“One generation shall commend your works to another and shall declare your mighty acts.”  Psalm 145:4

As we prepare for this summer’s R.O.C.K. (Reaching Out to Christ’s Kids) weekends, we are reminded of one of the greatest blessings in the Christian life: investing in the next generation. This is my first experience serving as a pastor on weekends. Last night, we met for another team training and as we’re just a couple weeks from the first weekend, it’s abundantly clear to me that we don’t really plan these weekends as much as we step into sacred moments. We’re invited into stories that God is already writing in the hearts of these youth.

There’s something deeply moving about hearing young people speak about their relationship with Jesus. Their honesty, boldness, and hunger for truth have a way of reawakening our own faith. It’s as if God uses their voices to remind us of the joy of our first love, the purity of childlike trust, and the power of unfiltered praise. Don’t get me wrong, they have also experienced life in trying times, yet they’re willing to stand before peers and claim the faith that led them through.

The R.O.C.K. weekends aren’t just for the youth – they’re for the seasoned 😉 team members, too. These are opportunities to see the gospel alive and growing. As we hear testimonies, share prayers, and worship together, we’re reminded that God’s Kingdom is not built on age or experience, but on hearts willing to follow Him.

In prayer this morning, the Spirit reminded me of the importance of this time with our youth. Yes, it can be refreshing and is so much fun, but it should not be taken lightly. It’s a holy calling to walk alongside young hearts, to encourage them, to listen, and to help guide their walks, as they also inspire and strengthen ours.