Sep 30, 2021
Today, as we continue our series, “We are Crossgate”, I want to talk about some of the way we are intentional in reaching the next generation for Jesus Christ.
Across the board, in nearly every study, Generation Z has three things mentioned that they hold in high priority: Stability, Passion and Purpose.
1) Intentional Stability
The next generation longs for stability and it is easy to understand why in these difficult times. The key here is helping people see and know that the most stable place is in Christ, grounded in His wisdom, love, and truth. (Matthew 7:24-27) (Psalm 16:8)
The #1 factor in your household when it comes to stability is time…and what you do with it. I encourage each of you to make time to do what is important; like faithful attendance in worship, family times of devotion, like times to get away and adventure as a family, like regular family nights and routine meals together. (Hebrews 12:28)
As a church it is equally important that we spend our time and resources wisely so that we can continue to make more and better disciples for Jesus Christ.
2) Intentional Passion
Generation Z is marked by their passion. Their passion for transparency in politics, leadership, healthcare, and economic reform. But their greatest passion, which we see all over the news, is justice. Once again, as Christians, we know perfect justice comes from God and can only be found in Christ. (Isaiah 1:17) (Micah 6:8)
From a scriptural point of view, justice means loving our neighbor as we love ourselves and is rooted in the character and nature of God. As God is just and loving, so we are called to do make things right in love.
We see this perfect justice in Christ. Jesus, the King of Kings, stepped down from His throne in glory and into His creation. Humbling Himself, even to the cross, for your sin and mine, to make things right. THAT is justice. This perfect display of justice should fuel our passion for Him! (Matthew 5:6)
So here’s the question for families and those of us that desire to raise up the next generation; do we reflect this passion that we see in these verses? In our words AND our actions do we show PASSION for this Jesus who can truly make things right?
3) Intentional Purpose
With so much uncertainty in the world, Gen Z wants to know that their passion serves a purpose. That their actions will make a difference.
When most of the content that they consume on a daily basis is not from the Creator, it is easy to see why finding their purpose is hard . . . so point them to Him. Jesus alone gives us our purpose . . . (Ephesians 2:10)
And we know that His purpose will always come to pass . . .
Is this true for your family? Does the purpose you display as a parent align with what scripture says our purpose is to be about? Do you point them to the ultimate person, with passion, that can provide stability through any trial?