In honor of St. Patty's Day this weekend, we're talking Trinity tonight at Sr. High Bible study!
Here's a little background on St. Patrick and the Shamrock/Trinity from this week's email ... CLICK HERE TO READ THE EMAIL!
Check out this video we'll be using tonight!
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Take a Leap: Accomplish the Extraordinary
So, today is leap day! Yep, it’s February 29th. I found out some news yesterday that has me leaping for joy this morning (more to come later)! And, on the radio on my way into the office this morning, the local radio station hosts were talking about the various types of leaps that people make in their lives! Things like - a leap into a new relationship, or the unknown, or a leap in dealing with our faith, or a leap into a new class at school that you don’t feel equipped for, or a leap into a new family situation, or a leap in dealing with some sort of peer pressure.
All of this talk of leaping (and the fact that we have just entered the season of Lent), got me thinking about Jesus’ temptations in the wilderness where He was encouraged to leap! In Matthew 4, we read that just after Jesus' baptism, He was driven out into the wilderness. We read about the temptation of Jesus and the 40 days he spent out in that desert. I absolutely LOVE this video account of what Jesus’ time in the wilderness could have been like …
I’ve seen (and used in youth ministry) this video hundreds of times. Every time I watch it, something new stands out to me. Today as I watched, I was particularly drawn to the joy on Jesus’ face as he chased the chickens and peered over the cliff at the baby foxes. And then the pure struggle on his face as he got stuck in the briars or was weak and crawling on the ground. It is a good reminder that Jesus gets us; that Jesus felt exactly what we feel in our best and worst moments. That helps me in my relationship with Jesus … to know that our amazing Savior struggled through rough times/feelings and also experienced pure joy during His time on this earth. He so gets me!
But, on this leap day, I am particularly drawn to the scenes from Matthew 4 where Satan tempts Jesus with a leap. Never mind the challenge to take a leap and turn the stones into bread, I think Satan tempts Jesus with a literal leap, not once but twice. First, Jesus is taken to the top of the temple and told to literally leap off and He will surely be saved by angels. Second, Jesus goes to the top of a mountain and sees the beauty of the kingdoms. All of this can be His, He is told, if he will just take a leap of faith and bow down to worship Satan.
We can identify with Jesus’ time in the wilderness and the temptations He experienced to leap! Let’s face it, there are many “leaps” we take in life. Some good, some not so good. But, what I can tell from this piece of Scripture is that knowing when TO take a leap of faith and when NOT to take a leap of faith is tremendously important in our lives.
So how do we know the difference in taking a leap or not? I’m glad you asked …. Here’s a couple of suggestions:
1.It depends on the situation! So, know your situation. Think through it and MOST importantly pray through it. Try to look at it from the outside in instead of inside out. Push yourself to think of possible outcomes if you do take this leap and possible outcomes if you don’t.
2.Uncomfortable is good! So, step out of your comfort zone and into the wilderness. Remember, the easy way isn’t always the best. Remember, the wilderness (unknown) can be a lonely, frightful, tempting place. But, it can also be a place of joy and growth.
3.Use experience! So, whose experience? Think about your own past leaps! Read about the leaps of the characters in Scripture (i.e. Peter getting out of the boat)! Ask others around you! Go through the pros and cons of a leap with your friends, a trusted adult mentor, or a parent. Sometimes those who are willing to help you in your leap, literally, become the push you need! Sometimes those persons end up leaping with you! But beware, sometimes those same folks can hold you back from taking the leap. Weigh and consider it all very carefully!
4.If you’ve taken a leap and discover it’s not the right one for you … go back and repeat steps one through three to determine your next move!
Honestly, leaping is scary. And, our tendency is to stay where it’s safe. But I encourage you, leap away, if it is the right time! After all, would Peter have walked on water if he hadn’t of leapt out of the boat? Would persons with disabilities have had a better, more world changing advocate if Helen Keller hadn’t of leapt to meet the challenge of graduating college despite her blindness and deafness? Would Eric Clapton have written such a beautiful song (“Tears in Heaven”) if he hadn’t have leapt through the pain of his son’s death? Would the legacies of Matthew Wright, Jo Brock, or Charlie Butterworth live on in rich and powerful ways if their families and those of missing them didn’t leap to mourn, remember, and honor them?
I hope you take this extra day in our leap year to take a leap of faith and accomplish the extraordinary. I’m leaping right beside you!
All of this talk of leaping (and the fact that we have just entered the season of Lent), got me thinking about Jesus’ temptations in the wilderness where He was encouraged to leap! In Matthew 4, we read that just after Jesus' baptism, He was driven out into the wilderness. We read about the temptation of Jesus and the 40 days he spent out in that desert. I absolutely LOVE this video account of what Jesus’ time in the wilderness could have been like …
I’ve seen (and used in youth ministry) this video hundreds of times. Every time I watch it, something new stands out to me. Today as I watched, I was particularly drawn to the joy on Jesus’ face as he chased the chickens and peered over the cliff at the baby foxes. And then the pure struggle on his face as he got stuck in the briars or was weak and crawling on the ground. It is a good reminder that Jesus gets us; that Jesus felt exactly what we feel in our best and worst moments. That helps me in my relationship with Jesus … to know that our amazing Savior struggled through rough times/feelings and also experienced pure joy during His time on this earth. He so gets me!
But, on this leap day, I am particularly drawn to the scenes from Matthew 4 where Satan tempts Jesus with a leap. Never mind the challenge to take a leap and turn the stones into bread, I think Satan tempts Jesus with a literal leap, not once but twice. First, Jesus is taken to the top of the temple and told to literally leap off and He will surely be saved by angels. Second, Jesus goes to the top of a mountain and sees the beauty of the kingdoms. All of this can be His, He is told, if he will just take a leap of faith and bow down to worship Satan.
We can identify with Jesus’ time in the wilderness and the temptations He experienced to leap! Let’s face it, there are many “leaps” we take in life. Some good, some not so good. But, what I can tell from this piece of Scripture is that knowing when TO take a leap of faith and when NOT to take a leap of faith is tremendously important in our lives.
So how do we know the difference in taking a leap or not? I’m glad you asked …. Here’s a couple of suggestions:
1.It depends on the situation! So, know your situation. Think through it and MOST importantly pray through it. Try to look at it from the outside in instead of inside out. Push yourself to think of possible outcomes if you do take this leap and possible outcomes if you don’t.
2.Uncomfortable is good! So, step out of your comfort zone and into the wilderness. Remember, the easy way isn’t always the best. Remember, the wilderness (unknown) can be a lonely, frightful, tempting place. But, it can also be a place of joy and growth.
3.Use experience! So, whose experience? Think about your own past leaps! Read about the leaps of the characters in Scripture (i.e. Peter getting out of the boat)! Ask others around you! Go through the pros and cons of a leap with your friends, a trusted adult mentor, or a parent. Sometimes those who are willing to help you in your leap, literally, become the push you need! Sometimes those persons end up leaping with you! But beware, sometimes those same folks can hold you back from taking the leap. Weigh and consider it all very carefully!
4.If you’ve taken a leap and discover it’s not the right one for you … go back and repeat steps one through three to determine your next move!
Honestly, leaping is scary. And, our tendency is to stay where it’s safe. But I encourage you, leap away, if it is the right time! After all, would Peter have walked on water if he hadn’t of leapt out of the boat? Would persons with disabilities have had a better, more world changing advocate if Helen Keller hadn’t of leapt to meet the challenge of graduating college despite her blindness and deafness? Would Eric Clapton have written such a beautiful song (“Tears in Heaven”) if he hadn’t have leapt through the pain of his son’s death? Would the legacies of Matthew Wright, Jo Brock, or Charlie Butterworth live on in rich and powerful ways if their families and those of missing them didn’t leap to mourn, remember, and honor them?
I hope you take this extra day in our leap year to take a leap of faith and accomplish the extraordinary. I’m leaping right beside you!
Monday, February 6, 2012
"No!"
So, recently, I’ve really been praying that two particular and specific things would happen, one for a friend and one to me. Every day, I pray for it. EVERY DAY! I’ve been waiting and hoping (it seems like forever) for a little good news concerning these desires of mine. But, for now, the answer I’m getting from God is a resounding – NOPE! I don’t want this answer from God and I certainly don’t like it. Mainly, I don’t understand why it has to be a “No.” What I want is what I want and I want them now … selfish, but true. Funny, I feel a little like the little girl in Willy Wonka as I type that. You know the spoiled brat girl in the scene with the chicken/eggs … hope I don’t end up down a tube!
Most of us don’t like the answer – “NO!” It’s human nature, right? Think about it! Even when we are toddlers and our mom/dad tells us we can’t have or do something … what happens? We cry and get upset.
As the parent of a six year old, the repercussions of my telling Blaine, “No,” are all too fresh! Take last night, for example! We were all watching the Super Bowl and around 8:00pm, I told Blaine it was time to go to bed. He asked if he could continue to watch and I said, “No.” He then proceeded to stomp up every SINGLE stair towards his bedroom, fling himself on the floor at the top of the stairs, and scream at the top of his lungs “It’s not fair,” as tears streamed down his face. His world was crashing in around him … all because of two little letters – N.O.
And, I remember being a teenager and having my mom tell me “No.” “No, you can’t do anything until you complete your weekly chores.” “No, you can’t go to that movie with your friends; it’s rated R.” “No staying out past your curfew will not be okay; not even just this once.” “No, you’re not away at college this week to do whatever you please and we have rules while you are staying under my roof.” My mom (and sister) can attest, I got really good at slamming my bedroom door to express my displeasure at the word “No.”
Right now, I just want to stomp up every one of God’s stairs and fling myself on the ground in front of God and scream at the top of my lungs, tears streaming. It’s not fair. I just know it would make me feel better. And surely it would entice God to give me my way ... (yeah right).
And then I remember – there’s a reason the answer is no.
When a toddler, six year old, or even a teenager is told “No” by a parent, there is usually a reason why it needs to be so. Continuing the example of Blaine and the Super Bowl temper tantrum … I had to tell him he couldn’t watch anymore because it was time for bed. The repercussions of him not going to sleep would have impacted many people and our week in so many ways! First of all, we have a very busy week and he’s already potentially going to miss his 8:00pm bedtime call two nights this week; plus his cousins, aunt, and grandmother are coming for a visit this weekend. This means we need find a way to get him a little extra sleep earlier in the week. We have learned that Blaine thrives best when he gets a solid 9.5 to 10 hours of sleep a night. You see, Blaine gets very grumpy when he lacks sleep and, additionally, he doesn’t listen very well. This would mean he would be more prone to have issues at school with teachers or friends, at church on Wednesday night during John E., and at home (to name a few). Getting through the week would be a struggle that could have been avoided, somewhat. But, Blaine doesn’t understand any of this and can’t think forward in that way. On the other hand, it was the best decision for him; and I, as his parent, had a responsibility to enable him to have as successful a week as possible.
I would never pretend to understand the mind of God, but, surely this must be how God feels at my temper tantrum of give me what I want and do it now and it’s not fair if you don’t! While it would be very helpful to me if Jesus would take me by the hand and show me the reason why the answer needs to be “No,” that doesn’t always happen. But I am confident that “No” is the answer because God always intends the best results.
A final note: I don’t believe any of this makes dealing with the answer “No” any easier. I am still upset and downright mad that the answer has to be “No” (especially for my friend). But all this does give me confidence that one day I will understand. And, thankfully, I am reminded through the struggle that God is in control and this is exactly why I don’t need to be. After all, I don’t think God enjoys saying “No”; God loves me way too much for that. It’s just that God has a full understanding of the repercussions to saying “Yes.”
It must take an unbelievable amount of strength and courage for God NOT to intervene in free will situations. But that is just it; that is how much God loves us. God loves us so much that (like me as a parent to Blaine) God is STRONG and BOLD enough to say “No” even when it is not fair. Can you imagine having to do that every single day in every single way? I don’t think I could, especially in a life or death type of plea.
I think this JJ Heller song (“Your Hands”) sums this all up well:
Most of us don’t like the answer – “NO!” It’s human nature, right? Think about it! Even when we are toddlers and our mom/dad tells us we can’t have or do something … what happens? We cry and get upset.
As the parent of a six year old, the repercussions of my telling Blaine, “No,” are all too fresh! Take last night, for example! We were all watching the Super Bowl and around 8:00pm, I told Blaine it was time to go to bed. He asked if he could continue to watch and I said, “No.” He then proceeded to stomp up every SINGLE stair towards his bedroom, fling himself on the floor at the top of the stairs, and scream at the top of his lungs “It’s not fair,” as tears streamed down his face. His world was crashing in around him … all because of two little letters – N.O.
And, I remember being a teenager and having my mom tell me “No.” “No, you can’t do anything until you complete your weekly chores.” “No, you can’t go to that movie with your friends; it’s rated R.” “No staying out past your curfew will not be okay; not even just this once.” “No, you’re not away at college this week to do whatever you please and we have rules while you are staying under my roof.” My mom (and sister) can attest, I got really good at slamming my bedroom door to express my displeasure at the word “No.”
Right now, I just want to stomp up every one of God’s stairs and fling myself on the ground in front of God and scream at the top of my lungs, tears streaming. It’s not fair. I just know it would make me feel better. And surely it would entice God to give me my way ... (yeah right).
And then I remember – there’s a reason the answer is no.
When a toddler, six year old, or even a teenager is told “No” by a parent, there is usually a reason why it needs to be so. Continuing the example of Blaine and the Super Bowl temper tantrum … I had to tell him he couldn’t watch anymore because it was time for bed. The repercussions of him not going to sleep would have impacted many people and our week in so many ways! First of all, we have a very busy week and he’s already potentially going to miss his 8:00pm bedtime call two nights this week; plus his cousins, aunt, and grandmother are coming for a visit this weekend. This means we need find a way to get him a little extra sleep earlier in the week. We have learned that Blaine thrives best when he gets a solid 9.5 to 10 hours of sleep a night. You see, Blaine gets very grumpy when he lacks sleep and, additionally, he doesn’t listen very well. This would mean he would be more prone to have issues at school with teachers or friends, at church on Wednesday night during John E., and at home (to name a few). Getting through the week would be a struggle that could have been avoided, somewhat. But, Blaine doesn’t understand any of this and can’t think forward in that way. On the other hand, it was the best decision for him; and I, as his parent, had a responsibility to enable him to have as successful a week as possible.
I would never pretend to understand the mind of God, but, surely this must be how God feels at my temper tantrum of give me what I want and do it now and it’s not fair if you don’t! While it would be very helpful to me if Jesus would take me by the hand and show me the reason why the answer needs to be “No,” that doesn’t always happen. But I am confident that “No” is the answer because God always intends the best results.
A final note: I don’t believe any of this makes dealing with the answer “No” any easier. I am still upset and downright mad that the answer has to be “No” (especially for my friend). But all this does give me confidence that one day I will understand. And, thankfully, I am reminded through the struggle that God is in control and this is exactly why I don’t need to be. After all, I don’t think God enjoys saying “No”; God loves me way too much for that. It’s just that God has a full understanding of the repercussions to saying “Yes.”
It must take an unbelievable amount of strength and courage for God NOT to intervene in free will situations. But that is just it; that is how much God loves us. God loves us so much that (like me as a parent to Blaine) God is STRONG and BOLD enough to say “No” even when it is not fair. Can you imagine having to do that every single day in every single way? I don’t think I could, especially in a life or death type of plea.
I think this JJ Heller song (“Your Hands”) sums this all up well:
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Winter Retreat 2012
Last weekend on our EYC Winter Retreat, we asked our students to focus on growing spiritually. We wanted to help give them some practical / take home tools that they could use to intentionally make an effort to grow in their faith. Our theme for the weekend was ‘UnPlugged.’ That is, unplugging from the world and plugging into God! We spent the weekend focusing on spiritual disciplines and Christian practices that can help us grow in our faith.
On Saturday morning, we asked the youth to commit to a technology fast so that there were no boundaries keeping them from focusing on their relationship with God and the opportunities of the weekend. Every single youth on our trip put all of their cell phones, iPods, and anything electronic in a paper bag and did not touch them for about 26 hours! I have never been more proud! It was not easy for the youth to do this, but I do think it was refreshing, in a way!
We then spent three hours in a rotation of Christian practices. In the first rotation youth could pick to attend three of these four (adapted from Way to Live resource):
#1 – Choices (Jr. High only):
Teens face many choices, and the path to a wise choice is not necessarily easy and straightforward. The Christian practice of discernment—a process of deliberate decision-making within a community that supports us as we explore our lives in the presence of God—can help us to choose wisely. Students learned to slow down, ask questions, pay attention to yourself and to God, find traveling companions, take time for reflection, then act when being decisive. Thank you Matt Williams for leading!
# 2 – Creativity:
God’s Spirit is still moving in the world, even in and through us. When we express the Spirit’s creative movement in our own unique way, we bring something brand new to the world. Sometimes creativity arises from pain, sometimes from joy; but it is always more than “art” done by “creative” people. Youth were able to use a piece of nature and write creatively about it and then were able to mold clay into beautiful creations!
# 3 – Play:
Play is part of God’s good creation and is important to a balanced, happy life. Play is the reset button God gives us to get a fresh take on a situation and to renew our lives. In this rotation, youth simply played … they broke piñatas and played duck, duck, goose! Thank you Lora Braun for leading!
# 4 – Stuff
We should deal with stuff (material possessions) in ways that deepen our relationships with God, other people, and the whole created world. Participants talked about the difference between good stuff and bad stuff and brainstormed creative ways to let go of stuff we don’t need. Thank you Annie Smith for leading!
In the second half of our morning, youth had to pick to attend 3 of these 4 rotations on Christian practices:
# 5 – Choices (Sr. High only):
See # 1.
# 6 – Time:
In a society that is constantly telling us to do so many things, it can be hard to find time for the rest we need. God wants to give us the gift of a Non-Active Period—a time to be with God, a time for renewal, a time to let down our guard and just be. Participants made pillows and … yes … took a nap! Thanks to Caroline and Jennifer Riddle for leading!
# 7 – Music:
Music isn’t some shrink-wrapped product you buy at the store. Making music rises up from our physical bodies and from the very physics of creation itself, opens us to be in community, and attunes us to the peace and justice God desires for all people. Participants spent time in this group making music, listening to guitar music, and singing!
# 8 – Welcome:
Welcoming is about creating space in our lives for other people, and especially for “strangers” or those we don’t know well. This means knowing how to be a grateful guest as well as a gracious host. Communities honor Jesus—who was often homeless himself—as they make people feel “at home” and offer them a place at the table. This group even baked cookies!
We spent the afternoon doing an activity called Zorb. Apparently, Zorb, is quite the popular sport in New Zealand! Our youth had a great time practicing the art of fellowship as we rolled down the hill together!
Saturday night, we focused on the spiritual discipline of prayer! We started with a conversation about what prayer is, why it is important, and did a little prayer 101 where we learned some very simple and practical ways to pray! We learned the ABC prayer, the SPOONS prayer, and the 5 finger prayer.
We then moved to a time of quiet and prayer as we traveled through 10 prayer stations set up around our rental house (adapted form Rethinkingyouthministry.com)
Station 1 – Conversation with God
Students sat across from an empty chair and simply, had a conversation.
Station 2 – Candle Lighting
Students thought of a hope and let it rise to God as the smoke from the match rises.
Station 3 – Newspaper Highlights
Students used a highlighter to highlight items in a newspaper that caught their attention. They then prayed for that situation.
Station 4 – Blessing Enemies / Forgiving Others
Students used smooth stones to write the name of their enemy on and then prayer for that situation. They were then able wash the rock and the name of their enemy away in water.
Station 5 – Word!
Participants used a Scrabble board to create words that came to their minds concerning their prayers.
Station 6 – Idol Worship
Students used play-dough to create idols in their lives and then smash them.
Station 7 – Reflections
Students gazed into a mirror and meditated on God’s abundant love for them and the beauty of God’s creation – them!
Station 8 – Listen
Participants simply got comfortable on the couch, chair, or floor and listened to some meditative music as they sought to hear God’s voice.
Station 9 – Faces of Jesus
Various faces of Jesus throughout history were displayed on a wall. Participants were asked to consider their understanding of Jesus and their call as a Disciple of Christ.
Station 10 – Map of the World
Students looked at a map of the world and stuck a push pin into a geographic location for which they wanted to pray.
After our prayer stations, we had the youth learn how to do a mandala prayer / circle prayer. Basically, the youth were guided through some breathing and meditating techniques and then asked to empty the junk inside of them as they drew in a circle. We then started over and drew the prayers they were truly on our hearts. Their beautiful designs were displayed as a part of our altar space for our Sunday morning silent worship service.
Sunday morning we focused on the spiritual discipline of worship! Yes, worship on Sunday morning was silent. There were words, images, and instructions projected on the wall. Participants learned what worship really is about. They also worshipped very creatively, including dancing to a drum beat and silently praying. We also had the opportunity in the service to learn the secret to knowing if you are growing spiritually. If the youth participate in and practice Christian practices and Spiritual Disciplines, they will develop the fruit of the Spirit! We learned about what the fruit of the spirit are and were invited to come forward and drink the juice representing the fruit we feel we need most!
Matt and I felt it was a meaningful weekend and we had a blast leading it! Thanks to those who attended ... those who didn't - see you next year! :)
We then spent three hours in a rotation of Christian practices. In the first rotation youth could pick to attend three of these four (adapted from Way to Live resource):
#1 – Choices (Jr. High only):
Teens face many choices, and the path to a wise choice is not necessarily easy and straightforward. The Christian practice of discernment—a process of deliberate decision-making within a community that supports us as we explore our lives in the presence of God—can help us to choose wisely. Students learned to slow down, ask questions, pay attention to yourself and to God, find traveling companions, take time for reflection, then act when being decisive. Thank you Matt Williams for leading!
# 2 – Creativity:
God’s Spirit is still moving in the world, even in and through us. When we express the Spirit’s creative movement in our own unique way, we bring something brand new to the world. Sometimes creativity arises from pain, sometimes from joy; but it is always more than “art” done by “creative” people. Youth were able to use a piece of nature and write creatively about it and then were able to mold clay into beautiful creations!
# 3 – Play:
Play is part of God’s good creation and is important to a balanced, happy life. Play is the reset button God gives us to get a fresh take on a situation and to renew our lives. In this rotation, youth simply played … they broke piñatas and played duck, duck, goose! Thank you Lora Braun for leading!
# 4 – Stuff
We should deal with stuff (material possessions) in ways that deepen our relationships with God, other people, and the whole created world. Participants talked about the difference between good stuff and bad stuff and brainstormed creative ways to let go of stuff we don’t need. Thank you Annie Smith for leading!
In the second half of our morning, youth had to pick to attend 3 of these 4 rotations on Christian practices:
# 5 – Choices (Sr. High only):
See # 1.
# 6 – Time:
In a society that is constantly telling us to do so many things, it can be hard to find time for the rest we need. God wants to give us the gift of a Non-Active Period—a time to be with God, a time for renewal, a time to let down our guard and just be. Participants made pillows and … yes … took a nap! Thanks to Caroline and Jennifer Riddle for leading!
# 7 – Music:
Music isn’t some shrink-wrapped product you buy at the store. Making music rises up from our physical bodies and from the very physics of creation itself, opens us to be in community, and attunes us to the peace and justice God desires for all people. Participants spent time in this group making music, listening to guitar music, and singing!
# 8 – Welcome:
Welcoming is about creating space in our lives for other people, and especially for “strangers” or those we don’t know well. This means knowing how to be a grateful guest as well as a gracious host. Communities honor Jesus—who was often homeless himself—as they make people feel “at home” and offer them a place at the table. This group even baked cookies!
We spent the afternoon doing an activity called Zorb. Apparently, Zorb, is quite the popular sport in New Zealand! Our youth had a great time practicing the art of fellowship as we rolled down the hill together!
Saturday night, we focused on the spiritual discipline of prayer! We started with a conversation about what prayer is, why it is important, and did a little prayer 101 where we learned some very simple and practical ways to pray! We learned the ABC prayer, the SPOONS prayer, and the 5 finger prayer.
We then moved to a time of quiet and prayer as we traveled through 10 prayer stations set up around our rental house (adapted form Rethinkingyouthministry.com)
Station 1 – Conversation with God
Students sat across from an empty chair and simply, had a conversation.
Station 2 – Candle Lighting
Students thought of a hope and let it rise to God as the smoke from the match rises.
Station 3 – Newspaper Highlights
Students used a highlighter to highlight items in a newspaper that caught their attention. They then prayed for that situation.
Station 4 – Blessing Enemies / Forgiving Others
Students used smooth stones to write the name of their enemy on and then prayer for that situation. They were then able wash the rock and the name of their enemy away in water.
Station 5 – Word!
Participants used a Scrabble board to create words that came to their minds concerning their prayers.
Station 6 – Idol Worship
Students used play-dough to create idols in their lives and then smash them.
Station 7 – Reflections
Students gazed into a mirror and meditated on God’s abundant love for them and the beauty of God’s creation – them!
Station 8 – Listen
Participants simply got comfortable on the couch, chair, or floor and listened to some meditative music as they sought to hear God’s voice.
Station 9 – Faces of Jesus
Various faces of Jesus throughout history were displayed on a wall. Participants were asked to consider their understanding of Jesus and their call as a Disciple of Christ.
Station 10 – Map of the World
Students looked at a map of the world and stuck a push pin into a geographic location for which they wanted to pray.
After our prayer stations, we had the youth learn how to do a mandala prayer / circle prayer. Basically, the youth were guided through some breathing and meditating techniques and then asked to empty the junk inside of them as they drew in a circle. We then started over and drew the prayers they were truly on our hearts. Their beautiful designs were displayed as a part of our altar space for our Sunday morning silent worship service.
Sunday morning we focused on the spiritual discipline of worship! Yes, worship on Sunday morning was silent. There were words, images, and instructions projected on the wall. Participants learned what worship really is about. They also worshipped very creatively, including dancing to a drum beat and silently praying. We also had the opportunity in the service to learn the secret to knowing if you are growing spiritually. If the youth participate in and practice Christian practices and Spiritual Disciplines, they will develop the fruit of the Spirit! We learned about what the fruit of the spirit are and were invited to come forward and drink the juice representing the fruit we feel we need most!
Matt and I felt it was a meaningful weekend and we had a blast leading it! Thanks to those who attended ... those who didn't - see you next year! :)
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Mary, Joseph, perhaps the Shepherds? Animals, Angels, or even Baby Jesus?
At Sunday night’s 6:20pm worship, after our advisor’s AMAZING NATIVITY DANCE, we did an interactive prayers of the people. In our prayers of the people, we gave each youth a paper doll cut out. Since it was our last 6:20pm worship service before the new year, we invited the youth to enter the nativity story and to begin to think about Christmas. We’ve spent a good bit of time in the past few weeks talking about Advent as a season of mystery and preparation for the birth of Christ. We asked the youth to think about which character in the story of the birth of Christ they most identify! They then wrote about how they were able to relate to that character and their prayer on the paper doll cut out and came forward to drop it in the manger as a sign of offering the prayer to Jesus.
So, as Christmas rapidly approaches, just who is it you identify with in this AMAZING and PROFOUND story of the birth of Christ?
Maybe it’s Mary!
Perhaps you feel the responsibilities piled on high!? You are just trying to trust God that you are making the right and best decisions possible.
Maybe you identify with Joseph!
You’ve made some commitment in your life and you are doing your best to remain faithful to it and see it through. But, you are worried.
Or is it the scruffy shepherds?
Maybe there is some situation in your life that is absolutely frightening and terrifying you. You are trying so hard not to make rash decisions and show that you are afraid as you move forward in life toward possibly exciting things.
Perhaps you get the angels!
There is this joyous thing you want to share! You are just so excited and happy about this wondrous thing God is doing in your life. You want everyone to know about what’s going on!
By chance do you identify with the animals?
Maybe you are terribly amazed at what is going on around you. You’re just watching and sharing all that you have with others (even the “manger” you eat out of). You are simply excited to have some attention and company in your life.
Or maybe you even identify with baby Jesus.
In other words, you know there is this great destiny you have to fulfill but you feel helpless (like a little baby) as you struggle through just how you figure things out.
So, as Christmas rapidly approaches, just who is it you identify with in this AMAZING and PROFOUND story of the birth of Christ?
Maybe it’s Mary!
Perhaps you feel the responsibilities piled on high!? You are just trying to trust God that you are making the right and best decisions possible.
Maybe you identify with Joseph!
You’ve made some commitment in your life and you are doing your best to remain faithful to it and see it through. But, you are worried.
Or is it the scruffy shepherds?
Maybe there is some situation in your life that is absolutely frightening and terrifying you. You are trying so hard not to make rash decisions and show that you are afraid as you move forward in life toward possibly exciting things.
Perhaps you get the angels!
There is this joyous thing you want to share! You are just so excited and happy about this wondrous thing God is doing in your life. You want everyone to know about what’s going on!
By chance do you identify with the animals?
Maybe you are terribly amazed at what is going on around you. You’re just watching and sharing all that you have with others (even the “manger” you eat out of). You are simply excited to have some attention and company in your life.
Or maybe you even identify with baby Jesus.
In other words, you know there is this great destiny you have to fulfill but you feel helpless (like a little baby) as you struggle through just how you figure things out.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Nativity Dance
Last night at our 6:20pm worship service, we decided to try something a little different! Intead of a spoken message about the upcoming birth of Christ, our advisors danced the nativity! It was an amazing creation and one our youth hopefully will not forget anytime soon!
Special thanks for Jennifer Mullius for directing us and for getting costumes together. Also, special thanks to Pierre and Cathy Harrison for recording the service!
Watch it now:
Special thanks for Jennifer Mullius for directing us and for getting costumes together. Also, special thanks to Pierre and Cathy Harrison for recording the service!
Watch it now:
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Practical Tips for the Advent Experience
Yesterday, I was inspired by something I read in my Advent devotion. I posted on Facebook about the waiting and preparing of Advent and the excitement that comes with that. It seems to me that every year at Advent, we talk about preparing ourselves for the birth of Jesus. It is one thing to say that, but completely another to do it! And, I haven’t seen lot of practical explanations (especially for youth) on exactly how we can participate in preparing and waiting other than just to flat out anticipate the events to come. Is it an active waiting? A passive one? So, I have been thinking and reading lots on some practical tips for how we can “prepare” and “wait” in Advent. Here are three practical tips on just how to prepare and wait for the birth of Christ!
Note: these thoughts are geared towards youth since that is who I serve in ministry; but friends, parents, acquaintances, I hope you might also find meaning in them!
Here’s my list:
1. Devotional
Bibles aren’t just for opening on Sunday while we’re at church. I mean, let’s face it, most of us don’t even bring our Bibles to worship, Sunday school or youth group! Regardless, I firmly believe we should be spending time in the Word of God and in interpretation for our lives, daily. With that said, I also recognize the busy-ness of life and struggle to find time for this myself. Maybe try this daily Advent tweet devotional: www.freshexpressions.org.uk/advent#07. It’s usually a two sentence thought on the meaning of Christmas and a challenge for you to ponder!
2. Quiet time
I don’t know what this might look like for you as a youth today. We live in a pretty loud and crazy busy world. Maybe it is journaling or drawing or even meditating. But in some way, spend some time in Advent thinking. As you consider preparing, think about those who have had or are having an impact on your faith journey. Even Jesus needed people to prepare the way for Him when He was on this Earth. Remember John the Baptist? Really, these people in your life who are a part of your faith journey are preparing the way for Jesus to enter your heart. Ask your parents who was with you at your Baptism. Think about those who welcome you to church each week or teach you Sunday school.
3. Music
Youtube is FULL of amazing Advent experiences; that is musical takes on the meaning of Christmas. Take a moment and put yourself in the Nativity story. With whom do you most identify? Mary? Joseph? The wise men or shepherds?
Here are a few suggestions of songs that give perspective of the characters in the nativity story! They come from some of my favorite Christian artists … just for your viewing pleasure:
Chris August – Come Now Our King
Sidewalk Prophets – Hope Was Born This Night
Francesca Battistelli – You’re Here
Kirk Franklin – The Night Christ Was Born
Kari Jobe – Adore Him / Christmas Eve
Note: these thoughts are geared towards youth since that is who I serve in ministry; but friends, parents, acquaintances, I hope you might also find meaning in them!
Here’s my list:
1. Devotional
Bibles aren’t just for opening on Sunday while we’re at church. I mean, let’s face it, most of us don’t even bring our Bibles to worship, Sunday school or youth group! Regardless, I firmly believe we should be spending time in the Word of God and in interpretation for our lives, daily. With that said, I also recognize the busy-ness of life and struggle to find time for this myself. Maybe try this daily Advent tweet devotional: www.freshexpressions.org.uk/advent#07. It’s usually a two sentence thought on the meaning of Christmas and a challenge for you to ponder!
(What I have found that works for me is doing my devotion at the same time every day. Generally, for me, that is first thing when I arrive in the office … before I open emails or Facebook. Establishing this routine has been good. And, I do the same thing EVERY morning. I use www.d365.org. It’s an online short but practical and meaningful devotional. You have to click through this so for me it is an intentional experience and it plays music to “create” and set the mood for devotion. Establishing this routine over the past 4 months has been a challenge as I would forget or get busy. But, now I remember (most days) and am excited to start my day this way. Believe me, I understand the challenge here … so maybe start off committing to do a short term devotion like for the weeks of Advent or Lent. There are many great resources for study that are geared for each age group. Google what you are interested in! And, hey, you could always just open your Bible and read where it opens and then think about how the passage applies to your world! Whatever you do, just try to do it near the same time each day and see if that works for you!)
2. Quiet time
I don’t know what this might look like for you as a youth today. We live in a pretty loud and crazy busy world. Maybe it is journaling or drawing or even meditating. But in some way, spend some time in Advent thinking. As you consider preparing, think about those who have had or are having an impact on your faith journey. Even Jesus needed people to prepare the way for Him when He was on this Earth. Remember John the Baptist? Really, these people in your life who are a part of your faith journey are preparing the way for Jesus to enter your heart. Ask your parents who was with you at your Baptism. Think about those who welcome you to church each week or teach you Sunday school.
3. Music
Youtube is FULL of amazing Advent experiences; that is musical takes on the meaning of Christmas. Take a moment and put yourself in the Nativity story. With whom do you most identify? Mary? Joseph? The wise men or shepherds?
Here are a few suggestions of songs that give perspective of the characters in the nativity story! They come from some of my favorite Christian artists … just for your viewing pleasure:
Chris August – Come Now Our King
Sidewalk Prophets – Hope Was Born This Night
Francesca Battistelli – You’re Here
Kirk Franklin – The Night Christ Was Born
Kari Jobe – Adore Him / Christmas Eve
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