Being… that guy… from the past

A few weeks ago I had dinner with a guy who, unbeknown to me at the time, had a loose link to my home church.

Furthermore, a family member of his was directly connected to my first active ministry.

Both of these interactions happened decades ago.

But the conversation started with the question… Do you remember (insert name here)?

I guess that I’m a vague memory for quite a few people and I can only imagine being a part of similar conversations.

Across four churches…

Over hundreds of Sundays…

Dozens of scripture classes…

A decade of kid’s clubs…

Over 15 years of youth groups…

I’d be… that guy.

A distant memory.

A figment who has no name.

A recall that they haven’t delved into since childhood.

A whitewashed memory from half their lifetime ago.

But, nonetheless, I’d still be somewhere in the rabbit-warren of their memories, alongside old teachers and scout leaders.

For hundreds of people. Maybe thousands.

I think this is a legacy that isn’t stressed enough for those whom serve in youth ministry.

You will leave an imprint.

Even if your name gets forgotten…

And every point you ever taught has evaporated…

You’re trapped in their past.

So… How do you want to be remembered?

What impression of Jesus, Christianity and the church do you want to leave?

Because, for many, being… that guy… is the faith imprint that they will be able to turn back to.