You likely have heard of the children’s writer, Dr. Seuss. You are less likely to know him as Ted Geisel.
Early in his writing career, Dr. Seuss submitted a new reader to a school board for its consideration. The book—which later would be published as The Cat in the Hat—roundly was rejected by the school board. The reason? The school board indicated this reader was “too exciting for children.”

Excitement has been, at various times in Christian history, a funny thing. Often, excitement or emotionalism has been rejected outright. Christians often have settled for more cerebral or meditative approaches to faith.

Excitement, once understood properly, holds an important place in any ministry. People must have an element of excitement in their faith—an excitement that moves them, holds them and carries them forward. This is not pure emotion but a heartfelt joy in being swept up in God’s work.

As you consider your ministry, what are the key areas of excitement for you as a leader? Where are you drawing your inspiration, your joy? What makes you get up in the morning and get to work?

As you consider the excitement in your youth ministry, where are you seeing teenagers becoming engaged? What is making a difference to them? How can you generate more excitement about the ministry?

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