Hello

Lately, I've had a few teens who show up as often as they can.  They happen to be friends with one of my youth.  They seem to be pretty good teens who could go either way.  Tonight I had to work late at the teen center because my replacement didn't show up.  When he finally got there, these teens left.  It seems that the teen center empties out when I leave on Wednesdays- no matter who else fills in for me. 
I got to the church as they were finishing eating and they were cleaning up.  There was a ton of food left.  So, I sat down to grab something to eat before our activity for the evening.  Then, the 3 teens that left walked into the room!  They were as surprised to see me as I was to see them.  They were looking for their friend (who wasn't there) and instead ran into me.  I gave them sandwiches and introduced them to a few of the youth.  They were excited to see me and wanted to see the church.  So, I sent them off with my son to see some of the church.  When I walked upstairs, I found them by a piano.  One of the girls said she could play a Christian song and then played "When the Saints Go Marching In".  They stayed awhile longer and then left to go find their friend.
Ironically, he walked in with another teen from the teen center only a few minutes after they had left.  And, tonight, the teen center friend came to go to church and pie night for the 3rd week.  I love how God is working in both places!  My youth have the teen center to go to during the week and my teen center teens have the church to go to if they're looking for some direction. 
So, where was God today?  I believe He directed the paths of the teens who all just showed up tonight.
The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me and my heart leaps with joy. I burst out in songs of Thanksgiving.
Psalm 28:7 NLT The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me and my heart leaps with joy. I burst out in songs of Thanksgiving.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Encouragement

Tonight I got home from work and finished off a letter of recommendation for one of my amazing youth.  This teen has become an inspiration to me in many ways, but especially by caring about others and the environment.  She not only addresses the problem but also talks about solutions.  To her, there is no doubt that we can change the world.  That is an admirable quality that I hope she holds onto and impacts others to grasp as well.
After delivering the letter, I came home to relax.  Of course, that means checking in with facebook.  I was surprised to see an encouraging comment on my the wall of one of my youth.  It wasn't because the youth didn't deserve it, but rather the person commenting surprised me.  You see, yesterday, she lost her husband of many years.  I know that she is having a rough time losing someone she has loved dearly for so long.  I went to her facebook page to check in and see how she was doing.  There were many messages of condolences.  The couple has been very active in church and well loved by many.  So, that didn't surprise me.  But, I saw she had written 3 facebook messages and they were all encouraging comments to teens from the church.  What an awesome person!  Even in her saddest times, she is sending out her love and encouragement to others- to the youth.  She is someone I admire and someone I am grateful for.  She is the first person most people meet when they visit the church because she makes a point to meet them.  (She reminds me of my grandma because she was the exact same way.) So, I'm pretty sure she was the first person I met when I visited.  And, for that, I'm grateful to her.
Today, two people reminded me of the way we all should be living.  So, where was God today?  He's working through these two people who have been a blessing to so many.  And, I know that God is with the family who has lost someone very special.  He will be missed, but we are all assured of where he is right now and that's a comfort.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Stories

I had fun tonight!  Last week I mentioned chatting with one of my youth about the focus issues during youth group.  He offered to plan something- a game- to help teach the lesson.  Unfortunately, he didn't have access to his laptop this week and couldn't finish the game.  But, I took his thoughts and ideas and tried to create something different this week.  I wanted to continue with our theme of mission and doing things to help others by using scripture.  So, tonight, we divided into groups and each group got a Bible story to look up.  They had 20 minutes to find props, costumes, and decide how to portray the story to the rest of the group.  When I announced what we were doing and handed out the scriptures, they ran off excitedly!  They all came back with props, costumes, and were ready to share their version of the Bible lesson.  There was no complaining about it or whining about being embarrassed.  They all took their story and their part seriously.  Of course, there were humourous aspects.  But, that only added to helping them and the rest of the group remember the stories.  It's definitely an activity we'll do again!
My group had the story of the Good Samaritan.  As the youth started to read it, he suddenly stopped and exclaimed, "Hey!  I know this story!"  Seeing teens excited about the Bible about reading it, and about knowing it is an awesome sight!
High school youth was a little different tonight.  With the recent overdose death of a classmate, there was an elephant in the room I wasn't going to ignore.  So, I asked them if they wanted to do what we had done in middle school or if they wanted to talk- or if they were tired of talking.  The consenses of opinion was that they were tired of talking about it.  But, then we talked for another hour about how they felt, things they wanted to do to change things, ways they can help others dealing with issues.  So, it seems they are tired of talking about what happened but they're only just starting to talk about what to do from here and what they can do to make this tragic death the last one that these teens have to deal with.  I am filled with hope for our future when I hear these youth talk about their ideas and ways they can make a difference.
So, where was God today?  He helped guide me tonight as I work through trying to reach my young group when they sometimes seem unreachable due to their "squirreliness".  And, God helped me during my high school group time because without Him, I'm pretty sure I wouldn't know what to say during the "tough stuff" like teens dying of an overdose.
Ephesians 3:20

The Message (MSG)

^20-21God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us.

Blessings,
Jennifer 

Clothes

Yesterday, I opened my trunk to get something out and thought to myself, "I really need to get that bag of clothes to Goodwill!"  It's ridiculous that it's been in my trunk that long.  Out of sight, out of mind, I guess. 
Today, I went to visit a group during their 30 hour famine experience.  During my time there, I talked to them about an upcoming event that I invited them too.  I found out that one of their youth is already involved in the local drug round table discussions, but we're hoping to get more teens involved so they have a voice in what's going on.  A friend of mine is a big part of that and when I mentioned her name, several of the youth lit up.  They started telling me about their new mission project.  This friend of mine started Worthy Women's Recovery Home.  These teens saw a need and figured out a way to fill it.  They are collecting business and professional clothes, toothpaste, deodorant, and shoes to give to the residents when they go out on job interviews.  They are already filling racks with clothes and are almost out of hangers!  After she started telling me about their mission project, I ran outside and got the bag of clothes in my trunk.  I had gotten it from someone who works in a professional environment and she had given me a lot of business clothes.  So, this bag was filled with professional looking clothes, sweaters, and things that they will hopefully be able to put to good use!
Where was God today?  He was in the hearts of these youth who are working to make the world a better place, who see problems in the world and don't give up but rather look for solutions and make it happen!  They are working for God doing amazing things!
1 John 3:3

The Message (MSG)

^2-3But friends, that's exactly who we are: children of God. And that's only the beginning. Who knows how we'll end up! What we know is that when Christ is openly revealed, we'll see him—and in seeing him, become like him. All of us who look forward to his Coming stay ready, with the glistening purity of Jesus' life as a model for our own.

Blessings,
Jennifer

Groceries

Today I was overwhelmed by a random act of kindness- truly a gift from God.
This morning, I got a message from a friend.  She had something to drop off at my house.  I told her where I lived and she said she'd drop it off.  I was curious to know what she had to drop off, but she gave no hints.  This evening, I got a message from my husband that she had been by.  And, when I asked what she dropped off, I couldn't believe it!  He said she had groceries!  Bags of groceries!  That in itself is overwhelming. 
But, even more amazing is this.  A couple days ago, my husband called me and told me the fridge was acting weird. The next day, he told me the fridge had stopped working and we lost everything in there. That's not good news- especially when on a tight budget. Luckily, my husband was able to fix it and we avoided having to call someone or get a new fridge.  But, that still left us with an empty fridge.
But, here's the thing. I don't remember telling anyone this. Not because I wasn't telling anyone but because I've been so busy working!  So, I'm not sure if she knew or not.  But, I do know that today I was truly blessed by someone's kindness.  And, I thank God for the people He constantly puts in my path!
“Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” Matthew 22:37-39
Blessings,
Jennifer

Ash Wednesday

Tonight I left the Teen Center as soon as I could so that I could get to the Ash Wednesday service.  One of my Teen Center teens wanted to go to church with me.  So, we walked into the service after it started.  I walked in and saw the front row filled with my youth!  There wasn't enough room for us so we walked further back.  During the service, we all walked up to get ashes.  After that, I sat in a row with some of the youth since they had to move during the ashes part of the service.  I heard them whispering and I leaned over to tell them to be quiet and I realized one of my youth who just finished confirmation was explaining Ash Wednesday and Lent to one of the younger youth!  We think they aren't listening during class, but it's nice to know they really are taking it seriously.
So, afterwards, I heard them talking about what they were giving up for lent.  Lately, I haven't given anything up.  I usually try to add something rather than give things up.  Sometimes I try to focus on reading more devotional or Bible related things or I try to focus on prayer or some other spiritual discipline.  But, I realized my youth were not taking it lightly.  One is giving up meat and another is giving up her laptop.  So, I realized that I should take a lesson from them and give something up this year.  I love being inspired by my own youth! 
So, what can I give up that won't affect my work, that will really be a sacrifice, that the youth will see as a big deal so they know I'm taking it seriously?  There was only one choice.  It wasn't a choice I wanted to make, but it was obvious.  I can't give up my laptop because of work.  And, things like facebook and texting are tools I use to share God with the youth.  So, I'm pretty sure that's not what God would want me to give up.  So, as of today, I'm not drinking Coke.  It won't be easy to stop my one a day habit.  But, I'm pretty sure it's not the worst thing in the world. 
So, where was God today?  He was in my youth who shared His message with others and who inspired me to rethink my actions and focus during lent this season.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Devotion

For years, my grandparents worked for months each year to put out a lenten devotional.  They would ask people from their church to write a devotion.  Then they would compile them all and create the book.  When I lived with my grandma after my grandpa passed away, I watched as she worked hard every year to share the devotions with church family and friends.  It was her gift to them. 
Today, I received my devotion book in the mail.  Although my grandma passed away a few years ago, their legacy lives on.  My parents started a lenten devotion book at their church some years back. 
I must admit, I cheat every year.  I get it in the mail and then I look through it and start reading some of them right away. 
Last year, I was able to share the devotions with my youth during our mission trip.  I was amazed at how the devotions we read each night related somehow to what we had done that day.
I am grateful to my parents for their dedication to sharing this gift with so many and for keeping alive the tradition my grandparents started so long ago.  The hours of typing, proofreading, waiting for all of the devotions to arrive, it's a lot of hard work.  But, when I thought about my day and where I saw God, the first thing that came to mind was the devotion book I got in the mail. 
This year, the book is based on Collossians 3:12- 17.  It definitely gives me something to think about- and something to look toward focusing my life on.
Colossians 3:12-14

New International Version (NIV)

¹² Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. ¹³ Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. ¹⁴ And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

Inspiring

Note: there are really 2 separate thoughts here- I realize that but put them together on the same one since that's how they came out of my head ;)  )
I was just looking for a video for a project.  The youth workers have been asked to send videos that inspire them or their youth.  I can see them in my head, but can't find most of them right now.  But, it got me to thinking about so many things and so many people that have touched my life and the lives of my youth in the past few years. 
Undoubtedly, the first mission trip I took the youth on will be one of the high points in my life no matter what else I do in life.  There is something about that first trip.  And, the man we met there, Nigel, is the type of person that if you meet him, you will be inspired.  Your life changes by being around him.  Hearing his story, hearing his beautiful voice sing Amazing Grace, seeing his tears of joy when he walked down the ramp we built him- that's life changing!
Going to conferences and hearing people speak about their lives and what they had to go through to become who they are has been inspiring.  I met the woman who inspired the movie "Homeless to Harvard".  Wow!  Then, this year I hear the woman who taught the Freedom Writers and created the Freedom Writer's Foundation.  Knowing there are people out there every day working to make a difference helps me, inspires me to want to make a difference.
I was driving home tonight around 9pm.  I'd been gone since 8am.  And, I was just smiling- happy almost to the point where I should have pinched myself!  Is this really my life?  Do I really get to do something I love doing so much and make a living doing it?!  Do I get to spend every day hanging out with teens and people who love and care about teens and who are trying to make a difference?  Do I really get to watch teens become young men and women going out into the world and sharing God with others, being inspired, and becoming amazing people?  Yes, I do!
I mean, yes, there are those days.  And, yes, right now I'm going crazy because I'm working on so many things where I have to fund raise- which isn't my favorite.  But, even in the hard times, I know it's all worth it.  And, I am blessed to be a part of something amazing!
Blessings,
Jennifer 

Game

Check out next week's Plan B- which sounds pretty much like a Plan A to me!
I typically am on facebook after youth group in case anyone wants to discuss things more in depth or anything else the youth might want to chat with me about. 
Tonight, one of my youth who was most disruptive happened to stay because his ride wasn't coming until almost 8.  He participated in the high school time and had great thoughts and contributions to the discussion.  So, when I saw him on facebook, I told him how much I enjoyed his time with the high schoolers and how I hoped next week to see that side of him during middle school time.  The conversation went on and I asked him about the middle school time and how we could make it "calmer" since he said he liked the high school time because there were fewer people and it was calmer.  (Ironic since he talked the most during the middle school time- so it goes to show we really don't know what's going on in their heads!) 
Fast forward through our conversation.  He's planning a game using the scripture and focus that we started tonight and are continuing next Sunday.  He's excited about it to the point that he is glad he has a day off tomorrow so he can spend time working on it!  A day off from school and he's working on a plan for 30 minutes of youth group time- how cool is that!
I love my job and seeing my youth grow!  And, I love seeing how God works- out of chaos comes beauty!
Blessings
Jennifer

Plan A

Sunday night is youth group night.  My plan was to have everyone make t-shirts since the ones they made during the famine didn't turn out right.  I made one the next day and it looked really cool and they all said they wanted one like it.  The back said "My Hands, His Work" and had a hand print on it.  The paint was glitter.  It did look cool- until I washed it.  So, it's back to square one on getting the t-shirts made to wear and sell.
And, it was back to the drawing board for my youth group tonight.  It's our first Sunday to talk about the mission trip but is also a continuation of our series on the famine and serving others and doing our facebook challenge.  So, I searched and found a really great lesson to use that ties in really well to what I wanted to share.  And, this morning the person leading our music time mentioned a song she wants to do.  When I listened to it, I realized it's the song I'd been hearing on the radio thinking that it would be perfect!  I just could never get the name of it since I was driving and couldn't write it down.  Later in the afternoon, I got an e-mail from my mom.  It was a story I'd heard before but had forgotten about.  It tied right in to the lesson, too!
As I was at the church printing out the story, a thought popped into my head.  Lately, when things don't go as planned I've said I'm going to try plan B.  It's typical to say that.  But, really, what I should be saying is this.  Well, I had plan B, but I'm going with plan A- God's plan- because His plan should be first- not a second choice.  So, today, I went with Plan A- God's plan. 
It all tied in together.  It was well planned and thought out.  Unfortunately for the moment, it didn't seem to all come across because there was so much chatter and side conversation.  But, I know that it's usually in those moments that someone there is getting something that I don't even realize until much later.  A couple of the middle schoolers had to stay and wait for a ride so they joined in the conversation a 2nd time.  And, it was obvious they had picked up what I was trying to get across and they had interesting comments to share.  I know there's always something someone gets from what happens- but it's nice to get affirmation quickly when frustration is starting to set in.  So, I'm grateful for that, too.
So, where was God today?  He was working on Plan A.
Here's the song- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BbH0IWZL05s
Here is part of our scripture from our lesson.

Matthew 28:18-20, “Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Blessings,
Jennifer 

Kindness

A week ago, I posed a challenge to my youth during the famine.  "New facebook challenge! Post every day about how you are going to make a difference, how someone else has made a difference, a random act of kindness you did for someone or they did for you today."
This week, I've seen a few posts, but not as many as my last facebook challenge.  But, it's only the beginning.  And, tonight when I went out to eat, I talked to someone who happened to see my posts.  She mentioned my posts and asked me what it was all about.  So, even if I don't see a lot of statuses talking about random acts of kindness, hopefully, it's getting people to be more aware and to think about being kind to each other. 
Today I was pretty much off.  So, I enjoyed a day to do things I wanted to do.  And, random acts were a part of it.  It's alot more enjoyable to be kind than it is to think about negative things. 
So, where was God today?  His lesson to us all is to love one another.  Our mission should be to do that in any way we can, in every way we can.  And, wherever love and kindness is, there is God.
What random act of kindness can you do today?
Matthew 25:40Blessings,
Jennifer

The Message (MSG)

 ^37-40"Then those 'sheep' are going to say, 'Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry and feed you, thirsty and give you a drink? And when did we ever see you sick or in prison and come to you?' Then the King will say, 'I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me—you did it to me.'

Friday

Friday's post since I fell asleep before I could type it.
Today was the day I'd been waiting for.  A month ago, I took a big jump.  I was excited but part of me felt like it was a jump right off the ledge.  But, I was counting on God to be there to catch me.  So, I jumped.  Leaving a job after 11 years is always scary- especially when it's not a job you hate and you're going to leave that field and everything/ everyone you know behind!
So far, I love my new job!  I'm already realizing how much I enjoy working with these teens.  The power was out due to remodeling yesterday so we closed early.  I was really bummed that I had to leave early and that I wouldn't see them until Tuesday because of President's Day on Monday.  So, yes, I love my job!
But, I also love my family.  And, making sure we have a roof over our heads and food on the table is something I feel is pretty important.  And, although I'd calculated and figured things out, until I got the actual paycheck yesterday, part of me had this sinking feeling that I had miscalculated.
I didn't!  We're going to be able to eat!  I even paid off another bill yesterday thanks to my debt snowball plan.  A year ago, I was a month into Financial Peace University.  At the time I was excited because I was starting to get a handle on our finances.  Now I believe it was all part of God's plan to get me ready for this new adventure in my life. 
Some people say it's hard to let God into their life.  I feel so relieved that God is walking with me every step of the way and that I don't have to worry because He's taking care of things.  Yes, sometimes I get a little nervous, I am human after all, but deep inside, I know God is there handling it all.
Matthew 11:28
Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.
Blessings,
Jennifer

JIF

Last night I had to work late at the teen center.  Luckily, a volunteer helped me out and started my group for JIF.  As I was getting ready to leave the center, there were 3 guys there.  One had planned on riding with me since he normally goes to JIF.  The others I don't know well.  About all I knew about the one was that he enjoys announcing that he's an atheist.  The other had only been at the center once or twice.  But, as we were leaving, they decided to go to JIF, too. 
It was "clean the youth house night!"  So, when we all got there, things were in full swing- floors were being mopped, things were being organized, and bathrooms were being cleaned.  A few minutes into our cleaning, the "atheist" told me he had to leave since his mom wanted him home.  He actually seemed sad that he couldn't stay.  He told me he'd be there on Sunday. 
Today, he was back at the teen center.  And, the first thing he asked me was if there would be youth group tonight.  I see God working in this new adventure.  By being involved with teens in different places, I can help more teens find the right path, teens who wouldn't always feel comfortable just showing up at church without someone to guide them.  And, that's a pretty exciting thing!
2 Corinthians 4:15

Common English Bible (CEB)

¹⁵ All these things are for your benefit. As grace increases to benefit more and more people, it will cause gratitude to increase, which results in God’s glory.

Blessings,
Jennifer

E-mails

Today I got an e-mail I was really excited about!  During the famine, we e-mailed the missionary we decided to send our proceeds to.  And, we already got an e-mail back from him!  This year, we did a Methodist version of the famine and I love that the youth can have a connection to where their money is going.  I have a feeling that this is only the beginning of their relationship with this mission.  It all seems more real to them this year because it is a real person they can communicate with!  I Feel God is working in this process.
I got several other interesting e-mails and phone calls today.  Yesterday, at my pastor's suggestion, I e-mailed the contact person for the B1- the Methodist version of the famine.  I offered her my activities and info and feedback on our event.  She is very interested in hearing about what we did.  She also forwarded my e-mail to someone who writes for Connect N Mission, which is the Methodist mission publication.  She e-mailed me requesting an interview and sent me questions.  I responded to both so we'll see where that leads.  I also got a call from a friend who is a youth leader at another church in town.  She is about to do her first famine and her info got lost and never sent to her.  So, she's in a panic about planning her first event!
So, I thought I was done with famine stuff. But, it looks as though I've become an advocate for famine events.  That's ok with me since I think every youth group should do the famine!  It's a time to focus on spiritual growth and mission.  What could be better?
So, where was God today?  He's still using the famine to work through me.  And, I love it!
1 Corinthians 13:13

New American Standard Bible (NASB)

¹³ But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the ^[a]greatest of these is love.

Blessings,
Jennifer

Justice

After a crazy busy week and weekend, I needed something.  I needed a good time and some laughter.  I got it.  A friend was taking her daughter to Justice and some other stores.  Having a boy, I'd never entered a Justice before.  I walked into a room of sparkles, ruffles, and all things girly!  I was overcome with flashbacks from the 80's- flashdance shirts, leggings, jean mini skirts, you name it from the 80's!  So as we strolled around the store, something hit my funny bone.  And, before I knew it, I was posing holding up assorted shirts that nobody my age should ever wear!  And, thanks to phones with cameras, my friend got some of them on film.  And, when she "double dog dared me (yes- really!) to put one of the girls shirts on, well, we're talking double dog dare!  How could I refuse?  So... yeah! 
My original plan for the day was to go to church, go home and do nothing, and then go to youth group.  Plan B was so much better!  Sometimes, laughter is much more relaxing and refreshing than a nap!
So, where was God today?  The answer goes back a ways because today happened because God put someone special in my path a few years ago.  And, for that I'm very thankful.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Famine

Tonight was a great night for me.  I spent the last few hours watching videos from the 30 hour famine.  I always love watching the videos from the famine.  But this year was even better for several reasons.  First of all, instead of using a web cam and having people without heads half the time, I asked a videographer who I knew would do an awesome job really portraying what the famine is all about.  And, secondly, I didn't get a whole lot of time interacting with the youth since I was running around keeping track of 7 groups in different locations all of the time.  I didn't get to see a lot of what was going on.  I really missed that. 
But, tonight, watching the video, I got to see it. I got to hear what they said and how they were feeling, and what impacted them.  And, even though I knew it, I didn't really know until I watched the video and heard and saw with my own eyes, that what I had planned was making an impact on them.  In the past, there usually tends to be a favorite activity by the majority of them. But this year, it was random.  Some were impacted by serving at the Salvation Army, others by hearing about a couple from the church who just came back from Haiti, and others from the random act of kindness activity that was spur of the moment due to weather and schedule issues.  All in all, I'm sure it was a successful 30 hours in many different ways for all involved. 
So, where was God this weekend?  He was in the hearts of my youth as they opened their minds to new experiences and focused on doing His work both then and in the future.  What more could anyone ask for?
Blessings,
Jennifer

Candle Time

A few months ago, I started something new at youth group.  Every week, during the middle school and high school overlap, we sing, light a candle, and pass the candle while sharing our prayer concerns.  Before that, whenever I asked for a volunteer to pray, the room went silent.  It was out of their comfort zone to pray out loud.
So, as we came to the close of the 30 hour famine tonight, I thought it best to end with our "candle time" before we broke our fast with communion.  By 5, we had all gone 29 hours without food and were drained both from lack of food and lots of activities.  So, when we started our closing and the pastor asked if anyone had any comments, I wasn't overly surprised that there were very few.  As we went on to candle time, I was moved by each one of the group as they spoke of their prayers of thanks, and concern for those who are in need.  And, it just struck me as I am sitting here that even though they were tired and didn't want to share a whole lot with the group, they were quick to talk to God!  That's a beautiful thing!  I'm sure God was there to hear their prayers.
Blessings,
Jennifer 

Appetite

I can't resist sharing this.  As you probably know, I'm preparing to not eat for 30 hours starting at noon tomorrow.  I was having a conversation with our student pastor earlier this evening.  We were discussing the famine.  I'm grateful for all of the help I'll have and part of the reason is because I'm fighting a cold.  I'm afraid it's winning- although I go in spurts of feeling fine and spurts of not feeling so great.  But, the funny thing was that we agreed it was nice of God to make me lose my appetite so it won't even bother me to not eat or drink my bottle of Coke!  Besides orange juice, there really isn't much that sounds good to me right now.  So, I'm hoping that lasts throughout the next few days!  After all, it's better to laugh than to stress about things!
Honestly, I'm seeing God through all of the excited texts, e-mails, and facebook messages I'm seeing from my youth.  One teen asked me earlier if it was too late for another teen to join us.  I say, the more the merrier!  And, because God is awesome, when I needed another sponsor, I already had one because I had extra sponsors!
I can't promise to write tomorrow.  But, at some point soon I will share about my famine experience.  And, eventually, I'm sure I'll move on to another topic for those of you anxious to hear about something other than the famine!  But, this is where I am, and this is where God is working right now.  Our theme is "My hands, His work".  Please pray for us during the next few days.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Thursday

Last night, I came home from pie night and immediately crawled in bed and fell asleep.  It was about 8:45!  So, therefore, here is last night's post.
I had a meeting with most of my famine volunteers last night.  I ran out of copies and we almost had to go to another room because there were so many of us!  I am so excited to be sharing this experience with so many adults as well as youth.  And, I feel blessed to have so many adults willing to give up their time, and food, to spend 30 hours with teenagers- and with God!  There are so many varied people helping me and I love seeing how so many different people can use their special gifts for the same event.  Some are great with kids and want to spend time with them, some are cooking the "break the fast" meal, some are video taping parts of the event, and some are doing it because they felt it was something they wanted to share with their teen. 
This is the first year I've had so many adults and so many youth. (works out well that way!)  So, I decided to have a pre- famine meeting to discuss details.  I'm really glad I did.  It was a great time to brainstorm and troubleshoot a few issues that I hadn't even thought of.  What makes sense in my mind is not always portrayed the same on an excel spreadsheet.  So, it was good to go over the schedule with the group, too.  I'm sure there will still be "bumps in the road", but I think we'll be able to smooth them out pretty easily.
So, where was God on Wednesday?  He was in the hearts of each of my volunteers who decided to use their gifts to spend time helping teens get closer to God and themselves by serving others.
1 Corinthians 12:4-6

New Living Translation (NLT)

 ⁴ There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit is the source of them all. ⁵ There are different kinds of service, but we serve the same Lord. ⁶ God works in different ways, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Camp

Bear with me as my "proud mom" comes out!  I've been praying for him to get a summer job at the Methodist camp he's gone to for the last few years.  Last week he had 2 phone interviews.  Today, he found out he will be the light guy for the camp this summer.  His interview had gone really well.  When he talked to the tech guy he found out they use the same light board he's been working with for several years at the local theater.  Of all of the light boards they could have possibly had (I'm not a tech person but I'm going to assume there are a lot), they had the same one!  So, all of his volunteering at the theater has paid off.
I am so excited to see where this summer experience will lead his life!  Immersed in 2 months of Christian teens and adults, Christian activities and music, and the life experience of being away from home will be awesome for him!  He once told me that he feels closest to God at camp or on mission trips when he's playing his music.  He'll be a part of the music in a different way, but I'm hoping this will be a summer of deepening his already strong relationship with God. 
With all of that in mind, and even though I'm proud, it's going to be strange not having him home for 2 months!  I guess it's a trial run for when he will probably leave for a year in October and go even further away.  At least I'm going to camp for a week this summer so I'll see him then.
So, where was God today?  He's been working on this one for a little while, but today He gave my son the answer and direction we've both been praying for.  I know sometimes God's answers and timing is different than ours, but it really is awesome when our plans match!
Romans 8:17

New International Version (NIV)

¹⁷ Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.

Blessings,
Jennifer

Dreams

Tonight I was at a meeting and 2 people came up to me and shared about middle schoolers who need a positive place to be.  That's reassurance that the Teen Center is where I am supposed to be.  So far it's the best kept secret in town.  But, for 3 days I've gotten more teens than we ever had before.  That's nothing compared to those who could be there but it's a start!
I went to an interesting meeting tonight.  Basically, it was a meeting to inspire us to dream big, to think outside the box, and to see where God wants our church to go- and then move it there!  I was blessed to be a part of it.  It made me realize even more that I'm a part of something awesome!  Lately, I've seen so many positive ways that our church is growing- not just in people but in actions.  Of course, there is always more room to grow.  And, I'm excited to be a part of something that's willing to do the work to grow. 
I have until May to figure out a dream for our church.  Part of me wants to be the "good student" that gets my assignment done right away.  But, I think I need to sit and watch for awhile, pray about what my dream is.  
So where was God today?  He was in that room encouraging, challenging, and hoping for the future of our church.  And, he was in that room putting me in the path of caring adults who are hoping teens can find a safe, positive place to be.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Adopters

This morning, I hate to admit that I was a little nervous.  I started out the day with about 15 adopters for the 30 Hour famine participants.  The adopters are people not doing the famine that agree to pray for someone who is doing the famine.  They also write 3 letters of encouragement that the famine participant gets during the famine.  They pay $25, but it's not really about the money.  So, even if someone isn't able to pay, the most important thing is to have every famine participant adopted and getting letters of encouragement and prayer. 
So, when I started out today with 15 out of the 40 adopted, I was afraid I was going to be writing a lot of letters.  As I write this, I have 4 extra adopters!  That means I have people writing letters to everyone who is participating and I even have people writing to the "surprise" participants- friends of participants who don't tell me ahead of time that they are coming. 
I should know that every year it comes down to the last minute but it always works out.  But, every year it stresses me.  All I can say is I'm glad it worked out and it feels good to know that even when I am unsure, God is still taking care of things.
“For the word of the LORD is upright, And all His work is done in faithfulness. He loves righteousness and justice; The earth is full of the loving kindness of the LORD.” Psalm 33:4-5
Blessings,
Jennifer

Sock Hop

Tonight I went to a sock hop.  It's a fundraiser for Tri Kappa.  It's a great event for local families and it's fun to see families, young kids, and teens all having a good time together.  The youth group has gone for a couple years now and had a great time.  midway through the evening, a friend of mine brought a teen to meet me.  They had been working in the kitchen together and the subject of our youth group came up and she seemed interested in coming.  So, she wanted to introduce the teen to me.  As we started talking, one of the youth ran up and gave her a hug.  Evidently, they had gone to school together until the girl had moved.  They sat and talked for a long time.
At the end of the evening, I ran into her again working in the kitchen.  She told me she hoped to come to youth group tomorrow and mentioned another girl she knows that's involved in our group. 
So, where was God today?  He was at the sock hop!
Blessings,
Jennifer

Bake Sale

The day started off pretty well.  The middle schoolers planned to do a bake sale to raise money for their 30 hour famine.  Although it was their idea to do it, they weren't too quick to plan a lot of the details.  They wanted to do it this Saturday.  But, the ones who were supposed to contact the businesses where we wanted to have it kind of fell through.  So, since I was at one of the stores earlier this week, I asked the manager if we could have it there.  They agreed and I let everyone know.  I was hoping there would be enough baked goods to fill a table.  Thinking they would get there and we'd have a few things and would sell out in about 2 hours, when people asked how long we'd be there I said we had to stay until everything was gone.  So, at 8:45, I got to the store and started setting up the table.  Someone was already there when I got the table up front.  And, then more baked goods came.  And soon the table was jammed full!  And, then someone else came in with tons more!  So, we rearranged and took some off to refill later. 
As it turned out, the store we went to has an elderly customer base.  A lot of them are diabetic or can't have sweets for some reason.  So, we ended up with a full table still at 1pm.  But, even those who didn't want baked goods donated.  The youth raised over $266!  The great thing was that not only did they raise money but they also had a chance to share with a lot of people about what they are doing.  Part of the 30 hour famine is promoting awareness for poverty both locally and everywhere else.  So, I'd say it was definitely a success in many ways.  And, to think, I started out the day wondering if I'd have much at all.  I should know better.  God had it all under control!
Philippians 4:13

New American Standard Bible (NASB)

¹³ I can do all things^]through Him who strengthens me.

Blessings,
Jennifer

Work

As the end of my week nears, I am happy to report that my first full week at my new job was awesome!  Today I worked at the job I'm leaving and then went to my new job.  Although the teens were a little squirrely, I loved it anyway!  This week I've brought random food in and they were ecstatic!  I can't imagine what next Monday will be like when I announce every Monday is Pizza Night! 
As I went from one job to the other today, it was very obvious that I'm going where I'm supposed to be right now.  I'm making connections with teens who need a positive person in their life.  Of course, there are some who aren't ready for that connection yet.  They are probably the ones who need it most.  But, the right time will come for that, I imagine.  Every day, I've also had at least one of my youth there.  I don't think they know what a blessing that is to me to have a familiar face there.  And, since they know me well and the other teens there know them, it helps bridge the new teens to me.  It's like they think "well, if she thinks this person is ok, I guess I'm ok with her, too."  That makes my job a lot easier!
So, tonight I'm tired after working from 6:30am to 7:15pm.  But, I enjoyed every minute of it!  Then, after work, my husband and I went out for dinner.  With his back pain, that's rare for us anymore. 
So, today God blessed me with a good day, and the great feeling of knowing I'm exactly where I should be right now.
Romans 8:28

New International Version (NIV)

 ²⁸ And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who^[a] have been called according to his purpose.

Blessings,
Jennifer

Date

Some dates just stick out in my head.  February 2nd is one of them.  Ever since I was in high school, I proclaimed this day as my least favorite day of the year.  It was on this date that my first dog died.  I loved her and was devastated when she died in my arms that morning!  She was the family dog, but she was mine.  She didn't always have the greatest personality- she could be a little feisty.  But, I loved her no matter what.  And, she loved me no matter what.  To a teenager, that unconditional love is important!
When years later, my gran passed away on the same date, it was destined to be the worst date of the year forever!  I admired her for many reasons.  One of them was her talent for writing.  As I started writing this blog, several people remarked that I must have gotten the writing bug from gran.  I hope so!  When my sister and I were young, we used to spend a lot of time with her.  We cleaned her apartment and got paid- that was a big deal to us.  We used to play cards together and I love playing cards to this day.  We played pinochle most often.  Whenever I think about pinochle, gran comes to mind.  It's odd things that remind me of her- split pea soup, vienna sandwich cookies, waving at trucks over the highway.  I was blessed with unconditional love from her, too.  And, I'm sure through my teenage years that was sometimes not easy to do. 
Today, I thought about gran and my Maggie.  But, I didn't focus on the date being awful.  In fact, I had a pretty good day.  It was my first day for planning at the YMCA and I had a great time!  I can't believe I now have 2 jobs where I have to stop and pinch myself and say "they actually pay me to have this much fun?!"  I had more than twice as many teens today as I've had any day so far.  I had businesses that agreed to donate to the Teen Center.  And, my high school youth raised over $100 for the famine because generous people from the community gave them donations.  Yes, I'd say this was the best February 2nd I've had in years. 
I think it had to start with me- making a choice to not start out the day by saying "I hate February 2nd." as I have done for years.  Although I cringed a bit as I wrote the date, by the end of the day when I wrote it, I followed it up with the thought, "it hasn't been a bad day!"
So, where was God today?  He was in the people who donated to my Teen Center, the people who donated to my youth for the 30 Hour Famine, and in all of the people that in some way showed that they cared.  It's time to change today's plan.  I don't want it to be a bad day anymore.  It's time to honor the unconditional love that was shown to me.  Next year, on February 2nd, I will thank someone for the unconditional love they have shown me.  And, I will do some act of unconditional love for someone else. 
Everything we do is a choice.  Every thought and feeling we have is a choice.  And, when bad things happen, we can choose to keep them bad or we can choose to turn them in to good.  I choose to turn today into a good day.  And, in that, I will see God, who has unconditional love for all of us!
“But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble.” Psalm 59:16
Blessings,
Jennifer