Sermon Recap: The Next Generation Shining Bright at Heritage

The Next Generation Shining Bright at Heritage

My favorite types of service are when we have children and students take over. And man, did those kids deliver at Heritage United Methodist Church this morning. Two of our students gave their testimony about finding their calling and understanding the impact they have on those around them simply by being the Light of Jesus. Their honesty and passion for Jesus reminded me why our church family places such a high value on the next generation.

Both students spoke about the ways God has been moving in their lives—through friendships, worship, and the encouragement they’ve found in leaders who truly care. Hearing their stories, I was struck by how real their faith is, not just something “for later,” but alive and active right now. It was a powerful reminder that these students aren’t just the future of the church; they are an important part of who we are at Heritage today. One of our church members joked with me on their way out of service that these kids will be taking our jobs. My response was, “as they should! We are not raising up our replacements. We are raising up the reinforcements for the gospel!” It is my absolute joy and honor that any of these students would one day take my job. It would be confirmation to me that somewhere, somehow, I demonstrated the light of Jesus in a way that caused them to want that as well.

Lauren Lopez, our Family Ministry Director, tied it up in a pretty bow so beautifully. We were challenged to think about how we as a church are pouring into both Heritage Kids and Lighthouse Student Ministry. The message reminded us that faith isn’t something kids just grow into on their own—it’s something we nurture together as a community. If we want the gospel to keep shining brightly, it’s up to all of us to model Christ’s love, to mentor, and to pray over the next generation. It means we show up for them, volunteer with them, pray with them, and provide safe spaces for them to learn discipleship. Lauren reminded us, we might think we are showing up for them and impacting them, but actually, it is us that will be impacted. Volunteering with youth, being part of their discipleship, is more rewarding than you could ever dream. So what are you waiting for? Jump in there and get to work!

I’m grateful to be part of a church family that invests in children and students in such meaningful ways. Watching their boldness and joy makes me so excited for the future. I can’t wait to see what this generation is going to do to change the world.

My takeaway: God is already doing big things in the lives of our kids and students. And we, the Heritage family, get the privilege of cheering them on every step of the way.