Saints

It's Halloween.  That means kids are all dressed up, some adults, too. We all eat more candy than usual.  And, going to random neighbors houses is normal.
There's something else about Halloween weekend.  It means tomorrow is all Saints day. It's a time to honor our loved ones that have passed. So, maybe that's why several people have been on my mind lately,  Saints that have passed. Several people have impacted my life so greatly that not a day goes by that I don't think about or do something because I learned it from them. I strive to live my life in a way that would both please them and also motivate others to live that way. Loving God, loving others, never ceasing to learn new things by continuing to be open minded, and making sure everyone always knew they were important is the example that was set before me. That's a tough order to fill day after day. But, it seems a good goal.
Sometimes, we don't get to say everything we want to say before our loved ones leave. I learned that long ago and have since tried to never leave without letting my loved ones know that I love them. Sometimes life is shorter than expected.
Thinking about my day, this doesn't have much to do with it. Although,  I did visit someone in the hospital and realize I should visit her more often. But, more than my activities today,  this has to do with my thoughts. Did the Bible live in me today? I feel like the lessons I learned from the saints I grew up with, the ones that have gone on before me, have helped me to focus on God and see examples of how to live the way He wants me to. I have been blessed with so many wonderful people in my life both in my past and present.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Commandments

Yesterday was my sabbath.  I have been taking the day off for a year now. At first,  I was really good at protecting my sabbath as not just a day off. But, lately it had become a day to run errands, do random stuff,  and not necessarily a day to help me rest and refocus.
But,  yesterday I started over. I started my day by reading some things to help me start my day off focused on God. Being gone several days, I had some extra Bible reading to do, and I attempted to limit my online activity. So far, so good. I felt like I had made good use of my day.  So, I guess my answer to my question was yes. The Bible was a present thought yesterday and my day was focused on keeping the Sabbath.
Today, I worked this morning and then traveled to visit my family. I went to visit my parents and got to see my sister and nieces and nephew, too. It was a really relaxing afternoon and I had a great day. As I'm writing this and thinking about my question, I just realized that both days I could say I was living the 10 commandments. Spending time with my parents is important to me and although I wish I could visit more, I'm glad for the time we do get. So today I honored my parents, one of the commandments.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Dinner

I had a great day! It's late now and I'm exhausted.  But,  I'm really wanting to keep up with this. Why am I writing so late? Was I procrastinating, playing on Facebook, watching tv? No, not tonight!
A few weeks ago, I started watching a tv show where the entire family got together once a week for dinner. Grandpa, dad, grown children,  and grandchildren all came together once a week to eat, talk, laugh, and connect.  I love that! This isn't the normal way anymore. But, when I brought it up to my son, he seemed all for it.
So, tonight, we had our first family dinner in a long time.  Enjoying comfort food on this cold, rainy night and several hours of conversation has to be one of the highlights of my week!
I also spent some time this afternoon planning some things to do daily to attempt to continue my Emmaus excitement and continue studying the things we talked about. So far, I'm pretty happy with my plans. Tomorrow, I put my plans into action. So, I will know soon how it's working.
Did the Bible live in me today? Thinking about my family and the unconditional love I have for them, I am reminded of how much God loves me! I would hope that not only my family but all those around me feel the unconditional love that we are commanded to give everyone. So I would hope that's an aspect of the Bible that is seen in me often. Afterall, we are told this is the greatest commandment.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Reality

At some point soon, I will and write about my weekend.  I journaled but was without electronics during my amazing time away to renew and grow. Doing an Emmaus walk was something I've wanted to do for a long time. So, I am grateful that the opportunity happened this weekend so I could experience it with all the amazing people I met!
So, back to the real world today. It's easy for the Bible to live in me during things like this past weekend.  The challenge comes when we are called to be in this world but not of this world, when we are to live in the reality of a society that doesn't always make the best decisions, doesn't treat people right, and where some pretty messed up things happen,  but we still have to respond in a loving Christian way. Sometimes that's pretty tough! And, transitioning to that could have been tough, too. But, I guess I am pretty blessed today, still feeling the blessings of this weekend, enjoying the moments and people that I missed while away, and genuinely energized by everything!
Where does the Bible fit in to this? Since this question first became our focus, I've been able to come up with verses that fit my day...visiting sick, feeding the hungry,teaching children and youth about God. Today, I am not coming up with an easy answer. No memorable scripture comes to mind.
But, I feel a renewed sense of energy for God, for my work both with youth and in the office, and I feel abundantly blessed by the love that surrounds me! Hopefully, that is not just an inner feeling, but an outer, visual effect from this weekend.
So, as I think about this, if I have to really put it into words, this weekend into today could be described in 2 ways. Looking at the verses talking about being the light of the world, I am definitely determined to let my light shine! (Matthew 5:14-16) And, thinking about the renewed spirit within me, I am reminded of the story of Pentecost (Acts 2). During that time, the disciples not only spread their excitement at being filled with the Holy Spirit, but also committed themselves to learning, teaching, and praying. And, that's what I intend to do, what I've committed to this past weekend.
So, where was God today? He was right next to me enjoying the day!
Blessings,
Jennifer

Covenant

Awhile back, another youthworker and I decided we needed to get together once a month for a time of sharing, relating, and talking about some things that would help us both in our lives and our jobs. We started a covenant group similar to what I do during mission trips with my youth.  Using a more updated version of the types of questions John Wesley used when he founded Methodism and created covenant groups.
We meet monthly to discuss our 2 questions and how focusing on them impacted us. Then we add another question and talk about what we think it might mean to focus on it the next month. We use one from the previous month and the new one.
The new question we discussed today is "did the Bible live in me today." So, for the next month, I will attempt to blog daily and answer that question.  At this point, I am not sure what that really means.  I can find scripture that relates to my day. We do this every Sunday at youth group so I am used to that. I could read scripture in the morning and then be challenged to follow its teachings throughout the day.  Or, should I find a verse or chapter and strive to live it throughout the month?
Working in a church, I am guessing it's easier for me than someone working outside of a Christian environment.  I am given opportunities daily to share God, to spread love, to live out my faith in ways that others may not be able to. So, I wonder if to strengthen amd grow I should focus on life outside of the church. How can I do this without any job related activities being included?
So, how did the Bible live in me today? I fed a man who often comes to the church because he is hungry. And, I often think of Matthew 25 when I see him. What if he was Jesus and I turned him away? So, when I can, I try not to. Trying to focus on life outside of church, although I spent almost my whole time in church related activities, I still think I have to go with Matthew 25. My husband isn't feeling well.  And, although there is not much he wants me to do when he's sick (he's mainly a hibernater when he saw sick while I'm needy and whiny!) I did make him chicken noodle soup.
I'm excited to see where this month takes us. I am guessing that between today amd 30 days from now, I will look at this question somewhat differently.
As I was driving home from our covenant time, a scripture immediately came to mind.  Matthew 18:20 "Where two or more are gathered in my name, there I am also." Each month we have met, I feel inspired and encouraged.  I feel like this is challenging me to reflect and grow in ways that God is a part of.
So, where was God today? He is a part of my covenant time.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Teddy bears

It's shoebox time! I love the shoebox mission because it's a wonderful way to share God's love with people all over the world. I probably drive some crazy with constant Facebook posts, announcements, and stories. But, it's exciting to see how this mission changes lives, brings people together, and gives hooe to so many.
Tonight I got a message from someone I know, not from any religious thing I do. But, she saw a post and wants to donate at least 50 teddy bears! I've seen these teddy beara and they are soft and cuddly and kids will live them!
People sometimes talk about social media and the negative effects it has. I was actually having a conversation about it yesterday. But, I have to admit that there arw some ways that I've seen God work that never would have happened without it. Now, 50 children are getting teddy bears!
So, where was God today? Getting 50 teddy bears for 50 children!
Blessings,
Jennifer

Painting

Sometimes Sunday night youth group goes really well! Sometimes it doesn't.  Tonight,  both of these things are true.
During middle school, I had new kids back for another week and excited to be there.  It seems they are consistently coming and the group is active.
I thought we should review the last 2 lessons since they were spread out due to other activities. So, we did some thinga I didn't have time for the first time I did the lessons. As I was talking and doing a demonstration, an idea occurred to me- a concrete way they could remember our focus. This is a pretty important topic- talking about how God loves us no matter what and that Jesus came to take away our sins, and if we pray and ask God to forgive us, He does. I mean,  it doesn't get much bigger than that. So, as I was talking and got a random idea, I knew it must have been straight from God. Why? It was a craft project! And, I am not a crafty person. And, it involved paint! So, the middle schoolers were beyond excited! And, they took it all very seriously. It was a pretty awesome time.
High school is going to be a challenge this year. It's a small group.  And, if someone has an off night, it effects the whole time.  We are discerning what they believe in an effort to help thwm grow stronger in their faith and be able to tell others about it. So, when 3 of them have an off night and it's all based solely on what they say and how they interact with each other, it makes for some challenges. I do think something important happened.  They learned it's a place without judgment, which is crucial.
So, where was God today? He was definitely helping me tonight!
Blessings,
Jennifer

Puppy- Saturday

Puppies are cute. They're cuddly, innocent, and they love unconditionally. Since I wrote regularly before, I have become a very active foster for a rescue. My husband and I focus on puppies since our animals adapt best to them.
There are a lot of reasons why we foster besides the ones already mentioned.  And, one of the main ones for me comes straight from the beginning of time. We were called to care for the earth, for the plants and the animals. And, this is a way I can fulfill that call.  I don't have lots of money to donate to lots of charities. But, my husband and I have the capability to open our home to help the helpless animals, God's creatures. So far, we've only helped 19. But, that's 19 more than if we hadn't been able.
So, today, my 19th foster found her forever home. And, I really can't think of a better situation for her. She had lost 2 beloved dogs within a few weeks. And, so I know she was overjoyed with her new puppy, filling a hole she had.
I don't know how it all works. But, I feel like animals are a gift from God. And, sometimes I get to play a part in giving those gifts.  People ask how I can foster and give up the puppies. But, seeing the joy each puppy brings is seeing God at work.
So, where was God today? He was bringing joy in a sweet puppy.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Disciple

Thursday is always a great day! It's my sabbath day! That means a lot of things depending on the week. But, one thing it means every week is that I go to my disciple Bible study. When I started this class back in January, I was really excited. And, it has exceeded my expectations!
Since the last period of time I wrote regularly,  I have been making a very conscious effort to read the Bible more. I was really happy when I achieved my goal of finishing the Bible. It took longer than I wanted it to, but I did it. But, as I read, there were times I felt like that was all I was doing. The understanding part of it didn't always happen. And, that's when I realized that reading the Bible alone wasn't enough.
So, I now go to 2 Bible studies and am learning so much! The disciple class has become a small group who not only studies the Bible together, but prays for each other, shares with each other, and cares for each other.
Through this, I have gotten to know new people and had new experiences. I love leading the youth, but am also really enjoying being in a group where I am the learner, where I am being fed spiritually.
So, where was God today? He was in my class speaking through His word.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Dominos-wednesday

This afternoon something new started. A group of people gathered to play dominos. I love playing games and since I had to be at church a little later,  I decided to come in time for dominos. I realized I didn't know how to really play. And, although I knew it was more than just standing them up and knocking them over, which so e people thought it was, I didn't know the right way to play. But, I got there to find others already there and ready to play, armed with their own fancy sets of dominos. So, I knew I was in good hands to learn the ins and outs of the game.

As I sat there waiting for the start of the group, more and more people came in. And as we all sat down to play, I looked around. There were people from every generation sitting around one big table, playing, talking, laughing, and having a great time. It was a beautiful thing! 

Sometimes it's easy to look at what the different generations do differently.  But, it's so wonderful to see the different generations finding common interests, learning and teaching, and enjoying time together. 

So, where was God today? He was in that room teaching us to play and spend time together. 

Blessings,

Jennifer

Weekend

I'm not making any promises here, but I have been thinking it's about time to write again.  And, lately, conversations have brought my mind to continuing my blog about seeing God in my daily life.  So, here I am.
This weekend, many things happened to show me that God is at work in my life and in the lives of many others. Leading a workshop on youth ministry and mission was not something I was looking forward to exactly.  Although it's something I am passionate about, I am not one to love talking in front of a bunch of adults.  But, it ended up being a good time and ended up being a small group. So, I basically had a conversation with a small group of people about something I love talking about.  And, several told me they were definitely going to use some of my suggestions.  So, I am happy about how it went. And, I felt like none of it would have gone well if I had not been counting on God.  I had my list of what to say, but after a few minutes of nervously talking I feel like I decided to let God take over and that's where conversation happened. There was an obvious turning point.
Sunday morning was awesome! I got to hear someone speak about getting a shoebox and becoming a Christian,  along with her whole family! I've been coordinating the shoebox mission project at church for about 4 or 5 years. I have always loved the project. But, seeing the impact from someone in person instead of a video was just amazing! I felt blessed that we could start our mission this year on the same Sunday she could come and talk. The whole service was a blessing-the sermon was great and made me think about some things in a new way, we welcomed new members at 2 different services, and, my son was playing in the band. Just a great morning!
Sunday evening was something I had been having mixed emotions about-starying our discussions for the year after September's group building fun stuff.  I was wondering if they would complain that it wasn't as much fun. But, my squirrely middle schoolers had a great time learning in a lot of different ways. They seemed to really enjoy it! And they definitely learned about Jesus being true and the way to get rid of sin. And, several of my new youth were there and seemed to jump right in and will hopefully keep coming.
My high school group had a great night.  Their focus for the year is tough. I can't plan it completely ahead of time because we are having discussions about what they believe (debate) and they are researching during youth time. But, at the end, we came up with a list of about 8 things we all believe about the Bible. I'm excited to help them really figure out what they believe,  why they believe,  and how to defend it. At the end of the night,  they said "you mean we get to do this all year?!" They were really excited!
It doesn't get much better than that!
So, where was God this weekend? He was definitely guiding my words when leading Saturday and Sunday.  And, He was in the speakers as they spoke to inspire me and others.
Blessings,
Jennifer