Sun

Today was a normal Monday- visiting a friend, work, and random stuff. But, there was something pretty great about today. It was beautiful outside! The sun was shining, the air was warm, and I walked my dogs this afternoon. Whenever I walk my dogs, it brings me some calmness and peace. So, I am grateful the cold weather seems to be ending.
So, where was God today? He gave me the gift of sunshine and warmth!
Blessings,
Jennifer

Young Adults

What an awesome weekend! It started off Friday when I to spend the day with one of my young adults. I've known her since she was little and have watched her grow up. It was so fun getting a chance to go to lunch and chat and just talk. Hearing how God has worked in her life, hearing her plans on how she is responding to that, and listening to her just talking about life was all awesome!
Friday evening, we went to the Emmaus gathering and I loved seeing so many from our church there! Every time I go to the monthly gatherings, I am energized and spiritually filled by the worship, the fellowship, and the discussions. I was also excited to turn in the registration form for the young adult with me throughout the day. I get to sponsor my first person for the walk! I'm so excited to see God continue working in her and in the rest of the women going on the walk in a few weeks!

Saturday, I got to meet with another young adult and talk to her about life! We hadn't had a chance to catch up for quite awhile since she went off to college and has been so busy with college life. But, we finally had a chance to just sit down and talk. I heard how God is working in her life and what has been happening with her for the last year or so. It was exciting to hear her story. And, I got to prepare her for being a part of worship the next day. It wasn't the first time since she had been part of many youth services. But, it was different talking to her as an adult getting ready to be a part of the service.

Saturday afternoon, a group of my youth joined another church for a lock-in. I love partnering with other churches and connecting youth together! What was even more awesome was that the person in charge of the lock-in was a former youth! And I was just a chaperone! What a blessing watching her lead the lock-in and see how God has given her such wonderful gifts for ministry! It was great watching the 2 youth groups who had never met get closer throughout the event. I am looking forward to the groups continuing to connect as we find more events for them to participate in together. 

Sunday morning, the church voted to support the candidacy of the young adult I met with on Saturday! She is finishing up her senior year next year and then on to seminary after a year of working in a church. How exciting!

By Sunday afternoon, I was exhausted! But, it was an amazing weekend and I was overwhelmed with the blessings I was surrounded by! The conversations, the connections, and the events that I got to be a part of were definitely God at work!
So, where was God this weekend? He was working through the young adults I was fortunate to spend time with.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Walk

Today was our Blue Walk- a walk to prevent child abuse and to make people aware of child abuse and ways to prevent it. I don't think I've ever seen more people there to walk! It was so awesome to see so many people there who care about our children.
I also had some really great conversations throughout the evening. One family was interested in finding out more about the church. Another person I talked to is going to share about our events with foster families.
I recognized people from the community that are there year after year to support the walk. I love that we have become known as a church who cares about the children of the community!
So, where was God today? He was walking with us.
Blessings,
Jennifer 

Celebration

Tonight was a wonderful celebration! A Wonderful Wednesday celebration to be more exact! We started the Wednesday night activities last September and have enjoyed all of these months of fellowship and learning together. Tonight was the last night for the school year.
After dinner, the children sang songs, complete with motions, recited several memory verses, and shared about their favorite Bible stories. Of course, they were adorable! After that, the youth shared some memory work that they had done this year. Then, we celebrated with their awards for attendance and Bible work. They were so excited! It was awesome to see them feeling proud for what they had done.
The tables were filled with parents, grandparents, and church family. The blessings of having Wonderful Wednesday have been many! Children and youth have learned throughout the year. The youth have had a chance to dig deeper in the Bible and learn more about the Bible and scripture. The children have learned more Bible stories and have started learning memory verses consistently. The adults have had short term Bible studies and book discussions. Along with learning all of that, they all learned more about each other. Sitting together and eating together has brought people together. People from all of the services, all ages and walks of life connecting weekly has been a beautiful thing.
Another blessing has been having the groups of the church work together to make a meal for Wonderful Wednesday. There is something bonding about making a meal together. And, seeing all of the groups willing to be a part of this event has been really great. It also helps people who didn't normally attend see what was happening every Wednesday.
So, tonight was bittersweet as we enjoyed the celebration but will miss the time together this summer.
So, where was God today? He was in the children and youth who shared what they learned this year.
Blessings,
Jennifer 

Encouragers

It's been awhile. In fact when I signed in I noticed it has been 2 weeks. I've been fighting migraines and exhaustion. But, I'm hopeful the weather is going to be my friend again soon and stop triggering migraines.
In these last 2 weeks, lots of random things have happened. The youth shared about their mission trip, parents night out was another big success, I registered for our mission trip for next spring break, and I started talking to people about a mission trip to Mexico.
I also had a lot of other random things happened. I had several stressful days and days of frustration. Through those days, I have felt the blessings of encouragement from those around me. How wonderful that no matter what life brings, God is there through the people around us showing us His love! Not every day is perfect. Not everything we do is perfect. But, His love for us is perfect. And, sometimes I get reminders of that.
Today, I spent the day at the office planning summer activities and details. I can't wait for all the great things I get to do! After that, I had a meeting with someone and it went really well.
This evening, I was thinking about this weekends event. I get to chaperone a lock-in! What's so special about this lock-in? I just realized that the one in charge and all of the chaperones are former youth! How cool is that? As they have grown up, they have decided to continue their relationship with God and have decided to share that with youth! What a blessing!
So, where was God today? He was in the planning and in the meeting I had today. And, He was in the young adults who continue to work for Him.
Blessings,
Jennifer  

Plans

Today was my first day back in the office after the week long mission trip. I spent most of the day planning for summer. So many exciting things happening this summer! We start off the summer with Vacation Bible School and I can't wait! Mission trips, camp, and tween events! This summer is going to be crazy busy- but so many great things!
Nothing earth shattering happened...just catching up from being gone and looking ahead. But, it doesn't have to be earth shattering for God to be there.
So, where was God today? He was in the planning.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Travel

Friday and Saturday were spent driving. While the two vans traveled down the road, all the youth slept the days away! I guess after everything that happened throughout the week and the busy schedule, they had a lot of catching up to do!
When we arrived at our destination Friday night, we were greeted by a youth volunteer and several youth from the church. It was great to see a few friendly faces after a day of traveling.
It wasn't easy. 14 hour drives aren't fun. But, the group was great and never complained about the hours in the van. We arrived safely home Saturday afternoon.
I was really impressed with how quickly the vans were unpacked and things were put where they were supposed to go. I think everyone was excited to be home and with their families!
So, where was God today? He kept us safe and brought us safely home.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Mission week- Workday 4- Thursday

We spent Thursday dry walling for a family who had damage during the hurricane. The youth hadn't done drywall before, but were eager to learn. There were several guys there to help us and teach us how to do things. The homeowner worked with us throughout the day, too. During the afternoon, one of our volunteers asked how long we were going to stay. I responded that we would probably leave around 4 or 4:30. He showed me the time- it was 4:20. None of the group complained about the lateness of the day or how long we had been working. They were all trying to get as much done as possible for the family. The man was obviously touched by the group and their willingness to help.
Throughout the week, so many people thanked us for being there. It wasn't just people we worked for, but everyone.
There's always something special about the last night on a mission trip. Yes, the travel days were still to come, but the last night in our home for the week is always a great night. One of the traditions is that each night we have a time of questions. Typically, I ask where they saw God and what had impacted them or other questions along those lines. But, on the last night, I asked a few additional questions. I asked what surprised them, what they want to do differently after the experience, and what they were impacted by the most. It's in those moments that I realize the blessings that happened throughout the week, the ways God worked throughout the week in the hearts and minds of the group. It's in their answers that I realize that they truly get it- the reasons why we were there and the ways we can continue to make a difference...and the ways we need to share God's love even when we get home.
So, where was God today? He was in the group as they worked and in the realizations that happened throughout the week.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Patience

Wow am I tired! We all are! We've worked hard this week! And, in the middle of all of that, we've had so many opportunities for spiritual growth- daily Bible study, worship music time, special guest speakers, scripture reading, and prayer time. We've had a lot of fun and laughter- some of the things we say and do- especially when we're tired!
But, we've also had those other times- the times harsh words were said, the times things were not done when they should have been, or the times something was done that shouldn't have been. When a group of teens and adults is together for over a week, it's to be expected. And so, I have learned to prepare for it. Today, when the crabbiness hit, I somehow didn't quite feel prepared for it. So, luckily we were at a point when it was easy for me to take 20 minutes and sit in my room and have a conversation with God- a heart to heart about things and about what I should do. I also prayed for patience. Then it was time to go to our dinner and Bible study with some of the youth from the church here. So, off we went.
Somewhere between my heart to heart with God and our drive home, I knew what the plan was. So, we got back to our place and I told everyone to join me in the lounge with their Bible. I shared some things with them and then we read several scriptures, one being I Corinthians 13:4-7. I told them God loves them and I love them and when I say that this is what I mean. I talked a bit more and then told them after prayer time to leave in silence. But, I also encouraged them to meet and ask for forgiveness if there was someone they  had been crabby to today.
Several really amazing conversations happened because of that. I expect several more in the near future. It was also a way to show the group that in times of trouble, they can always look to prayer and scripture for guidance and comfort. Am I happy people were crabby today? Not really. But I am happy that I was able to have a moment to teach by example and share with the group how to handle things with a Christian perspective. And I reinforced how much I love each one of them.
So where was God today? He was listening, giving me guidance, and giving me patience.
Blessings,
Jennifer 

Mission Trip Workday 2

What an amazing day! Wow did this group work hard! We went to the Houston Food Bank this morning and spent several hours packing boxes of food for their disaster box program. A young woman was our guide and told us what we needed to do. She was very upbeat and really great at what she does there. At the end of our time there, she gathered us all to tell us how many boxes of food, how many meals that made, and a few other facts about what we had done. She talked about what the food bank does and about the different programs they have. Then, she shared her story with us. 7 years ago, she had been homeless and sought help from the food bank. She said it was what kept her going. She promised herself that when she got back on her feet she would get through nursing school and work at the food bank along the way so that she could help others the way she had been helped. She told us that she graduates this year. How amazing is that? The group was touched by her story and it was a blessing that she was able to share that with them. The impact she made to them was evident throughout the rest of the day.
If I asked any of the youth how many meals we packed, they could tell me the exact number. They were excited to know they were a part of helping that many people. Watching them work this morning was awesome! They were unstoppable! They were so focused and worked so well together and so quickly! I was thoroughly impressed!
After we finished there, we went to the church who is hosting us and running the mission organization. They needed some help with organizing some of the supplies they use for the mission weeks and asked us to help. They thought it would take us the afternoon to get it done. But, about 30- 40 minutes later, we were done and asking for another project. That happened 2 more times. The group continued to work hard and stay focused until the tasks were finished. In between them, they had a little fun and happened to find some costumes to try on and some other silly things. I may or may not have insisted someone take my picture inside the mouth of a giant hungry hungry hippo...
So, we worked hard and played hard today- a perfect mix!
After that, rather than being done for the day, we were asked to help in the afterschool program held at the place we are staying. They happened to be shorthanded today and our group was anxious to hang out with the kids yesterday, so it seemed like a great idea. When I told our group about it, they jumped at the chance to hang out with them. They helped with he tutoring first and then when that ended, they all played outside together.
Dinner tonight was awesome! We had special guests who brought dinner, one of the hostesses from the last time I was in Houston and her friend who had an amazing story to share with the group. Dinner was yummy! Her friend happens to be a chef so we were in for a treat! After dinner, he shared his story of being homeless and finding God through his time at the Salvation Army. He is now a pastor and has a ministry that works to meet people where they are since God met hi right where he was. He opened the discussion up for questions and at first it was pretty quiet. I asked a couple questions and another leader did too. Finally the youth were brave enough to ask the random questions they had been nervous to ask. It was a touching experience and was definitely something the group was meant to hear. They were impacted by his story and I know that hearing about his struggles and how they led him to God was something that helped many of them since they have struggles of their own and are looking for God.
During our night discussion, I asked about the day and it was evident that the group loved their experiences today. I think it was unanimous that they got more out of today than yesterday...not that there was anything wrong with yesterday, but they loved the interactions with people they had today and they love helping people in poverty situations. So, God's plan was definitely so much better than my plan!
So, where was God today? He was in the planning, the moments, and the experiences that the group had. And, I think he was overjoyed at the hands and feet He saw used for Him today.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Mission Trip- Workday 1

The group worked hard today! We went to a house that was damaged by the hurricane. The lady we did work for was in her 70's and has owned the house since 1975. She isn't able to live there since it has to be totally redone- floors, walls, cabinets- everything was ruined! She's sleeping on her daughters couch right now. So, we felt really good about doing whatever we could to help her get back into her house. For us, that meant sanding and mudding. It's not easy work. It takes some skill and practice to get it right. But, this group succeeded with flying colors! It was awesome to see them work together and get the job done!
By the end of the day, they were tired! So was I! But, I think they all felt good about what they had accomplished.
One of the questions I got most often was "Are we watching that video again tonight?" If I had said no, I think they would have revolted! That video is their Bible study this week! I have never had a group more excited about their Bible study! I knew when it came to me that it wasn't my plan but God's- that He was putting the plan in my head to use this week. And of course, He was right on track with His plan! We had such a great discussion again and I love how they are relating to it.
It's an amazing feeling to feel God working so closely and it seems when I am planning and leading a mission trip that it always happens. I plan like crazy! I love my spreadsheets! And I have many of them- list of participants, schedule, menu, Bible study, contacts for activities, etc. You name it, I have a plan and a spreadsheet for it! But, even as I am creating it, I know it will probably change as God steps in to create the masterpiece that the week becomes with His finishing touches! And while that may cause a moment of stress as I wonder what He's up to and when it will be time for me to find out, in my heart, I know He's in control.
(Ironically I'm actually writing this Tuesday morning and no sooner did I write that last sentence did I get a text with God's answer to my question. No- it wasn't God texting me, but now I know what His plan is!)
So, where was God today? He was creating His masterpiece for the day and the week! And, it's all His timing- not mine!
Blessings,
Jennifer

Mission Trip Day 3

We arrived safely to our destination this afternoon! We were so excited to get to Houston!
But, we had a pretty awesome morning before we even left. Easter is always a little different when it happens to fall during our mission week. But, I enjoy experiencing Easter with other churches and seeing how they celebrate and worship! This morning, we were invited to help decorate a cross with flowers that was used during their worship service. The group didn't seem to mind getting up around 5:30 AM so that they could help. It was beautiful once it was all finished! We helped for awhile and then went to the sunrise youth service. Their youth space is really awesome! They had a really great service and it was fun to see so many youth worshiping together.
Our ride was pretty uneventful. Although less than 4 hours, it seemed like forever since I was so anxious to get to Houston. 3 days of driving adds up! But, once we got here it was great! The weather couldn't be better! The space works out really well for our group and everyone settled in quickly.
After the vans were unloaded, we went to our friends to have dinner and swim in their pool. They lived in LaPorte and were a part of the church before they moved to Houston. It was great to see them and their generosity was overwhelming! So much good food! I wasn't expecting an Easter dinner, but ham, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and more! Yummy! The group loved being outside and had fun swimming in the pool, laughing, talking, and connecting. I love how much this group seems to be connecting so quickly! When it was time to go, the group protested that they just wanted to stay there all week and enjoy their backyard and pool! But, off we went.
Back at our home away from home for the week, we settled in to the lounge area for our Bible study time. I have been really excited for our Bible study to start and so even though I wasn't going to start until tomorrow, I decided to start tonight. What a great discussion we had! Everyone participated, they loved the videos we are watching, and really put a lot of thought into their answers! Part of the study is them choosing a scripture from a list of about 15 verses to go with each video. They are all very different scriptures and it was so interesting to see that hardly anyone picked the same verse. I love that they are all getting something out of it and it is what they personally need- not something I'm telling them to think or feel. They are digging pretty deep this week and that's so exciting! It's awesome how they are taking on leadership and mentoring roles and following leaders and learning from each other. It's a really great mix of young and new and also older more seasoned mission trippers. So, it helps that they lead and learn from each other. And, giving the older ones opportunities to grow in their leadership is definitely rewarding for them- and for me to watch!
My chaperones are awesome, too! Once again, new and young and more seasoned volunteers is great, too! Having someone who has been around and knows the ropes is helpful, but someone new with new ideas and perspectives is always fun for me! And, I always love when my former youth decide to use their gifts to lead current youth and help give them the awesome experiences that they had! So, it's exciting to have a new young adult chaperone on her first trip as an adult! What a blessing!
So far, our trip has been awesome and we haven't even begun our work! I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!
So, where was God today? He got us here safely, He was in the love and hospitality of those around us, and He was in our Bible study tonight as we gathered to learn more about Him.
Blessings,
Jennifer