12. Jesus as a model for detached youth work

For those working in detached youth work, the model of Jesus can provide significant insights and guidance.

Engaging with the Marginalised

One of the most striking aspects of Jesus’s ministry was his focus on the marginalised. He often reached out to those who were excluded or considered outcasts in society. Detached youth workers can take this approach by seeking to connect with youth who feel alienated or disenfranchised, creating an inclusive environment where they feel valued and heard.

How did Jesus engage with the Marginalised?

Jesus is often described as having engaged with marginalised individuals with compassion and acceptance, according to the accounts in the New Testament of the Bible. Here are some ways he did so:

1. Healing the Sick: Jesus healed people who were often shunned by society because of their illnesses, such as lepers (Matthew 8:1-3) or those with physical disabilities (John 5:1-15).
2. Socialising with Tax Collectors and Sinners: Tax collectors were despised by the Jewish people for their cooperation with the Roman occupiers and their often corrupt practices. Jesus, however, did not avoid them, but rather ate with them and included them in his circle (Matthew 9:10-13).
3. Empowering Women: In a time when women were often relegated to the background, Jesus engaged with them and included them among his followers (Luke 8:1-3). The Bible even records instances of Jesus specifically addressing women in public, such as the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:1-26).
4. Speaking to Outcasts: The Samaritans were considered heretics and were socially isolated from the Jews. Jesus had significant interactions with them (John 4:1-42) and used a Samaritan as the hero in one of his parables (Luke 10:25-37), challenging the prejudices of His listeners.
5. Defending the Vulnerable: Jesus stood up for those who were vulnerable and condemned those who exploited them. For example, he defended a widow who was being mistreated (Mark 12:41-44), and he was known for his strong words against those who would cause harm to children (Matthew 18:6).
6. Teaching about Justice and Mercy: Through his parables and teachings, Jesus often emphasised the importance of caring for the poor, the outcast, and the marginalised. The parables of the Rich Man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31) and the Last Judgment (Matthew 25:31-46) are poignant examples.
7. Associating with Foreigners: Jesus crossed ethnic boundaries, something that was unusual for a Jew at the time. His healing of the Roman centurion’s servant (Matthew 8:5-13) and his response to the faith of the Syrophoenician woman (Mark 7:24-30) show his openness to engaging with those from different backgrounds and nations.
8. Letting Himself Be Touched by the Impure: In Jewish law, touching someone unclean, such as a woman with a bleeding disorder, would make an individual ritually impure. Yet, Jesus allowed such a woman to touch him, and then he healed her (Mark 5:25-34).

By challenging the norms of his time and engaging directly with those who were marginalised, Jesus set a radical example of inclusivity and love.

Building Relationships Based on Respect

Jesus’s interactions were characterised by respect and love, regardless of an individual’s background or social status. Detached youth workers can emulate this by forming relationships based on mutual respect, listening carefully to what young people have to say, and valuing their opinions and experiences.

Serving Without Expectation

Mark 10:45 says, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve…” Jesus exemplified servant leadership, a principle that can profoundly influence detached youth work. Serving without expectation of return or recognition is a powerful way to demonstrate genuine care and commitment to the welfare of young people.

Empowering Others

Jesus’s ministry was not only about his own actions but also about empowering others to lead and take charge of their spiritual journey. Similarly, detached youth workers can encourage and support youth in developing their own skills, strengths, and abilities to make positive changes in their lives and communities.

Holistic Approach

Jesus cared for people’s physical needs as well as their spiritual and emotional well-being. Detached youth work can take this holistic approach by recognising the various needs of young people, whether it be a safe space to talk, advice, practical help, or just a friendly ear to listen.

Teaching through Action

Jesus’s parables and actions were often educative. In the context of detached youth work, this translates to leading by example—demonstrating positive behaviours and attitudes and providing guidance through real-world applications.

Embracing Authenticity

Finally, Jesus was genuine in his interactions. This authenticity is crucial in building trust with young people. Detached youth workers should strive to be authentic and transparent in their approach, which can foster a safe and trusting environment for young people to open up.

By emulating these aspects of Jesus’s life and teachings, detached youth workers can develop strong, effective practices that resonate with the youths they aim to serve. The essence lies in the compassionate, respectful, and empowering nature of this work, aiming to make a genuine difference in the lives of young individuals.