Joshua Griffin is the youth pastor at Saddleback Church in California. Josh recently posted on his blog 5 things parents could do to help out on youth mission trips. Since the Newfrontiers Oneblaze Week is this next week, I took Joshua's ideas and reworked them to help those of you who are parents make this next week memorable for them. Here are the 4 things you can do.
1. Please take time to pray with your child before they go. Pray that they would rise to the challenge to grow stronger in their connection with Jesus. Pray also that God would use them to help Living Hope Church demonstrate God's love to the city of St. Joseph through acts of kindness, and that in so doing Jesus would be glorified. (Matthew 5:16)
2. Please ask them to double check their packing. DON’T let them overpack. An iPod and camera are OK, but they don’t need to bring all their electronic gadgets with them. NO LATOPS or other bulky/expensive electronics. They will be out in the community serving during the week, it's not a fashion runway…so don’t let them pack a ton of clothes. Don't forget your sleeping bag, favorite pillow and toiletries.
3. Don't be calling your teen four times a day checking on them. Some of you may be nervous about your teen being away from home, especially if it's the first time. I would encourage you to TRUST GOD! Every church is sending qualifed and caring adults as counselors so they are in good hands. It's a healthy thing for kids at this age to have a growing sense of independence from mom and dad. You'll have plenty of time to talk when they get back.
4. Be prepared to be patient with your teen when they return home. Be ready to let them process their week with you upon their return. You may have things to do that day, but set aside time to listen to everything they have to say about their week in St. Joseph. When they're done, ask them questions and pray with them. Look at pictures together. Listen. It’s our expectation that they will come home a little different from this experience. Anticipate that and be ready to help them talk about it.
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