Interviews

This morning was filled with hope for my son.  He had 2 job interviews.  The first was a phone interview for a job I am really praying he gets.  It's a summer job at a church camp.  The second job was one I wasn't too excited about.  But, since he's had a tough time during his job search, I encouraged him anyway.  The place is very unorganized and they don't give anyone very many hours.  There is high turnover there and it's no surprise with the way they treat their employees.  But, it would be a start for him.  He'll hear about the first interview by the end of the week.  The second interview was supposed to call him by 7 either way.  They didn't.  So, he stopped by there tonight.
So, when he came home, I could tell just by looking at him that the news wasn't good.  They gave the job to someone else and hadn't bothered to call him.  Even though I wasn't excited about the job, I am even less excited about the sad look in his eyes. 
It's interesting.  I've been dealing with job issues and transitions lately.  Interviews and waiting weren't fun at all.  But, I was much better at handling them for myself than for him.  I know God has a plan for me.  I know God has a plan for him.  Making sure he knows that rather than feeling bad because he didn't get the job is my challenge! 
So, where was God today?   I'm sure it was in my son's best interest to not get that job.  So, even if it makes him sad now, God has a better plan for him! 

“Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love.” Ephesians 4:2

Blessings,
Jennifer 

Planning

This afternoon, I worked on planning or the 30 hour famine.  Every year, I look forward to that time.  This year, with everything else going on, I'm really glad I started working on it early.  But, still, a few days ago I got a panicked feeling that I won't be ready in time, that I won't have all of my adopters in time, or that we won't reach our goal.  I probably get that way every year I just forget since everything is fine by the time we do the famine. 
So, I sat down this afternoon to go over the details.  I got another idea to add to the event.  So, I'm really excited.  You would think 30 hours with teens is a long time.  But, I always find that the time goes so fast and I barely have time to fit everything in! 
I started the day with only 1 youth adopted.  That's one of the best parts of the famine.  I get people to "adopt a famine participant".  They agree to pray for the person, write 3 letters that they receive during the famine, and they pay $25.  So, it's part of the fundraising.  But, really it's a way to connect the participants with others from the congregation.  And, it's amazing how uplifting those letters are to everyone.  I don't think the adopters understand that.  By the end of the day, I've got at least 13 taken care of.  I need about 27 more.  But, I'm sure it will work out in the end. (Let me know if you're interested in adopting someone ;)  )
This morning during our class, we talked about the sermon.  Everyone there agreed that they feel closest to God when they are participating in things like the famine and the mission trip.  So, each moment I'm working on the famine, I'm working to make those connections for them.  So, where was God today?  He was sitting here helping me plan the details of an event hoping right along with me that those 30 hours are a 30 hour journey towards God.  This year's theme is "My Hand's, His work"- working on being the hand's and feel of Jesus.

“He sat down and summoned the Twelve. "So you want first place? Then take the last place. Be the servant of all.” Mark 9:35

Blessings,
Jennifer

Texting

I enjoyed a lazy morning.  It was so nice to not have to get up at the crack of dawn.  But, not too far into the day I was already dealing with issues from the job I'm leaving- things I shouldn't be dealing with anymore but since nobody else knows what to do it seems they're still talking to me about them.  After conversations, phone calls, and e-mails I was frustrated.  Earlier I had asked God to help me get rid of any negativity I'd been feeling.  It's something easier said than done usually.
Then, I got a text.  (Texting is one of the benefits of having my own phone rather than a work phone.)
Proverbs 3:6. Seek in him in all you do and he will direct your paths.
It was the verse after the verse I sent out to my youth this morning.  And, one of my youth had looked further into the Bible and sent one back to me!  And, it just happened to be exactly what I needed to hear.  As long as I'm seeking Him in all I do, it doesn't matter what anyone else is thinking or doing.  He is the one I'm following so I know I'm going the right way.  There's no need to turn back and question or think negatively.  Where I am going is because of the path I've been on.  I should be happy about where I've been since it has led me to where I am.
Proverbs 3:6. Seek in Him in all you do and he will direct your paths.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Trust

Today was interesting.  Since I'm in the process of transitioning my jobs, it turned out that I had to work all 3 jobs today!  That made for a very long day! 
First, I had to train someone for the job I'm leaving.  Getting up extra early to do that was not my idea of fun.  It was consistently reinforced that I was making the right decision to pursue my dream of full time youth work.  I'm not going to go into details.  We'll just leave it at that. 
Next, I went to my teen center job.  I had lots of teens there- just not all of them at once.  I'm anxious to get going on some of my ideas and plans to build the program.  I'll be happy when I'm there awhile and feel comfortable with everything.  But, I know it's definitely where I'm supposed to be.  I was also excited that my youth were there and invited some others from the center to movie night.  They ended up not being able to go.  But, it tells me the potential is there and that great things can come of this connection between the two!
Last, but not least, 4th Friday Movie Night!  I was grateful that I was planning a movie I'd seen before and was ready to relax and watch a movie with my youth. 
After a long day of mixed emotions and exhaustion, I was ready to come home and go to bed.  But, before I did, God had something to say to me.  A girl came up to me very seriously and asked me to pray for her.  Tomorrow she has a choir contest and she was obviously nervous about it.  I promised her I would and we walked outside.  As I walked to my car and she walked to hers, she called out "I love you, Jen!"  And that's just what I needed to hear.  At that moment, nothing else from the day mattered besides knowing that this girl was leaning on God to help her get through and that she was learning that and trusting that because she was learning and trusting me.  God has given me a gift- the love of these amazing teens!  Each day is a blessing.  And, nobody can change that if I choose to make each day a blessing!
Proverbs 3:5
Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.
Blessings,
Jennifer 

Angelbaby

18 years ago, I was not having a very fun time.  But, it was all worth it!  At 4:14 tomorrow morning, my son will be 18!  I can't believe it!  18 years ago, I was a different person.  I was young and naive and didn't always make the best choices.  But, on January 26th, at 4:14 something happened that changed my life forever!  And, I was blessed forever!
When he was born, I called him my Angelbaby.  When he was old enough to talk, I'd tuck him in every night saying "who's mama's little angel baby?" and he'd giggle and say "Me!".  Times have changed and I don't tuck him in at night anymore.  But, to me he'll always be my Angelbaby.  To me, he'll always be the one who blessed my life and gave me a reason to live each day.  I had to be the best I could be for him. 
Now, he's growing up too fast for my liking.  But, what a great person he's growing up to be!  Of course, there are moments, there are days, that he acts like a typical teenager.  But, he's kind, and caring, concerned with how others are feeling.  He's a role model for those younger than him, and a great help to those older than him.  He's determined to work in mission and service fields. 
I'm lucky to be able to spend lots of time with him.  He's not like the typical teen who can't stand to be around his parents.  We actually do things together, we talk, and even enjoy it!  OK, I'm sure sometimes he rolls his eyes at me as I do as many things to embarrass him as I can- hey it's in my job description, isn't it?  But, most of the time he just laughs.  He's got this great, outgoing personality- something I never had at his age.  His sense of humor makes him fun to be around.  And his friends are many- because he knows how to make people feel like they are important.  He has often mentioned to me that he has no idea why but people just open up to him about things.  I'm pretty sure it's because he takes the time to listen and because he doesn't just listen but lets them know he cares.
When he was born, all I wanted was for him to grow up happy and healthy.  Everything else is a bonus!  18 years ago, God gave me the greatest miracle I could ever receive.  God gave my my Angelbaby.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Food Show

It's been a busy few days but I was without internet.  I was too cheap- or smart- to pay $13 a day for internet while staying at a hotel for my last food show.
It was bitter sweet.  It was fun seeing my friends and I really do enjoy going to the shows and seeing new things, trying new foods, and making the best deals I can.  It's kind of like a game to me.  After almost 11 years it's become like a reunion with friends every year.  But, today was the end of that chapter of my life... although several of them are plotting ways to get me in to the next show.
The cool thing was that as time went on, the more people I talked to, the more encouraging words I heard.  In a world of retail and trying to make deals and sales and marketing where money seems to be important, there is really so much more than meets the eye.  Whenever I told someone I was leaving the world of retail and following the path I feel I need to take, I was met with kind words, people telling me they were proud of me, people offering to help by donating food to my programs, and hugs.  I also talked to several people about God.  There was one whose brother is becoming a priest in a few weeks, another is a deacon in his church, another was a pastor, and many agreed that God is showing me my path.  Nobody told me I was crazy for changing jobs.  It was a great few days and although I'll miss the people and the shows, it reinforced that my path has been laid out before me and not only is it apparent to me, but also to others.  And, somehow, sharing my story with others opened up some doors for them to share with me.  I hope everyone is as blessed as I am to be finding my path and following it.

Psalm 121:7

New Living Translation (NLT)

 ⁷ The LORD keeps you from all harm
      and watches over your life.

Blessings,
Jennifer

Pay it Forward

I just got a phone call from my son.  I sent him to the store for 3 things quite awhile ago so I was starting to wonder where he was.  When I answered the phone, he apologized for taking so long but that he was "doing his paying it forward."  A few weeks ago, I wrote about 4 young guys helping us when we went off of the road.  As we thanked them and they left, they said to pay it forward sometime.  I'm proud to say my son took that to heart.
So, on his way to the store, he saw a guy having tire trouble.  He stopped to help and after a series of unfortunate events, the guy's boss came with some tools to help.  They commented on how rare it is that someone would stop to help- especially a teenager.  (I personally think teens are the most helpful, giving people whenever they get the chance- but that's just my opinion!)  During their long ordeal, my son happened to find out that the two guys were Christians, they have a maintenance business, and that they are looking to hire a 3rd person.  Since my son happens to be looking for a job, this might have worked out quite well for him.  The owner said he should expect a call in the next few days.
Where was God today?  He was in the heart of my son who chose to be a good Samaritan.  And, just maybe this was all part of God's plan to help him find a job.  We'll see!
Luke 10:37

The Message (MSG)

 ³⁷"The one who treated him kindly," the religion scholar responded.
   Jesus said, "Go and do the same."

Blessings,
Jennifer

Goodbyes

I spent half of my day shredding today.  I'm cleaning out my office and getting rid of all of the stuff I should have thrown away years ago!  Part of the process of starting my new job is saying goodbye to my old job.  Some of that is easy to do.  Some of it is not.  I've made friends there.  And, alot of them are people I rarely see- the people who work for other companies that I dealt with.  So, as much as I hate to admit it, there will be people I probably won't get to see after next week.  Of course, we always say we'll get together.  But, that's easier to say.  As I leave the retail world to step foot completely into my new world, I know I'm leaving things and people behind. 
Today I called the person who trained me when I first started.  She has since moved on to a different company, but I still deal with the company she works for.  So, we've kept in touch.  As I was talking to her, I thought about how we talk rarely, but when we do it's as if we talk every day.  I love having people like that in my life.  So, as I spent the day shredding, starting to say goodbye, and finding out who I will be training, it was a day of mixed feelings.  But, as I talked to this woman, she kept telling me how she was proud of me for taking this step and that she had been considering a change herself.  She recently lost her mother and had taken care of her parents for quite some time.  She feels ready to get out of the rat race of retail and into caring for the elderly.  She said hearing my story is encouraging her to take a step further towards that.  So, I'm grateful to her for our conversation and our friendship.  I'm pretty sure she will not be one of the ones I know I'm saying goodbye to for the last time.
So, where was God today?  He knew I needed to hear from someone who has been where I've been who wants to do what I'm doing- following my dream- my path- even if it means making a few sacrifices.  It was a reminder that He is going to take care of me and my family.
Matthew 7:12

The Message (MSG)

 ¹²"Here is a simple, rule-of-thumb guide for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you, then grab the initiative and do it for them. Add up God's Law and Prophets and this is what you get.

Blessings,
Jennifer 

Beginnings

Tonight was JIF.  For the next month, we're working on the 30 Hour Famine- B1/ One Being.  It's a fundraiser where participants stop eating for 30 hours and get sponsors to donate to them.  As I was working on plans today, I realized that not only do I have about 20- 25 teenagers participating, but I have at least 8 adults doing the famine and about 6 more who have volunteered to help in some way! 
The famine is always special to me because it's how I got started with the youth.  A few years ago, the church was without a youth leader and volunteers were keeping things going.  But, nobody was planning on doing the famine- which the group had always done.  I didn't want my son to miss out since he had been looking forward to it since the year before when he had gotten sick and couldn't participate at the last minute.  So, I volunteered to run it.  Little did I know that volunteering would change my life!  But, by the time we were actually doing the famine, I was getting ready to officially become the new youth director!
Now, this year, as I prepare for the famine, I've completely turned my life towards working with teens.  So, to me, the famine is a time of reflection, change, and new beginnings.  This isn't just about me.  Fasting for 30 hours with someone bonds them together, makes them closer to each other and to God.  And, I love to watch teens transform over 30 hours into a close knit group.  There are always friends of the group that come, newer youth that aren't overly committed to the group, and "the regulars".  But, by the end, those lines disappear.  They have all shared experiences together that bring them together.
Can you tell I'm excited for the famine?!
Today, I saw God in the plans, in the participants, and in the visions of our 30 Hour Famine coming in February.
Acts 13:3
So after more fasting and prayer, the men laid their hands on them and sent them on their way.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Announcement

I can't believe it's already Wednesday!  Time flies when you're having fun, I guess.
But, this is actually my Tuesday post. 
Monday afternoon, I was able to post my new job on facebook.  I wanted to wait until I had let my current job know that my days there were numbered.  So, after I had talked to my boss, the owner of the company, and another corporate person, I felt it was safe. 
At last count, I had 42 congratulatory "likes" and 22 comments!  So, today I see God in the love and support from my family and friends.  Some are new, some are friends who have known me forever.  But, all of them have been very supportive of my decision.  And, that is a blessing to me as I take a big step out into the unknown!
“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13
Blessings,
Jennifer

Letter

Today was bittersweet.  I had to give notice to the company I've worked almost 11 years for.  They've been good to me.  When my husband was sick, they were understanding about my hours.  When I went full time at the church, they kept me on part time and never complained that I didn't do as much as I had before.  I've gained a lot of knowledge and experience there, and met a lot of great people.  So, the finality of giving them my resignation letter was a little scary.  Today, I took a leap.  It's a little scary to leave what I know and where I'm known and respected and go where I'm unknown.  There are new things to learn and new rules to follow.  And, even though I work with teens now, it's a little different setting.
Don't get me wrong.  I know this is what I'm supposed to be doing and where I'm supposed to be going.  I'm sure once I get started I'll be fine.  But, the transition is going to make life interesting for awhile.
So, where was God today?  I'm pretty sure He helped me write that letter.  And, then He was right next to me during my meeting with my boss.  Beforehand, I was nervous for some reason.  But, when I went in there, all of that disappeared. 
***
This morning I wrote on facebook about making a difference, doing a random act of kindness, or an intentional act of kindness and encouraging others to do something today.  I realized today was also the birthday of someone who I always think of when I mention "Random Acts of Kindness."  He was always very kind to me and somehow, he knew when I needed help and he was there.  I try to pay it forward now.  So, when I do something, I think of him.  It's my way of thanking him since I can't say it in person.  I miss him.

Matthew 5:16 NLT
In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Simple Joy

"Simple Gifts" was written by Elder Joseph

'Tis the gift to be simple, 'tis the gift to be free

'Tis the gift to come down where we ought to be,

And when we find ourselves in the place just right,

This song has been ringing in my head today.  Several times today, I have been struck by the pure joy I have witnessed from simple things.  That has blessed my day and helped me to treasure the simple gifts God has given me, too.  Lately, some pretty big stuff has been happening in my life.  But, it shouldn't take away my joy in simple things.  So, I think today, I saw God reminding me that and I'd like to share 3 stories of joy with you.
After church, the youth and several adults gathered to help a friend move.  She was a friend of one of the volunteers and was moving from one apartment to another.  She had lived in the apartment for 21 years!  That's a long time to live in a small apartment.  She was moving to a much newer, more modern apartment.  When we arrived at her new place with all of her things, she was just bubbling over.  She took us on a tour of where everything would be when she got it all set up and she was brimming with pride.  When some of the guys got her bed put together, she literally squealed with delight!  It's rare that I hear a middle- aged woman squeal with delight!  It was pretty cool to help make someone so happy.
Tonight at youth group, we continued our discussion about our 30 Hour famine.  We're not eating for 30 hours to raise money and awareness for those who live in poverty.  Whenever it comes to making decisions for the group, I struggle with letting them decide in order to help them take ownership of the project or decide myself to eliminate argument.  But, tonight we discussed what to do with the money we raise.  There are several options for the mission organization we are donating to.  So, we read through them and discussed them.  To my amazement, both the middle schoolers and high schoolers read through them at different times and both groups commented on the same one!  So, I didn't even have to decide whether to let them decide because their comments and the impact the mission had on them made it an obvious choice.  In the end, we are donating 15% to the Salvation Army in our city, 15% to the Lend a Hand ministry at our church, and 70% to a mission in Liberia that helps children who had been forced to be soldiers re assimilate back into society after being saved from basically being slaves forced to kill.  I believe this mission reminded us all of the blessings we have living in the United States.
After talking about the famine, I talked to my older group about plans for their future.  I have a few college youth who aren't sure where their place is in the church.  So, they still gravitate towards youth group.  At first, I figured they would come awhile and then wean themselves.  But, I am realizing they feel they don't have anywhere to go.  So, I talked to them about a 4th Saturday event every month.  I'm planning on starting it in February and asked for their ideas.  One of my volunteers has offered to take them to a hockey game and white water rafting.  I'm thinking fun events/ outings to get them interested.  So, imagine my surprise when one of my seniors says, "Can we color?!" I ask her to repeat it, as I'm in disbelief only to hear another say, "and Veggie Tales!  and Play dough!"  So, I ask for an explanation.  They share with me about the stresses of college life and how they would love to just spend some time doing the things they did in kindergarten.  I can't remember seeing them so animated!  So, what else could I do?  On the 4th Saturday in May, we are having an end of school celebration complete with coloring, veggie tales, play dough, Lego's, cars, and all things kindergarten.  In fact, they'll be dressing up in their favorite kindergarten outfits... tutu's and cowboy boots, etc!  This will be an event to remember! 
So, today, I'm blessed by the simple things God has brought to my life to make my life a better place for me to be in.  And, in all of these stories, God was there.  As I'm writing this, I'm remembering the sermon this morning.  The pastor mentioned God's (Jesus') sense of humor.  Today, I could see him laughing.
Proverbs 30:8 New Living Translation (NLT)

 ⁸ First, help me never to tell a lie.
      Second, give me neither poverty nor riches!
      Give me just enough to satisfy my needs.

Blessings,
Jennifer

Phone Call

What an awesome day! I spent time with great friends- talking, laughing, playing cards.  Then, on my way home, I got the phone call I'd been waiting for!  It seems God's timing and my timing are matching right now!  I love that feeling!  I mean, when His timing is different than mine, I know it's ok.  But, when things click at the same time, I can't deny how great it feels!
So, I will now have the opportunity to reach more teens, show them that someone cares, and use the gifts that I feel God has given me to help others.  By working at 2 places that are 2 blocks from each other and serving the teens at both, I'll be able to enhance both programs.  Teens from my church will know I'm just down the street every weekday after school.  And, teens from the teen center will know that I'm at the church on Sunday's and Wednesday nights.  I see this as a win/ win! 
Because I didn't accept the initial offer, they realized that this program could be so much more than the "babysitting position" they originally offered.  I will now be planning activities and ways to enhance the program.
I'll miss the job I've been at for 11 years.  But, I was a different person 11 years ago, and I think it's time for a change.  I feel God is ready for me to move on and do more of His work.  So, today I saw Him in the phone call that offered me a chance for something new and exciting!
Psalm 84:11New International Version (NIV)

¹¹ For the LORD God is a sun and shield;
   the LORD bestows favor and honor;
no good thing does he withhold
   from those whose walk is blameless.

Blessings,
Jennifer

Anniversary

Today is a very special day!  So, I want to share how I've seen God working not just today but for 7 years.  Today is the 7th anniversary of sobriety for my cousin!  We grew up far from each other, but that didn't keep us from being close!  We share a common love for a special place full of memories and happiness.  And, we also share another thing.  We both had some trouble growing up.  Mine was different than hers as far as drinking.  But, we both had our times when we kept our parents up at night.  I was ending mine when she was mid-way through.  So, as time went on, we grew closer as we shared common circumstances.  I wish for nobody to have problems, but as I always say, it's not what you go through, it's what you do afterwards that is important.  And, what she has done is awesome!
A few years ago, she visited me during the summer with her 2 boys.  She was here a night I had youth group so I asked her to come share her story with my teens.  In only a short time, she made an impact that has lasted.  If I mention her today, my youth still remember the things she shared that day.  She is a blessing to all in the ways that she sets an example to others and in the ways she shares her past to help others struggling.  Since that time, she has been working hard and recently graduated with a degree in magazine journalism!  I'm not sure how anyone can raise 2 young boys, go to school, and run a household by herself, but she did!
Growing up, I always went to church.  My cousin didn't.  But through her struggle and climb back, her journey has led her to a spiritual understanding.  When I'm stressed or wondering about things, she always reminds me of God's plan.  I love hearing that from her and seeing how God has worked in her life! 

“So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:26-28 NIV

Blessings,
Jennifer

Time

Tonight I had an awesome conversation with a friend.  He shared some pretty powerful things with me.  We've talked before and he told me tonight that several times lately my words had come into his head, "It's not our time, it's His time!"  I guess I didn't realize how often I must say that.  But, he shared with me that it's getting easier for him because he keeps seeing God's hand in his life.  When things come down to the last minute, God has been providing exactly what he needs.  He's had more, made more, but never been this happy!  What a blessing it is to see God working in someone's life- to watch someone put their total faith in God and see God come through!  What is even more of a blessing is to hear him acknowledge it.  So many times, I have heard people talk about these wonderful "coincidences" in their lives and I think to myself, that was God taking care of you!  But, sometimes it takes awhile for people to see it.
As far as my life goes, I am continuing to see God work in my life.  I mentioned to this friend that I almost feel like it's a story and I'm just watching it waiting to see what will happen next.  I got a phone call from the place I turned down a job from on Monday.  We'll see where today's conversation leads.  I'm ok either way, but curious to see what happens next- as if it was a tv show and there's a commercial right before the best part!  But, I'll keep working on patience.

Matthew 6:33-34

New International Version (NIV)

³³ But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. ³⁴ Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Answered Prayer

God answered my prayer today.  I believe He always does answer our prayers... we just don't always like or agree with His answers at the time.  But, in the end, it's always the right thing.
So, I'm not sure how much I've elaborated so ignore this if it's "old news".  I had the opportunity to apply for another job in addition to my youth job.  It would have been something I thought would fit right into what I'm doing and something I thought I would absolutely love.  It's taken awhile to get through the hiring process because the person doing the hiring was gone for a week.  So, it has felt like it's been dragging out longer than it should.  But, last Friday, I was told they were pretty sure they were going to offer me the position after a few more things were taken care of.  I was excited at the possibilities.  But, it's also a big step- a big change schedule wise in my life.  So, I prayed for God to help me with my decision.  I asked Him to give me guidance and to help me by making my decision an easy one somehow.  Basically, my prayer was for Him to find a way to let me know if this was truly His plan for me. 
I was supposed to know by today.  And, finally this afternoon, I had a chance to talk to the hiring person.  We set up a meeting for this evening.  And, at our meeting, I received God's answer to my prayer.  Yesterday, I had calculated exactly how much I could take a pay cut and still have a roof over my head and food on the table.  It was more than the minimum wage they offered.  So, my decision was pretty easy.  And, I thank God that I was not put through an inner struggle in my head about what the right thing to do was.  I'll still support the program since I believe it's a good thing for my city and my youth.  But, I will not be running it.
Thanks God for answering my prayer.
Job 11:13
“If only you would prepare your heart and lift up your hands to him in prayer!
Blessings,
Jennifer

Ripples

This is my 82nd blog.  It's been almost 3 months since I started on this blogging journey.  I have no idea how many people read them.  But, I guess that's really beside the point.  I'm enjoying writing them!  Some days, I don't actually get to write.  But, even on those days, I feel myself more aware since I've started this.  My goal of writing about how I see God each day has helped me to focus even more about where God is each day in order to write about it.  Although we shouldn't need incentive or something to encourage us to focus on God, sometimes we do. 
What has been really cool is this.  My son posted on my facebook wall the other day.  "You're bringing blogging back!"  What he told me just a few minutes ago is that a few of his friends are now blogging.  And, although I barely know them, he said it was because I started.  You see, a short time ago, a close friend of mine decided to start blogging.  Lately, she's been telling of God in her life.  Her family does this pretty cool thing.  They each picked something to help them remember God loves them.  Hers is owls.  And, lately, she's seen owls everywhere!  They always appear right when she needs a reminder!  How cool is that?! 
Anyway, her daughter just started blogging and then so did a few of her friends.  So, I really can't take all the credit.  We all make our own choices.  But, it reminds me of something my mom just sent me.  It's about the ripple effect.  One little pebble in the water creates all of these tiny ripples!  It makes me stop and think now about the ripples we create every moment of our lives.  What kind of ripples are we creating?  Every word, every action, everything creates ripples because others react and are affected by us! 
I know this is kind of rambling.  I'll get to the point.  Where is God right now?  I feel He wanted me to start this blog.  I feel He is encouraging me to create positive ripples.  And, I feel He is encouraging me to teach others to do the same.  I saw Him today in the kindness my youth showed to others.  We went ice skating and one girl was afraid to get on the ice.  One of the older youth was able to help her through her fear in a way nobody else could.  Another girl skated mainly by clinging to the wall.  But when she saw a stranger fall, she was the first to go up to that person, let go of the wall, and help her up.  Those are beautiful ripples!

“ Jesus said to them, "Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men." Immediately they left their nets and followed Him ”   Mark 1:17

Blessings,
Jennifer

Teen Center

Tonight was a great night!  I spent the evening at the YMCA for the grand opening of the new teen center.  It's what this city needs to give teens something positive to do.  So, I'm really happy it's reopening.
This afternoon, my son posted something to the youth group about the event.  Since it was late notice, I wasn't sure how many would show up.  But, a bunch of them did!  They had a great time.  I had a chance to talk to some of the adults about the teens and the city.  There were teens that were not part of my group that were there, too.  A few of them seemed to be shy or feel out of place.  I chatted with them and had some really good conversations with them.  Afterwards, they went off and joined in on some of the activities with the others.  We continued to chat some throughout the evening.  I wandered through the center watching how everyone interacted with each other.  It amazes me that something as simple as talking with a teenager for a few minutes can give them the courage to then do something they were nervous about doing.  Several came in and stated they didn't want to do anything.  When I asked them to play a game with me, they did.  And, when another teen came along and I asked them to take over for me, they were all fine.  The simple act of inviting, of listening, of letting them know they are important, can make such a huge difference in a person's life- child, teen, or adult!
So, as I was there tonight, it reminded me of a conversation I had with a friend the other day.  Ministry doesn't just happen for me during church activities because I'm a youth leader, it can happen anywhere.  And, anything we do, any job we have, can be a form of our ministry to others.  We just have to be open, watch, and listen for those opportunities. 
Where was God today?  The same place He always is- everywhere!  And, I was lucky enough to be able to see Him working at the teen center tonight.

Colossians 3:17

New Living Translation (NLT)

¹⁷ And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.

Blessings,
Jennifer

Journey

Tonight was our Wednesday night activity.  I was in charge of dinner so afterwards, I had to clean up, too.  So, unfortunately, I didn't get to be a part of the whole activity time.  But, when I did join the group, I was blessed by what I saw.
There were kids ages 2 through 17 together reading scripture and hearing about baby Jesus and the wise men.  They were going on a journey around the church and finding envelopes with messages inside- scripture sharing the greatest story ever told.  And, they were following the star the throughout the whole journey.  It didn't matter that the star was cut out of paper and attached to a broom handle with a light behind it.  This was the star of Bethlehem!  And they were traveling, listening to the story, and talking about it.  I love how children can imagine and pretend!  Tonight, they weren't just listening to the story, they were a part of it.  And, when they got to the end and the lights were turned on, they were right in front of the nativity scene.  And, to them it was a magical moment! 
We listened in silence in the dark to one of my new Christmas favorites, "How Many Kings."  Toward the end, the leader suggested they take that time to pray.  I noticed one of the girls kneeling and praying and praising God.  It's so awesome to watch young ones grow in their faith and love for God!  I feel blessed to be a witness to such great things and I can't wait to watch them continue to grow!

“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:8 NIV

Blessings,
Jennifer

Snow

Tonight was my son's first experience driving in real snow.  After a great day with family, we were making the 40 minute drive home in snowy, windy weather.  My philosophy is that it's better to give him the experience driving while I'm in the car so I can see how he drives and let him know if he needs to do something differently.  I didn't want him to be afraid of driving in the snow, although I didn't want him to be cocky either because driving in the snow can be a challenge.
So, we were near home and the roads were terrible.  A plow obviously hadn't been by recently.  He was driving cautiously.  So, I was happy about that, although still nervous because the road conditions were so poor.  Suddenly, he commented on a semi.  I looked behind us as he asked if it was really going to pass us.  It wasn't a 2 lane road and there were times we couldn't even tell where the lanes were.  So, for a semi to pass was not a good idea.  But, he did it anyway.  And, pushed us off the road in the process.  He kept going and we were stuck on the side of the road- not quite in a ditch but not able to get back on the road either. 
A jeep passed by slowly, stopped, and backed up.  4 young guys got out and asked if we needed help.  It turned out my son knew one of them.  But, they didn't realize it until after they got out.  So, here were 4 teenage (or early 20's) guys who randomly stopped to help someone in need.  To me, that's awesome!  And, not just because if they hadn't we'd still be sitting there.  Teenagers get a bad rep sometimes.  But, I see kindness, love, and hope in so many teens!  Tonight, I saw God in a random act of kindness.

Luke 10:27

New Living Translation (NLT)

 ²⁷ The man answered, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.’ And, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’

Blessings,
Jennifer