I’m very passionate about the younger generation. Sometimes I fear that I have waited too long to realize just how crucial it is for the church God builds through us to be relevant to those who will belong to it tomorrow. But those fears are only quick flashes, and they motivate me to think, pray and dream about what it takes to get there.

We recently took another step closer to this dream. Did you know that last Sunday night we had a worship time designed just for the younger generation? About 75 people showed up for this first gathering, and two community groups were started from among them. Very cool.

And it’s just the beginning. This Monday, I will drive to Washington, D.C. to meet Mark Batterson, one of the most successful young pastors (whose congregation has more than 70% in their 20’s), and Rick Warren, one of the most successful pastors, period. Several others will join us as we take a few hours to rain down questions about the next generation of ministry and soak up some experience.

I’m not sure whether you’ve ever heard a message about singleness like we did last weekend, but if you missed it, you can pick it up on our broadcast page. This weekend I want to bridge back to Ephesians 5, where our Messy Life series began. A few weeks ago we laid the foundation, but left much of that passage off to the side; now we’ll go back, and pick up where we left off.

This weekend we also want to give you an opportunity to love those around you. We’ll provide bags that you can fill for your neighbors, particularly those who are struggling during these times. Many of you have done this in the past, and I’m constantly proud of the way you’ve been able to show the living church in your communities.

Let’s continue to bring hope to the world!