The Big Transition: Bat Men to X-Men
- by Jim Eaton
Batman is my favorite super-hero. He’s my favorite super hero because he didnt actually have any super powers. He is just a regular guy with a score to settle. All of his super powers come from his inventions or martial arts training (or Alfred of course). He always finds a way to get the job done himself.
My first years in ministry were lived much like Batman. I was doing everything, I was at everything, and I was involved in every students life. I thought I had to do it all. If I wasnt involved in every little detail of what was happening in my ministry I felt like I was failing. I tried to be Batman. To always get the job done – myself.
Im at this point in my life where Im realizing that I cant do it all on my own. In the context where I minister, there is just too much! About a year and a half ago I was sitting in a seminar at a youth ministry conference and heard other youth pastors talking about this same transition in their lives. You have no idea how relieved I was to realize that I was not alone!
I began a search to figure out how in the world I could make a shift from being the one who knew every little detail to being free to do what Im gifted and passionate about and to trust others to partner in other aspects of the ministry. I have been scouring books and asking other youth workers questions about building teams and developing leaders. Everywhere I turn, whether its magazines (YouthWorker, Group, etc..); the internet (YS.com, simplyyouthministry.com, etc…); or in conversation with other youth workers, I am hearing that teams are essential. I cant, nor should not do this alone.
So now Im starting to feel like X-Men may be a better example for ministry a team. This fall Ill be implementing a new team format. Im excited about the opportunity to serve the volleyball and watch the team do what its designed to do. My role will shift to being an encourager, trainer, equipper, and coach for the team. Ill still be involved in students lives; in fact I think I might have more time for them!
Pray for me as I set out on this journey. Im praying for you that God will surround you with some compadres (like Alfred) who are passionate about youth and revealing Gods undying and unconditional love!
Blessings,
Jim Eaton
Want to read more? Check out these resources:
No More Lone Rangers (Great starting place!)
The New Breed by Jonathon McKee ** (Dynamite stuff here!)
The Volunteer Revolution by Bill Hybels (Some good perspective from the mega-church)
Building and Movilizing Teams by Marv Penner (Im reading this one right now)
Group Magazine Nov/Dec 2008; Mar/Apr 2009
YouthWorker Magazine July/August 2008
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