Who's in Your Faith Web?

It's one thing to know that you belong to the body of Christ, that people want to see you grow in your faith, as you want to see them grow too. It's quite another to name those who are journeying with you.

Here's a great, thought-provoking activity for your youth group, small group, family devotions, or even for yourself.  

Take some time to write down about all those - young and old - who are currently pouring into your faith.  Next, write down those - young and old - who you are currently investing into.

It's a simple exercise, but has the potential to be a powerful moment for your teens.

A few months back, teens in our youth group participated in this exercise.  It was fascinating to hear stories about people they have named who they recognize are investing into their faith life. And to see them begin to recognize that they have a role to play in other's faith growth.  Probably what was most surprising for them is the simple fact that passing on the faith does not just happen "down," as typically occurs in our church programs. Children and young people also impact the faith development of the older generations as well.  It was empowering for them to recognize that, not only do they have a host of people in their "faith web", but that they played an active role in encouraging others in their faith.

Feel free to use the handout, or develop your own for your own ministry setting.