three things he asks them to do:

1.  Pray

You can’t lead someone spiritually if you haven’t asked the Spirit to guide and help.  Prayer is one of those “must” that rarely ever happens.

2.  Prepare

Be ready to for what might come up with students.  Know what they are going through.  And if you are teaching a lesson, definitely take the necessary time to know and ingest the topic you are discussing.

3.  Pursue

Teens like to know they matter and one of the best ways to do that is to pursue them.  I’m not talking about during church or the EPIC teaching times, but outside of GPCC and EPIC.  Contact them through Facebook, text, or call them.  Meet with them for a shake or a burrito.  Show up at one of their sporting events.  Really, just love them throughout the week.

Thanks Adam, for this great reminder!

TEXT: Luke 1.26-55 (New International Version)

How Can I Participate in the Story?

1.Know the STORY.  Mary felt more assured that everything was okay because she knew God’s story.

2.Know your ROLE.  If you are either young or old, big or little, male or female, God has a role for you and the sooner you know it the quicker you will be able to participate in the story.

3.Don’t be AFRAID.  It had to be scary for Mary to tell her parents and Joseph about the new role she found herself in but that didn’t stop her.  Don’t let fear hinder you from doing what God wants you to do.

4.Just DO IT!  Most of us are really good at coming up with excuses.  Stop!  Instead of putting all your energy into excuse-making, just do what God asks you to do.