Interns

Ron Writes

For the third straight year we have been blessed with a summer preaching intern. What they all had in common is their youth. There is something special about the energy and passion of youth. Christian brought a youth-load of enthusiasm. As they say, enthusiasm is as contagious as measles and more powerful than dynamite. He was one of 7 interns who came to the NW to give their summer in service to God and learn a bit more about what it means to be a preacher. What a blessing they have been.

After years of declining numbers of young men wanting to be preachers, it has renewed my spirit to see a resurgence of young people wanting to dedicate their lives to fulltime service to God.  

Your reception of them is so important. Thank you for your encouragement and kind words. One mark of a healthy church is that they respect their youth. Paul reminded Timothy that despite his youthfulness, he was an example of what it means to be a Christian.

Last Sunday’s classes were about David and Goliath. One phrase rings out in my mind. Saul’s words “you are not able…. for you are but a youth.” Followed by Goliath’s disdain, “for he was but a youth.” David didn’t realize that his age was an obstacle. Age doesn’t prevent one from trusting in God.  

The text says, “David ran quickly toward the battle line.” Youth have energy! They are quick to see the opportunities and discount the obstacles. King David’s victories and successes as a youth stand in contrast to the setbacks, sins and mistakes that he made when he should have been old enough to know better.  

I’m thankful that these young men used their youthful zeal for the glory of God here in the NW and pray that God will bless us with more productive summers with these preaching interns.