In this episode of NextGen Matters, Rich takes us deep into the life and calling of Jeremiah, God’s prophet during Judah’s collapse, to remind us of the unshakable difference between calling and ministry. With warmth and clarity, he unpacks four timeless reasons why your ministry matters—today, tomorrow, after you, and for eternity.

Through powerful stories of faithfulness within unseen impact, on quiet students, and generational influence stretching from D.L. Moody to Billy Graham, Rich shows how ministry fruit often outlives the moment. You’ll be encouraged to see your leadership as part of God’s eternal timeline, where even small acts of consistency ripple into lives you may never know.

This episode closes with three practical steps you can take right now:

• Encourage a younger leader with prayer and affirmation
• Thank a mentor who shaped your journey
• Name one blessing God has given through your ministry

Your ministry matters because the gospel matters—and its impact echoes far beyond what you can see.

Resources Mentioned.

• Moody Church – https://www.moodychurch.org/• Moody Bible Institute – https://www.moodybible.org/

Timestamps

• 00:01 – Welcome and framing the core question: Why does your ministry matter?
• 00:57 – The aggressive and subtle challenges that make leaders question their impact.
• 04:13 – What ministry isn't rooted in: not titles, numbers, or visible success.
• 06:14 – A clear contrast between calling and ministry: definition, focus, scope, and meaning.
• 13:20 – Jeremiah as an example of steady calling expressed through shifting ministry.
• 16:22 – Four reasons your ministry matters: today, tomorrow, after you, and for eternity.
• 20:22 – How your faithfulness impacts students in ways seen and unseen.
• 22:54 – Your ministry’s ripple effects across generations.
• 28:28 – The eternal significance of serving in God’s story.
• 29:53 – This week’s practical call to action.