Anniversary

11 years ago, I was surrounded by family and friends beginning a new chapter in my life.  11 years ago, I married my soul mate.  He came into my life after years of prayers for his arrival.  He came into my life years after I had half given up hope on finding him.  Within a year after I had written an essay for my english class on why women should not get married, I knew I had met and would soon marry my better half.  Luckily, he knew it, too.  After years of learning what we didn't want the hard way, we both knew we found what we did want.
Our meeting wasn't by chance or by fate.  It was by God.  We, along with our families, had been praying for years.  And, although we had first met a few years earlier, we realized that God knew we weren't ready yet for what God had planned.  So, 3 years later when we were ready to take the next step on our journey, God made it happen. 
Our wedding day was beautiful!  Of course, I might be a little biased.  But, surrounded by our family and friends, sharing with them our committment to each other and to our son, and to God in our lives.  I loved that our ceremony and was reception wasn't a "store bought" occasion.  Having my uncle officiate and my other uncle sing, my sister- in- law make the cake, along with other family who made the reception food, which was at my in-law's beautiful place all made the day special.  My grandma had written us a poem for the day that was read during the service.  I had an idea in my head of how I wanted to look that day- my dress, my hair.  And, my mom made it happen by making my beautiful wedding dress!  It was perfect and something I can actually wear.  And, somehow she managed to make the bridesmaids and maid of honor dresses, too!
But, the beauty of the day was knowing that it wasn't just a day- it was a lifetime!  I see so many people so excited about the wedding without much thought to the marriage.  We realized what we were committing to and made that our focus.
Of course, we have had our ups and downs in life.  In sickness and in health, for richer and poorer are very real for us.  But, since we relied on God and each other in those times, our relationship grew stronger. 
So, where was God today?  The same place He was 11 years ago.  He was guiding our life together.
1 Corinthians 13:13 (NIV)

¹³ And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

Blessings,
Jennifer

Event

Tonight was awesome!  I had a Teen Event tonight and had heard people had doubts about whether many teens would show up.  Over 100 teens were there enjoying a safe, positive, fun evening!  Everything ran smoothly, the community supported the event, people came and volunteered to help, businesses donated, and everyone had a great time!  I was constantly in awe of the blessings others shared.  Seeing people using their gifts to help the teens of the community was an awesome thing! 
I spent 11 years coordinating events in my previous job.  It got to the point where I barely had to think about it to plan an event.  I never would have thought that time would be preparing me to organize community events for teens!  But, tonight, as everything clicked together, I realized that God had been leading me up to nights like tonight and events with my youth. 
So, where was God today?  He was in the hearts and minds of all of the people who used their gifts to make tonight a great thing for the community and for the teens.  And, He has been leading me along a journey that has been preparing me to help care for His youth.
1 Corinthians 12:4-6 (NIV)

⁴ There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. ⁵ There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. ⁶ There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.

Blessings,
Jennifer

Bonds

This summer, I am around a lot of kids from all different ages and backgrounds.  Awhile back, there was a young boy who was running around and not listening to me at all.  It takes a lot for me to get frustrated.  But, I was on the verge of being frustrated with him.  Then I found out he had medical issues that caused his behavior problems.  Understanding that, I am now able to deal with him in a way that eliminates any issues.
But, this isn't about me.  It's about so many of the other kids who don't now what I know.  They have been amazing with this boy!  One in particular has taken him under her wing and it's so awesome to watch the two of them.  Yesterday, I mentioned something to her mom and just talking to her about her daughter got me choked up! 
I've found another boy needs a lot of attention and positive reinforcement has done wonders for him.  The awesome thing I've watched is the little boy who has found a great friend in him and he seeks him out so he can give him a hug. 
The bonds that are forming between the younger ones and the older ones is a great thing to watch.  It helps both ages become better people- the younger by having positive role models and the older by having a reason to be a better person knowing someone is looking up to them.
So where was God today?  He's there guiding these bonds, putting people in the right paths.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Camp

In a few weeks, I'll be going to camp for the first ime since I was in junior high!  Camp was a significant part of my spiritual journey and helped formed many of the things I believe and do today.  I realized recently that many of the things I do with my youth are things that my pastor, who led the camp, did when I went to camp.  I was amazed when he told me about things and I realized that I did them already! 
So, I have been excited ever since I knew I would be able to go with my group this summer.  They come back with such excitement and enthusiasm for God that I want to be a part of that week so I can figure out how to keep the momentum going. 
So, when things seemed to be turning and it was looking like we weren't going to be going, I was feeling a little down about it.  I knew that we would end up going somewhere and that wherever we went, God would be directing us.  But, the whole week of camp experience is what I had my heart set on. 
Yesterday, I spoke with the camp director and it looks like everything is going to work out.  We'll be sharing a lodge with another group- which will be fun  I talked to the leader and he told me he was flexible- which is a good sign that tells me he is a "go with the flow" leader who trusts that God is in charge.  (At least that's the way I'm reading into it)
Today, I was looking at camp information, talking to the pastor about his ideas, seeing updates online from people there, and talking to youth about camp.  Now, I'm even more excited!  I am sure amazing things will happen that week!
The other day, I saw a post from a girl I know.  She had just come back from a church camp and this is what she had to say- "AND I GOT A LEGIT RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD. A relationship I never want to let go of!"  That's what I want my youth to come home saying!
So, where was God today? (actually this is yesterday/ today)  So, yesterday, He assured me I could give my youth the camp experience I want to.  And, today, He continued to encourage me.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Picnic

Today was the youth family picnic.  It was a beautiful day and a blessing to see so many youth and parents.  I never know how many are coming so I guess at how many hot dogs to get.  But, luckily, we didn't run out of food.  On the other hand, there were people there from the time it started until around 8pm.  Last year, it seemed there were very few that could make it.  So, I was happy to see a much better turn out this year. 
I can't name one instance that stood out during the afternoon.  It was filled with laughter, games, and fun.  To me, seeing the youth just spend time enjoying hanging out with each other is a wonderful thing.  And, having a chance to spend time with the parents is a great thing for me.  As a parent, I know getting to know someone who is going to be spending time with my teen is an important thing.  So, although not everyone in youth group could attend, I think the mission was accomplished.
Before the event, I try to outline some of the big events for the upcoming year.  I print out a list, a welcome letter, and forms for the year.  So, it's a good incentive for me to get things lined up. 
So, where was God today?  I think He was in the planning.  I hope He was in the planning, that what we'll be doing in the upcoming year will be a blessing to God and to others.  And, I think He was enjoying the picnic, the joy that surrounded it.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Workday

This morning, I went to volunteer at a house that is being redone for women when they come out of prison.  The person who created the idea and has dedicated her life to it is an amazing woman!  Her faith in God and her example to others is inspiring.  Hard times in her life have been a tool for her to connect with others going through hard times and to help them realize they can change, too.  So, I can't mention this place without mentioning her and that I see God in her and in the work that she does to help others in so many ways.
But, I have to write about something else, too.  At 7:30, I called a teen to find out if she had decided to join me there and if I needed to pick her up.  She was ready when I got there a little later.  As we walked into the home, they were praying.  I wasn't sure who was going to be there.  Sometimes youth say they will be there but something comes up or they can't get a ride or they forget.  So, when I walked in and saw that almost everyone there for the workday was from my group, I was so proud of them! 
The house is filthy.  There is a lot of work to be done.  We had to wear masks because it was so dusty everywhere.  We spent hours sweeping, using a shop vac, mopping, and scraping and tearing things off walls.  It was dirty, smelly, and tedious at times.  But, I saw a group of teens work together to accomplish what they needed to do without complaining or whining.  The others were tearing down a ceiling, which my youth were excited about when they heard that was one of the tasks for the day.  But, nobody complained that we got the job of cleaning.  It makes me realize that they get it.  I've tried to instill in them that it doesn't matter how big or small the task, if they are doing God's work it's all important.  And, today, someone repeated that to me while we were working.  Awesome!
Shortly after we started working, I heard several girls in another part of the house singing "I've got the love of Jesus, love of Jesus down in my heart..."  And, I thought to myself, "Yes, they do!"
So, where was God today?  He was guiding and protecting us while we worked.  And, He was enjoying seeing His children working, being His hands and feet.
Blessings,
Jennifer

(Friday) Time

Friday, I worked early in the morning.  Then, I came home, relaxed awhile and then my husband and I were off for an hour ride to meet my parents.  We didn't see them on father's day so we decided to meet for lunch. 
What's so big about that?  Well, first of all, my husband was able to go with.  I think that's the longest car ride he's made in a long time.  His back pain keeps him from a lot of traveling.  So, it was nice to just spend time together there and back.
Secondly, it's such a blessing having time to just spend with my parents.  With my son being 18, I am constantly reminded of myself at that age.  And now, I treasure every moment I get to spend with them.  For years, it's been tough to find the time.  But, lately, my schedule has made it a little easier and I am grateful to God for the gift of time with the people I love.
After my later day work, I went to the downtown movie night.  I was tired and so not overly excited about it.  But, it was 4th Friday Movie Night and I have been doing it for 3 years consistently. (wow! That's hard to believe!) So, off we went to see the movie.  A newer youth was planning on coming with her mom and sister so I thought that would be a good chance to connect.  And, I was right.  her mom and I talked and had a great time sharing and getting to know each other better.  They've been looking for a church home.  They haven't been to church here yet- just youth activities.  So we chatted about that and she's anxious to have her younger daughter find a place to go, too.  As I rode my bike home, I thought about the evening and how we don't always have to be wearing a neon sign that says come to my church!  There are times God puts us in someones path to share about God or our church, or some other thing He has to offer them.  And, that's what we need to listen for. 
So, where was God today?  He gave me the gift of time with others- both to bless me and to enable me to speak for Him.
Blessings,
Jennifer

(Thursday) In-Laws

Today I went to my in-law's to get things ready for a youth picnic I'm having there Sunday.  My mother- in- law and I quickly got done what we needed to do.  Then, we sat down and chatted.  It's not often we do that, for no other reason than we are both usually busy.  But, this morning, it was nice that we both took some time out to sit and chat.  I am often aware of how blessed I am with a wonderful family of in-law's.  I knew my parent's in- law before I knew my husband.  And, when my husband and I got married, I gained another wonderful family, including my parent's in- law, sister's, brother's, nieces, and nephews!  I was welcomed in to the family, as was my son who was later adopted so he could officially be a part of the family.  They fit in with my family and we were all raised with loving Christian values that carry on today.
So, this morning, as I sat with my mother- in- law, I felt blessed that God not only gave me a wonderful husband but also a wonderful family.  Even when I left the church that I had gone to with them, although it was hard for them, they realized it was God's plan that I move on.  And, now I enjoy talking to them about both of our churches, sharing my thoughts and ideas and listening to what is going on with theirs.  My father- in- law is about to take their youth on a mission trip.  And, my mother- in- law is active in many things, too. 
So, where was God today?  He gave me a reminder of just how blessed I am and of the gift He gave me.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Potential

Recently, I met a youth who just tugged at me.  He has so much potential.  Unfortunately, there are a lot of things pulling against him.  For some reason, he's felt he could share them with me.  And, I feel blessed that God has put me in his path.
Today I told him about some positive places and things he could do.  He was so excited!  I love seeing pure joy from teens who don't have a lot of joy in their lives.
So, where was God today?  He was guiding me in this boys direction so that I could help Him lead this teen along the right path.  I look forward to seeing what will come.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Tuesday- Pie

I got this late Tuesday.  So, here it is.  Every Wednesday, I go to pie with my youth.  We found out almost 2 years ago that a local restaurant has pie for .99 on Wednesdays.  My Wednesday night programs took off after!  Without fail, we gather every week.  It's a time of fun and bonding for the group.  It's one of our few pure social events.  We're loud.  We're silly.  And, we eat pie.  It's also an easy way to invite someone to the group.  It's a way to let people know we're here.  And, we pray. 
I must admit that I don't always pray when I go out to eat.  And, I must admit that sometimes we forget since everyone gets served at different times due to desserts and dinners being ordered.  But, for the most part, we pray.  Everyone puts 2 thumbs up and the last one to put their thumbs up prays.  Sometimes we can skip that because someone volunteers.
Last night I got a text from one of the moms.  They are on vacation.  They were out to dinner and her youngest son put his thumbs up.  Her oldest son then led them into a beautiful prayer.  It was an awesome experience for them as a family!
I love seeing people go closer to God and each other at the same time!  And to think it's all because of pie!
So where was God today?  He was urging that boy to put up his thumbs and talk to Him in prayer.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Condensed

I know it's been a few days.  I'm fighting something- sore throat, exhaustion, etc.  So, sleep has been my main objective the last few days once I get home from work. 
Looking back over the last few days, several things stick out, although mostly, it;s been a quiet time due to my sleep/ do what I have to do/ sleep routine. 
Each day continues to be a blessing in so many ways.  My son is continuing to share with me about his journey this summer at the camp.  So far, it's been a stretching experience and I can tell he's loving every minute of it.  Knowing he's where God wants him to be is all that a mom could ask for.  Time will tell what God has in store for him at the end of this summer.  As a mom, I'm anxious to know what that is.  Working at having faith, I have to trust that God will guide him along the path he needs to go. 
This past Saturday, I went to another graduation party.  The graduates family were people I worked with before I started at the Teen Center.  It reinforced the blessing my new job has given me.  I left there feeling sad for those who sound miserable in their jobs there and knowing what joy came when I followed God's plan for my life.
My husband was able to have an opportunity that gets him out more than he had been able to due to his health.  I know he's pushing himself, but I am grateful for each day he's able to try and get out. 
Sunday was Father's Day.  So, I can't write without mentioning the blessing my dad has always been to me.  His quiet, honest ways, his dry sense of humor, and his example of a man of God and his example of work ethic have helped to shape me into the person I am today.  Somehow, God blessed me with 2 great parents and I am forever grateful! 
I guess that's the condensed version of the last few days.  Hopefully a good night's sleep and I'll be back to my old, rambling, blogging self tomorrow!
Blessings,
Jennifer

Camp

In a month, I'll be about to leave for camp.  I haven't been to church camp since I was a youth myself.  I'm more excited than the youth I'm taking- at least I think so!  It's also the same camp my son is working at so it will be fun to see him in action.  He has sent me pictures of his lighting designs and it will be fun to see the finished product.  I'm glad we are scheduled the last week so he has it all perfected and I don't end up making him nervous.
Originally, I thought some other Churches were joining us.  So, I booked a lodge.  That is not happening and I am about half full.  That is quite an expense with a half empty lodge!  So, I spent a great deal of time yesterday calling a lot of other churches in hopes of finding another youth group to join us.  Unfortunately, I didn't have much luck.  A church is a possibility but not likely.
But, tonight when I got home, I got an e-mail from another church who had slipped my mind.  I had talked to some members of the church last week at the conference.  And, it sounds as though they are possible interested.  The one I spoke with was our student pastor this past year.  At conference he mentioned that my style and the youth director there were different and he thought we would compliment each other and he'd like us to meet.  So, I'm very interested in connecting with him.  I'm hoping this is the answer to my prayer.  I know God has a plan for our camp week.  I'm hoping he lets me in on the plan in the very near future.\
So, where was God today?  I have my hopes but I'll let you know for sure when I know.  Sometimes, God is working on things that we don't see for awhile.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Technology

There are many things I could write about tonight.  But, this one just struck me so I'll share. 
I know there are people who think technology is a terrible thing.  I know that there are people who think that facebook, twitter, and other networking sights are useless and have a negative impact on everyone.  I can't argue that things like cyberbullying exist and are a potentially dangerous thing.  But, the potential for amazing, wonderful things far outweighs the negative.
The other day, my sister posted something on facebook about a friend of hers who was riding his bike home from work and was hit by a drunk driver and was in the hospital in a coma.  She shared this asking for prayers for him.  Would I have heard about this from her?  Maybe.  Would everyone on her facebook have heard about this?  No.  And, I shared it with my friends who I may or may not have shared it with- but not very likely beyond a couple of them just because I don't come into contact with them constantly.  But, because of facebook, prayers from all over have been uplifted and people are joining together to ask for healing and strength for him and his family.  I just got an update.  He is recovering beyond their expectations, he opened his eyes, and is blinking in response to questions. 
So, where was God today?  God is doing amazing things there and everywhere!  And, because of technology, we are able to spread the word, share our joys and sorrows, and encourage each other.  I hope that if you have facebook or twitter or any other networking site, you look for ways you can share God's love with others, making it a blessing in your life and in the lives of others.
Mark 16:15 NIV

¹⁵ He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.

Blessings,
Jennifer

Connection

This morning, our service was a little different.  There weren't bulletins so we didn't know what was coming next.  The pastor talked about how the church was a place to come and be a part of, a place we're all friends and love each other.  One of the things we did differently was spend some time getting into small groups and just sharing with each other.  I had been standing before that point.  I try to sit in different places every week and usually wait awhile to try to find someone new or sitting by themselves.  But, I happened to sit right in front of an older couple that has been at the church forever- which didn't fit either description.  But, we had a time of sharing.  And then, we had a time of prayer.  Usually, we are invited to share joys or concerns and then the pastor does a prayer.  Today, we prayed in our little groups.  So, I turned around in my seat and the woman immediately grabbed my hands and said she wanted to pray for me and for my ministry with the youth.  She then proceeded to pray a beautiful prayer of love and encouragement that overwhelmed me!  After that, I asked her for her needs and she shared how she is struggling with her husband's health and watching him struggle with his health.  I know her pain.  He then shared of his own struggles.  I prayed for them both and I felt in those few minutes a sense of connection I hadn't felt with them ever before even though we greet each other almost every Sunday.  I will continue to uplift them in prayer and attempt to find ways to encourage them, knowing now that they are struggling.
This morning, in those few minutes, I felt blessed and encouraged in one moment, and called to respond and connect in the next. 
So, where was God today?  It was definitely in those few moments during worship where I felt connection to others and to God.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Bonus

I got home way too late from a family party to write anything that would be remotely coherent!  So, here is my Saturday edition. 
The day started out with everyone dragging a bit.  Late nights, and busy days- all great things but they take their toll.  But, soon we were off to morning worship.  The worship was focused around the ordination of clergy, deacons, and elders.  The Bishop led the service and shared the message- "But if not".  He said he hope things all went well and gave examples and then ended with "but if not..."  He hope we continued our ministry, we understood God's call, etc.  He shared a touching story of a boy with cancer who said he hoped he beat his cancer.  But if not, he hope it got parents to hug their kids tighter that night, to love them and appreciate each moment more.  He shared it better than that- in a way that couldn't help but impact everyone.  Basically, it was a different way of saying the same thing I try to live by.  God has a path.  We have ideas and things we want for our lives... but if not, we need to remember that God has a plan.  It was a wonderful message of hope and encouragement!
Ironically, when I read what the sermon title was going to be, my mind went in a totally different direction.  I assumed the sentence would be "But if not me, then who?"  In my mind, it totally fit with the service of ordination and answering God's call and making that commitment.  So, as they were reading names before the sermon, my mind wandered to that sentence.  I looked back and remembered my first days in youth ministry at the church I'm at.  I never intended at that time to go into full time youth ministry.  It had been something I thought I was being called to years before.  But, since then, I had kind of put that to the side.  But, the church was without a youth leader and I heard they were not going to do a 30 hour famine because there was nobody to chaperone it.  Since my son had not been able to do it the year before I didn't want him to not do it.  So, I said "But if not me, then who?"  And that's where it all began.  And today, I was up on the stage taking offering during Annual Conference, hoping I wouldn't trip in front of all of the people there.  But, enjoying every moment of the conference and proud to be a part of it!
The service ended with inviting anyone who felt called into ministry to come forward.  I knew several who went down.  I'm praying they answer the call and follow the path God has chosen for them.
So where was God today?  I feel I got a bonus!  I got 2 great messages from the morning worship- the one God gave the Bishop to share, and the one He gave me to remind me where I started and where I am, and to look forward to what's next! 
Isaiah 6:8

New International Version (NIV)

⁸ Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us? ”
And I said, “Here am I. Send me!”

Blessings,
Jennifer 

Welcoming

What a great day!  I really didn't know what to expect since this is my first annual conference.  But, I must say I'm really enjoying it!  This morning, I heard several dynamic speakers who really gave me a lot to think about.  I took some notes during their talks via facebook statuses.  It gave me a chance to share some interesting thoughts and questions as well as guaranteeing I'll know where to find my notes later.  I enjoyed seeing comments from others throughout the day.  "When someone walks in your church for the 1st time, do you see a visitor or a guest?"  Interesting way of thinking.  The scripture focus for the week is Acts 2:42~47.  And this morning, the bishop talked about it with a focus on learning,loving,and leading.  Basically, I came here thinking we'd have some really fun times and some really boring times.  But, even the meetings have been inspiring to me in some way. 
This afternoon came our "big surprise"!  We did a flash mob!  Youth and adults came out and surprised the rest of the group when we broke into singing and dancing to "We're All in This Together!"  I didn't know what I was supposed to doing half the time, but we were all having fun.  The crowd was on their feet clapping and singing and having fun with us- which was awesome to see.  So, we are all in this together- young and old, men and women, every ethnicity.  It's all about being God's children and sharing His love with others.
So, that's what we did this evening!  We shared God's love by having a family night in the center of the city.  We had free food, free games, free music, free entertainment, and lots more!  As I walked down the sidewalk, I ran into several homeless people.  I invited them to join us and told them when and where.  By the time I got back from picking up some things, they were there!  One man came over and shook my hand and looked so happy to be there that it made my day!  There were children everywhere!  One woman said she had been looking for a church and someone from our group was able to give her information about a church near her.  It wasn't that we were trying to push people into going to a Methodist church by telling them things about our churches.  It was that we were showing people radical hospitality and they wanted to know more. 
So, where was God today?  He was at our conference, he was enjoying a flash mob, and He was celebrating at our family night with us!
1 peter 4:9~offer hospitality to one another without grumbling...
Blessings,
Jennifer

Conference

Today I traveled to Indianapolis to Annual Conference.  I'll be here until Saturday.  I am blessed to be part of the youth ministry team.  So, I get to hang out with the youth!  I'm pretty new to the group so I don't know too many of them.  But, after just a short time, I can tell you this.
How many youth who are just starting their summer vacation would give up 4 days to hang out and talk about being Methodist and sharing about God?  I know a bunch of them now!  Seeing youth excited about being here and participating with adults and clergy from all over Indiana is awesome!  They want to be involved in the church and they are anxious to share with adults.  During one of our sessions, a young person got up and spoke about churches wondering how to attract young people.  He said all we need to do is ask!  Some of the youth I was with discussed it later as we were walking out.  They were more than willing to be part of a "ask the youth" panel.  They have ideas, they have thoughts.  Basically, they care about what's happening and want to be a part of it. 
During the conference, we watched a video from the financial committee.  It started with the offering plate being passed.  Then, the usher was in a classroom and the money in the plate turned to classroom supplies.  He went to a homeless man and the offering turned to food, a blanket, and prayers for the man.  He went overseas and it turned to Bibles for several who were just learning about God.  It was a beautiful way to look at giving.  It's not about giving because we have to.  It's about giving because we can be a part of making a difference. 
This evening, we went to a service of remembrance for the clergy and spouses who passed away in the year since the last conference.  During the service, each name was called and a bell was rung.  They also poured water from a pitcher into a glass bowl.  To me, it showed the impact of each person when they were all put together.  At the end, when they asked people to stand if they were impacted by someone who passed, almost everyone stood.  We could see a room filled by people impacted by those gone before us, people who were blessed by those who have now gone on to a better place.  
So, where was God today?  He's in this conference- with the people here, in the conversations here, and in the many blessings that will come from the sessions and the decisions that happen here.

“Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. A thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by, or like a watch in the night.” Psalm 90:2,4

Blessings,
Jennifer

Summerfest

Today was our third youthworker prayer group meeting.  Along with a purpose to pray for our ministry and our youth, we are also hoping to encourage quarterly events that will combine all of the community churches and youth.  On the first Tuesday of the month we meet longer to discuss plans for this.  So, that meant today was a longer meeting. 
By the end of our gathering time, we had some great plans for our first event- Summerfest!  If we can connect churches from the area to bring families together and have a great day of fun for everyone, then it will be the beginning of an amazing thing!  For years I've hoped that churches would unite for community events or youth events.  It seems like that is becoming a closer reality.
Other than the event, it has been great to start connecting with youthworkers and praying.  Taking an hour out of my week to focus on praying for youth has been enriching for me as well as the others there.  It doesn't matter if we have just a few.  Where 2 or more are gathered, God is there. 
So where was God today?  He was in our conversation about planning an event and He was there for us to talk to during our prayer time.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Camp

I got back this morning in time to take my son to camp for the summer.  He'll be working there for the next two months.  It's hard to believe my baby has left the nest.  But, today that became a reality.  I am proud to say that his first "home away from home" is a church camp for the summer.  I think that says something about the young man he is trying to become.  He is, of course, a teenage boy.  So, with that comes ups and downs.  He has a kind and compassionate heart to most.  And, I am pretty sure he has a deep faith in God, although I am sure at times he questions where that should take him.  But, I'm glad he questions so that he can grasp his own faith and understanding.
I have high hopes for him in the next two months.  It will be a time of growing up and being on his own.  But, I'm hoping it will also be a time of growing in his relationship with God.  He's going there to do lights and technology stuff.  But, something tells me he'll get a lot more out of it than that. 
So, where was God today?  It's not so much where He was today, but what He started today.  And, the answer is I don't know.  But, I know He has a plan for my son and I'm praying He'll continue to follow that path.  I do know God walks with him every day and this summer will be amazing for a lot of youth!
Blessings,
Jennifer

Weekend

I just realized that my last post was Thursday.  I had a wonderful time the last few days visiting family.  I had originally wanted to stay until Sunday morning, thinking I could get back in the evening.  But, the train schedule proved otherwise and I was forced to leave on Saturday night.  In the end it worked out because I had to take my son to camp (more about that in my next post).  But, it seems it worked out for the best for other reasons, too.
My cousin ended up hurting her neck and back on Friday night.  After finally not being able to tolerate the pain any more, she went to the ER.  She got home at 5am Saturday with a neck brace and prescriptions.  This was not in either of our plans for the weekend.  But, like it or not, it's the way it was.  I know she was exhausted, in pain, and frustrated that she was not able to spend time doing things while I was there.  So, in the end, I was glad I was leaving to give her time to rest and heal. 
I did get to spend more time with my aunt and uncle and that was nice.  It also gave me more time to chat with my cousin's new boyfriend... well new to me.  It was really sweet to see that he was doing everything he could to take care of her and make her as comfortable as possible. 
Part of the reason I went was to see family and part was just to relax.  And, I got to do both, so it was a success!
So, where was God during my trip?  He blessed me with a wonderful time with a wonderful family, He gave my cousin someone to take care of her when she needed help, and then He brought me safely home.
Blessings,
Jennifer