Let's not exclude the young

Ishmael (Rev Ian Smale), a Kids worship leader and song writer with a big heart to see children come to know God and be a part of church life, wrote a song called "Little Troopers Revisited" (which follows on from his song "Little Troopers"):


Now I’ve grown older, I’m now in my mid-teens
My church has taught me well, through many ways and means
But still it seems to please them if I stay behind the scenes
I’ve still got a lot to give

I’ve been taught to study Scripture if I really want to grow
I’ve found the more I’ve read in depth, the more I want to know
But when I’m full of Bible, then where do I go?
I’ve still got a lot to give

I’m told I’ve got a ministry, one of the chosen few
I’m told there is a task in life that only I can do
But why can’t I begin it ‘fore my teenage years are through?
I’ve still got a lot to give, I’ve still got a lot to give
But who’s going to trust me?

You saw me as a child, now see me as I am
I’m wanting to be used by God in every way I can
But please will you include me in the strategy you plan
I’ve still got a lot to give

Leaders, will you listen as I bring to you my plea
Let me learn to cope with some responsibility
Has the church that you are building got any room for me?
I’ve still got a lot to give, I’ve still got a lot to give
This soldier’s got a lot to give
But who’s going to trust me?


My question is: How can we make sure that we make the most of our children and youth in our church and community?