Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity. 1 Timothy 4:12

Just a quick shout-out for the leaders and the kids involved in Scouting through our church and Troop 49 here in Tarboro, North Carolina.

I hear and read a lot about churches losing traction, and how people in general are “falling away” when it comes to faith. But a full church like this tells a clear story about the fact that people are hungry for meaning and connection, that the good news about Jesus is alive and powerful, and that ministry with children and youth has never been more important.

The message from Scout Sunday here at Howard Memorial was well-articulated by Scoutmaster Adam Schultz. If we say that we love God then what are we doing about it? How, then, do we live? Following the teachings of Jesus looks – in part – a lot like the ideals espoused in the Scout Law (trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent).

“Let your good deeds shine out for all to see,” Jesus said in the scripture reading, “so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father” (Matthew 5:16).

At this particular moment in our world, an enhanced emphasis on good deeds would go a long way! And I would happily settle for (at the very least) a little more in terms of “trustworthy,” and “friendly” and “kind!”

Fact is, your local church is just about the best place to start. So come on, people, let your good deeds shine out for all to see! – DEREK