Intergenerational Ministry

Beloved People of God,

Intergenerational ministry is a gift, and it is something that comes naturally to us at Eternity Church. Everywhere you look, you see young and old serving side by side, encouraging one another in faith (1 Thessalonians 5.11). But as natural as this is for us, it still takes intentional effort. At times, especially when we are in a hurry, we think it would be easier to do things on our own. Why? Because we already know how. Some things become so routine we can do them in our sleep!

When we feel the impulse to rush, a Burkinabè proverb calls us to attention: “If you want to go fast, go alone; but if you want to go far, go together.” When our children are young, it can take everything in us just to get out the door! I remember when our four kids were little—some days it felt like we were herding cats. And it always seemed the hardest when we were in a hurry!

I find it useful to pair that well-known West African proverb with another from Kenya. The Luo have a meaningful equivalent: “Alone a youth runs fast, with an elder slow, but together they go far.” I like that because it highlights something that happens all too quickly for us as parents (and grandparents): those little kids…grow up. We used to be the fast ones, but things change. The pace we set matters because before we know it, the babies in our strollers will be slowing down to match pace with us! This is why intergenerational ministry is so important. When we intentionally disciple our sons and daughters, we raise up brothers and sisters in Christ who, even while they are young, can disciple us (Psalm 145:4). 

This Sunday, we’ve invited our friends at River City Youth With a Mission (YWAM) as they celebrate 50 years of intergenerational ministry around the world through Kings Kids International. This intentional time of celebration is an important reminder for all of us, young and old, to build one another up in Christ (Hebrews 3.13; Romans 15.2). Come ready this Sunday to be encouraged and to encourage someone else!

For Christ the King, 

Brett