Be Available: A Response

Josh and Kurt wrote a great article the other day about being available for students—especially in times of emergency or crisis—and their points were right on. As I write this, one of my high school students is sitting on the couch across from me because a few hours ago he texted me and asked if I could find him a safe place to stay after a serious altercation with a parent tonight.

I am so thankful that I was awake, that I had my phone on, and that my wife understands that sometimes being a youth pastor means driving at 1AM to pick up a student in crisis.

These moments where we have the opportunity to be there in crisis are huge for three reasons.

It shows they are important: Crisis moments for students are disorienting, scary, and oftentimes lonely. When you or one of your leaders is able to drop what you are doing and show up, the message is loud and clear to the student: You matter.

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It shows them Jesus: In the midst of a busy ministry where you’re being pulled in all kinds of directions, it’s reasonable that many students and leaders are looking for your time. When a student is in crisis, there is an opportunity to have a Matthew 9 moment. Jesus is walking through the crowd and stops when he feels someone touch his robe. In the midst of a bustling crowd, he stops and focuses on the needs of the one. The same opportunity is there for us, to stop in the midst of everything to focus on the one student in need and show Christ’s love.

It provides a safe space: For many students, the crisis moments involve them needing to get out of a situation either at home or at school, where they feel that they are unsafe or scared. Giving a student reprieve, and a place to talk to someone they trust and who can be objective, is key. The conversations are often more listening for us than talking, but the “Be There” factor as Josh and Kurt mentioned is powerful. Let them talk.

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When a student is in crisis, it’s so important that someone is available for them, to help, to talk, to pray, and support them in what can be a very disorienting time. The statement will come through loud and clear—that they matter and cared for.