In 2016, a Gallup survey of young adults in the workplace uncovered an interesting statistic. Of the young adults surveyed, only 50% "strongly agree that they plan to be working at their company one year from now."1 This stands in stark contrast to previous generations. Many of our grandfathers worked the same job for 30-40 years. So, what's changed? In my 18 years of ministry, there is one question that I’ve been asked by almost every young adult that I’ve had meaningful conversations with. Though it may have been worded many … [Read more...]
Mission Trip Excuses
When I was growing up in the church, I viewed mission trips as the work of the varsity team—something reserved for the spiritually elite delta force. Consequently, every time a mission opportunity presented itself, I gave every reason why it wasn't for me. And even when I did put myself out there to serve, I only did so after laboring over the decision for weeks through prayer, internal debate, and counsel. The truth is, I didn't think I was good enough, spiritual enough, or ready enough to be a "missionary," even if it was for … [Read more...]
It’s More Than a Box
Every year around the end of October or first of November, my family takes an afternoon to go shopping. This shopping trip is always for a very specific purpose and must be strategic. As we shop for people that we've never met and probably never will meet, we try to think of things that they may like and will bring a smile to their faces. Oh, and it all must fit into a shoebox! This past week, I had the opportunity to do something that brought all those years of packing shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child to full circle. I … [Read more...]
Why Social Responsibility Matters to Young Adults
Fact: There are places around our world that have no access to clean water, therefore thousands of children die every week because of disease caused by unclean drinking water. Fact: There are more slaves today than at any point in human history. Fact: Sex trafficking has become a multi-billion dollar industry around the world and endangers the lives of countless young women, young men, and children. Those are the facts. No doubt, some troubling issues are at hand in our world. Millennials are asking, "What are we going to do … [Read more...]
How to Be Spiritually Prepared for Missions
Spiritual preparation for a mission project is the most important aspect of getting ready to go. Without it, you’ll be unprepared for the stressful situations that happen during your assignment. With the help of our friends at the International Mission Board, we compiled these four tips for being better spiritually prepared to serve: 1. PRAY All missionary work begins with prayer. Prayer softens the hearts of people and also helps us be sensitive to God’s guidance as He directs us to those who need to hear the good news. (See … [Read more...]
5 Ways to Make Spring Break Meaningful
Relax. Breathe. You're almost there. Spring Break is just around the corner. No classes, homework, or pulling all-nighters. But what will you do with your extra time? Here are a few ideas with purpose: Prepare. Let's be honest. Once you're back home, you'll put off studying until the last second, which equals stress. So, if you've got midterms after the break, try to study for them before you go away. Invest. Spend quality time with close friends and family from home. If you're not going home, mission trips or community … [Read more...]