One of the greatest blessings of youth ministry has been watching students’ worlds get bigger through missions and service. Over the years, I’ve taken students on local service projects, regional outreach trips, and missions experiences that stretched them far beyond their comfort zones. And almost every time, I’ve watched God use those moments to completely reshape their perspective.
Sometimes the greatest thing that can happen to a student is simply realizing the world doesn’t revolve around them.
There’s something powerful about helping students realize that God’s creation extends far beyond their own community — and that life is bigger than their first-world problems. When students step into environments where people are hurting, struggling, or simply living very differently than they are, it changes them. Suddenly, faith becomes less theoretical and more practical. Compassion grows. Gratitude deepens. And many students begin hearing God’s voice more clearly than ever before.
That’s why I’m so excited that in YLO143 we not only bring you all the brand new music and media but we also equip you with a bunch of great resources on the key youth ministry theme “Missions And Service: Making It More Than A Field Trip.” Mission trips and service projects are about far more than travel, photos, or checking a ministry box. They are opportunities for students to encounter God while serving others and sharing the Gospel.
Sometimes the greatest thing that can happen to a student is simply realizing the world doesn’t revolve around them. Missions and service have a way of softening hearts, opening eyes, and helping students see people the way Jesus does.
My prayer is that this issue, along with the wealth of resources on our site, can help you create experiences where students don’t just attend an event or go on a trip — but truly encounter God through serving others.
