Think back to your teenage years. For some it probably wasn’t long ago for others like myself, it’s been more than a couple decades so it can be a little difficult. As a teen, there were many times I had questions that led me to struggle with my faith. I remember one moment in particular that I built up the courage to ask my youth pastor one such question. It was a real watershed moment in my faith and in my life. I finally realized I could ask some dangerous questions about my faith and ask them in a safe place. I could not tell you what the question was, but I remember the feeling of relief as I laid it out there hoping above all hope that it and I would be welcomed.
What I love about questions from students is that it’s like receiving a couple of invitations at the same time. The first invitation is for us and the opportunity to enter into their lives. They are searching for someone to walk with them through an incredible time of discovery. They are longing not for a sage to tell them something but a guide who will walk with them into the mess and help them find their way out again.
Questions are God’s way of inviting us close, of throwing off shallow beliefs and rituals to come to faith in a way that is pure and whole.
Peace,
Ben
