Youth and Children Month
2025 Youth and Children Month
Pastor Trevor M. Crenshaw
Living a Life That Counts
As the vibrant days of August unfold, our hearts at Trinity Missionary Baptist Church (Trinity) turn with special joy and anticipation to celebrate what we designate as Youth and Children Month. This is a dedicated time when we spotlight the invaluable treasures within our midst: our children and youth. They are not merely the church of tomorrow; they are essential, active, and energetic members of the church today. This month, we embrace the theme, “Living a Life That Counts,” not just as an abstract idea but as a profound call to discipleship that resonates particularly with our younger generations, while reminding us of its timeless truth.
Our focus is on “Youth and Children Becoming Ministry.” This isn’t just a catchy phrase; it’s a powerful theological conviction. We believe that from the earliest age, our children and youth are not merely recipients of ministry but are called and equipped to be ministers themselves. They have unique gifts, perspectives, and a fresh passion that God can and does use to impact their families, schools, communities, and indeed, the wider world. This month, we commit to nurturing their understanding of their inherent worth in Christ and empowering them to see themselves, right where they are, as vital participants in God’s ongoing work.
The journey of “Living a Life That Counts” for our young people begins with understanding their identity in Christ (2 Cor. 5:17). In a world that constantly bombards them with messages about self-worth based on performance, appearance, or popularity, we must anchor them in the unshakeable truth that they are fearfully and wonderfully made, deeply loved, and purposefully created by God (Ps. 139:1-18). From this secure foundation, they can then begin to grasp that a life that counts is not defined by accolades or worldly success, but by loving God and serving others. It’s about recognizing that every small act of kindness, every moment of sharing their faith, every decision to choose integrity, is a deposit in an eternal bank.
This concept finds profound resonance in scriptures like Hebrews 12:2-3, which calls us to “look unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.” While directly addressing adult perseverance, the underlying principle is vital for our youth: when we fix our eyes on Christ, His sacrifice, and His ultimate victory, we find the strength and purpose to live lives that truly matter, regardless of the challenges or the world’s scorn. Jesus perfectly modeled a life that counted, giving Himself fully for a greater purpose.
So, how do we, as a church family, facilitate “Youth and Children Becoming Ministry” and empower them to live lives that count? It begins with prayer – fervent, consistent prayer for our young people. It continues with intentional discipleship, providing sound biblical teaching tailored to their understanding. It involves creating safe spaces where they can ask questions, explore their faith, and exercise their spiritual gifts. It also means modeling for them what a life that counts looks like, both in our corporate worship and in our daily walk. We must invite them into service, give them opportunities to lead, and affirm their unique contributions to the body of Christ.
May this August be a month of profound revelation and empowerment for our children and youth. Let us collectively embrace the call to live lives that count for eternity, echoing the selfless purpose of Christ. And as we invest in the spiritual development of our youngest members, may we all be renewed in our commitment to being faithful stewards of the incredible privilege God has given us – to serve Him and one another, making every moment count for His glory.