Release.

So last night our youth group had a lock-in. I was only able to be there for 2 hours due to my work schedule this weekend. But the amazing thing is that because of the highly gifted leadership team that God has established in our youth group I was able to rely on them 100% and they carried the night through without a single hitch. I basically was just prayer support, and I came in for 2 hours to do some tech stuff and bring up the energy level while I was there.

I find myself growing and changing in my leadership role. I've always seen myself as a leader, but I've never seen myself as a leader of leaders. But I'm quickly having to learn how to become that because of the way my position has been evolving. I'm stepping back from all the worker-oriented tasks, and moving more into a coordination role. Not because I think I'm better than basic work, I love serving, even if that means super basic things like vacuuming and cleaning toilets, I never want think I'm "too good" for that. 'Cuz I never will be. But I'm having to step back from those worker-roles out of necessity, because the workers need direction, and someone has to provide it, and that becomes such a physical and spiritual focus that I have to rely on other people to do the basic work, while I almost supervise many different people and groups of actions and making sure they're staying on track.

My whole life I have been the "go-to guy", the guy who the supervisor relies on and sends to do all the basic work. It's something I'm really good at and I love to do. But now, without me ever trying or meaning to, I'm the guy who's looking for those "go-to guys" so I can rely on them and release them into meaningful ministry.

And that is the great reward for this giant change. I get to see these leaders and students who just needed someone to encourage them, and give them responsibility, and trust them to take ownership of a role within our church; be released into the callings that God has placed on their lives. I get to see them grow and learn and stretch the muscles of their giftings, I get to help them achieve a partnership with God and be a part of our youth ministry to change lives and create disciples.

What a fascinating place God is taking our youth group. I am excited.

I always find it amazing how much things change without us noticing them. Then when you finally do notice them, or those changes get put in front of your nose, you're like... "Whoa! I really am different!" or "Whoa! Things really have changed!"

It's crazy.