Maybe you’re an veteran youth pastor. You’ve conquered that mountain you set your sights on years ago. The view from the top is magnificent, a testament to your hard work and dedication. But a nagging feeling persists. The climb, once thrilling, now feels routine. The once-daunting challenges now seem like child’s play.
Maybe you’re a new youth pastor just starting your mountain ascent and some of you are possibly peaking, already, be it in your youth ministry, church or as a minister.
I’ve started reading Brianna Wiest’s book “The Pivot Year,” and she offers a thought-provoking nudge: “maybe you need to find something that gives back more than it takes.” This quote resonates with me in my situation.
If you’re, like me, navigating the crossroads between staying put on your familiar mountain or scaling a new, exciting peak, I have a few ideas I’m working out but don’t have any answers, yet.
Reflect on the Reward
Mountains, metaphorical or literal, are all about the journey and the destination. The question on my mind and one you can ask yourself is, “On your current mountain, are you still learning and growing? Does the summit still fill you with a sense of accomplishment?
Identify Your Cravings
Another questions I am pondering is, “What are you yearning for?” Is it the thrill of a new challenge, the chance to discover hidden skills, or the joy of contributing to something bigger than yourself? A new mountain might offer fresh perspectives, reignite your passion, and unlock a wellspring of creativity.
Consider the Cost
Change, even positive change, can be disruptive. Leaving behind the familiar comfort of your current mountain requires courage and commitment. New skills may need to be learned, and there will undoubtedly be setbacks.
Before you make a change to climb a new mountain, a new church, please understand that, in this regard, most of these mountains are the same, only with new challenges. The new church you want to go to is not new, it has the same people just with different faces and if you have not grown or learned anything new on the mountain you are climbing, you’re still the same climber.
Embrace the Unknown
The new mountain might be shrouded in mist, the path unclear. But therein lies the beauty of exploration. Stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to unexpected discoveries and a deeper understanding of yourself.
This is maybe the most intriguing for me. I’m pretty curious and wondering, “What’s up there?” is right up my alley. I like throwing myself into situations where I don’t exactly know the outcome.
Ultimately, the decision up to us
There’s no right or wrong answer. Perhaps the answer lies somewhere in between. Could you delegate aspects of your current mountain to free up time for a new challenge? Can you find a mentor who has successfully navigated a similar climb?
Which reminds, me, if you’re looking a youth ministry sherpa, I’d love to help you climb as high as you want up that youth ministry mountain. Check out my coaching services here.
And where does God’s will fit into our decision making? I think, no matter which mountain we choose, God just wants us to keep climbing and keep trusting Him. He will direct our paths if trust Him with all of our hearts.
Remember, mountains are meant to be climbed. If your current peak no longer ignites your spirit, embrace the adventure of a new ascent. The view from the top might just surprise you.