Kurt Johnston in a recent article gave 4 key areas that make a leader in middle school ministry sharp. This is a highlight of the first one.

Kurt talks about how most people in the church should love middle schoolers, as Christians. There is a huge difference between that and liking them. This applies to areas all across the church spectrum. I think the best leaders in any area are the ones who like (not just in christian love) what they are doing.

We aim to have a lot of interaction between are adults and our students. I know that is what God has put the leaders their for and I know that our students need it. But, students are like human truth detectors. They know when something is not real or quite right, basically they know when you are faking it. I'm blessed to serve with some of the greatest middle school leaders around.

I have heard some great feedback from our students over the past month. We've had several students that were begging to be at a particular house for our D'Now because they have such a great relationship with their small group leader (that was several guys and girls). But not just that, showing up and spending time with them just hanging out. My leaders really show how they like middle schoolers.

The first question you should ask yourself before you get involved in any ministry is "Do I really like this?" Sometimes the answer will be no, sometimes an enthusiastic yes, and sometimes God might change your heart to make it true for you.