Hole

The moment I'd been waiting for came today.  It didn't go exactly how I had thought it would.  But, once again, I am assured that God's plan is always better.  For those of you that may not know, a few weeks ago, I was told I had a hole in my heart.  It seemed heart surgery was inevitable.  Having watched my husband go through it, I knew what I was getting into.  I wasn't looking forward to it, but I was relieved to finally have answers to my questions.
Today was my appointment with the cardiologist.  I was lucky to get in so quickly after calling several times to check for cancellations.  To my surprise, the cardiologist seemed barely concerned with the hole in my heart.  It seems the hole is located in a place that isn't as severe as what we had originally thought.  So, heart surgery is not in my future!
This leaves the question of why I am so fatigued and short of breath.  I hesitate to agree with his answer.  But, since we are looking further into things, I'll go with it for now.
As I read about my diagnosis online tonight, it seems I am very lucky.  About 18% of people have this and most don't find out until they have a stroke or TIA (a mini- stroke),  I was lucky enough to find out before that and can continue taking steps to stay healthy and avoid either of those.
Through the last few weeks, the few people I told were such a blessing to me with their thoughts and prayers. It's amazing to feel that comfort.
I am frustrated with the answers I don't have.  But, it seems that is something I'll have to deal with for now.  This past Sunday, part of the sermon focused on worrying or having faith.  The next day, my mom sent me a devotion with a similar theme.  It seems I'm getting a big hint.  I do have faith that God will direct my life.  So, I need to have faith that He will take care of all of all of my needs- including my health.  And, I know things will be good.  After all, He did let me know I need to continue working towards a healthier lifestyle to avoid a stroke since I am more prone to having one.
So, where was God today?  He made sure I got the answers He needed me to get and at some point, He'll give me the answers to the rest of my questions.
2 Corinthians 5:7 (CEB)

We live by faith and not by sight.

Blessings,
Jennifer

newsletter

I just finished my article for our newsletter next month.  But, I thought it would fit in well here.

The youth recently went to Acquire the Fire.  This 2 day event is an intense time  of music, speakers, and drama.  What comes from the event is an  excitement and a quest for more– for getting closer to God.  After we returned from the event, I asked the youth  what questions they had and what answers they got while there.  Below are some of their responses.

Questions:                                            

· How do we help others when we need help ourselves and how do we know it’s the way God wants us to be helping?

· How far should Jesus be in our house (in our lives)?

· How can we be “agents” for God?

· How can God help us work through anger and let go and keep us from wanting revenge?

· How can we train ourselves to be better Christians?

Answers/ Realizations:

· There are 3 types of friends– Barnabas, Silas, and Timothy friends– that are positive in our lives

· People spend a lot of money to get noticed

· I got more in touch with God. 

· “Code 4-5” Make the most  of every opportunity.

· Events this weekend happened for a reason

· I’m not alone and I’m a lot better than what I think

· I got rid of some  things.

· No Reserves, No Retreats, No Regrets.

· I need to be nicer to my mom and to other people.

· I act different around people.

BITE– Bible, Internal, Topical Growth, External

We are spending the next few weeks digging deeper into their questions and talking about some of the main topics from the weekend. 

I am thankful for a congregation that supports the youth and encourages them!  The opportunities they have because of you gives them the chance to grow spiritually and helps them to become followers of God and to spread that message to others.  Opportunities like this weekend away give them a chance to focus on their lives without the distractions that life throws at them.  So, thank you for your continued support, prays, and blessings upon them.

This Thanksgiving season, I am thankful for all of you and the role you play in developing the youth  around you.

Blessings,                                                       Jennifer

Sunday

Today I was exhausted!  After a busy weekend and several late nights, I was not overly energetic.  After church this morning, I went home and slept for 3 hours!  

Tonight, the youth met at 5 for a chance to talk about the weekend.  Then, at 6 we went to another church to join their youth for a fun night of Halloween activities.  I love youth group time.  But, tonight was perfect for me- and for the youth.  They were tired too, and not overly anxious about having a lot of discussion.  So, a fun night was perfect.  And, joining other churches for some fellowship was a great thing.

So, where was God today?  He took care of me and made it a great evening.

Blessings,

Jennifer

Saturday

Saturday, we spent the day at Acquire the Fire.  It was intense at times.  I take them there to get them to think about things.  It's a lot of information in a very short amount of time.  I'm looking forward to the next few weeks when we can take time to break it apart and process it.  There were some really great conversations there.  And, I look forward to a lot more of them!
With my energy level not what I'm used to, I know there was some hesitation about the trip.  I was blessed with 4 volunteers with me to back me up.  Without them, I don't think I could have made it.  Having them there made the weekend so much easier for me.  I have a feeling my teens didn't even notice I wasn't as energetic as usual- which is how I wanted it.
I feel that having people I can depend on with my youth is a gift from God.  It's important for the youth to connect with me.  But, it's also important that they connect with others from the church.  And, that's what I see happening.
So, where was God today?  He was in my volunteers who helped me when I needed them- and when the youth needed them.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Friday

Friday I got several words of encouragement from different people.  Throughout the week, I have been praying for 2 specific people.  It was part of something we did at the retreat last weekend and then again on Sunday with my youth.  We had partners for the discussion time and at the end, we wrote their name on a band aid and agreed to pray for them.  So, throughout this week, I have felt their prayers for me.  And, they have both sent me messages of comfort and encouragement.  It seemed I got them right when I needed them!  I feel like having them to pray for and knowing they were praying has helped me a lot this past week.
I'm writing this later because I was offline for a few days.  I took my youth and several adults to an event called Acquire the Fire.  They were so excited!  Friday after the event, we talked about what they thought of it.  There were mixed answers because it's a pretty intense time and there are youth at all different levels.  But, I could see God working in them all in some way.  And, seeing 1000's of teens worshiping God is such an awesome sight!
So, where was God today?  He was in the 1 on 1 connections I had with my prayer partners and He was in the room with 1000's of teens worshiping Him.  They both had a great deal of significance.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Flood

Last night I went to an amazing event!  It was day 3 of the event, but I missed the first 2 because of work.  So, I was grateful to make the last night. 
I got to the place and saw cars and teens everywhere!  Earlier in the day, I had heard so many teens excited about going.  So, I knew there were going to be teens there.  But, it was awesome to see how many were there! 
The event was Christian bands and Christian former NFL football players who wanted to share God's message of hope and love with the teens of this area.  When the music started, there was energy and excitement everywhere!  As the evening went on, there were speakers who grabbed the teens attention and shared from their hearts about how God loved them and how no matter where they were coming from, God would help them "become alive".  And as they sang and invited teens to make a decision to change their lives, it became obvious that God was there. 
There have not been many more beautiful moments for this community than last night when teens from everywhere, all walks of life, were singing and praising God. 
As teens were singing, I was dealing with my shortness of breath.  The crowd and the heat were not helping.  So, I decided to go outside for a minute.  After a moment, I saw one of my youth walking out. He's had his share of troubles, but seems to be heading in the right direction for the moment.  I stopped him and he told me he really needed to talk with me.  He shared how he is trying to do the right thing but feels hopeless.  I did my best to encourage him and shared that God loves him- and so do lots of other people.  He went back inside and later seemed much better.  I'm excited that he is stopping to reflect on his life and where it's headed.  This weekend, he'll be with the group as we spend the weekend focusing on our relationships with God.  That should reinforce what he got from the last few days.
So, where was God yesterday?  He was in that place.  And, He was there telling me to go outside when I needed to be there for my youth
Psalm 31:24 (WEB)

Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who hope in Yahweh.

Blessings,
Jennifer

Haha!

I spent a good part of the day talking to friends and family.  I was met with many things throughout my conversations.  The common thread was love and support- and laughter.  My life is filled with happiness because I am surrounded by people who make me laugh.  When life throws a curve, I have 2 options sit there and cry about it or laugh about it.  I choose to laugh.  Luckily, my friends know that about me.
I'm doing my best to write every day.  But, some days they will be shorter posts than others.  I find my energy levels getting lower and lower.  But, somehow, when I need to, I am still able to boost it when I need to.  I hope that remains.  And, if nothing else works, I'll try laughter.  On the radio a few minutes ago, I heard a song we sung on our mission trip this past summer-  "Move".  It's my new theme song.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Sharing

Yesterday, during my youthworker retreat, we were talking about something that I had been thinking about a lot lately.  We were discussing how important it is for youth to share with their friends and family about God.  One of the youthworkers mentioned something he does with his group.  They have a youth share each week.  That way, it helps them to start feeling comfortable sharing in a safe setting before they go out in the world and share with others.  I was really excited when he shared that.  It was like a light bulb going off in my head.  I talked to him further during some free time and he told me a little more about it.  The more I talked to him, the more I was picturing how it could work in our group.
I was anxious to get that started as soon as possible.  It just so happened, I had a youth who is normally hesitant to share.  During discussion times, she sometimes passed rather than answer.  It was never in a rude way, just in an "I'm not comfortable sharing yet" sort of way.  We talked after youth last Sunday about some things that she was comfortable sharing with me.  Later in the week, she sent me a message saying she was ready to share her story, hoping to help others going through similar things.  So, it was a perfect way to introduce this into our evening as a new part of our routine. 
As I talked about it before I told the group she was going to share, I had several people who volunteered to share whenever I wanted them to.  They seemed excited about the new addition to our routine.  I was happy about that since it cut 5- 10 minutes out of game time and I thought I might get some protests at first.  I didn't get 1.  So, then I introduced the girl who was sharing tonight.
At first she didn't know where to start.  But, as soon as she did, she went into a story starting several years earlier filled with sadness and despair.  Then, she said, she came to youth group for the first time with a friend.  That began her story of hope.  It was a beautiful story of where she was and where she is today, and how she wants to help others with her story.  Not a sound was in that room tonight as the group listened to their friend sharing with them for the first time.  It was a blessing to everyone there.
So, where was God today?  A couple weeks ago, I shared on here some frustrations I had about where things were going and what we were doing.  It's moments like tonight that God shows me that I'm right where I'm supposed to be!
Blessings,
Jennifer

Run

Today was rough.  I'm not sure if knowing makes things more apparent or my body is allowing me to feel sick, but I didn't like it.  I ended up somehow missing the carpool to a meeting and instead spending the afternoon sleeping.  I woke up not feeling any more rested.  But, somehow, I got it in my head that I needed to run.  It seems to sometimes give me more energy so I thought it might help me get ready for youth group tonight.  So, I headed to the Y to workout.  As I started working out, I decided not to watch tv or listen to anything and instead started thinking about my plans for the evening with my youth. 
About 5 minutes in, a scripture came to me.  This scripture came to be one of my favorites several years ago as my sister-in-law was battling cancer.  I was part of a relay for Life team in her honor and our t-shirts used it.  "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me".  So, over the next 15 minutes, I continued to repeat that over and over in my head.  I'd drift off and think more about my youth discussion and then go back to that scripture.  I usually have to stop and walk for a minute somewhere in my run.  But, today even though I spent most of the day exhausted and short of breath, I actually had a great run! 
I went from frustrated about how I was feeling to knowing that God is my strength when I need Him to be.  I got this!  No- we've got this!
So, where was God today?  He put the words in my head I needed to hear.  And, I treasure them.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Retreat

What an awesome day!  I was at a youthworker retreat this weekend. I'm not sure that I've ever needed a youthworker retreat more than this weekend.  Amazing how that worked out.
Lately, I've been having some health things checked out.  Being tired on a regular basis is tiring!  I've started focusing on how I treat my body- gave up caffeine, started working out again, focused on eating more fruits and veggies and less sodium and sugar.  I'm not getting any younger.  I was hoping these lifestyle changes would change how I am feeling.  Unfortunately, they haven't seemed to do a whole lot in that department.  I'm not planning to stop working towards healthier changes.  But, I have some answers that I have no control over now.  The good news is that I'm not crazy.  I legitimately have a reason for being tired and short of breath often.  That's where I'm at right now.  I don't know much more than that fact.  But, I know a lot of what ifs that can cloud my mind.  That will be the case for another 3 weeks of waiting to see a specialist. 
Last night, I was discussing my diagnosis with my husband.  He was frustrated with my brief onset of panic.  Today, I wasn't focused on my health (evident as I munched on peanuts and m&m's all day!).  I was focused on my youth ministry, on my youth, and on my personal walk with God.  I spent the day with youthworkers from all over Indiana.  Several of them I knew, several I'd seen on our facebook page or heard about before, and others I had never met. 
During one of the discussion times, we were asked to pair with someone else.  I happened to pair up with a guy I had never met.  During the time, this guy who I had no idea anything about, I found out he had some tough times growing up that he now uses in his ministry, which is a big thing I talk about with my youth.  He felt called to youth and started his career as an adult, too.  As we continued to talk, he mentioned wanting to plan a big trip next year including several churches in our area.  It happens to be for an event we're going to next weekend.  It's just amazing how God puts people together.  We were asked to pray for that person throughout this week.  But, I'm looking ahead to prayers and ministry connections that will hopefully be longer than 1 week. 
Last night, I was discussiong my diagnosis with my husband. He was frustrated with my brief onset of panic.  I was frustrated with his lack of panic.  Today, the speaker talked about how we all deal with pain.  She mentioned a tribe that gets a tattoo every time someone from their tribe has a loss or some bad thing happen.  Although I wasn't trying to think about it, it was obviously in the back of my mind.  Because the minute she said that, my mind went to my husband.  I thought that everyone getting tattoos wouldn't help me in the least.  But, to that tribe, it must be their way of sympathising.  And, it made me realize that's true with everyone.  The way I deal with things is different than any one else.  So, to expect anyone else to be me is unfair.  It was totally not what the speaker was talking about.  I was able to refocus and get what she was talking about.  But, I feel God needed me to hear that, needed me to prepare myself for what is to come and know that it's going to be ok.
After the session, I shared that with the leader of the retreat.  She asked if she could mention it.  So, during our closing worship time, she took a moment to share and asked all those there to pray for me.  In that moment, surrounded by people I knew and some I had just met, I knew that God was there wrapping His arms around me, telling me that no matter what, He's surrounding me with comfort and love.  He has placed so many amazing people in my life that I know there's no coincidence- only His work through them.
So, where was God today?  He was giving me insight, peace, and comfort when He knew I needed it.Philippians 4:1(NKJV)

¹³ I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Blessings,
Jennifer

Note

Tonight I started something new.  I'm helping to lead a class on coping with anger.  It's not about having anger, it's about dealing with it when we have it.  We all get angry.  Some people just don't deal with it as well.  And, when teens have anger issues when they're young, it can sometimes lead them down a wrong path.  I'm excited to be part of this group to help stop that. 
It was a small group, but that was ok.  It gave us a chance to get to know each other and to get to know what the group is going to be like. 
Last weekend, I wrote a note of encouragement to a young teen who needed it.  Today, she came for the group and told me she got the note and she thanked me.  That was a big step for her.  I see God working in her to help her be the person He knows she can be.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Anniversary

Happy Anniversary to me!  A year ago today, I started a new path along my journey.  Although I'd like to say I've written 365 posts, I can't.  But, throughout this past year, I have grown deeper in my faith and awareness for God all around me, in my daily life and in the lives of others. 
I started this at the suggestions of others, but mainly because God was urging me to.  I was excited at the idea because I enjoy writing and thought it would be fun.  I never realized how much it would impact me.  I wrote it for myself.  At first, I told very few people.  Gradually, that number grew.  There have been times I've learned something I wrote impacted someone else.  If that happened, that's an added bonus to what I have considered my own personal journey.  Although I am typically one to look for God, it wasn't until I committed to actively look for Him every day that I began to see Him constantly, in every aspect of my life.
My life has taken several turns this past year that I never would have expected- job changes, health issues, and random things here and there.  Writing daily, or almost daily, has helped me remain focused through the ups and downs.  If you've been reading awhile, you've seen me at some very high points and some low points.  But, no matter what, the important thing to know is that either way, God was there.
If you read this, thank you.  If you get something from what I write, that's awesome.  But, I'll tell you the same thing I was told.  Why don't you write it?  Take your own journey.  Look for God daily in your life and make a committment to write where you see Him each day.  Open your eyes to where He works in you and around you.  I'd love to read your sightings!
Psalm 103:22 (NIV)

Praise the Lord, all his works everywhere in his dominion. Praise the Lord, my soul.

Blessings,
Jennifer

Talking

I have my plan for middle school set.  It comes from a list they created at the start of our year.  But, then I saw a facebook post, then another, then another.  I had to find out what it was about.  Sadly, another teen was lost to suicide.  Although she was not from around here- not even from the US- it seems her story is everywhere.  So, I felt I needed to change my plan for tonight.  I needed to go with what is happening right now.
I planned it all out- videos, news stories, responses from others, and other stories of hope from people who had chosen to live.  Unfortunately, technology had other plans and I wasn't able to show all of the videos.  But, I was able to get the story out there and we had a great discussion.  There were so many topics that came up that they asked to continue the discussion next week. 
It saddens me that suicide and bullying are a part of life.  But, for these teens, these are things they deal with.  It's not fun topic of conversation.  But, if we don't talk about it, if we don't give them tools to deal with being bullied or helping someone else who is being bullied, then how can we expect them to know?
So, where was God today?  He was nudging me to go out of my comfort zone by changing my plan and then again when all of my videos didn't work.  It's like He was saying "You don't need to show them that- you need to talk with them".  So, we talked.
Psalm 94:11 (NIV)

The Lord knows all human plans; he knows that they are futile.

Blessings,
Jennifer

Cinderella

Tonight I watched Cinderella.  My son was in it.  He was part of the chorus and it was fun to watch him sing and dance.  It amazes me that only a few years ago he had terrible stage fright!  Now, he does what he can to make his appearance known on stage- which he did tonight. 
A few years ago, someone I worked with got him started at the theater.  Since then, there haven't been many shows that he hasn't been a part of.  At times, we were frustrated with how often we had to pick him up late every night after rehearsal.  But, looking back, it was worth it.  The theater has brought out a confidence in him that has bettered his life.  He has met people he wouldn't have met- good people who respect him and always say great things about him when I talk to them. 
I've met a lot of teens who have nothing to do after school- so they find things to do.  A lot of them find the wrong things to do.  So, having my son spend every moment he could at the theater with people who liked him and looked after him, teaching and mentoring, was a really great thing. 
This past summer, he spent his time at a camp because he developed a love for the theater.  He had the confidence to apply for a lighting position because of all of the things he learned through his years at the theater. 
Tonight I saw some of my youth at the theater.  I see it happening again with them.  It's a cycle that is continuing.  It's more that just a theater- it's a place for people to come and learn and grow, become confident in themselves, and share their talents with others.
So, where was God today?  He was once again putting people in the path of those who need them.
Proverbs 3:21My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight,

preserve sound judgment and discretion;

Blessings,
Jennifer

People

After my post Sunday night, I had a few chats with a few people.  I got some perspective on where I was at and where my youth were at.  And, I got some perspective on where they are- which is at church and youth group every week.  So, although I would love for them to be able to articulate their journey and their spiritual life, I think now that it's not that they aren't there, it's that they don't know they're there.  But, they keep coming back to learn more, to hang out with other Christians more, and to share more about themselves.  So, today, I'm looking at the glass half full.  When it comes down to it, whether they know it or not, they have their Christian values inside of them that they use to make decisions.  They aren't perfect, but who is? 
Looking at the evenings events, talking to several people, and researching some other ideas, I have decided to look at some different options for my high schoolers for Sunday nights.  This is where my homeschool experiences come in handy.  If the curriculum isn't doing what it needs to do, I look for one that does.  Luckily, there are a lot of great options out there.  So, maybe Sunday night needed to happen to put me in a different direction.
Since Sunday, several people have come to me on random occasions and given me encouragement.  Most don't read this and had no idea I'd had a bad night.  So, I knew it was God giving me encouragement.  One youth knew only that I was tired and not feeling the greatest Sunday night so she sent me a text Tuesday morning- "Proverbs 3:5Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."  How awesome is that?  Knowing that when someone is struggling my youth look to scripture to give comfort is a wonderful thing.  Another youth had just created a scrapbook about her life for a class.  She mentioned me as a strong influence in her life.  There were others that blessed me, too.  For that I'm grateful.
So, where was God on Monday?  He was making sure I got His message by putting several people in my path.
Proverbs 3:5Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." How awesome is that? Knowing that when someone is struggling my youth look to scripture to give
Blessings,
Jennifer

Hmmmm....

Honestly, it's one of those days.  Every part of me didn't want to write tonight.  But, here I am.  It's Sunday- usually the day I can't decide which thing to write about.  This moment, I'm at a loss as to what to write.  Of course God was all around me.  Every part of me knows that.
But, frustration has set in today.  And, at this moment, it's where I'm at.  I don't remember this ever being a part of my middle school years.  When did "becoming atheist" become cool?  Of course, I realize that most of them are questioning and feel they need to put a label on it so it becomes atheist.  But, it's sad- and frustrating!  It's exciting when youth go from knowing what they've learned from their parents and Sunday school teachers to figuring out their faith for themselves.  I know in order to do that they have to search and question.  I just feel sad for those that search in all the wrong places.  And, I feel frustrated for those who are afraid or too stubborn to ask questions or search in the right places.
We all have moments of wondering what we're doing.  At least I think so.  That's me today.  I wanted to challenge my high schoolers.  But, unfortunately, they weren't ready.  That makes me look back and wonder where I dropped the ball.  I want them to be able to focus on their Christianity every day- not just Sunday.  Shouldn't we all?  But, although some tonight said God was one of their top 2 priorities, none of them could tell me they were absolutely going to do that- in fact they were pretty sure they weren't.  I don't understand that- without thinking their original answer of God as their priority was just saying what they thought they should say.  Either way, I'm wondering what to talk about the rest of the year when they will participate in the great discussions we have and then walk out of the door to the rest of the world. 
The other adult with me tonight was talking with them saying he doubted they realize how much they are influenced by everything we do- that they just don't put the Christian label on it.  But, then, how do they share it with others if they don't acknowledge it themselves?  So, although if that's true it's better than nothing, I still want more.  Maybe that's the problem- I expect too much?  But, I also see so much potential and if I don't push them, who will? 
So it all started with an assignment 2 weeks ago.  They were to message me, talk to me, call me, etc about where they were in their journey and with questions or ways I could help them continue on their journey.  It was kind of a beginning on the year thing to see what we should discuss, etc.  I got nothing.  So, it makes me wonder if I'm devoting my life to teaching youth about God and being Christian and none of them can spend a couple minutes to send me a message about their spiritual life, am I failing? 
So, where did I see God today?  I'm sure He's there.  I'm sure this will all make whatever comes next in our group more appropriate to what my youth need.  And, I know they are amazing young people who are His children and He's there watching over them.  I'm counting on His guidance to direct my next step in teaching them.
Mark 11:22 (NIV)

"Have faith in God," Jesus answered.

Blessings,
Jennifer

Celebration

Today I got to celebrate my friend's birthday.  We have been friends since our boys were in preschool together- over 15 years ago!  Until she moved 14 months ago, we met for lunch almost every week.  That's a lot of lunches, but more importantly, that's a lot of time to share a lot of things!  We have both gone through a lot of changes in those years.  And, through them all, we've been able to lean on each other.
I believe that God puts people in our lives to be His hands and feet- to do the work He needs done.  The beauty of our friendship is that there is no doubt that God put us in each others path.  And, sometimes she is His hands and feet and sometimes I'm His hands and feet.  There is no keeping score, no drama, no disagreements.  I am so blessed by the friends God has put in my life.  And, even though we're now far away, when we are together it's as though there was never any time apart.
So, today was a wonderful day of celebrating her life, of laughing, of pampering, and enjoying our friendship.  As I was leaving, we were talking about her birthday weekend rather than just one day. Being silly, we changed it to a month and then decided a birthday year would be great.  She then remarked that it didn't seem like such a bad idea to celebrate our lives every day!  And, I think she's right.  We should celebrate each day for the blessing each new day brings.
So, where was God today?  He was enjoying a celebration with us!
Proverbs 17:17A friend loves at all times,

and a brother is born for a time of adversity.

Blessings,

Jennifer

Prayers

Today was odd.  It was a mixture of good and bad- ups and downs.  It started out pretty slow- a quiet morning, I got my workout in and then came back home to relax before work.
A family member had a health scare that luckily her doctor took seriously and was able to get results immediately so we wouldn't all be on pins and needles for days.  That was a blessing that started out scary.
I got to work early because I had a meeting.  The meeting went well and I see a big, positive opportunity coming for the Teen Center.  Hopefully, if all goes well and gets approved, a city- wide Christian group for high schoolers will be meeting there weekly.  This would be a great opportunity for us to get the word out about the Teen Center.  But, it would also be a great place for them to meet on a consistent basis.  So, it would be a great thing for both groups- and something I'd love to be a part of in some way- even if it's just supporting them by opening the place for them to meet.  It's something I believe in as a positive thing for the community and I can see that it's really well run.  I'm sure I could learn a thing or 2 from them, too!  As my friend left today, he said he was going to pray about this.  And, I told him I'd do the same. 
When the Center opened, I was surprised by how slow it was today.  I realized later that there were several activities going on this afternoon.  So, along with the beautiful weather, I think if I were a teen, I wouldn't be there either!  So, I got online to do some facebook promoting.  I came across a post by one of my youth.  It mentioned someone who passed away.  After some research, I found out that a teacher from the middle school passed away this morning.  He had been sick for awhile and not able to live the life he wanted to live.  He seemed to be a well loved teacher and my heart goes out to his family and to the students and staff at the school. 
So, where was God today?  Answering prayers.  He was there listening to the prayers for a health scare- His answer of no cancer was a welcome response.  I believe He is working to bring 2 great community things for teens together and I'm excited to see where it leads.  And, I am sure He is there to comfort the grieving.
Colossians 4:2 (NIV)

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.

Blessings,
Jennifer

Workout

Tonight was pie night.  As I was up at the cash register, I was chatting with the hostess.  After going there every Wednesday for a couple years now, I know her pretty well.  There was another waitress standing there.  She told me "I feel like I see you every day now!"  I didn't recognize her at all!  As she talked, I realized she knows me from working out. 
I hadn't worked out for a long time.  But, with having some trips to the doctor and new meds, etc, I feel like I should be working on my health more.  So, after succeeding in my attempts to eat healthier, I took the next step back to the gym this past Monday. 
I was truly amazed that this girl knew me and knew what I was doing just from being there 2 days.  It made me realize that even when I think nobody is watching, someone always is.  And, she was very encouraging to me, which I really need when I working on getting back into a good habit.  I now know I'll see her every Wednesday and that if I stop going all together like I've done several times in the past, she'll probably mention that she missed me there.  I think I need that- someone holding me accountable.
So, where was God today?  I'm guessing He knew I needed both encouragement and accountability.  And, a reminder that I never know who is watching isn't a bad thing.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Skit Guys

Tonight I met with my group to talk about relationships.  I'm making it a 4 part series.  I love getting more lessons out of my curriculum.  It was supposed to be 1, but we're going to focus each week on a different type of relationship.  Tonight it was friendship.  Last week, I had a few moments where everyone looked around looking for someone else to say something.  That's rare in my group.  Usually, they are all trying to make sure their thoughts are heard.  So, I was worried this wasn't working.  But, tonight went great!  The only hard part was getting it all in- which we didn't.  So, we'll start next week with the rest of it.  I'd rather get to the heart of what we're talking about than glaze over stuff just to stay with a schedule. 
One thing that has saved the day at keeping their attention has been the skit guys!  Their videos are awesome!  They make us laugh, but yet they teach us at the same time.  Tonight, I also showed some of their serious skits.  And, again the youth connected with these 2 guys.  After watching a video, I asked questions and by then they could open us and talk. 
It's an interesting mix of youth on Wednesday nights.  Most are regulars.  But, Wednesdays seem to be more likely to have guests or random youth.  I'm thinking the thought of free dinner seems to help.  Whatever works to get people to come!  A youth came for the 1st time last week.  I thought afterwards she may or may not come back.  But, she has come to every possible thing we've had since then!  So, even the weeks I feel like I fail, God seems to get through. 
So, where was God today?  I talked to Him before we met tonight and asked Him to be with me, to help me help them.  I know He was there.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Hugs

Today there was no school.  So, I got to spend the afternoon with the younger kids.  It was a nice change of pace and I got to see some of my kids from this summer.  I love the teens!  I like being able to sit down and talk with them and listen to them and watch them grow and learn.  But, every once in awhile, it's fun to be with the younger ones.  Each age has it's special qualities.  So, this was a fun afternoon.
As I had them all line up to get ready to swim, one of the boys came up to me and asked if I was friends with his uncle.  I am so I said yes.  He then gave me the biggest hug!  Later in the day, I was by several of the girls who were drawing.  One told the other that she knew me from church and I was her best friend!  I looked awhile later at what they had drawn and it was a picture which included the name of the church, love, peace, and several other things.  She asked me to hang it up at church.  I plan on it.
As I came home tonight and thought about the day, it struck me how loving and accepting these young people are.  They're also very trusting.  It's never a surprise to me when I hear the scripture about being like a child to enter heaven.  I see it all of the time.  We could learn alot from watching them and listening to them!  Have you given someone a big hug today?  Have you said kind words and encouraged someone today?  Have you shared about God's love or about your church with someone today? 
So, where did I see God today?  I saw Him in the hearts of the kids I was with this afternoon.
Mark 10:15 Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."
Blessings,
Jennifer

Reception

Tonight was a big night at my church.  The bishop came to talk about his next 4 year term with Indiana.  We hosted a welcome reception for him.  I got off work an hour early, but by the time I got there, the room was packed!  There were people from many different churches and people were chatting, eating, and greeting people it was obvious they didn't see often.  I enjoyed people watching.  It was crowded enough that I didn't get very far into the room. 
Shortly after I arrived, the program started.  After a brief video, the bishop talked about his thoughts for the next 4 years.  Then, he asked everyone there to share their thoughts on what they would like to see in the next 4 years.  So, there was a time of getting into groups and discussing.
About that time, one of my youth popped in.  He didn't want to eat- even though there was yummy food.  He just wanted to see the bishop.  I had mentioned last night at youth group that he would be there tonight.  And, he just came by to see him.  He seemed excited to be there, although he didn't stay long.  I am guessing since he walked there that his mom wanted him home before it got too dark. 
So, where was God today?  He was in that room with so many people who are excited about what the next 4 years will bring.  And, he was with that youth who was excited just to be a part of it, even if only for a short time.  He has so many more years of moments ahead of him!
John 3:21 But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.
Blessings,
Jennifer