When I was in seminary I tried to sit as close to the front of the class as possible. I found it was easier to stay engaged with what the prof was saying and I was less likely to doze. I must admit there was at least one class that was difficult to stay engaged no matter where you sat. Some of my fellow seminarians planned to nap during that class.

Kim and I had the privilege of seeing Les Miserables on Broadway a few years ago and I wanted tickets as close to the front as possible without having to strain my neck to look up at the stage.

Sunday, as the church filled, “our seats” were taken and we found ourselves sitting on the front row. I thought it was great.

Then as I stood to welcome people to this Easter Worship, I noticed that the front row was full. The section right in front of stage was full of young adults – college students. They were home for their spring break. When they were in high school, this group always sat on the front row. They seemed eager to learn – to grow – to grasp the truths I was trying to communicate. It was great to have them back on the front row and to see they are still eager learn and grow.

It is actually quite humbling to have young people sit on the front row to listen to what I have to say. It is a reminder of the incredible responsibility to speak the truth of God’s word in ways that will connect with their hearts. I love these front row people.