YOUTH DROP-IN by Vanessa Karera

YOUTH SPECIAL Friday Night Youth

When I think about the New Year, and all the opportunities it offers, I’m reminded of Peter stepping out of the boat. Whenever I’ve heard a sermon focused on Luke 12:22-33, it’s often centred on Peter’s lack of faith. However, whenever I read it, I’m encouraged by his courage and bravery. He saw Jesus walking on water and understandably wanted to follow suit.

When I was younger, I thought my big brother was the coolest person I knew. I would watch him closely and try to imitate whatever I could, so that I could be as cool as I viewed him to be. Imitating someone we admire is universal, and I see this even with our young people and how closely they look at and copy the leaders they look up to.

Peter asked Jesus to affirm that he too could walk on water before attempting it, and recently that’s made me wonder how much I trust in the good plans I know the Lord has - not only for me, but also our young people and where He wants to take them. I realised that I had allowed Fear to creep in and have a seat at the table that was only built for my daily communion with God. Fear had been around for so long that I allowed him to actively participate in conversations he should never have been privy to and, while reading these beautiful verses, it was as if I could hear Jesus sweetly and lovingly rebuking me just as He had to Peter, questioning why I doubted Him.

During spring time, I felt as if God had put it into my heart to completely change how we did youth Friday nights. I was to change them into drop-in sessions and invite the young people in our borough. Although this scares me, I am emboldened by the knowledge that He who began a good work, is faithful to complete it. In other words, nothing God places within us is ever completely ours to accomplish; He calls us to walk beside Him and participate in the great story He’s writing.

We’re not asked to step out of the boat alone and navigate our own path, but instead to step out with the confidence that He not only has full knowledge of the path He’s asking us to take, but that He also waits there for us, patiently. With that encouragement, I’m excited to announce that, starting 21st February, Friday Night Youth will become a drop-in session, so that we’re able to create and provide a safe and nurturing space for young people in our borough, a place where they’re able to be curious about and encounter the changing presence of God.

We would love it if you’re able to pray for us as we start this exciting new adventure. We’re always looking for new volunteers for Friday nights, so if you or anyone you know is interested, please feel free to email me at vk@ecc.org.uk or visit me at the office.

Vanessa KARERA Youth Ministry Leader