DON’T BE AFRAID TO CHANGE THE WORLD

Youth is a time of full of energy and potential, a stage of life when dreams and aspirations begin to take shape. It is often said that youth is the backbone of society, that it has the power to shape the future of humanity. In today’s world, technology has opened many opportunities for young people, providing them with tools and resources that previous generations could only imagine. However, these opportunities come with pressures. Today’s youth face challenges such as unemployment, mental health issues and substance abuse. Despite these obstacles, there is a sense of hope and faith in this generation. Although they lack experience and maturity, they are full of passion and enthusiasm, and eager to make a meaningful contribution to their communities.

Throughout history, God has called young people to play extraordinary roles in His divine plan.

Despite being underestimated by society because of their age, these young men possessed an unwavering confidence in God’s word. Let us consider some remarkable examples that remind us that age is no barrier to greatness. With faith and a willingness to serve, young people can have a lasting impact on the world. They are young such as:

• David, a shepherd, was anointed by the prophet Samuel when he was only 15 years old. Although Samuel doubted God’s choice, the Lord reminded him, “The people look on the outward appearance, but I look on the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7). God’s ways transcend human understanding.
• Jeremiah, a prophet who at first resisted God’s call because of his youth, saying, “I am too young and do not know how to speak!” (Jeremiah 1:7), was nevertheless chosen by God to lead the Israelites to repentance.
• Esther, a young Jewish girl from Persia, was chosen to replace Queen Vashti and became queen herself. With her courage, she saved her people from a great threat.
• It is noteworthy that Mary was called to be the Mother of the Lord when she was about 14 years old. Despite her youth, she demonstrated a deep faith, responding: “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let him do to me as you have said to me” (Luke 1:38). (Luke 1:38).

In the 21st century, Blessed Carlo Acutis with the famous saying: “To be always close to Jesus, that is my life project”, is a modern example of youthful holiness. Carlo had an extraordinary devotion to the Eucharist and used advanced technology as a tool of evangelization.  He created a website cataloging Eucharistic miracles from around the world, using his passion for technology to share his faith. Although his life was short, he left a legacy for the next generation, showing how to balance faith and technology. Carlo demonstrated that technology can be a powerful tool for spreading faith in our modern world. His example encourages all young people to use their technological skills in the service of their beliefs.

The role of youth in the life of the Church has always been important, and Pope Francis  constantly stresses his confidence and hope in young people. He believes that they are not only the future of the Church, but also the present. On the fifth anniversary of the apostolic exhortation post-synodal Christus Vivit, where Pope Francis referred to young people as “the living hope of a Church going forth.” In addition, during the closing Mass of World Youth Day 2023, Pope Francis urged young people, “Do not be afraid to change the world.” They are the agents of spreading the Good News in their own way.

The journey from the prophet Jeremiah’s words, “I do not know how to speak,” to Pope Francis’ encouragement to young people to “change the world” is a powerful testament to the youth. Jeremiah’s hesitation reflects a common fear, but God called him to be a prophet. Pope Francis echoes this divine confidence in the youth of our time. He urges them to move beyond their fears and embrace their mission to transform the world. The Pope’s words are, indeed, a call.

*Annie

Aldaia, España