Youths are a crucial driving force in the coming generations and their important spiritual role cannot be over-emphasised as advocated by Youth Ministry and Social Media Coordinator, Hannah Lee, in the interview.
Waiting for the seed on land on good soil
She highlighted the key challenge faced in engaging the youths of today in the Speedlight ministry is in what more they can do for the youths, “We don’t give enough credit for what they do through daily – The constant comparison to peers, woke opinions on social issues, and more.”
“Some of them are still on their own journey with the Lord and find it challenging to sit still, which may result in a lack of respect for the person speaking. Even though our leaders try their best, it might take a while for the seed to land on good soil,” said Hannah.
Hannah stressed on the need to identify the issues faced by the youths with an empathetic and listening heart. This parallels the story of the good seed falling on different soils and the consequences borne.
God’s transformative heart for the ministry
In spotlighting transformations seen among the youths over the years, Hannah, who has been with Speedlight since she was 13, fondly recalled one inedible mark etched in her mind of errant youth leaders undergoing character transformation to be a positive role model which sets the ball rolling as more arise to become disciples of Christ.
“One example was the leaders of a Secondary Three cell group who went from hyper and rebellious to nurturing and good-hearted. It was really heartening to see them flourish through God’s transformative heart for this ministry,” explains Hannah.
Another heart-warming outcome is observing youths from different schools catching the passion of God’s heart and arising to initiate prayer groups in their school outreach to peers. This calls for no less boldness and courage but faith and God-seeking posture. She noted others are more attuned to God’s calling and have stepped up to serve in Worship team and be of service to the younger ones with needs which speak volumes in demonstrating God’s heart and love for people. Yet another exciting collaboration between Speedlight and Sparklight is brewing in the works where the youths will step up to help and guide the younger ones in their transition to the next age level as youths and be geared up for service to the Lord.
Hannah echoes the vision of the Speedlight ministry which is geared towards impactful life-change of the youths in following Jesus as disciples. The teaching of the truths of God’s Word is caught besides being taught. The focus is on Jesus being at the centre of their lives which is reiterated in the weekly messages.
Another new beginning has crystallised with the merger of the two Speedlight services for LEW and LET which now spawns a common centre at CT Hub 2. From two separate centres with various ministry activities and joint collaboration, it has now merged to one Centre. This strategic move opens the floodgates for more breakthrough initiatives through unchartered waters as the teams leverage and maximize on pooled resources together with enhanced collaboration, synergy and unity to gear the ministry towards an all-high new level of outreach. As challenged by Pastor Lawrence, the youths were asked to envision their Dream Speedlight and to many it seems the sky is the limit where possibilities abound if all youths were to step up and play their part. We will continue to build up this ministry and make things happen for God’s Kingdom.
On a parting note, dwelling on what makes Hannah tick by serving in the Speedlight ministry, two goals spring to her mind: firstly, the call to be a God-influencer in playing the salt and light role and secondly, be a spiritual guide (playing role of elder brother or sister) to influence and pace the youths in their personal walk with God through their seasons of life. Notwithstanding, daring to make a marked difference by being a role model with a heart in mentoring and discipling the youths as they navigate life journey and challenges to be godly men and women of God.
Ready to learn more? Connect with Speedlight Ministry at https://lighthouse.org.sg/services/youth-service/
This article is part of Lighthouse Evangelism’s Ministry Spotlight series.
By James Chew