It's funny, when you think about it, the things that God does. This weekend I went on the 6th annual Gateway Family Retreat-- funny that it's my first retreat since I've been going to Gateway for 5 years now-- and I couldn't help but laugh at the ridiculously mind-blowing thing which is the body of Christ.
I just keep thinking about all of the incredible relationships I have with people with whom the world would say I have nothing in common. For example, Saturday night before service I was looking around and gladly sat next to one of my favorite people-- a forty year old, blue collar man with a wife and two kids.
There are so many people at Gateway that have poured so much into me. So many have loved me like a sister, like a daughter, like a friend. They have blessed me in so many ways I can't even begin to describe them all. They've paid for me to go on missions, given me the opportunity to love on their kids, and supported me in ways I will never forget.
And so to Gateway, I say thank you. Thank you for being my church and my family.
God broke down so many barriers in my mind this weekend. I watched as my Gateway family got a small glimpse of what it means to worship without inhibitions-- and I watched students take the lead. Amy challenged us to walk as Elisha walked: the Shumanite woman perceived he was a man of God when all he did was eat in her restaurant. Do all of my actions reflect Christ?
God reminded me of very specific things that I will take with me to OBU-- hopefully with a large dose of faithfulness. If I have learned anything this summer it is that doing God's will takes strength, courage, and faithfulness.
May the truth of God saturate your mind and heart. May you receive the joy that comes with the fullness of His presence. And may you hang on to that with all of your heart, soul, mind, and strength.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Blessed are the eyes that see what you see...
...For I tell you that many prophets and kings wanted to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it. -- Luke 10:23-24
This was Mike's theme verse for our week at camp and I think it was very applicable. I'll skip straight to the good stuff, the highlights:
First night: we'd just gotten off the bus, ate dinner, had a session. Together with 4 other adults, I'm leading a 23 student small group, mostly high schoolers. I was praying, "Jesus, who do I need to talk to after this? What do I need to say?" One boy's face lights up, like a spotlight. "Really, him?" I thought as I looked at our resident football player... very intimidating for a nerd like me. "Yes him." "Why?" "Because I like watching you squirm." Awesome. So I wait and wait and I can see this intense hunger for Jesus on his face. It was awesome. So afterward I grabbed him and we talked about being "strong and courageous," and how it takes real strength and courage to follow God. We talked about leaving behind all the things that are in the way. I told him, "If you ever need to talk, I'm here." "I appreciate that, Veronica." Hug. It was weird and so awesome. Jesus did incredible things with that kid. Love it.
We also had the girl who pushed past the drama (at least momentarily) to figure out that her identity is based on Christ, not on what others think of her. Did she make huge strides? Maybe not. But there was a seed, for sure.
Another favorite, the girl who moved here a year ago to get away from her past, invites a friend from the past who meets the Jesus that changed her life and accepts Him for the first time. She always puts me to shame in the way she describes God's activity in her own words, no churchy flash or frills. Before this week she knew Jesus had forgiven her of her past. This week she forgave herself and realized that He still can, and desires to, use her in huge ways.
Then, there was the girl who wanted nothing to do with Christ. Came to camp and I heard her pray, "God, speak to me, because I want to hear your voice for the first time."
Several high school boys are realizing their leadership potential and stepping up to the plate.
Everyday we had so many scheduled activities that were empty in favor of free volleyball, playing BS in the cabins, and just sitting around and talking. Our students really decided to make Christ the number one reason to be at camp. It was incredible.
These TPX kids blow my mind.
Some things I learned on a personal level:
To be a leader means that whatever you do, people will follow. When Paul says "Follow my example as I follow the example of Christ," I think he knew that everyone was going to follow him anyway. So my challenge is, if people follow me, will they be following the example of Christ? Exhibit A: I had pink hair for TPX weekend, I came home and half my youth had pink hair. Funny, huh? Sometimes being a leader means nothing more than choosing excellence, and thereby enabling those around you to do the same.
At the end of the week I experienced lots of jealousy because I got the same recognition as someone who I felt did very little work compared to the work I did. But, I was most frustrated with myself that my reaction would be one so entirely fleshly as jealousy. I told Jesus I didn't want that anymore. He told me that if I want to work for him, I'm not going to get recognition very often... and I need to be ok with that. I think that receiving recognition will either amount to pride or validation. For me, it is generally pride. And so I must learn not to want recognition, to keep my pride in check. It was so humbling.
Another butt-kicker: Jesus has informed me that my job upon returning to school is to transfer my passion for these students to the ministries He has given me at OBU. My heart must be as filled with love for them as it is here... after all, He has set me up in both positions.
Overall, doing ministry with the people I do it with has taught me several things. The trap is set for us to get caught up in drama or circumstance. Admittedly, these things will make life harder... but these are just a cover up for the real issues. If the enemy can keep us there and away from what is really between us and God, he has had a small victory. The fact that one of my girl's boyfriend isn't talking to her is just the side issue to the fact she bases her identity completely on what other people think. The parents who do a crappy job can simply become excuses not to embrace God's love.
It's good.
The summer has been incredible. My eyes have seen so many things and feel very blessed. I, for one, am simply excited that I get to keep coming back to these people I love. I can't believe how fast time flies, or how quickly they grow up.
May You see the ways that God is moving around you, and ask Him for a piece. :)
This was Mike's theme verse for our week at camp and I think it was very applicable. I'll skip straight to the good stuff, the highlights:
First night: we'd just gotten off the bus, ate dinner, had a session. Together with 4 other adults, I'm leading a 23 student small group, mostly high schoolers. I was praying, "Jesus, who do I need to talk to after this? What do I need to say?" One boy's face lights up, like a spotlight. "Really, him?" I thought as I looked at our resident football player... very intimidating for a nerd like me. "Yes him." "Why?" "Because I like watching you squirm." Awesome. So I wait and wait and I can see this intense hunger for Jesus on his face. It was awesome. So afterward I grabbed him and we talked about being "strong and courageous," and how it takes real strength and courage to follow God. We talked about leaving behind all the things that are in the way. I told him, "If you ever need to talk, I'm here." "I appreciate that, Veronica." Hug. It was weird and so awesome. Jesus did incredible things with that kid. Love it.
We also had the girl who pushed past the drama (at least momentarily) to figure out that her identity is based on Christ, not on what others think of her. Did she make huge strides? Maybe not. But there was a seed, for sure.
Another favorite, the girl who moved here a year ago to get away from her past, invites a friend from the past who meets the Jesus that changed her life and accepts Him for the first time. She always puts me to shame in the way she describes God's activity in her own words, no churchy flash or frills. Before this week she knew Jesus had forgiven her of her past. This week she forgave herself and realized that He still can, and desires to, use her in huge ways.
Then, there was the girl who wanted nothing to do with Christ. Came to camp and I heard her pray, "God, speak to me, because I want to hear your voice for the first time."
Several high school boys are realizing their leadership potential and stepping up to the plate.
Everyday we had so many scheduled activities that were empty in favor of free volleyball, playing BS in the cabins, and just sitting around and talking. Our students really decided to make Christ the number one reason to be at camp. It was incredible.
These TPX kids blow my mind.
Some things I learned on a personal level:
To be a leader means that whatever you do, people will follow. When Paul says "Follow my example as I follow the example of Christ," I think he knew that everyone was going to follow him anyway. So my challenge is, if people follow me, will they be following the example of Christ? Exhibit A: I had pink hair for TPX weekend, I came home and half my youth had pink hair. Funny, huh? Sometimes being a leader means nothing more than choosing excellence, and thereby enabling those around you to do the same.
At the end of the week I experienced lots of jealousy because I got the same recognition as someone who I felt did very little work compared to the work I did. But, I was most frustrated with myself that my reaction would be one so entirely fleshly as jealousy. I told Jesus I didn't want that anymore. He told me that if I want to work for him, I'm not going to get recognition very often... and I need to be ok with that. I think that receiving recognition will either amount to pride or validation. For me, it is generally pride. And so I must learn not to want recognition, to keep my pride in check. It was so humbling.
Another butt-kicker: Jesus has informed me that my job upon returning to school is to transfer my passion for these students to the ministries He has given me at OBU. My heart must be as filled with love for them as it is here... after all, He has set me up in both positions.
Overall, doing ministry with the people I do it with has taught me several things. The trap is set for us to get caught up in drama or circumstance. Admittedly, these things will make life harder... but these are just a cover up for the real issues. If the enemy can keep us there and away from what is really between us and God, he has had a small victory. The fact that one of my girl's boyfriend isn't talking to her is just the side issue to the fact she bases her identity completely on what other people think. The parents who do a crappy job can simply become excuses not to embrace God's love.
It's good.
The summer has been incredible. My eyes have seen so many things and feel very blessed. I, for one, am simply excited that I get to keep coming back to these people I love. I can't believe how fast time flies, or how quickly they grow up.
May You see the ways that God is moving around you, and ask Him for a piece. :)
Thursday, July 24, 2008
It's the final countdown...
It's official.
Mike can go to camp. The playlists have been made ("There will be no Christian music at our camp."-- Adam). My chacos are on their way... In fairness, I'm sure we are still missing some paperwork and I still haven't talked to Scott yet about what we are speaking on (that would be helpful)... but the time is quickly approaching that we will stick 90 students on two buses and haul them to Coker Creek, Tennessee.
I'm pretty excited. God has already done so many incredible things with regards to camp thus far, I trust Him not to disappoint.
I mean, if nothing else I get to go whitewater rafting, eh?
Jesus, I thank you for all of the great things you have let me do with these students this summer. I can't believe it's coming to a close. I have watched you do amazing things, I know it's just the beginning. So Lord, I ask you to blow my mind next week. You who are capable of more than I could ever ask or imagine, bring it. Rain down your presence, that all who are there may walk away changed. You're so awesome. I love you. AMEN
My summer with the youth is basically over. I led my final TPX last Wednesday (thank goodness we played cow tongue football). I'm so sad to watch it go. This is what I know, TPX does not change lives. Camp does not change lives. Only Christ can change students, and He can do that any way He pleases. I don't know why He chooses me.
I have learned so much. I have so much more to learn. I can't wait to bring back the incredible stories of camp.
Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Mike can go to camp. The playlists have been made ("There will be no Christian music at our camp."-- Adam). My chacos are on their way... In fairness, I'm sure we are still missing some paperwork and I still haven't talked to Scott yet about what we are speaking on (that would be helpful)... but the time is quickly approaching that we will stick 90 students on two buses and haul them to Coker Creek, Tennessee.
I'm pretty excited. God has already done so many incredible things with regards to camp thus far, I trust Him not to disappoint.
I mean, if nothing else I get to go whitewater rafting, eh?
Jesus, I thank you for all of the great things you have let me do with these students this summer. I can't believe it's coming to a close. I have watched you do amazing things, I know it's just the beginning. So Lord, I ask you to blow my mind next week. You who are capable of more than I could ever ask or imagine, bring it. Rain down your presence, that all who are there may walk away changed. You're so awesome. I love you. AMEN
My summer with the youth is basically over. I led my final TPX last Wednesday (thank goodness we played cow tongue football). I'm so sad to watch it go. This is what I know, TPX does not change lives. Camp does not change lives. Only Christ can change students, and He can do that any way He pleases. I don't know why He chooses me.
I have learned so much. I have so much more to learn. I can't wait to bring back the incredible stories of camp.
Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Comercialized Christianity
Took the TPX-ers to a gianormous concert at WOF, headlining David Crowder Band and Mercy Me.
Good things:
1) I had lots of fun hanging out with all my other volunteers.
2) "John" see previous post made a comment about how we are the only people who would bring him back to WOF. Made my heart smile. :)
3) David Crowder was really good live. I'm really glad I got to see him.
4) Rousing games of spot the mullet and/or fanny pack.
5) My sweet action "I Fed One" t-shirt... I got a shirt and fed 100 people for $15. It's a sweet organization... CHECK THEM OUT.
Bad things:
1) So many christian t-shirts.
2) LONG lines. (I don't think I've ever seen this many people at WOF)
3) Not gonna lie, my feet hurt like a MUG right about now.
4) $7, burnt, bad-tasting pizza. :(
The night left me thinking... Christian concerts are always at least slightly awkward because no one knows whether to worship or party (I generally choose both). Overall, the event left a bad taste in my mouth, I think in part due to my own cynicism, but also because I couldn't help but notice how commercialized everything was. I couldn't help but note the irony, that my shirt that fed 100 people cost $15, then my pretzel with cheese cost $4.
James said, "Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do." I wonder if now it would read something to the effect of "Show me your faith on your t-shirt, and I will show you my faith by what I do." I wonder if we substitute Christian shirts for Christian lifestyles, and huge worship events for service. Someone asked, "Why do we come to these events?" My first thought? "Because it's easier that loving kindness, doing justice, and walking humbly with God." Something just seems wrong when I watch someone pray for God to receive all the glory while they are in a spotlight.
So my question is, would people know you were a Christian if you never wore a t-shirt that said so? How many of those shirts with the dorky Christian logos were made by slaves? (Cotton is one of the number one slave exports.) If all of those people at Heartfest found one ministry to volunteer with, how different would KC look?
In fairness, I'm not a huge Mercy Me fan. But I wonder if Jesus would take our merch tables and flip them over, asking why we are selling things instead of praying.
Adam brought up an excellent point. One Way Caravan is playing worship at our camp in one week. I really like them and I want to support their ministry. They are going to want to set up a merch table. But I am not ok with, "Hey, we just worshiped and so if you like what you heard, come buy our cd." In fairness, we are paying them and supporting their ministry in that way. How do we deal with that? I'll let you know the outcome.
Oh, for those of you who think I especially attack Christian t-shirts... it's true, I'm not a fan. Why? Because my parents hate them. Anything that turns my parents off Christianity immediately receives strikes that will be very hard to earn back in my book. Here are some acceptable christian shirts: 1) you received it at an event, 2) it only has a bible verse on it... oh, wait, that's about all I can think of. Unacceptable t-shirts include 1) anything that took something not originally about Jesus and made it about Jesus, 2) anything hugely obnoxious (aka, covered in flames or Jesus face huge on the back), 3) anything that talks about Hell. Why the last one? The only people Jesus talked to about Hell were the people who were really good at church. Glad I could keep you all up to date on acceptable Jesus-wear.
James 2:17- In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.
If you can not feed 100 people, just feed one. - Momma T
Good things:
1) I had lots of fun hanging out with all my other volunteers.
2) "John" see previous post made a comment about how we are the only people who would bring him back to WOF. Made my heart smile. :)
3) David Crowder was really good live. I'm really glad I got to see him.
4) Rousing games of spot the mullet and/or fanny pack.
5) My sweet action "I Fed One" t-shirt... I got a shirt and fed 100 people for $15. It's a sweet organization... CHECK THEM OUT.
Bad things:
1) So many christian t-shirts.
2) LONG lines. (I don't think I've ever seen this many people at WOF)
3) Not gonna lie, my feet hurt like a MUG right about now.
4) $7, burnt, bad-tasting pizza. :(
The night left me thinking... Christian concerts are always at least slightly awkward because no one knows whether to worship or party (I generally choose both). Overall, the event left a bad taste in my mouth, I think in part due to my own cynicism, but also because I couldn't help but notice how commercialized everything was. I couldn't help but note the irony, that my shirt that fed 100 people cost $15, then my pretzel with cheese cost $4.
James said, "Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do." I wonder if now it would read something to the effect of "Show me your faith on your t-shirt, and I will show you my faith by what I do." I wonder if we substitute Christian shirts for Christian lifestyles, and huge worship events for service. Someone asked, "Why do we come to these events?" My first thought? "Because it's easier that loving kindness, doing justice, and walking humbly with God." Something just seems wrong when I watch someone pray for God to receive all the glory while they are in a spotlight.
So my question is, would people know you were a Christian if you never wore a t-shirt that said so? How many of those shirts with the dorky Christian logos were made by slaves? (Cotton is one of the number one slave exports.) If all of those people at Heartfest found one ministry to volunteer with, how different would KC look?
In fairness, I'm not a huge Mercy Me fan. But I wonder if Jesus would take our merch tables and flip them over, asking why we are selling things instead of praying.
Adam brought up an excellent point. One Way Caravan is playing worship at our camp in one week. I really like them and I want to support their ministry. They are going to want to set up a merch table. But I am not ok with, "Hey, we just worshiped and so if you like what you heard, come buy our cd." In fairness, we are paying them and supporting their ministry in that way. How do we deal with that? I'll let you know the outcome.
Oh, for those of you who think I especially attack Christian t-shirts... it's true, I'm not a fan. Why? Because my parents hate them. Anything that turns my parents off Christianity immediately receives strikes that will be very hard to earn back in my book. Here are some acceptable christian shirts: 1) you received it at an event, 2) it only has a bible verse on it... oh, wait, that's about all I can think of. Unacceptable t-shirts include 1) anything that took something not originally about Jesus and made it about Jesus, 2) anything hugely obnoxious (aka, covered in flames or Jesus face huge on the back), 3) anything that talks about Hell. Why the last one? The only people Jesus talked to about Hell were the people who were really good at church. Glad I could keep you all up to date on acceptable Jesus-wear.
James 2:17- In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.
If you can not feed 100 people, just feed one. - Momma T
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Kids say the darndest things...
This week, there was no TPX due to VBS. Because our church is awesome and run by volunteers, we have VBS from 6-8:45 pm Sunday - Thursday...
At the beginning, my intentions were to have very little to do with VBS, maybe wrangling the TPX volunteers... however, I've learned that as an intern, one can go into very little expecting to do nothing. "Can you be a teacher?" Sure. "Can you come and help decorate?" Sure. "My high schoolers didn't show up, can you MC?" Sure. So not only was I teaching 8 and 9 year olds but I also spent some time wearing an inter tube making a fool out of myself on stage. As if anyone could ever doubt that I was not supposed to go into ministry...
I'm sure, that anyone else out there in church land has also experienced the wonder that is Lifeway's "Outrigger Island." Here's a favorite story from my adventures...
After giving my kids the "A B C" sailboat (you know, the standard VBS take home that discusses becoming a Christian) one comes up to me and says:
-Admit to God you're a sinner, what does that mean?
-Well, it means that you tell God that sometimes you do bad things.
-I don't do any bad things.
-You've never done anything bad in your whole life?
-*pauses for thought* No.
-You've never lied?
-Well, sometimes I say something that's not true but I say just kidding.
-You've never not cleaned your room when your mom told you to?
-No. I always do it.
-Right away?
-Well sometimes I wait a couple minutes if my show is almost over, but then I do it!
-Ok. Well, you think about it and come back to me.
THE NEXT DAY
-When I was a baby, I said cuss words, but I didn't know they were bad, so I prayed to God for forgiveness.
-Ok, good.
Shall we say 2nd and 3rd graders are not my calling? I think we shall. This was, of course, the same girl who said "My mom had me when she was 18. Don't say oh my gosh!" Hahaha. Kids-- they're so cute. Unfortunately, I will miss the last day of VBS due to work... bummer.
In other news, I met with Joey this morning and we discussed prayer. More than anything, it made me miss the good ol' days of youthfront summers past with morning prayer, midday, and compline. We discussed the difference between prayer and prayerfulness. Prayer is not only something we say to God and then check off a list, prayer is engaging God in all of our thoughts and actions. Thus Paul's command to "pray without ceasing" becomes much more than "pray a lot" or worse, something impossible. Instead, we must engage in a prayerful lifestyle...
It's good good.
Worlds of Fun on Saturday to see David Crowder and Mercy Me. It's gonna be awesome. Furthermore, I'm excited about camp. Only 5 weeks from today I will be back at OBU. Crazy.
May God give you opportunity to serve Him super-abundantly.
At the beginning, my intentions were to have very little to do with VBS, maybe wrangling the TPX volunteers... however, I've learned that as an intern, one can go into very little expecting to do nothing. "Can you be a teacher?" Sure. "Can you come and help decorate?" Sure. "My high schoolers didn't show up, can you MC?" Sure. So not only was I teaching 8 and 9 year olds but I also spent some time wearing an inter tube making a fool out of myself on stage. As if anyone could ever doubt that I was not supposed to go into ministry...
I'm sure, that anyone else out there in church land has also experienced the wonder that is Lifeway's "Outrigger Island." Here's a favorite story from my adventures...
After giving my kids the "A B C" sailboat (you know, the standard VBS take home that discusses becoming a Christian) one comes up to me and says:
-Admit to God you're a sinner, what does that mean?
-Well, it means that you tell God that sometimes you do bad things.
-I don't do any bad things.
-You've never done anything bad in your whole life?
-*pauses for thought* No.
-You've never lied?
-Well, sometimes I say something that's not true but I say just kidding.
-You've never not cleaned your room when your mom told you to?
-No. I always do it.
-Right away?
-Well sometimes I wait a couple minutes if my show is almost over, but then I do it!
-Ok. Well, you think about it and come back to me.
THE NEXT DAY
-When I was a baby, I said cuss words, but I didn't know they were bad, so I prayed to God for forgiveness.
-Ok, good.
Shall we say 2nd and 3rd graders are not my calling? I think we shall. This was, of course, the same girl who said "My mom had me when she was 18. Don't say oh my gosh!" Hahaha. Kids-- they're so cute. Unfortunately, I will miss the last day of VBS due to work... bummer.
In other news, I met with Joey this morning and we discussed prayer. More than anything, it made me miss the good ol' days of youthfront summers past with morning prayer, midday, and compline. We discussed the difference between prayer and prayerfulness. Prayer is not only something we say to God and then check off a list, prayer is engaging God in all of our thoughts and actions. Thus Paul's command to "pray without ceasing" becomes much more than "pray a lot" or worse, something impossible. Instead, we must engage in a prayerful lifestyle...
It's good good.
Worlds of Fun on Saturday to see David Crowder and Mercy Me. It's gonna be awesome. Furthermore, I'm excited about camp. Only 5 weeks from today I will be back at OBU. Crazy.
May God give you opportunity to serve Him super-abundantly.
Friday, July 11, 2008
We minister to people, not to ideas.
Yesterday in my meeting with Mike and Joey, one thing we talked about is that we minister to people, not just ideas. If you haven't met someone, how can you know how to minister to them?
Just some food for thought.
One of my students-- we'll call him John-- is a trouble maker. In my heart, I know that he is a good kid... he just likes to impress his friends. So last year, we went to Worlds of Fun for a day with the youth. And John, oh John, did something stupid and got himself arrested. The funny thing is he had two accomplices and if they had all run away as originally planned, they wouldn't have gotten caught. But, John felt bad and went back to the scene of the crime, because he just didn't know what else to do.
So Mike tells me this story about last year at WOF (after I have planned a WOF event for this year, mind you) and my only thought is: so why on EARTH would we take them there again??
But, then on Wednesday, I had the students break into small groups and then they each had to teach the large group about what they talked about. The high school boys were talking about John the Baptist doubting that Jesus was the messiah after he got put in jail. I watched 4 of them trying to explain to the other students what they had learned. And finally, John says, "You know, someone told me, it's not always going to be easy, but it's going to be worth it. Jesus knows what he's doing, and that's what always gets me through."
I'm sure, my mouth was gaping wide open at that point. You see, John is not just a trouble-maker. He is a student who needs guidance, and needs to be told that he has a lot to offer. He does have a lot to offer.
So some would question my bringing him back to WOF. I would do it every time.
I pray that you may see what I've seen-- Jesus in the eyes of someone you least expect.
Just some food for thought.
One of my students-- we'll call him John-- is a trouble maker. In my heart, I know that he is a good kid... he just likes to impress his friends. So last year, we went to Worlds of Fun for a day with the youth. And John, oh John, did something stupid and got himself arrested. The funny thing is he had two accomplices and if they had all run away as originally planned, they wouldn't have gotten caught. But, John felt bad and went back to the scene of the crime, because he just didn't know what else to do.
So Mike tells me this story about last year at WOF (after I have planned a WOF event for this year, mind you) and my only thought is: so why on EARTH would we take them there again??
But, then on Wednesday, I had the students break into small groups and then they each had to teach the large group about what they talked about. The high school boys were talking about John the Baptist doubting that Jesus was the messiah after he got put in jail. I watched 4 of them trying to explain to the other students what they had learned. And finally, John says, "You know, someone told me, it's not always going to be easy, but it's going to be worth it. Jesus knows what he's doing, and that's what always gets me through."
I'm sure, my mouth was gaping wide open at that point. You see, John is not just a trouble-maker. He is a student who needs guidance, and needs to be told that he has a lot to offer. He does have a lot to offer.
So some would question my bringing him back to WOF. I would do it every time.
I pray that you may see what I've seen-- Jesus in the eyes of someone you least expect.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Isaiah 55:10-11
"For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return there without watering the earth and making it bear and sprout, nd furnishing seed to the sower and bread to the eater; so will My word be which goes forth from My mouth; it will not return to Me empty, without accomplishing what I desire, and without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it."
Today was a day for revelation. Though, I suppose, that would be the point behind meeting Amy V for breakfast.
Long story short: I am learning that as someone in ministry, I'm not always going to be "on" in the Spirit-led sense. But you know what, I still have to go minister. Yes, that makes it harder. But, if I'm not receiving truth from God, then I just have to trust that if I teach truth from His word, it will not return void, but will accomplish what He desires... and I need to prepare a lot more.
That said, I'm way pumped for TPX tonight. Only 3 teaching weeks left!
May your heart delight in love and the truth.
Today was a day for revelation. Though, I suppose, that would be the point behind meeting Amy V for breakfast.
Long story short: I am learning that as someone in ministry, I'm not always going to be "on" in the Spirit-led sense. But you know what, I still have to go minister. Yes, that makes it harder. But, if I'm not receiving truth from God, then I just have to trust that if I teach truth from His word, it will not return void, but will accomplish what He desires... and I need to prepare a lot more.
That said, I'm way pumped for TPX tonight. Only 3 teaching weeks left!
May your heart delight in love and the truth.
Friday, July 4, 2008
Merry Independence Day!
It's funny how life comes at you in waves.
I've done so little this week I feel desperate to leave my house. Not only that, but TPX was a little bit of a bust because we meet outside and on Wednesday butt heads with hurricane Missouri. It was funny to watch all of us huddled together in th middle of the park shelter listening to Mike say, "This is what memories are made of!" And I admit, even though we were all drenched no matter where we were standing (thank you, Mr. Wind) I supposed that the students needed to bond more than they needed to hear about callings. Ok, God. I trust You in that.
But, on the upside, one of my girls who I haven't seen in probably almost 2 years, who I spent a lot of time with in high school, came by TPX. Sure, it was only for 15 minutes, but it was good. So maybe, whatever she was doing needed to get rained on to get her to come by. I don't know. But I hope she comes to camp or something. Sigh.
If you would like to pray for me, I could use a good helping of faithfulness and discernment.
-May the peace of Christ be with you... and please don't set anyone on fire today.
I've done so little this week I feel desperate to leave my house. Not only that, but TPX was a little bit of a bust because we meet outside and on Wednesday butt heads with hurricane Missouri. It was funny to watch all of us huddled together in th middle of the park shelter listening to Mike say, "This is what memories are made of!" And I admit, even though we were all drenched no matter where we were standing (thank you, Mr. Wind) I supposed that the students needed to bond more than they needed to hear about callings. Ok, God. I trust You in that.
But, on the upside, one of my girls who I haven't seen in probably almost 2 years, who I spent a lot of time with in high school, came by TPX. Sure, it was only for 15 minutes, but it was good. So maybe, whatever she was doing needed to get rained on to get her to come by. I don't know. But I hope she comes to camp or something. Sigh.
If you would like to pray for me, I could use a good helping of faithfulness and discernment.
-May the peace of Christ be with you... and please don't set anyone on fire today.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Busy busy.
Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways! For WHO HAS KNOWN THE MIND OF THE LORD, OR WHO BECAME HIS COUNSELOR?Or WHO HAS FIRST GIVEN TO HIM THAT IT MIGHT BE PAID BACK TO HIM AGAIN? For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen. -- Romans 11.33-36
My weeks continue to fill up. Soon I'm going to need a planner. HA! Yeah, right. Every moment God reveals to me a little bit more of why I am here this summer.
Right after talking with Mike and Joey about the lack of answers to hard questions and instead the struggle of walking out our search, I spent 3 hours in a park with a friend who needed to hear just that. The openness and raw honesty of our talk was mind blowing to say the least. I have no answers. It's ok. Together, we will seek to be still before the Creator and watch our hardships dissolve.
I also had my first meeting with two girls that I'm meeting with weekly for the summer. It was wonderful. They are blossoming into the leaders that God has anointed them to be. I'm so excited to get to shepherd them in that. I feel so unworthy to be the one who God has asked to foster the potential in their lives, but very excited that He has asked me to do it. It will be interesting to say the least.
Between work, family, and internship I hope for nothing more than a little time to run. Life is good. This is the first time I feel like I've really experienced summer is probably 4 years. God knows what He's doing.
"We can do no great things. Only small things with great love."- Mother Theresa
I do not seek greatness, only the story which He has written for me alone.
My weeks continue to fill up. Soon I'm going to need a planner. HA! Yeah, right. Every moment God reveals to me a little bit more of why I am here this summer.
Right after talking with Mike and Joey about the lack of answers to hard questions and instead the struggle of walking out our search, I spent 3 hours in a park with a friend who needed to hear just that. The openness and raw honesty of our talk was mind blowing to say the least. I have no answers. It's ok. Together, we will seek to be still before the Creator and watch our hardships dissolve.
I also had my first meeting with two girls that I'm meeting with weekly for the summer. It was wonderful. They are blossoming into the leaders that God has anointed them to be. I'm so excited to get to shepherd them in that. I feel so unworthy to be the one who God has asked to foster the potential in their lives, but very excited that He has asked me to do it. It will be interesting to say the least.
Between work, family, and internship I hope for nothing more than a little time to run. Life is good. This is the first time I feel like I've really experienced summer is probably 4 years. God knows what He's doing.
"We can do no great things. Only small things with great love."- Mother Theresa
I do not seek greatness, only the story which He has written for me alone.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
The Kingdom.
I've been having some really good meetings with some really wise people. Here's what I've been learning.
1) The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.
My job is not to do God's work, but to find it, participate in it, and point others to it. As an usher of the Kingdom, my main function is to recognize it and lead others to do the same.
2) The harvest is plentiful and the workers are few.
My job is not to fix everything and there will not be a time when everything is fixed until Kingdom come. Instead I live an example of faith. The results of real, deep, hard, spiritual questions are not answers, but healing. God takes our complicated me-centered piles and heals our brokenness. Before our Creator, our questions are not answered, but cease to be. My job is not to tell someone everything they need to know, but to do life with them.
3) The Kingdom of Heaven is like a pearl of great price.
When you find it you will sell everything you have and immediately go buy it.
4) The Kingdom never seems to make sense at first glance... but it is oh so good.
Some good quotes from the book I'm reading with Joey and Mike-- Spiritual Direction by Henri Nouwen.
"No truth can be found unless there is a search for meaning, recognition of human vulnerability and limitation, relationships with trusted spiritual friends, and openness to the disclosure of the transcendent mystery of God, before whom all questions cease."
"In spiritual listening, we encounter a God who cannot be fully understood, we discover realities that cannot be controlled, and we realize that our hope is hidden not in the possession of power but in the confession of weakness."
"When God enters into the center of our lives to unmask our illusion of possessing final solutions and to disarm us with always deeper questions, we will not necessarily have an easier or simpler life, but certainly a life that is honest, courageous, and marked with the ongoing search for truth."
Life, in short, is wonderful in the service of Him who called me.
1) The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.
My job is not to do God's work, but to find it, participate in it, and point others to it. As an usher of the Kingdom, my main function is to recognize it and lead others to do the same.
2) The harvest is plentiful and the workers are few.
My job is not to fix everything and there will not be a time when everything is fixed until Kingdom come. Instead I live an example of faith. The results of real, deep, hard, spiritual questions are not answers, but healing. God takes our complicated me-centered piles and heals our brokenness. Before our Creator, our questions are not answered, but cease to be. My job is not to tell someone everything they need to know, but to do life with them.
3) The Kingdom of Heaven is like a pearl of great price.
When you find it you will sell everything you have and immediately go buy it.
4) The Kingdom never seems to make sense at first glance... but it is oh so good.
Some good quotes from the book I'm reading with Joey and Mike-- Spiritual Direction by Henri Nouwen.
"No truth can be found unless there is a search for meaning, recognition of human vulnerability and limitation, relationships with trusted spiritual friends, and openness to the disclosure of the transcendent mystery of God, before whom all questions cease."
"In spiritual listening, we encounter a God who cannot be fully understood, we discover realities that cannot be controlled, and we realize that our hope is hidden not in the possession of power but in the confession of weakness."
"When God enters into the center of our lives to unmask our illusion of possessing final solutions and to disarm us with always deeper questions, we will not necessarily have an easier or simpler life, but certainly a life that is honest, courageous, and marked with the ongoing search for truth."
Life, in short, is wonderful in the service of Him who called me.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Because I am a follower...
Lots of people I love are keeping blogs to talk about Jesus and their summers, and by that I mean 3. So I thought I would join them... Xanga died, blogspot is in. I could totally be ok with that. Mostly, I'm just really excited about TPX stuff so I thought I'd share.
My first meeting with Mike and Joey is tomorrow. That's when I should find out the hairy details. :)
I've had almost 3 weeks of down time since I moved back home. I'm still not unpacked... yeah, I know. But, the down time has been some good preparation time for my heart. I'm learning a lot about excellence and (to be honest) my current lack of it. My heart is relearning its focus. I'm so excited for what He has in store. I already know He's going to blow my mind.
My first meeting with Mike and Joey is tomorrow. That's when I should find out the hairy details. :)
I've had almost 3 weeks of down time since I moved back home. I'm still not unpacked... yeah, I know. But, the down time has been some good preparation time for my heart. I'm learning a lot about excellence and (to be honest) my current lack of it. My heart is relearning its focus. I'm so excited for what He has in store. I already know He's going to blow my mind.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
