Changing Lives Near And Far…

by Rob Brower • Editor, interlinc • Franklin, Tennessee

Throughout my years as a Youth Pastor, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of missions and service in the lives of our students. It is a remarkable thing to see a young person’s perspective shift as they step out of their comfort zone and engage with communities beyond their own.

For me, missions and service have been more than just a checkbox on a spiritual to-do list. They have become a deep-rooted conviction, shaping the way I approach youth ministry and the values I seek to instill in the hearts of our students. The act of serving others selflessly has become a guiding principle that goes hand in hand with our efforts to nurture and empower the next generation.

When young people engage in acts of service, they see their faith come alive as they live out the teachings of Jesus.

When we engage our students in missions and service, we give them the opportunity to encounter the world in a way that books and messages (no matter how good or crazy the interactive sermon illustration was) cannot capture. They experience firsthand the struggles, triumphs, and diversity of communities both near and far. These encounters open their eyes to the realities and complexities of the world, igniting within them a desire to make a difference.

Serving others has a profound impact on the character development of our students. As they interact with individuals from different backgrounds and cultures, their empathy and understanding grow.

They learn to embrace diversity, celebrate differences, and extend love and compassion to all people. Through these experiences, they develop into young leaders who are unafraid to stand up for justice and advocate for those who are marginalized.

When young people engage in acts of service, they see their faith come alive as they live out the teachings of Jesus. Their understanding of God’s love expands, and they discover the joy that comes from being a vessel of that love to others.

Youth Leaders Only, in its 38th year, helps youthworkers in thousands of churches be aware of the music their students are listening to, use all forms of music in their ministries, and equip their students to make wise choices about the music & media they have in their earbuds 9 hours every day. A membership costs less than the price of a pizza each month! The theme of the current YLO is “Missions And Service: Crossing Boundaries To Make A Difference.” Click here to get it!

That’s why I’m so excited for this issue of Youth Leaders Only with the theme of “Missions And Service: Crossing Boundaries To Make A Difference.”

This YLO is is loaded with big music and music videos, and youth group sessions from today’s top Christian artists like NF, Lauren Daigle, Colton Dixon, Owl City, Disciple, and so many others!

We’ve seen how music has the power to ignite passion, create unity, and motivate young hearts to step beyond their comfort zones and make a difference in the world.

You’ll also find Featured Articles, Bible studies, and Discussion Guides written by veteran youthworkers to help you navigate the mainstream artists and songs that your kids are listening to.

These are not just theoretical concepts but practical insights gleaned from real-life experience in the field. All in all there are over 40 discussion guides, playlists and resources to help you use music in your ministry.

Let’s continue to foster a generation of young people who embody the values of compassion, empathy, and service. Together, we can empower them to cross boundaries, break down barriers, and make a lasting impact in the lives of others.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to youth ministry and for the incredible work you do every day. May our collective efforts in missions and service continue to shape lives and transform communities.

With gratitude and admiration,
Rob Brower
interlinc Editor
rbrower@interlinc-online.com