Gen Z Speaks: Musings of an Old Soul
Welcome to Peniel CrossRoads, where we embrace Jesus’s heart and together live out the call to biblical unity!
Of the billions of children that have lived across time and space, I'm convinced I had the best growing-up environment. If I were to describe it, I would use only two words--Christian and mature. I lived among dainty church ladies and established church gentlemen. It was lovely.
However, it did not come without its problems. Skepticism from my elders grew in me a hardness toward anyone my age. Dissolutions with the younger generation shaped my young mind into a sullen place. It was not that the things my elders said were wrong. Quite the contrary, when I went to youth group I found my peers to be as predicted, although they too were still immature.
It wasn't until I went to college that I had to put aside my prejudices. Here is what I found: though this generation has its broken places, faults are natural parts of growing up and all faults can be redeemed when given to Christ. Youth sometimes make silly decisions, but they are ultimately looking for what all humans are looking for: love, respect and acceptance. Christ and the Church offer these things. It's been a long journey to learn this.
What could have prevented my haughty judgment? Besides a maturity beyond my years, I believe that if those around me had extended more grace to the youth, I would not have been so quick to judge. Mature believers have expectations for the young. When the expectations are not met, we should be slow to discuss it. How often do we hear about Mrs. So-and-so's unambitious son who lives in her basement or the pastor's blue haired daughter looking for attention? But this is what is forgotten in these conversations; not everyone raised in the church is a Christian–nor should they be expected to be.
Most youth do not have the life experience that proves faith. There are certainly a few who do, but on the whole, many are still searching for what to believe. It may take a long time. It may take some detrimental mistakes. But growing means growing into or out of your parent's faith, which is hard. Would it not be better to extend a helping hand to these maturing young adults? Instead of ostracizing the youth who question Christian morality, what if one listens to their arguments with respect and lets them take the time to think things over for themselves (and perhaps say a prayer)? What if, instead of criticizing the morally wayward youth, we accept them as they come in, sin and all, without judgment, just as Christ first accepted us? After all, until something comes into the Light, it cannot be guided to the Truth.
So, when we talk, let’s remember that the youth are listening. We should remember what a struggle finding our faith can be and how easily mistakes are made. We should love our youth. We need to accept them into our conversations, no matter their life choices. We can listen to their points of view, even if they seem one-sided or immature. We can respect our youth and love them as Christ loves us.
If we want to connect with our youth, we can talk about what we have in common. We can share about our high school or college experiences, troubles in finding love or shared hobbies. We can give our insights and tell our stories when appropriate, but more importantly, we can listen. We can even listen to half-formed ideas and remember that long-suffering is a gift. We may be surprised by how much young people desire wisdom from their elders when they feel it is available to them. We can be slow to speak and abounding in love.
Finally, we can make the relationship personal. Inviting the youth to dinner, taking them fishing, going to a movie, or getting coffee speaks volumes. There are tons of ways to take the relationship out of the church building.
As an old soul trapped in a young body, I need to check how I view my generation often. Though we may seem lost and wayward, what we need is love, acceptance, and someone who cares.
“My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” James 1:19-21
Lord Jesus, we did not choose You; You chose us! Thank you that You are always clearing our hearts to make room for the new. Lord, I want to partner with You in the New Thing You are doing with this generation. I commit myself to Your searchlight, so You may renew my mind. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
~ by Laurel Wayland