I wrote this to myself a few months back but never published it. Yesterday, I read the introduction to Mark Oestreicher’s new book Youth Ministry 3.0, and it seemed relevant to some of my frustrations. I’m looking forward to reading further, but I thought I’d go ahead and put this post up. It’s still relevant most weeks.
For a batter in the game of baseball, nothing says you’ve missed the mark like striking out. Sure, it’s every pitcher’s goal to throw the ball in such a way that keeps the batter guessing about it’s position and velocity, but at the same time, it’s every batter’s goal to ensure that the ball gets no further than the barrel of his bat before ricocheting back toward the field of play. Batters spend countless hours taking batting practice to work on their technique and coordination so that they can do everything within their power to not only avoid striking out but to try to hit the ball out of the park.
Sometimes it feels like doing student ministry is a lot like playing baseball. You spend hours in preparation for a Bible study or an event, but afterward you’re left feeling like you’ve somehow struck out. It’s easy to tell when you’re not connecting with students, and sometimes that can lead to a state of anxiety or frustration for both you and them. The important thing is that you not let it discourage you from trying again. Learn from your mistakes. Adjust your swing. Prepare, prepare, prepare.
Great post, Cory. I understand what you are saying. It is such a bad feeling. There have been times when I would think maybe its time to quit. But that isn’t the answer. As you say … stay the course, adjust your swing, stay in the game. Until the Manager takes you out of the game.