Vigil

Tonight after work, I walked a few blocks down the street with some of my youth.  I had no idea what to expect as I walked, but as I got closer, I saw a big crowd of people- young and old.  A couple weeks ago, there was a tragic accident.  A woman died and 2 young girls were seriously injured.  1 is recovering well and the other is fighting for her life.  Prayers and positive attitudes seem to be working against what the medical people predicted.  She is slowly changing their minds as she has shown signs of recovering. 
So, tonight, there was a candlelight vigil for the family, prayers for the girls, and a time to hear messages from the family.  It was packed!  A local musician played, the news was there, which was awesome that they were anxious to report something positive, and people gathered together to pray and share their faith.  Tragedies are never good, but seeing a community come together to pray is a beautiful thing. 
Tonight wasn't about politics or blaming anyone or being angry.  It was about a family and it was about the hope they have, the hope they said they see every day in the little strides that are made.  It was a reminder to everyone to appreciate the little things, appreciate family and friends, and hug everyone a little tighter. 
So, where was God today? He was listening to all of the prayers, comforting those who needed comforting by putting people in their path tonight as they prayed and shared together.  He was listening to all of the prayers, giving hope to those who need it, not only for this but in their own lives because seeing hope in tragedy gives hope to all who see it.
Blessings,
Jennifer 

New

Today was an exciting day!  It started with church this morning.  One of the girls from my day camp job came to church this morning.  She had come with her mom a long time ago, but they hadn't been in over a year.  I've been talking to her mom for awhile now and last Friday her mom said they would be there.  Of course, sometimes it takes a few times of saying that before they actually come.  So, I was really excited when they walked in this morning.  She was happy to see me and another worker from the camp was there, too.  So, that made it even more comfortable for her to be there. 
After church I chatted with a youth who has yet to come to youth group.  He's a grandson of a regular church goer and it would be great for him to come.  So, I invited him to come tonight.  Who can resist 3 hours of water games?  He said he might, but I wasn't sure he'd come.  So, I was really excited when he showed up right on time!  At the end of the night, I asked him if he had fun and he excitedly told me he did. 
The 3rd was another new youth group member that came to help with VBS this week and then came to youth group tonight.  I don't think he'd ever been to church before a few months ago when he came to a youth group Superbowl party.  Since then, he may have come once or twice.  But, it seems he's decided to be more consistent in coming.  It may be because it's the best way to spend time with his girlfriend.  But, I believe there's more to his presence than that. 
It was great to see 3 new people participating in activities at the church. 
So, where was God today?  I saw Him not just in the new people who came, but also in those around them.  The new people at youth group were picked during the games, treated as if they'd been there forever, and welcomed into the group. 
Blessings,
Jennifer

Picnic

Tonight was the last night of VBS.  It ended with a family picnic celebrating the week and sharing a meal together.  I stopped by the church this afternoon to take care of some things and ran into a friend of mine who took pictures during the week.  She was creating a bulletin board of pictures.  I watched as she put up picture after picture of kids, youth, and adults having fun sharing the message of the week- you are a friend of God and God is your friend.  As she put up the pictures, she told me stories about some of them- beautiful stories of the kids and of the adults working with the kids.  I am sad that I missed those moments.  But, I was happy to hear about them and to see them- even if it was just through pictures.  And, although I would have liked to be there for every moment, one of the most wonderful things that has happened the last 2 years is that it wasn't just an event run by the ones in charge of kids or youth.  It has become an all church event and an opportunity to have the kids and youth connect with the adults of the church. 
Another wonderful thing this year was that I saw my youth take it more seriously than last year.  Of course there were a few wanderers and a few times they were squirrely.  But, for the most part they were focused on their roles as leaders for the kids.  I'm not sure if it had to do with just coming back from camp and their excitement from that or if it had to do with the short training I did with them ahead of time.  But, whatever caused it, it was a blessing.
Tonight the church served 140 people at our picnic.  Some of them were members or helpers.  But, I'm pretty sure there were some new people or new families there.  Hopefully, we'll see more of them in the near future.
So, where was God today?  He was in the pictures of people sharing and hearing about God's love.  And, he was in the picnic tonight.
Blessings,
Jennifer

VBS Tuesday

Tuesday, I got to the church in time for the end of Vacation Bible School.  Recently, someone had told me a young relative of hers didn't go to church but was asking questions about God.  I found out she was at VBS this week.  So, I went up to the youth class to chat with her and found 6 new middle schoolers there.  They had finished all of their things for the day and had 15 minutes left to go.  So, I told them about youth group and had the adult and helper also share about youth group.  They all seemed excited about it and interested in learning more about it. 
I'm excited to see where God leads this group of middle schoolers that is willing to go to VBS.  I hope to make it the beginning of a long term youth group experience.
And, when I saw the girl who had been asking about God, I realized I knew her from my other job.  So, she's already comfortable with me.  So, hopefully, she will continue to come and will be able to ask questions and get answers.
Blessings,
Jennifer

VBS Monday

I know it's already Wednesday!  This week is flying by and I'm so exhausted when I get home that if I wrote anything you probably wouldn't be able to understand it! 
This week is Vacation Bible School.  I love being there for all of the fun and excitement.  Unfortunately, I can't be this year.  I did what little I could to help get ready for it.  Sunday night, I talked to my youth about helping.  They listened to the music, figured out motions, and practiced so they would have an idea of what they were going to be doing.  We also talked about their responsibilities as a shepherd and what they should do in certain situations.  Last year, they seemed unfocused at times and seemed to wander or not really know what they were supposed to be doing.  The hope was that by discussing everything with them ahead of time, they would be more focused and take their role more seriously. 
Monday night, I came in about 30 minutes before it ended since that's when I got off work.  I went to the registration area where they were supposed to check in.  Imagine how happy I was when I was greeted with comments of how wonderful they were!  As groups passed by on their way to their next location, I was greeted with hello's and hugs from my youth, happy to be there, and from the kid's, excited about being there, too.  I'm sad I'm missing it.  But, I am so happy that my youth aren't!  This is a great experience for them to learn by teaching and sharing God's love with others.
So, where was God Monday?  He was at church celebrating the excitement of the youth and adults helping, as well as the kid's who were enjoying learning more about God.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Post

I've spent the last few days trying to catch up and get back to normal.  In the midst of that, I've been trying to stay connected with everyone I met last week and the youth I went with.  There are constant conversations between the youth about how they miss each other, photos being posted, and plans being made to get together.  It's a beautiful thing to see them desperately try to stay together.  Somewhere in the flurry of facebook posts, I missed one. 
Tonight, we talked about camp and the group shared their experiences with everyone.  I invited parents to come and hear, too.  At the end, I asked who was going next year and every hand went up.  As one of my youth, the newest member who went to camp, was leaving, I heard her mention that her mom had started crying when she read her post the other night on facebook.  So, I came home and checked out her page, not remembering anything significant posted from her.  That's when I found it.  This girl who just started coming in April, had basically written her statement of faith, professing to everyone on facebook that she has changed for the better, no longer dwelling on the past or feeling alone because she has found someone who will always be there to love her unconditionally.  That someone, she states, is God.  She goes on to tell everyone that they are also loved by God and that He is there for them when they are hurting, too.
She was not overly talkative last week.  She wasn't the one running up to be in front of the stage, and sometimes I wasn't sure she was paying attention.  But, now I know, she was absorbing it all, taking it all in and processing it. 
So, where was God today?  He was using the experiences from last week to help the youth that went talk about God to others.  In their excitement from last week, talking about God doesn't seem at all scary or weird and hopefully, they can continue to have that energy to share God with others.
Blessings,
Jennifer 

Dream

Late this morning, I stopped by a sale to benefit a ministry that will help women transition after being in prison, helping them find God and keeping them from returning to a life of drugs and abuse.  As I was sitting there talking to the founder and several others, a teen walked in.  A few years ago, he had come to my youth group a few times, mainly for events like movie night and a trip to an amusement park.  He had come as a friend of one of my youth.
Awhile back, I ran into him.  He had excitedly told me he had been baptized.  Then I didn't see him for quite awhile.  I didn't recognize him when I saw him a few weeks ago.  He looked so much older, more confident, mature.
So, today when he stopped in at the sale, I was happy to see him and catch up.  As we began to talk, I asked him about his life and what he was doing now.  At first, it was not easy to get him to say a whole lot.  But, as we continued and got past the small talk and on to his faith, he got more animated.  He was telling me about an event he had gone to last April with his youth group.  Somehow, from that conversation he asked me a wonderful question- one any youth worker would love to hear.  "Can I share a dream I have with you?"  "Of course!", I said.  So, he excitedly got up and asked if I would walk with him.  We walked around the block about 5 times as he shared his dream to create a youth group experience for the whole city.  "It's not about this church or that church- it's about Jesus!"  He shared conversations he's had with others and what is starting to happen already with some people who are wanting the same thing.  I told him that the youthworkers who meet each week to pray are working towards all youth events on a regular basis.  It was so exciting!  I have talked to many youth workers about doing exactly this.  But, I have never heard from a youth that this is what they want, too! 
He said he had another dream.  He said he hopes in the future- 30 years down the road- that all of the churches will be connected.  Although I believe churches are always going to be different because people are different and therefore worship differently, I would like to see them connect more.  I responded by telling him if we connect the youth now, they will be the adults running the churches in 30 years so it's really all 1 dream- short term and long term goals.
So, where was God today?  He was in my conversation with a teen who has a heart for God who is passionate about making things better by sharing God's love with the community.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Home

Today I headed home.  There were moments when that was iffy.  Thursday night I found out my plan for getting all of my youth home had fallen through due to one of my parents having car trouble.`After talking to some other parents, I was still without a driver for 2 of us. 
Worship was starting and I was frantically texting. 
A mom who has been a great supporter of both the youth ministry and the Teen Center came to mind.  Her boys didn't go to camp.  But, I texted her anyway.  Her immediate response was when and where.  How amazing is that?  Someone took time out of their day to drive for 3 hours just because someone needed help.  That is a huge blessing!
So, I got home and was exhausted.  But, after a short nap I was up and getting ready for a Teen Center event.  It went really well.  It wouldn't have gone well at all except God continued to put people in my path to help me make it a success and for that I'm grateful.
When I arrived, the camp kids were still there.  They were excited to see me.  One girl just kept hugging me.  It made coming back to the "real world" much easier since I am now surrounded by kids and teens all of the time.
So where was God today?  He was in all of the people around me who showed me love and kindness.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Camp Thursday

It is the last full day of camp.  Any ending of an emotional, spiritual week is hard to grasp.  How do we go from being surrounded by people who love us and love God to going out in the real world?  I kept hearing that they didn't want the week to end.  So, I challenged them not to end it; to go home changed and hold on to that change.
This morning, I went to the 2nd part of the workshop that I had led yesterday.  When I got there the room was dark.  I went to find out what was going on and learned that it was going to be in the afternoon instead.  As people started showing up, I explained to them that it was later in the day but if they wanted to chat about their calling, I would stick around.  It was mostly youth from my group so most went back to the other workshops, knowing they could chat with me anytime.  On Wednesday, I felt it had gone really well.  The one thing I thought about was that there were several that I wanted to talk more with.  I thought they were definitely experiencing a call for ministry and I wanted to talk 1 on 1 with them.  So, when the teen walked in that said he felt called to be in youth ministry, I knew it was God's answer to my prayer for him.  We talked for about an hour about his life, why he feels called, and what he thinks he wants to do.  He started out by describing himself the exact same way I would describe my son.  We had a great conversation!  As we were nearing the time to leave for morning worship, the person leading the workshop later in  the day came in.  He was able to talk with the teen, too, and answer some questions I couldn't.  Later, after evening worship, I talked to him about being on the youth ministry team.  He immediately took me to his youth leader to introduce me to him and ask him if it was ok with him.  I am excited that I can continue to connect with this young person as he grows and explores his call.
Tonight's worship was powerful!  People were weeping with both joy and sadness- happy for God coming in to their lives and sad for friends leaving their daily lives.  It was truly amazing to see so many youth singing and praising God, worshiping together with everything they had. 
I never thought lights would bring tears to my eyes. But, this week, watching the worship, I realized what an impact the lights had on the whole worship experience.  And, I was so proud that my son was a part of that!  He was amazing!  I kept hearing from his coworkers how impressed they were with his talent.  Thinking back to the beginning of the summer and of how he didn't know what to do, I am in awe of what he has created!
After worship, we went back to our lodge to talk about our week.  We asked the youth where they saw God, what surprised them and impacted them.  Then we asked what they were going to do differently because of their week there.  Hearing their answers was a beautiful thing!  By the end of our group time, they were exhausted.  They fell asleep quickly.
I was out in the common area sitting in the dark just enjoying the silence and making sure they were all going to bed.  Throughout the week, the late night talks with the other adults after the youth went to bed has been a great time of sharing.  Tonight was no different.  The other church youth leader came out and we spent a long time talking about youth ministry, life, and the week.  It has been such a blessing working with people who partnered with me, supported me, and led with me this week.  I am grateful for them in my life.
So, where was God today?  He was in every moment of it!
Blessings,
Jennifer

Camp Wed Night

One of the best times this week has been centered around mealtimes.  All of the youth sign up for daily chores such as setting and helping make meals and cleaning up after meals.  People from the church have been supporting us by sending food, coming up to cook, and by showing their love their efforts.  We have been very blessed. 

This evening, we invited the band to eat with us.  Tomorrow, the future head of the camp will be dining with us.  Being able to show our hospitality to the other group and to people from the camp has been really great.  We had so much biscuits and gravy left that this morning we gave what was left to the cabin across from us.  Since they are eating in the cafeteria, they were overjoyed with some home cooked food!
The people behind this great food experience are the pastor and his wife.  Their labor of love has blessed our week more than they can know.  As we were talking about it today, something occurred to me.  The pastor got called here.  He shared that story with the youth when he talked about his spiritual journey.  Part of the story is about the woods and the lake that is a part of the camp. 
Because I wanted him to be a part of the youth’s camp experience even if he couldn’t be here, I decided to give the group an experience that included the woods and lake.  After our evening worship, which ended around 10:30, I brought the youth to an area where they usually have campfires.  They had to straddle the connecting benches around it with me being in the front and one of the other adults at the end.  A rope was tied around my waist and each youth was then connected to the rope.  As we got up, I was the only one with a flashlight.  We had to communicate the path and the obstacles in it by telling the person behind us what to watch out for.  To have 18 people behind me trusting me, depending on me to keep safe and go wherever I led them was an awesome experience!  Our trust walk ended in the woods right by the water.  It was then that we sat down in the dark and I shared why we were there.  We shared our evening prayers in the circle afterwards.  Then, we sat in silence, looking up at the beautiful sky, in awe of God’s beauty.  It was then, in that silence that I began to sing “Amazing Grace” as the rest of the group joined in.  It’s in those moments that I am overcome with peace and joy that God is in my life, that I am surrounded by the amazing people in my life, and grateful to God for all that He has given me. 
So, where was God today?  He was in my pastor and His wife and the work they put in to making our week so special, for giving us the experience of being a community with God’s people this week, and for they love they have shown us consistently throughout the week.  Their impact even though they couldn’t be there was beyond words.  God was in our experience during the trust walk, the sharing in the woods, and the prayers that were said.  And, God was there years ago when He called my pastor to a life of ministry that would change so many lives forever.  He knew when He called Him that he had a gift for ministry and that he would be able to share His love with many, both by words and actions.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Camp- Wed am

This morning I gave my learning lab.  I started out by introducing myself to the group.  The instructions said 3 minutes.  I hadn’t thought hard about what I was going to say- how hard is it really?  So, as I began, I stated that I only knew what I wanted to be for the last 5 years or so.  I saw some relief across the room as people realized it was ok if they weren’t sure yet.  Then, I said that at their age, I was sure I wanted to be a physical therapist.  It’s not often that I bring that up- not for any reason but because it’s relatively insignificant.  I went on to share how I was called and had to wait until the right time. 

After that, I asked everyone to share their name, where they were from, and why they were here.  “You may be here because you feel called to ministry.  You may be here because your leader told said you had to come here.  You may be here because you thought it was a different class.”  There were a few giggles.  “It doesn’t matter if you don’t want to be here because you feel called.  God wants you to be here.  You many not find out during this time.  It may be years from now.  But, for some reason, God made sure you are here right now.”  A hand went up.  The girl started by sharing her name and where she as from.  Then, she told me she was there because she thought it was a different class.  But, she’s trying to figure out what to do with her life and part of her feels called to ministry but she has been thinking maybe she should do physical therapy.  Yes, she was right where God wanted her to be. 
The rest of the time went similar to that.  The next girl shared how she just got asked to come to camp the Sunday she came and how amazing the experience has been for her.  The previous night, she had gotten an epileptic seizure from the strobe lights.  My son is the light person and felt terrible that he had caused her seizure.  So, I was able to talk with her and she was able to find my son and tell him she was ok and not upset about what had happened.  Several shared their desires to become a pastor or youth minister.  Others didn’t know why they were in there but seemed to be getting something out of the discussion.
I had told the other church youth pastor not to make the group come to my class.  I told him I wanted them to go where they felt led to go- that it wasn’t about me; it was about them and their relationship with God.  But, as we went around the room and these youth that I had just met a few days ago said they came to support me, I felt touched that they loved me and cared about supporting me. 
I sat next to a girl who I sat next to the day before.   She is a high functioning autistic.  During the time of small group discussion, she shared her answers to the questions and then said she doesn’t know how any of it related to her calling.  Immediately, I had seen that she was able to articulate her thoughts and feelings very well.  Her gift to help others understand how those with autism think and feel would be a great way to help others. 
The time ended too quickly.  Before I knew it, it was time to head to worship.  I left the room feeling thankful that I’d had this opportunity to share with these amazing young people.  But, I also left sad because I wanted to talk more in depth with some of them about where they were being called.  That is where my faith has to come in.  I was to plant the seed, to help them explore, or to give them a sense of direction.  God will put someone else in their path to help them continue on their journey.
So, where was God today?  He was in that room guiding my words and their hearts and minds.

Blessings,

Jennifer

Tuesday

Today was another awesome day!  During our evening worship, the band plays some great worship music before our speaker comes out.  The first night, none of our group felt comfortable going up front to sing and worship with the band.  The second night, a few went up there.  Tonight, I saw them go up front, raise their voices in praise, and raise their hands feeling God through them.  It was so awesome to see God working in them today and to continually watch them let go of their insecurities and fears- to just let go and let God.
Tonight, at the end of the evening, we had our candle time with everyone sharing their prayer concerns.  Again, the first night, several passed.  By tonight, they all shared their concerns, trusting each other and God to give their cares to Him.  Afterwards, the other leader asked the group to gather around me.  They prayed for me- for strength and wisdom and for God's words to come when I need them on Wednesday.  Wednesday, I'm leading a learning lab about calling to ministry.  It's not something I've really done before and it's a big subject that I want to make sure isn't taken lightly.  For that reason, I've been thinking about it a lot.  But, after having my group lift up prayers for me, I felt any anxiety vanish.  God is going to take care of everything.
After everyone went to bed, the 3 adults here stayed up to chat about the day, the week.  I feel so blessed to be surrounded by others who have such a great heart for teens and youth ministry- trusting in God to lead them.  We had great conversation and I hated to finally end it around 2am.
So, where was God today?  He was in our group- leading our youth to listen and act- to be disciples for Him.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Packed

Today I opened a new chapter in my life.  Camp was a great part of my spiritual journey when I was young.  Today, I came to camp to share that experience with youth.  I am hopeful for this week to come.  I've been excited ever since I realized I would be able to go because I felt that was something I was missing with my youth. 
So, this morning when I woke up early and felt a little strange, I was worried.  I went into the bathroom and looked in the mirror.  I looked like I had gotten botox on my upper lip- or gotten punched in the mouth the night before.  Since neither of those had happened, I was confused.  My lip was numb and I had no idea why.  The only thing I could think to do was take benadryl.  I did, and I soon felt the effects of that- both good and bad.  This was not the time to be spacey- getting things ready and loaded up for our trip.  But, God took care of it all.  Parents came and jumped right in loading up and getting things all packed in.  Earlier in the week, I had figured out transportation which didn't include me as a driver.  That was a blessing since I really didn't feel much like driving.
We got to the camp, unloaded, and settled in.  Soon, the other group staying with us got here.  10 youth and 1 adult is joining our group of 7 youth and me, along with another volunteer coming later.  With just a few conversations, I was anxious to meet the other group leader and their group.  It soon became clear that the other leader and I were going to have a great week together.  We're both ready to lead when we need to and help out when we need to, and let the other take over when they need to.  The youth are starting to connect, although that typically takes a bit of time and a few activities for them to completely intertwine.  I'm looking forward to what God has planned for this week ahead.
So, where was God today?  He helped me get things here by giving me the help I needed to make it happen.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Monday

Today was awesome- and it’s only Monday!  There are so many things I could write about.  We started this morning as two groups hesitant to coexist.  I’m not saying they were resistant- just hesitant.  By the end of the day, they were joining together a lot more.  They were hanging out, encouraging each other during our activities, and definitely starting to mingle.  One experience that strengthened these relationships is our challenge course.  We had two teams and many challenges.  Together, each team encouraged, helped, and worked together to finish the challenge.  There were moments of anxiousness, and moments of victory.  But, they were all done together.

About half of the group went to a learning lab on spiritual gifts.  As we were walking back to our lodge, I chatted with several about their experience.  We took a survey to help us figure out what our gifts are.  One of the boys in our group told me his was pastoring.  Then he went on to tell me that he’s been thinking about that as his future for awhile now.  How amazing is that?! 

Tonight at worship, there were some powerful moments.  The music was inspiring and the speaker was, too.  He gave me things to think about and to talk to the group about.  He challenged us to read 3 chapters from the New Testament every day.  I challenged the group to join me in our new facebook challenge of posting a verse every day after we read our 3 chapters.  We talked about the difference between acting Christian and living our lives as a Christian.  I’m hoping that message spoke to the youth and encouraged them to transition to living each moment for God.  We also talked about how God doesn’t take the perfect but rather the imperfect, but because of grace it doesn’t matter.  What matters is our desire to follow Him.

I could go on and on.  But, I’m exhausted!

Where was God today?  I’ll take it from several of the youth who shared that they truly felt Him tonight at worship, that He’s here at camp with them.  And, I’m counting on Him being with the teen who is listening for God’s call in His life.

Blessings,

Jennifer

Niece

This week, I've had my niece here.  I have had my niece, along with her brother and sister, here for long weekends before.  But, this was the first time I've had my niece here by herself for a whole week.  It worked out well because my cousin was here in the beginning of the week with her 2 boys so she had them to hang out with.  We spent time with family, went to beaches and pools, and went out for ice cream- all the fun stuff summer should be about.
After my cousin left, I spent a lot of quality time alone with my niece.  We talked, we went places, we went boating, she helped me at church, and we really had a great time!  On Thursday, our plans changed quickly from spending time at the fair to going to a water park for the day because my work needed an extra chaperone for the field trip. 
Yesterday, as we were going home from her bike riding lesson, she said something that really struck me.  She said she thinks she's the best negative thinker in the world!  I asked her why and she told me she was worried about breaking her neck when she was learning to ride her bike.  Somehow, it's in her head to think that way.  We talked about God taking care of her and that she is trying to trust in Him.  But, I know that's a hard thing for her to do. 
But, somehow this week, this amazing girl who is afraid of so much did so much!  She went swimming back and forth in a pool, even to the deep end many times, she jumped out of a boat in the middle of a lake, she went down a water slide by herself, and she worked on riding her bike!  For some that may seem insignificant, but for her, who is always fearing the worst, it's awesome!  She was brave and set aside her fears to accomplish these things.  And, the excitement and smiles that followed were great to see.
So, where was God today?  Actually, all week, He was here with us as we spent time together, and He was protecting and giving strength to my awesome niece.  This week was a blessing to me and I can't wait until next summer to continue our tradition of "summer camp at my house".  In a few years, I'll get to do it 3 weeks during the summer as the other 2 get older!
Blessings,
Jennifer

Volunteer

Due to some things, camp meals for next week are going to be a little more complicated than originally planned.  Luckily, people from the congregation are volunteering to come and help with lunch and dinner one day during the week.  I was missing someone to help on Tuesday.  I thought about people who might be willing to come.  I made a phone call but had to leave a message- just asking for a return call, not mentioning the meals. 
A little while later, she called back.  We talked first about vacation Bible school.  She is helping and I needed to clarify some things with her about what she is able to do.  Then, she asked me for directions to the camp?  At first I thought I heard her wrong because we hadn't discussed it.  Then I realized she was planning on cooking and I didn't even have to ask.  So, I asked her what day she could come.  Her response amazed me!  It was Tuesday- the day I needed someone! 
So, where was God today?  He was in this woman who volunteered to help by serving in the way she was needed.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Family

Today I spent more time with my family who is still visiting for the wedding last Saturday.  We met where we grew up spending most of our family time.  We met at the cemetery.  Then, after lunch we went to the beach where we all share some of our best memories. 
I had to leave early because I had to go to work.  But, as I was driving back home, I was reflecting on the last few days.  What a blessing!  I have been blessed to grow up with family that has surrounded me with love and laughter.  I have treasured memories of my childhood and of my family. 
So, where was God today?  He was in the love and laughter of time spent with loved ones.  And, I feel very blessed that God gave me the gift of such an amazing family!

Camp

Monday-
Tonight at work, I played a game with one of the girls.  She's probably about 1st grade.  Usually, she comes in the morning looking sad.  I realized early on that it's not really that she's sad as much as it is that she's painfully shy.  So a lot of the time, she's by herself and looking sad.  But, every afternoon, she now greets me as I come in.  I respond and ask her what her favorite part of the day was.  She usually doesn't know, but it was obvious she had fun.  Now, she laughs and tells me that I always ask her that.  She has a smile that lights up a room! 
I found out recently her dad died awhile back.  This little girl has dealt with more than girls her age should deal with.  So, her shyness/ sadness comes from a lot of stuff she's dealing with.  But, days and weeks being surrounded by people who want to give her the best summer ever is breaking down some of those walls.  And, when she lets them down, I can tell she is a fun loving girl who just wants to be happy and loved. 
These are the stories that make the chaos that is summer camp all worthwhile. 
So, where was God today?  He was at camp.  He's in the hearts of the counselors and workers who do what they can to give kids the best summer of happiness and memories that they will always treasure.  He gives them the patience, love, and sometimes the wisdom and words to know just what to say or do.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Rule 3

Do no harm.  Do all the good that you can.  Stay in love with God.  These are John Wesley's 3 rules.  Today ended the last of a 3 part series on these 3 rules.  I have enjoyed all three and feel strongly about the importance of them all.  Of the three, I think the third is the hardest to decipher.  The first two seem pretty basic.  But, what does it mean to stay in love with God?
Today, something the pastor said struck me.  He shared a beautiful story of camping with his family and seeing a shooting star with one of his son's.  The other son came out and he felt bad that his other son hadn't gotten to see a shooting star.  Just then, another shooting star went across the sky, then many more.  "That one was for you", he said to his son after the second shooting star of the evening.  To them, it was a gift from God, the beauty of the stars, the miracle of seeing so many, and the experience they'll never forget.  Then, the pastor said staying in love with God means expecting to see His love for us every day. 
When I started this blog last October, that's what I decided to do.  It has enhanced my spiritual journey immensely.  Looking for God in everyday life, in the moments and people that surround us, has become a constant uplifting focus.  It might be easier to see Him in the big things.  It might be easier to question Him in the rough times.  But, if you look for Him and the ways He shows His love for you daily, you will find it.  I encourage you to join me in finding a way to consciously look for and document your journey.  Maybe you like to write.  maybe you have a friend you'd like to share it with.  But, find a way to see it and say it.  It will help your focus throughout the day.
So, where was God today?  He was sending a message that He loves me, that He loves us all.  And, we need to show we love Him by accepting His love.
Blessings,
Jennifer 

Saturday

Saturday-
Today my cousin's daughter got married.  It was crazy hot and an outdoor wedding.  But, it was sweet and a day filled with love and laughter.  Spending time with my family is a treasure.  It happens too rarely, but whenever we get together it's like time has never passed.  Weddings are always a wonderful time to spend with the happy couple, with family and friends, and also to reflect and remember all of the special weddings I've been to in the past.
After the wedding and reception, we went to my cousin's house to continue the celebration.  Fond memories of times spent at the beach make getting together inevitably ending up there.  It's not just because of the typical fun at the beach.  It means spending time at our grandparents, of summers and picnics, and walking down the road to the shop just down the street, feeling so grown up because we can.  So, we of course decided to go.  After finally finding a place to park, I joined the rest of the family.  The waves were bigger than I'd seen them for years!  As I got to the shore, I realized that the youngest of our group was just being pulled out.  Even though he wasn't really in the water, a wave had come up even further than the others and pulled him out with it.  Luckily, watchful eyes and quick action made that scene one of relief. 
As we were heading back to eat up at the shelter area, my son got his stuff and went to put it in his car.  It was then that he realized his keys were missing.  He had lost them on the walk up from the beach, somewhere in the sand.  Since we had gone to the beach to watch the sunset, it was well past the time when finding them would have been even remotely easy.  But, we got flashlights and walked everywhere trying to find them. 
This is the part in the story where you're probably thinking I'm going to tell you we miraculously found them.  We didn't.  Although there were many prayers for that, God answered in a different way.  My cousin has AAA.  He called them and at about 12:30 am, they finally arrived with tools to make him a new key.  $125 later, and thanks to $100 off because of AAA, the $225 key started the car and we were more than ready to head home. 
So, where was God today?  He was at the wedding, where two people joined together and decided not only to spend their lives together but also to keep Him as their guide.  Then, he joined us throughout the day, enjoying the happiness of the family He had created.  At the beach, He guided and protected over the little one, keeping him from serious harm.  And, sometimes He doesn't answer prayers in the way we thing.  But, rather in ways He knows we need.  If it had been easy, my son may not think much about his key.  And, since he has regularly locked them in a car or lost it, I think it was probably time for him to have a more memorable experience, learning the hard way that he needs to be responsible for himself.  Last night, I would have loved to find his key right away.  I was tired and ready to go home.  But, God is looking at the big picture and He knows what needs to happen even when we don't.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Boy

Today I went to lunch with a good friend.  We were enjoying catching up when some other people came in.  We stopped our conversation because the man was talking loudly and seemed to be angry at the woman and boy, about 5th grade.  A person couldn't help but hear them.  He was yelling at them because they asked him something about ordering.  Then, a minute later the boy asked him where he wanted to sit.  Again, the man yelled at and belittled him for asking.  The boy sat down and the man chose another table so he had to move.  Unfortunately, they sat next to us.  Throughout their time there, he never stopped berating the boy for insignificant things.  Finally, he got up and left.  The woman, who had been pretty quiet, now took her turn.  Obviously she was angry at him for angering the man.  All this time, the boy did absolutely nothing wrong; he barely spoke.  The man signaled through the window and they got up and went outside.  Then, everyone in the restaurant looked around.  A worker asked if things were alright.  He had overheard, too.  They were standing in the parking lot and finally walked down the street.  The woman gave the boy a shove as they were about to walk away.  I couldn't sit there and not do anything.  I called the tip line.  I explained the situation and my concern for the boy.  As we left, I saw them coming back down the street and soon saw an officer pull up by them.  He wasn't with them long before he pulled away.  That frustrated me since I wanted to know the boy was safe.  As I rode around the neighborhood, I soon saw the man ahead walking alone.  Minutes later, I saw the woman and boy walking.  At least I knew they were away from the aggressive man.
I didn't want to confront anyone, fearing that would make it worse.  I decided to do the only other thing I knew to do. I rode my bike towards the home where women coming out of prison would soon be living.  I was hoping to find my friend and share with her, ask her to pray.  When I got there, I found the door open and several people standing in the entrance, a teen helping with projects for the home, another youth worker, and the woman who founded the ministry, along with her intern.  I shared the story with them and then we gathered to pray.  Even though I can't get the story out of my head, it was comforting to know others would now be aware and praying for the situation.  My friend went home and shared it with her daughters so they could pray, too.
So, where was God today?  I know He's always with us.  I know He's with us in times of trouble, and this boy is in trouble so God was there.  He may not even know God.  So, I'm asking you to all pray for this boy and somehow, I know God will find a way to help this boy.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Parade

Yesterday, I watched a parade to celebrate the 4th.  It went on forever, as it does every year.  But, this year seemed a little different.  It may have been just because I was more aware.  But, it seemed there were some great floats this year and some great organizations represented.  Operation Christmas Child had a float along with a float from a home being built for women coming out of prison as part of a prison ministry.  Several of my youth were on that float.  And, the woman who spoke at youth group Sunday is the founder of the home.  As she rode by, she told me she had some news for me.  So, towards the end of the parade, I went to go find out the news.  A girl who had been at youth group Sunday had been talking to someone who happened to know the speaker.  The girl had been influenced by her words, touched by them, and amazed that she could ask anything and hear a straight answer.  This girl had questions, needed answers, and is obviously searching for her path in life.  A lot of people have tried to steer her wrong.  But, last Sunday, she recognized someone who was trying to steer her right. 
As I realized early in my youth ministry career, the ones who seem to not be paying attention are the ones who are getting so much more than I can imagine.  She sat with her phone the whole time.  Often she would look up and show expressions on her face that would assure me she was listening through all of her texting.  I usually don't allow phones, but circumstances made it hard to do that.  But, God got through whether she had her phone or not.
So, where was God today?  He was at the parade, spreading positive messages through the nonprofit organizations doing good in our community.  And, He is continuing to be with this teen as He helps her work through her life.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Message

Tonight I had a guest speaker at youth group.  She shared her journey with them.  She was honest and real and challenged them to be the same.  She lived a tough life- tougher than most.  But she has taken that life and created someone amazing from it!  That's what I want my group to know.  No matter what happens, no matter what we do, it's what we get out of it and what we create in ourselves out of it.  We all make mistakes.  It's what we do after we make those mistakes that really matters.  That's important for our youth to know- that there's hope even when they mess up. 
Tonight I think some of my youth needed to hear that.  I had some visitors tonight and I think they really needed to hear that.  I'm counting on God to do the rest. 
One of my former youth moved away and was back visiting.  I can listen if she wants to talk.  I can encourage her if we are in touch.  But, from far away and with very few ways of communication, I have to put it in God's hands that He will guide her back to the right path.  I don't think it was a coincidence that she was there tonight.  I think God had something He wanted her to hear. 
So, where was God today?  He gave my guest the words to say, He gave my youth the open minds and hearts, and He gave my former youth the opportunity to be there this one Sunday to hear His message.
Blessings,
Jennifer