Last weekend we celebrated the 200 year anniversary of our National Anthem that was written during the Battle of Baltimore. Lately I’ve been studying and contemplating the unity, courage, and sacrifice that embodied the people of Baltimore during such a challenging time. I’m convinced that the same qualities the possessed are invaluable for the people of God engaged in fighting for this city.

Two hundred years ago there was a man named George Armistead who led the defense of Fort McHenry. He is well known for ordering a large flag (42′ x 30′) raised so that they enemy would have no doubt where the fort was located. Major Armistead was brave and ready to fight for his city. What I didn’t know is that he was 34 years old at the time. There was also a leader named John Adams Webster who courageously played a significant role in the cities defense. Webster was 27 years old.

This has resounded in me as a thirty-two year old pastor. Youth is often viewed as a limitation of leadership. Yet history would show us a different perspective. I’m realizing that age doesn’t define our ability to lead–whether young or old. My prayer is that young leaders would rise up in Baltimore and courageously lead in the work of God in our city. I understand more clearly why Paul wrote these words of encouragement to Timothy:

“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” -1 Timothy 4:12

I’m learning that regardless of our age it’s never too late to lead. Likewise, for the young adults of world, it’s not too early for you to lead–now. Faithful, courageous, and sacrificial young adults defended our city 200 years ago and we can do the same today. Let’s be an example of God’s work in our generation.