Commentary
Always keep in mind that Christianity is counter-cultural, and part of youth ministry is bearing witness to this. Young people today are under tremendous pressure to conform to societal values that are directly contrary to the values of the Gospel, and youth ministers are called to name this truth both in word and in lifestyle. The way a minister acts, how he or she dresses, the language he or she uses, the jokes he or she tells, the objects he or she chooses to possess, the way in which he or she uses alcohol; all of these things speak volumes to youth, who observe more than we often realize and are very perceptive when it comes to spotting inconsistencies in word and deed.
One is certainly entitled to a life or his or her own apart from ministry, but one who chooses youth ministry should appreciate the fact that his or her lifestyle is, in effect, part of the visible Christian witness he or she provides. Perhaps a good question for one to ask is, “Is there any aspect of my life which I would be ashamed to share with young people?” and, if so, “What can I learn from this about myself and my ministry?”
If you are like most that enter youth ministry, you probably can recall at least one time in your life when you were profoundly touched by a caring Christian presence. This person was Christ enfleshed for you. The nature of the Body of Christ is that those of us who have been touched by this loving Christ are called to pass that healing touch on to others. You are called to be Christ enfleshed for the young people you serve. If you keep that as your focus, to act as Christ would act, your ministry will not only be beyond reproach, it will be a model of service to others.