Two questions that every ministry leader ponders are: “Have we made a difference?” and “How can we tell?” Admittedly, sometimes our answers rely on hope more than certainty. Other times, though, we can see clear results.
Clarity came to a church in Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada. Willow Park Church can point to 42 facts as evidence of a new day in their children’s program—a day that made a world of difference. My friend, Larry Plett, shared their story with me, and the picture of what he said keeps floating through my mind.
After years of planning, the children’s ministries that Larry directs introduced major changes to their program. They began using a new curriculum, developing new volunteer roles, and introducing many other changes. As part of this new day, their lesson plans included a salvation message—they clearly and creatively presented the gospel plan to kids one weekend and during the following mid-week kids’ club. Because this was their first time putting forth a salvation effort of this scale, the ministry inflated with anticipation as their big week drew near. They weren’t disappointed.
In fact, they were so thrilled that Larry and his team shared the results with the rest of the church. To do this, they brought 42 balloons into the weekend service; one for each child who gave his or her life to Jesus! The news from this ministry caused celebration throughout the entire congregation, and will forever mark the lives of all involved—children and adult volunteers. Their story also provided me with three ministry leadership reminders.
First, they reminded me of the power of intentionally and clearly presenting the gospel to kids. Each weekend, churches around the globe fill with children who are just one compelling gospel explanation away from a relationship with Jesus. Every ministry has the opportunity to help kids do what God has created all of us to do—enter into his family.
Second, I’m reminded of the power unleashed by a team’s willingness to change their ministry. Children need ministries bold enough to abandon the safety of “the way we’ve always done it” in favor of programs that relevantly and creatively share the timeless truth of God’s love and grace. We honor God when we decide to do whatever it takes to reach today’s kids so that they know and love Jesus.
Finally, Larry’s team reminded me of the power of celebrating successes that take place in children’s ministry (true for any ministry!). Did they make a difference? Yes! How can we tell? Easy—the beautiful sight of 42 balloons that caused spirits to soar in their church, and raised mine as well. From Luke 15:10, we can be certain that all of heaven joined in the festivities, too: I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.
I love it when a new day arrives for a ministry.
A New Day is the theme of the 2006 Promiseland Children’s Ministry Conference, March 15-17.
Copyright © 2005 Promiseland.
