college

Tonight was our annual water games night. Any time there is a 5th Sunday,  it's 5th Sunday game night-a time for the group to build relationships and have fun. So, if it happens to fall during a summer month, we do water games. So, tonight was the big night. Of course, it was cooler out today with a chance for rain. But, that didn't stop my kids from coming!
I had a list of about 12 games we could choose from-some nonwater games if it got too cool.
We started playing and 2 of my college guys were there. They quickly started filling balloons for me. Then, they started coming up with game ideas they wanted to try. It was really great watching these 2 young men take on leadership roles. I started filling balloons so they could instead be the leaders and share the experiences with those younger tha  them. The youth listened to them and had a great time!
Afterwards,  I joined the college group at dairy queen-our weekly meeting place. I discussed with another college youth about our upcoming mission trip-where she will be taking on the role of one of the leaders. As she enters her junior year of college with a focus of sociology with hopes of being a youth leader, I am excited to share this experience with her and excited to give her this opportunity.  She has taken on several leadership opportunities in the past and had just recently asked if she could help even more when this opportunity came up-a chance to not  only be a leader but also to be surrounded by some of the greatest youth leaders I know!
I just got off the phone with my son. He called not just because he wasn't feeling well, but also just to chat about his week. He is spending the summer being a part of a church camp for the second summer in a row.
I just have to say I am really proud of the group of young people coming out of youth group and moving on. Even though they are moving on, they are staying connected and finding ways to serve God. The statistics are scary for college youth. But, so far, my youth are beating the odds and becoming even more amazing young people!
So, where was God today? He was in these 4 young people as they strive not only to serve Him, but to help those younger than them to serve Him, too!
Blessings,
Jennifer

Niece

How quickly we forget! We had my niece here for the week and had so much fun with her! But, I have to say I was tired in the evenings!  We didn't do anything spectacular.  It was just life. But, as I thought about the week I realized how spectacular my "just life" time is! I haven't been to the beach much this summer.  But , my niece wanted to swim a lot while here. As it turned out, we had a pool party, spent an afternoon at camp on a beach,  and went to a friend's and swam in her pool. We also did several service projects and even did a walk to promote heroin abuse awareness.  It helped me realize how awesome my life is and what blessings I see every day!
We celebrated my niece's birthday and had a fun time putting together a last minute party-which helped me realize what wonderful people are in my life that would drop everything and come.
And, lastly, I realized that my niece is growing up. I was surprised to see how much she had grown up since we had her for a week only a year ago. She has a tendancy to get upset about things and to react very quickly. But, last week, I saw that if she started to get upset,  I just needed to calmly help her realize there wasn't a need to be upset and she was fine. She would typically be great at the worst case scenario game. But, only a couple times did her imagination take her to that worst case. It seems she is dealing with the world and she is in a much better place.
So, where was God this week? He was in the special moments I got to spend with my niece.  He was in the ways and circumstances that have helped her this past year to continue growing and maturing.  And He was there to remind me how awesome my life is everyday!
Blessings
Jennifer

camp

A week at camp means countless times where God was at work! Each day we ended with a circle of teens sharing where they had seen God that day. Each day, they all had something to say. Prayers were answered,  lives were touched, and relationships with God and others grew. This year at camp, things were different than last year, just as I expected.  It seems every time I take a youth trip, God has something He wants accomplished. This year at camp was no different.  I had quite a few young high schoolers.  And, most seemed unsure about something-their confidence in themselves was not strong. Throughout the week, they were given challenges,  opportunities to conquer their fears, rely on each other, and grow by being given the encouragement of others and through faith in God.  To some, the challenges were simple, but to others it was as if they had a mountain to climb.  The opposite was also true. Several felt lost by being the older ones of the group, not used to being the leaders and having nobody to challenge and pull them ahead. They took a bit, butthen ssettled in to their role as they finally understood what they needed to do.
Watching thebdynamics of the group change throughout the week and seeing them all become closer and stronger was a blessing.
So, where was God last week? He was everywhere in everything.
Blessings,
Jennifer

bingo

Today was our 2nd mission Monday.  The weather looked like it wasn't going to cooperate with doing outside work so I went to plan b. On days that we have outside work planned and it rains, we are going to a nearby assisted living place. I had never been there before but a man from our church works there and several groups went there during our 30 hour famine.
So, today we went and played games with the residents. We spent the majority of the time playing bingo-which is obviously their favorite.  The youth and I sat in between the residents and made sure they heard the numbers and marked them. I sat next to the only man there and had a great time joking with him as numbers were called and he would mutter about not having a good card. We played 10 normal games and 1 full card bingo. Everyone won at least 1 game. After that, we set out to play uno. The residents said they were tired and all but 1 left to their rooms. So, we decided we would still play. We had a lovely time talking to the woman and I am sure she enjoyed the  individual attention she got. It didn't seem she got a lot of family visitors.  After awhile, a couple girls were asked to make cookies.
The afternoon was fun, relaxing,  and a meaningful experience. It was a wonderful way to spend an afternoon!
So, where was God today?  He gave us rain to get us to plan b. And I saw Him in my youth as they listened,  helped,  and encouraged others, the hands and feet of God.
Blessings,
Jennifer

sharing

Tonight I shared my story. I didn't intend to share this summer. But, yesterday,  I found out the person I scheduled to come talk wouldn't be able to. I was driving for 3 hours so I called someone I was hoping could talk. He couldn't but directed me to someone else. It turned out they couldn't either. So, I drove along really focused on what my group needed to hear. I thought and thought. It became obvious that they needed to hear about self worth, relationships,  and the dangers involved with them. So, after I decided that, I struggled with thinking of someone to share about that. After thinking and thinking,  I finally admitted it. I have a story to tell that they need to hear. So, as much as I had thought I would get people to fill each Sunday,  God had other plans.As I drove home today from my parents,  I thought about what I wanted to say. So many things came to mind-a jumble of stories. Suddenly,  I had an idea. I ended up asking them what they and their peers struggle with. Then I asked what questions they wanted to ask me. That way, I could use stories from my life that directly related to them. They wanted me to answer their questions first, so I did. That took the majority of our time. But, I did have some time to share about my struggles-which are their struggles. I don't know who needed to hear what. I do know several who reacted in some way or another. But, I trust that God knew who needed to hear my story.So, where was God today?  I couldn't have gotten through those times in my life without Him and I couldn't share it with others without Him.Blessings, Jennifer

sharing

Tonight I shared my story. I didn't intend to share this summer. But, yesterday,  I found out the person I scheduled to come talk wouldn't be able to. I was driving for 3 hours so I called someone I was hoping could talk. He couldn't but directed me to someone else. It turned out they couldn't either. So, I drove along really focused on what my group needed to hear. I thought and thought. It became obvious that they needed to hear about self worth, relationships,  and the dangers involved with them. So, after I decided that, I struggled with thinking of someone to share about that. After thinking and thinking,  I finally admitted it. I have a story to tell that they need to hear. So, as much as I had thought I would get people to fill each Sunday,  God had other plans.As I drove home today from my parents,  I thought about what I wanted to say. So many things came to mind-a jumble of stories. Suddenly,  I had an idea. I ended up asking them what they and their peers struggle with. Then I asked what questions they wanted to ask me. That way, I could use stories from my life that directly related to them. They wanted me to answer their questions first, so I did. That took the majority of our time. But, I did have some time to share about my struggles-which are their struggles. I don't know who needed to hear what. I do know several who reacted in some way or another. But, I trust that God knew who needed to hear my story.So, where was God today?  I couldn't have gotten through those times in my life without Him and I couldn't share it with others without Him.Blessings, Jennifer

Sharing

Tonight I shared my story. I didn't intend to share this summer. But, yesterday,  I found out the person I scheduled to come talk wouldn't be able to. I was driving for 3 hours so I called someone I was hoping could talk. He couldn't but directed me to someone else. It turned out they couldn't either. So, I drove along really focused on what my group needed to hear. I thought and thought. It became obvious that they needed to hear about self worth, relationships,  and the dangers involved with them. So, after I decided that, I struggled with thinking of someone to share about that. After thinking and thinking,  I finally admitted it. I have a story to tell that they need to hear. So, as much as I had thought I would get people to fill each Sunday,  God had other plans.
As I drove home today from my parents,  I thought about what I wanted to say. So many things came to mind-a jumble of stories. Suddenly,  I had an idea. I ended up asking them what they and their peers struggle with. Then I asked what questions they wanted to ask me. That way, I could use stories from my life that directly related to them. They wanted me to answer their questions first, so I did. That took the majority of our time. But, I did have some time to share about my struggles-which are their struggles.
I don't know who needed to hear what. I do know several who reacted in some way or another. But, I trust that God knew who needed to hear my story.
So, where was God today?  I couldn't have gotten through those times in my life without Him and I couldn't share it with others without Him.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Everywhere

We had only been together 2 days. Although some knew each other, most had not been very aquainted with each other. Today I saw caring for one another,  laughing together,  sharing together, and working together. I saw youth standing in front of a filled convention center participating in worship, confident and poised. I saw youth inviting community people to a free family event, working without complaining to make the event a success.  I heard youth share with a group of adults about their views on youth programs. I saw adults  listening to them, realizing they were valuable. I had a conversation with a teen who is planning on going into ministry. He talked about how he wasn't sure where he wanted to go or how he  wanted to go about the process. But, he realized he needed to listen to his dad's advice because he was already a pastor and probably knew best.
We ended with a Christian concert in Hard Rock Cafe. How cool to fill the place with Christians praising God.
Ok.Confession time. That wasn't quite the end. We couldn't let the great day end yet. So, the girls had some quality bonding time, laughing,  sharing, and building relationships.
So, where was God today?  He was everywhere!
Blessings,
Jennifer

dinner

After a great day, we headed to dinner in a connecting hotel. The dinner was part of a young preachers event. During the evening,  youth aged 14-28 had a chance to speak. Earlier in the day, there was a time for 18 young people to give sermons to the attendees.  I wasn't able to attend,  but look forward to watching them on YouTube.  After hearing the few during dinner, I was inspired! Of course,  I was excited that there were young people who wanted to preach. But, their messages were amazing-no matter what age they were! They showed a passion, a level of maturity,  and a sense of hope that blew me away! We heard a lot of people speak this weekend,  but nobody inspired me more with their words than the speakers at this dinner!
For young people to have decisions made about their calling, or even to be exploring their call, that excites me. To see their passion and excitement,  that inspires me.
So, where was God today? It was obvious He was a part of their messages.  And it was obvious He has given them a gift.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Devotion

I arrived to the conference center with the group of youth and adults.  We had some scheduling things to figure out and then it was time for devotions.  I love devotion time during youth events. Coming together at the end of the day, spending time focusing and reflecting always brings a perfect end to the day.  Since it was our first night, we started with introductions and a "fun fact". As we went around the circle, I saw people make connections and find others with similaritiez. We then discussed our fo us scripture for the weekend.  We divided into groups and had some questions to discuss.  My group,  as well as other groups I overheard,  were talking about their faith, their lives, their struggles,  and their peers.
As we were in the midst of devotion time, I thought about all the youth who were so devoted. It struck me that school had just ended for the summer.  These youth had a chance to sleep in, hang out with friends,  or do whatever they wanted during their first week of summer break. But, what did they choose to do? They came to worship,  lead, learn, make decisions,  and share their faith. The theme of the conference was world changers. By making the choice, they were well on their way to being world changers already!
So, where was God today? I saw him more times than I can mention in these young leaders!
Blessings,
Jennifer

Back

Tuesday night, I must confess.  I was pretty worried about muscle pain in my lower back. I don't know where it came from Monday night but it was not helping my plans for the week. So, Tuesday night as I thought about the great amount of walking ahead of me the next 4 days, I was worried.
Wednesday morning I woke up pain free! It left as quickly and unexplainably as it came. For that, I am grateful!
So, where was God today?  The unexplained can only be explained by God.
Blessings,
Jennifer

new

I have a lot planned for this summer. I've been anxiously awaiting the end of school so I could start. The first new thing was Mission Monday.  We gathered at the church and then went out to serve others. I had no idea who was coming. But, I was happy that we had a few regulars and then some I am trying to get more connected to the church. The best thing was having a new volunteer.  That alone I consider a success!
We went to 3 homes and surprised people with the offer to do whatever yardwork they needed. It was an opportunity for the youth to connect with people they haven't met before and vice versa.
Today,  we continued with 2 more new activities. We met for tennis this afternoon and biking this evening. Again, we had another adult join that hasn't volunteered for things but joined for tennis. And then, an adult who is not completely connected to a church right now came to the biking group. All said they plan to be back next week. I am excited that, even though I don't have huge groups for these events, I have new people or slightly connected people taking an interest in participating. Week 1-goal accomplished.
So, where was God today?  He was in the times spent in small groups building relationships.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Sunday

We started our summer schedule on Sunday.  Each Sunday evening, someone is  invited to come and share their spiritual journey.  I started that during my first summer here and I haven't run out of people to invite. It started with my philosophy that I, along with the other volunteers,  needed to share their story. How could we expect youth to share thier thoughts and stories if we hadn't shared ours. It has grown since then. I strive to get a variety of people with a variety of journeys.
So, I started this summer with the person I thought was appropriate to be first since she is usually the first person people see. She is welcoming to everyone who enters the church. So, I asked her to share her journey and also talk to the youth about how important it is to be welcoming. The youth all love her and were happy to hear her story. Towards the end of the evening,  one of the youth raised her hand as if to ask a question. Instead,  she simply said, "I love you." it was obvious the woman was touched by those words. The next morning when she came in to volunteer,  the woman shared with me how surprised she was to hear that from the teen. The fact is, the youth all love her. She takes an interest in them and shows she cares about them. So, I think we could all take the teens lead and say those 3 simple words more often to more people, a lot of people who may not hear it very often.
So, where was God today? He was in this woman's journey, and He gave her the strength to share it. And, He was in those 3 simple words, the expression of love.
Blessings,
Jennifer

funeral

Today I went to a funeral for a man from my church.  I didn't know him extremely well, but I respected him greatly. He was at church almost every Sunday and more often than not, he would spend quite a bit of time talking to my son and his friend. It wasn't talking really, more that they were all bantering back and forth. It didn't matter that he was in his 80's andthey were in their teens. They were 3 boys. I loved watching them, knowing that this man really cared about these boys and that he deliberately took time each week to talk with them. My son knew it. And, when he found out he had passed away, he was saddened that he wouldn't have those moments again.
As I pulled up to the church, the parking lot was full, the street was full, and inside the sanctuary was full. During the service,  I learned so many more wonderful things about this man, and the people that he influenced.  I wish I had known him longer. But, I was blessed and inspired by him. Those moments each Sunday that he spent with 2 boys meant more than he knew. And all of the things he did to help others so willingly throughout his life meant something to those he helped. We can all learn from people like him.
So, where was God today? Welcoming His faithful servant.
Blessings,
Jennifer