By Minister Mychael Burns
“Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”
You are needed! Paul gives Timothy instruction throughout the 4th chapter on false doctrines, fulfilling his call, and living holy. When we read 1 Timothy 4:12 and we see the word youth, most of us equate this with being a kid or teenager. But if you do a little research you will see that Timothy was not a “kid” or “teenager,” but he is what we would consider a young adult. Most historians place Timothy’s age around 30 years old. The word youth in the ancient Greek meant “Used of grown-up military age, extending to the 40th year” (Lock, cited in Earle). We are considered adults in society but that doesn’t mean our elders look at us that way. Some may feel that you are unworthy of the call that God has placed on your life. You cannot let that stop you from doing what God has called you to do. Ecclesiastes 12:1 talks about serving God while you are young because when you get older your vigor wanes and vision becomes blurred. The time is now to be used by God. He can still use you as an older individual, but in your youth, you have the energy to do the work required. You are needed!
We are in a prime position to be used greatly by God in this moment where we cannot meet as we usually do. We have been groomed for this time. We have access to technology, devices, and apps that we can use to spread the Gospel. We believe we will be able to meet up and go to church soon but what if it takes longer than we expect? You must tap into the resources available and use what God has given you to make an impact right now!
During this period of social distancing, stay at home orders, and quarantine, the government has deemed some employees that work across the nation as “essential workers.” These workers despite the pandemic, must still show up for work and do their job. Some work from home and others still must go into work in person. Either way, the position they hold is critical to the function of their place of employment and most importantly the individuals they service. This is how I see us as believers of Christ. We are essential and vital workers for the kingdom of God, and we must be examples and show others the way, the truth, and the life- meaning we must lead them to Jesus. Even in these uncertain times we must always seek the face of God and follow his direction. The world needs us more than ever.
Bishop Norman L. Wagner preached at our Pastor’s installation service in 2009 a message titled, “Bethel to the 5th Dimension”. One of his quotes that sticks with me is, “Those of you in your 20’s and 30’s this is your church.” This quote has never rung truer than now. It’s time to get involved and share the love and gospel of Jesus Christ. You are an essential worker for the kingdom!