The Loop

Here’s a sobering thought: We’re always only one generation away from losing the church.

That’s why I loved the first line of a recent newsletter from our global partner in Egypt. It read, “The future is now!” Christian Arabic Services (CAS) places a huge emphasis on generational impact by reaching and discipling kids for Jesus. 

They go on to say, “...reaching and teaching children to love Jesus and share that faith is paramount to the work of the church of Jesus.” No truer statement can be made.

Statistics show, depending on how much stock you place on statistics, that 85% of Christians come to faith by the age of 15. That's staggering! If we want to continue to live out the Great Commission both locally and around the world, impacting the younger generation is vital. 

2 Timothy 2:2 says, “And the things you’ve heard me say in the presence of many witnesses, entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.”  Paul is reminding his helpmate in ministry of the role he plays in continuing to share the Gospel with others. 

A portion of the CAS newsletter continues, “May we never take the next generation for granted. We must pray, engage, talk, win, and train them in order for the Kingdom to expand into the future. Changing eternity is our only goal.”  It’s incredible to hear all that CAS is doing to reach kids and thereby reach parents. For example, a couple of months ago they rented a massive boat and hosted a day-long river tour up and down the Nile for the community that included food, games, Bible lessons, and lots of laughter. I love that CAS is “All In” when it comes to reaching and influencing the next generation for Jesus.    

In bringing this closer to home, I can’t help but think of my own kids living under my roof! I love how Psalms 127:4 states it - “Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth.” My kids are my arrows. They’re ammunition that I can sharpen and fine-tune so they’ll be powerful and effective against the enemy one day.

Who are your “arrows” that you’re sharpening? Are they your kids? Co-workers? Neighbors? Family members? Who has God put in your “quiver” to sharpen and disciple in order to send out and be warriors for God’s Kingdom?

As CAS stated, “The future is now!”  Let’s not waste the opportunities given.

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