Falling, but getting back up

2007-01-26T11:50:00.000-08:00

Michael's Birthday

2007-01-26T10:43:00.000-08:00

Its my Birthday...enjoy this clip from my favorite show.

2006-11-21T10:33:00.000-08:00

LEts remember to pray for the families who lost their daughters in this bus crash in huntsville, Alabama. If you havent heard about this story here the link: http://www.cnn.com/2006/US/11/21/bus.crash/index.html

2006-08-10T12:44:00.000-07:00

Well, sadly, the summer is over for me. It can be a good thing though, just for the fact that I dont have to work at Dorothy Lane Market anymore and I get to go back to college. These past three months have been a real growing experience for me. IT's been a journey with ups and downs, but most of all I learned alot about myself. Thats kind of what I was going for this whole summer. God has definitely showed me alot in my life, the good and the bad. I thank Him for that and I am so excited to know that every day He pursues me.
I have had alot of fun hanging out with friends and family. It's great to know that i'm one year closer to graduating college, I really never thought i'd say that. I really enjoy Lee University. There are so many different kinds of people there and so many things that have opened my eyes more and more. Before You know it, ill be saying "im ready to come home"...I guess thats the cycle that God made it to be. I'm hoping to learn more about my beautiful girlfriend, Kristen, as we both venture back to Lee as well as finding out more about myself.
I'm excited to see what kind of plans God has for our lives as we all go back to school. It's really cool to see all my friends who are seeking God and how they change every year more differently. I'm really anticipating to see what this year holds for me and all the others close to me. Im excited. Ill try to post more in the future. (Which probably wont be too soon.. :)

2006-07-15T06:47:00.000-07:00

Camp was amazing! IT always is. To be able to see hundreds of teenagers passionately worshipping Jesus changes you. God starts to change you. When we first got there we thought we were going to change these Jr. Highers lives, but God had something else in store. HE changed their lives, yes, but he also changed my life. I remember when I used to be a camper there and how much I wanted to stay. Every night the worship was so full of excitement and God was right there with us just soaking it all in. I was amazed at these kids and their understanding. I saw kids being baptized in the Spirit, I saw kids shaking on the ground, I saw a God who wrecked our lives for the better.
I have been changed so much every year I go to Heartland. Since it has changed me so much I want to give something back to it for the rest of my life. God willing, I will be there every year and watch God rock these teenagers lives. I wouldnt give it up for anything. I am so excited to know this is what I will be doing for the rest of my life. I want to be apart of turning generations around from loving the things of the world to passionately loving God. It's awesome when you get home from camp to have vision of what God's going to do in all of our lives. My biggest prayer is for that vision to stick with us not just for a week at camp but for the rest of our lives. God is so good to us and He gave me a glimpse of what He wants for the next generation.

2006-07-08T19:08:00.000-07:00

This weekend has so far been very hectic. Ive been trying to pack for my upcoming camping trip. Im going to be a junior high camp counselor at the church camp I always went to when I was younger. Ive worked almost five days in a row and I havent done that in a while. IT seems like when I need the hours I cant get them but when I dont need them they come flowing in. I guess thats just how the universe unfolds.

I went to Apex Community Church tonight as always and loved it. I dont mean to be cliche or anything, but God really seems to speak through Rob Turner (the minister) in a powerful way. IT's so exciting to go there every saturday night and see him present the Message in an interesting and powerful way. I always seem to feel like im in one huge family when i'm there. Thats the way it's really supposed to be. Anyway, I kind of wish I could go to my house church tomorrow. Ive missed it twice now. I'm leaving tomorrow around 1 ish to go to the camp site. IT's a huge place. The camp usually had around 500 to 700 campers. They have all kinds of activities they do for the kids each day and they always have a pretty good speaker for the week. IM going to miss my girlfreind a bunch while im gone...( I know....its only five days, but thats how I am).
I feel really bad for my parents. This summer they have been trying to work so hard on this new house we have and nothing seems to be getting done. They are the most hardworking paretns i've ever seen and I love them so much. Especially today they had a rough day. They were at the hospital with my Grandma because she had shoulder replacement surgery, well they were there for 3 hours. Then they came home to a halfway flooded basement which was supposedly fixed by "professional" sump pump workers. Keep them in your prayers.
So ill be driving to 35 miles north of Columbus tomorrow. Im not sure what the city name is, but all I know is that it takes 2 -3 hours to get there and im not too excited about that. I know it will be worth it though. To be able to make an impact on these kids lives is a great honor for me and I thank God for the opportunity. I miss my brother...hes still in Mexico. I think my Mom is worried because he hasnt called in a couple of days. I trust God to keep him safe and plus hes with a very nice host family.
Ill miss everyone while im gone, but pray that I can make my mark on these young teens lives throughout this week and help pray that this experience will change me also. I hope everyone has a great week:)

2006-06-11T20:49:00.000-07:00

MY heart burns for you Lord....but when will I stop being so foolish and repent? The depths of my heart groan for something more than mediocrity in my walk with you. I am sorry Jesus, truly sorry for being foolish. I long to worship you in the fullness of my heart. I yearn to hear your voice speak to my soul. Your whispers refresh my mind and my body. How long will I have to wait until I hear them again. My love for you will never grow weary but will stay strong because of your unfailing love for me and because of the ssacrifice you have made.

This is how I feel right now...I want to grow so much. God has said its up to me to make the decision. I have to go to the next level with Christ. He will take me there.
I went to house church tonight and it was fun as usual. Anthony went with me and it seemed like he liked it which was cool. I miss Kristen already. I am happy though because I know theyre having fun. She brightens every day of my life when I see her face. Ever since I met her, my joy has grown more and more everyday. This week I'm off a couple days so it will be nice. Im already wanting to go back to school. I have just grown to love it there. I bet people are wondering why i;m saying that because the first semester I hated it. It's true when people say that you really have to get involved. You wont have fun unless you do. I like being with my family though, its nice that were all together. We are rarely ever all home at the same time though, we all have different things going on in our lives, but all is well and I am blessed.

1 Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint;lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe. I long to dwell in your tent forever and take refuge in the shelter of your wings. Selah Psalm 61:1-4

2006-05-19T11:17:00.000-07:00

I have been pretty busy lately. Getting home from college was an adjustment in itself, but the new house is awesome and I love it. Its too far away for me from my job and other things, but I think it's well worth it for my parents. They love it there too.
I went to third thursday yesterday with Kristen and we went to these apartments by the mall. It just warmed my heart when I heard the lady grumble a sentence to us with her smoky voice. She said: You guys really dont understand what these groceries mean to me. I thought to myself that this was such a small thing for me...jump into the car, go to Apex, and gather groceries for a family. Its really not taking much of me to do this one thursday a month. But what would happen if it was inconvenient for me. If I had previous plans? Would I still serve the families groceries? I hope I can say yes when the time comes. Thats one thing that is very hard for me. To get out of MY plans to serve someone else. I think that when it's inconvenient for us, and it takes more of a self sacrifice, that puts a smile on Gods face, because we put someone else before ourself.
God is gracious yet again in my life in which I am very thankful for. HE has also provided me with an awesome job at Dorothy Lane Market, which is so much fun ( man, I never thought id be saying that). I am enjoying the summer one day at a time and I absolutely love getting up in the morning early and looking out my bedroom window and gazing at the glorious sunrise, that is, whenever it is sunny here in Ohio.
Its a beautiful Friday and im not going to waste any more of it on the computer. Let's all enjoy it.Im really excited to also go to Apex church this weekend and hear Jason Wing talk about the Da Vinci code. There has been alot of controversy about it and im interested in what he has to say. Honestly, no matter what people say about it, whether you should see it or not, I am pretty close minded about it and dont like what the movie is about.

2006-04-26T19:32:00.000-07:00

One thing that I have never understood is God's Grace and why He gives it to me. I have sinned against Him so much and dont deserve anything from Him. Lately I have been doing things that I know are so petty and yet pushing me far away from Christ. I dont want to be one to take God's grace for granted, but I feel like I already have.
I want to serve God and start my ministering. Someone once told me this: Are you on your way to ministering, or are you ministering on your way? I want to bring people to Christ, I want to tell others of what Jesus has done for us. Everytime I go back to the sin, I feel like I have no place in being a servant of Christ.
Thats whats going on in my life right now and im trying t get through it, and it's hard, but I feel like God is really helping me, despite my filth. I come home for good on Tuesday. Im pretty excited, but there is so much preparation and stuff to do before I go. I feel like there isnt enough time..and there never is:/ But Im going home to a new house and back to my family and freinds. Im excited for that and also for my new job.
And that's not all: We throw open our doors to God and discover at the same moment that he has already thrown open his door to us. We find ourselves standing where we always hoped we might stand--out in the wide open spaces of God's grace and glory, standing tall and shouting our praise.
Romans 5:2

2006-04-10T07:39:00.000-07:00

I had a really fun weekend with the Southards. They came down for Lee day. It's just a weekend where Lee tries to get high school students to come to school there. Also they try to impress the families with our food(and its never this good), but whenever they have an event like this, the food is always extra good:) It was nice seeing people from back home. We went to Chattanooga to satisfy Kristen's shopping urge:) Anyway, as always im ready to head home for the summer and im really looking forward to my new job at Voss Cadillac, thanks to KERSTANSKI!!
Last night we had our usual Sunday night chapel in which our president spoke last night. He is an awesome speaker and knows how to make the students laugh. Everyone really respects him and has a kind of reverence for him. Before he started his message we always have a time of worship which I really love, but last night I just wasnt feeling it. I guess it was good for me because God whispered to my Spirit reminding me that it wasn't for me anyway. No matter what our human emotions or feelings do to us, I have to remember that the reason why we worship is because Jesus is worthy. Thats all I have to know. It's not for us to feel gratified or say, man I really enjoyed worship today! Thats great, but let's just hope that God enjoyed the worship; the only one who is more than deserving and loves to hear us praise Him.

Romans 6:18 (New International Version)

11In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus
18You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.

2006-03-28T10:38:00.000-08:00

Well, I just got done eating lunch in the cafeteria and thought i'd write a little something about my thoughts. Everything is same old same old. Same stuff, different day. Well, I cant say that everything is the same, because school is getting alot harder. The semester is coming around to the time where it gets tough and exams are coming up.
I applied to become a chaplain of a dorm for next semester. I think I have a pretty good chance. I really want to be one, hopefully of a nice dorm of something:) My roommate for next semester is a friend from kettering. He was in the army for two years, serving in Iraq. Hes a great guy. Kristen and I are doing really great, shes still the best friend I could ever ask for:) Were both trying not to fail any classes so we can be sophomores next year. Lee is great and everything, but I just want to head home. It just comes to point where your sick of alot of people, and your ready for Springboro again. (I never though I'd say that...) But I have a great job working at Voss Cadillac this summer, thanks to my best bud arron kerstanski! It should be fun. Well, i'm ready to ride the rest of this semester out and well see how everything goes. Theres my thoughts...enjoy.

2006-03-17T20:47:00.000-08:00

15Don't love the world's ways. Don't love the world's goods. Love of the world squeezes out love for the Father. 16Practically everything that goes on in the world--wanting your own way, wanting everything for yourself, wanting to appear important--has nothing to do with the Father. It just isolates you from him. 17The world and all its wanting, wanting, wanting is on the way out--but whoever does what God wants is set for eternity.
I John 2:15-17
Finally, I confessed all my sins to you
and stopped trying to hide them.
I said to myself, "I will confess my rebellion to the LORD."
And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone.
For you are my hiding place;
you protect me from trouble.
You surround me with songs of victory.
-Psalm 32

2006-02-24T14:18:00.000-08:00

It's been a while...Ive been doing great though. Its already almost spring break. Wow, everything has gone really fast and I have ben pretty busy. I was healed and set free from a sin that I was dealing with at our Convocation. For anyone who doesnt know, its kind of like a revival for four nights. I am not telling you guys about this for my own glory, but to give all the glory where it's due, to God, for setting me free. After I was set free, my life has been changing drastically. My relationships are changing for the good, my behavior(besides the occasional immaturity), my spiritual life(most important), and other things. For the first time, I feel that God is proud of me. I actually did something about it, rather than sit back and let it consume my life. I was tired of living that way, but praise God for how He works.
Lately, me and Kristen have been going on alot of double dates, it's so much fun to do. There is a couple from Kettering that i knew before I came and they are awesome. Tonight is date night again. Im not quite sure what were going to do except for eating in the dining hall so far. Tomorow I am going to go to do a "bread ministry". Theres alot of poorer places in Cleveland, TN, and were going to knock on doors and give them bread, and maybe even pray with them.
Im also applying to be a resident chaplain for one of the guy dorms, which is exciting. I just ask for prayer, and I will pray too that it's what God wants, and if not, thats cool too. Well, I come home in a week. Were in the process of selling our home again. My parents found a house that they will stay in for the rest of their life. Im happy for them, they dont have to walk up and down the stairs anymore. Im excited. I love God :)

Striving to be Holy

2006-01-23T10:29:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday I went to Pioneers For Christ. It's kind of like a "Youth Group" from back home. I love going and Thursday night I heard the President of PFC give a message from God. It was about striving to be Holy.
" So roll up your sleeves, put yor mind in gear, be totally ready to receive the gift that's coming when Jesus arrives. Don't lazily slip back into those old grooves of evil, doing just what you feel like doing. You didn't know any better then, you do now. As obedient children, let yourselves be pulled into a way of life shaped by God's life, a life energetic and blazing with Holiness. God said, 'I am holy; so you be holy'. You call out to God for help and He helps, He is a good Father that way. But don't forget that He's also a responsible Father, and He wont let you get by with sloppy living". - 1 Peter 1:13-17 MSG

I really enjoyed the message and thought it was something that needed to be said.I thought more people should know so I'll post what I heard to the best of my ability.
Christianity costs us something! We can't be converted and have our lives not reflect our conversion. I am by no way condemning anybody in this entry. But when are we going to become Christians who start standing up to Holy to God's standards. The Old Testament isn't some old book for traditional church folk who still wear down-to-the-knee skirts and sing out of a hymnal. The laws in that book are still relevant to Christians today and I think we should follow them to the best of our ability. Jesus said ," I have not come to destroy the Law, but to fulfill it". To be able to truly see God we need to be holy. We can't say that we have a changed life and we are so glad we have Jesus in our lives then go out drinkingor having premarital sex, it just doesn't make sense to me. If we are truly converted and have entered a relationship with God our lives should reflect that. God doesn't want people who have "secured their spot" in heaven. That's not what accepting Jesus is about.
He asked us a question: are we converts or disciples? We are all called to be disciples of Christ. If we go see a movie that has sex or drugs or tons of violence in it, when are we going to start walking out! When are we going to stand up and stop the dirty jokes, or walk away when the gossip train hits your table?
" For the eye is a lamp unto the body; so then if your eye is clear then your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad then your body will be full of darkness. If then the light that is in you darkness, then how great that darkness will be"!
Matthew 6:21-23
What are we putting into our minds? "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body".
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
As Christians we cannot serve two masters. We need to be holy live an effective Christian life. I know that this may sound a little condemning but it's not, it's the reality that I think God wants us to realize. When another fellow Christian screws up don't just sugar coat it and say it's ok you can just ask for forgiveness. We need to encoutage them to immediately get right with God. Think about how hard the people in the Old Testament had tried to live holy. They didn't even have a Jesus who would forgive them. We are so fortunate to have had Jesus die for our sins, but in doing that He didn't want us to take that Grace for granted. God isn't a machine who will forgive you whenever you put in a prayer of forgiveness. There has to be some point of repentance and desire to change. That desire is put in you when you accept Christ as your savior.
Throughout all of this there was much more but that's basically what was in the message and I really beleive that God is trying to wake us up to say that were still called to live a Holy life!
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual^[a] act of worship. 2Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
-Romans 12:1-2

How much of a distinction is there between you and the world?

2006-01-05T11:07:00.000-08:00

Im just sitting at home doing nothing for the second day... I got my wisdom teeth out yesterday and rest and relaxation camer at me like I havent had in a while. Yeah, i'm kind of bored but I kind of like the feeling of no school, no work, and no stress. I havent had one of these days in a while. My Christmas break went incredibly well, hanging out with some friends I hadn't seen in a while and spending time with family i've missed. Christmas break by far, is the best one out of the whole year. I'll be looking forward to the coming months when we all come home for a four month summer break.
I went to third place on Tuesday night and we had a chance to talk more about God's kingdom and what it meant to us. Surprisingly I actually learned alot about what the kingdom really meant. I really enjoy that bible study, it seems to keep me afloat socially and spiritually during these much needed breaks from school. So were going back on Monday....I have some mixed feelings about it. I don't really feel like driving 6 more hours back to studying and lousy dorm life. Although a plus is thast I get to work at Jazzman's for my first day of work on Wednesday, which is also the first day of school for us. We figured wed go back early Monday morning to beat the rush of students and to be able to grab our books for next smester. I thought that was a really good idea when Kristen mentioned it to me. I just hate rushing back to school to find myself getting unpacked and getting ready for my first class the next morning in the same night. My parents are so great they have been taking care of me from alot of my medical problems this past week. I also had to go to the emergency room on Monday night for a horrible infection from my cartilage pearcing. I had gotten it pierced in early July so they doctors though it was kind of wierd. What was scary was that my ear had swelled twice or three times the size of my normal ear in a matter of 3-4 hours. We got to the E.R. at about 10:15 and we sat there getting an IV for antibiotics for about an hour then the E.R. nurse started to talk about his TIVO and how we should get it to record our favorite T.V. shows. It was a different night.
God had blessed me with such a great family and friends. I dont know where I would find myself if I didn't have them. I had an awesome break and it also gave me time to think about my major which I am as of the end of this spring smester going to change. I wanted to do Youth Ministry but then I started talking to Mike at 3rd plalce and realized some things. I think i'm going to do Bible and Theology rather than just Youth Ministry. I can do so much more with my degree if I did Bible & Theology. I would probably be restricted to just Youth Ministry with the degree I was going to get. I feel like I could really be alot more of a benefit to God's kingdom if I changed to that. I could do Pastoral ministry, Youth, Children's and I was even thinking that I was really interested in college ministry or counseling of some sort. So that's the scoop on school for now and hopefully I can do what God wants me to do with changing my route a little. I think that as long as were serving God in some way that we are in His will. Not necessarily being a "minister", or working at a church defines that were doing what God wants us to do. There are so many things we can all do to benefit God's kingdom to bring more people to know Christ. God works with us in so many ways. God is great. Thats all I have for now and I can't wait for summer to come. Just pray for all of us college students and any student really to be able to get through it until summer. People need a lot of prayer being away from their family and friends. I hope this semester goes well...im hoping at least better than last semester :)

2005-12-18T15:05:00.000-08:00

Today was fun. I went to Southwest Church this morning with Kristen and I saw the great works of Brian Nix and the children's play thingy...(no comment...:)). After church we went to Kristen's Grandparents. They are a hoot. But man did they have some amazing food. I haven't been that stuffed in a while. It's nice to open some Christmas gifts, but it just makes me want to open more and more. I find myself being so selfish sometimes. It's funny, because most of the time all Lee University talks about is serving others. I'll learn soon enough. Ever since i've been back I realize how much of an amazing family I have. I love my parents so much. I just want to thank God most of all because He's the one who's given me this blessed life.

Seriously though, God has been soooo good to my family. Today which is Sunday, made me realize how fast this break is going. They go way to quick every single time. I don't know what I feel right now. It's kind of wierd. I just had such a good day today and I just dread the time when it gets closer to going back to school. I also have to get my wisdom teeth out after New Years...that'll be fun. It's just good to hang out with friends and chill with the family.

2005-12-03T20:22:00.000-08:00

Saturdays at Lee are incredibly boring and lonely. I found that out when I first got here and today was one of those. Everyone that lives close to school goes home and the campus is deserted. I still have my best friend Kristen to hang out with:) We had a little date tonight. The kind of date that you go on becasue the guy has run out of money. I did have money...but someone was nice to me and they stole it...I was in the student center yesterday going to the bathroom. I accidentally left my wallet in there, then I realized I left it and when I came back my wallet was there but not the $41 that I was saving for gas and other things for the next week and a half. I was so mad. It was just another bad thing that added on to a bad day. Some people here I just dont get them. It really gets to me sometimes. I just want to go home...I'm dreading exams and I just want to get them over with and go home.
I really don't have much to complain about, but it was just a bad day. Anyway, tonight me and Kristen went to Jazzman's to get some coffee then we just sat down and talked. That one of my favorite things to do...especially with my girlfriend. You just get to sit and unwind all of the things that you were thinking about for the past couple days. Church tomorrow morning, studying for exams, then I get to go home....that's what i'm looking forward to(just the going home part).

2005-12-01T10:10:00.000-08:00

So me and Kristen are sitting here at Jazzman's (my future job for next semester!). Our health class got out a little early so we ate a semi-good lunch, checked our mail, now here we are. I made out my Christmas list out today. I was talking with my Mom about Christmas this year and we both agreed on something.
We were saying how we werent going to buy things this year just to buy them. My parents are both sick of being materialistic. I thought about it for a while and thought about how selfish and greedy I used to be and somewhat still am. But not with presents, but with time, money, and other things. This wasn't a huge epiphany or anything, it was just something to think about.
But this year I would like certain things :). I asked for an iHome. You dock your iPod on top of it. And while it's charging, you can fall asleep or wake up to your favorite music. Then I wanted a new Bible. I wanted The Message//Remix leatherbound Bible. It seemed like a well worthwhile buy. I love that translation even though it's a paraphrase. I've learned so much already with the New Testament Remix that Darrel gave me. Then after the expensive stuff, I just asked for some clothes.....the usual. I honestly have what I need. I really don't need anything else. I think that it's true that as you get older, you start to realize how meaningless all of this is. Especially when you think spiritually. Ecclesiastes is a great book to read. Solomon talks about how God knows what we need and everything materialistic on this earth is so meaningless. It will all be left behind.
I have been hungering for God alot lately....sometimes finding myself stumbling more than i'm gaining. But on the way, i'm learning so much. God has an awesome way of knowing everyones weaknesses and downfalls. But in our weakness He is our strength. Keep that in the back of your mind. In the areas that were weak, Jesus is strong.

2005-11-24T07:25:00.000-08:00

Ahhhh.....Thanksgiving day. Good times, that's all I have to say. I really enjoy being home. I've been learning so much at Lee and it's nice to be able to show everyone at home what God has done in my life. I love to see if people can see a chnage in me. That's the best part. God has been doing some great things in my life. I mean, I still have som shortcomings and I always will, but it's not the same.
Im glad God has been changing Kristen and Dylans life too. I just feel like a whole new Christian. Last night, I was at Penn Station with my parents. It was a good time. I love spending time with them. I was about to leave to go to Ron and Aisa's to see their new baby. I saw some people who I hadn't seen in a while and they werent exactly people I was still freinds with. Just people who give me bad memories. I jus wanted to cry out to God! Thanking Him for where He's brought me. I am so very lucky and blessed to be where I am.
I can't wait to be a Youth Minister. Because I want to tell every single person who comes thorugh that certain church of what God can do for their life. I know there is nothing that I could EVER do to repay God for all the things He's done for me. But I will fully devote my life for winning more souls for Christ. It's the least I could do for Jesus. I have been blessed to have alot of growing experiences over the past couple months... and God has allowed me to see the things that He doesn't want in my life. And He's given me a choice to be able to get rid of them so I can fully experience what God has for me.
*A new power is in operation. The Spirit of Life in Christ, like a strong wind, has magnificently cleared the air, freeing you from a fated lifetime of brutal tyranny at the hands of sin and death*.

The Message//Remix -Romans 8:2

Mississippi

2005-11-15T14:04:00.000-08:00

I couldn't believe the things I saw last weekend. I just honestly can't describe it in words. The news, media, t.v, magazine...nothing, could give justice to what we saw unless your really there to experience it for yourself. My weekend long story is way to long to write on my blog, so I can tell it when I get hom next week, and I think me and Kristen might be doing something for Southwest next Sunday. But Ill tell you a little about what we did. The group that went down there worked together so well. We were just all a team in whatever task we were assigned. God did an amazing work with us this weekend. We met up with the senior pastor of a Church of God church right in Biloxi, Miss. He had lost his whole congregation due to the effects of hurricane Katrina. They aren't dead or anything they were just spread out all ovr the U.S. because their homes are unlivable anymore.
This was a real pastor. He turned his church into a food center. He drives his truck and trailer around every day and answers phone calls to whoever needs help. He feels that God will lead him to a certain job and it will either end up with them accepting Jesus or something else. But he was a truly annointed man. We went and split the groups up. My group went and helped a black couple that were so grateful for what we had done. God truly led us to him. He was so overwhelmed, that at the end after we got finished singing songs and praying he just started to cry. Which in turn made others cry. It was a beautiful moment. God had led us to this family and it worked out. I was so thankful to have that experience. This version was the short one, but come and talk to me 0r Kristen or even Dylan who went to New Orleans, and talk to us about it, it was life-changing. Ill post some pictures up later.

My words exactly...

2005-11-09T17:05:00.000-08:00

Billy Graham's daughter was interviewed on the Early Show and Jane Clayson asked her "How could God let something like this happen?" (regarding the attacks on Sept. 11).
Anne Graham gave an extremely profound and insightful response. She said, "I believe God is deeply saddened by this, just as we are, but for years we've been telling God to get out of our schools, to get out of our government and to get out of our lives.

And being the gentleman He is, I believe He has calmly backed out. How can we expect God to give us His blessing and His protection if we demand He leave us alone?"

In light of recent events...terrorists attack, school shootings, etc. I think it started when Madeleine Murray O'Hare (she was murdered, her body found recently) complained she didn't want prayer in our schools, and we said OK.

Then someone said you better not read the Bible in school . the Bible says thou shalt not kill, thou shalt not steal, and love your neighbor as yourself. And we said OK.

Then Dr. Benjamin Spock said we shouldn't spank our children when they misbehave because their little personalities would be warped and we might damage their self-esteem (Dr. Spock's son committed suicide). We said an expert should know what he's talking about. And we said OK.

Now we're asking ourselves why our children have no conscience, why they don't know right from wrong, and why it doesn't bother them to kill strangers, their classmates, and themselves.

Probably, if we think about it long and hard enough, we can figure it out. I think it has a great deal to do with "WE REAP WHAT WE SOW."

Funny how simple it is for people to trash God and then wonder why the world's going to hell. Funny how we believe what the newspapers say, but question what the Bible says.

Funny how you can send 'jokes' through e-mail and they spread like wildfire but when you start sending messages regarding the Lord, people think twice about sharing.

Funny how lewd, crude, vulgar and obscene articles pass freely through cyberspace, but public discussion of God is suppressed in the school and workplace.

This is exactly what people didnt want to hear, but all of is is factual and true. This was a wise answer.

Broken

2005-11-05T11:51:00.000-08:00

Broken

Alone again again alone
Patiently waiting by the phone
Hoping that you will call me home
The pain inside my love denied
Hopes and dreams swallowed by pride
Everything I need it lies in you
‘Cause I’m broken I know I need you now‘
Cause deep inside I'm broken
You see the way I liveI know I know your heart is broken
When I turn away
I need to be broken
Take the pain away
I question why you chose to die
When you knew your truth I would deny
You look at me
The tears begin to fall
And all in all faith is blind
But I fail time after time
Daily in my sin I take your life
All the hate deep inside
Slowly covering my eyes
All these things I hide
Away from you again
All this fear holding me
My heart is cold and I believe
Nothing’s gonna changeUntil I'm broken
12 Stones

This song is one of my favorite songs. I just stared at the lyrics this morning. I really dont think about them too much until I see them and I know what they mean. These lyrics describe what i'm going through right now. I want to be used by God so badly, but I know before He can use me, I have to be broken. When God makes you broken, sometimes you'll feel like He's not with you, or you'll feel depressed or lonely, like why is this all happening to me? I've been through that many of times.
If you ask God to use you, He wants to make sure that your strong enough to be a warrior for Him. Im sick of all the little petty sins that I commit. Im tired of hurting God left and right because of my flesh. I decided that it's time that I start to be more mature in my faith. Im sick of being a person who does the same sins over and over again and simply says, father forgive me, every single time. God calls us as Christians, to repent of our sins. I finally want to let go of the things that are keeping me from experiencing the awesome things of God.Just like when you make a sword, it has to be put into the fire, and it has to be beaten with a hammer to straighten it out. When it's ready, it will be strong enough to use in battle. Thats what God does with us.

2005-10-27T20:30:00.000-07:00

Today was great..It was just one of those days where everything was somewhat calm here on this campus and in my life. God is good. God has been doing major things not only in my life, but in others lives around here. Tonight me and Kristen went to Pioneers For Christ, which is like a "campus church" type thing. It reminds me of a youth group meeting on Wednesday nights. But we go to it every Thursday and we love it. Tonight we had the pastor from The Vineyard church in Cincinnatti come speak for us. He made me think about alot of different things. The thing that was so awesome for me to realize was about trust. He told a story of how a man traveled all the way to Calcutta, India to find Mother Teresa. Turns out that what he wanted was for her to just simply pray for him. He finally found her and she asked what he was there for. He said, I want to have clarity so bad in my life. You seem to have it all together and you seem to know the purpose and direction of your life, and thats what I want. She replied with a "no i'm not going to pray for that". He was astonished and couldnt figure out why and then she said, "i've never had clarity in my life, i've lived my whole life on trust". I had heard that story before but hearing it again made it even more clear to me. All we have to do is trust. Trust in God. He's the God of this universe, why wouldn't you trust Him? i'm working on that. I'm just trying to get closer and closer to Jesus and it's a crazy thing. Satan will try to attack you so much when he sees you getting close to our Heavenly Father. God is good and He will always come through.
Anyway, me and Kristen went to the softball game tonight. Theres a club that's trying to break a record of the longest softball game for 101 hours straight. They started on Wednesday at 6 and dont end until Sunday at 10 PM. I definitely dont have the patience or endurance for that, but it's just fun to watch the players start to hallucinate. We've heard some funny stories. I can;t wait to come home for Thanksgiving. It'll come before I know it and I hope so.

Going home...

2005-10-18T10:35:00.000-07:00

So tomorrow is the big and exciting day! We finally get to go back home. I really needed to. I was getting kind of sick of all these southern people down here. Its worse than you think.... Anyway were going to leave about 10:30 tomorrow and we should be home around maybe 4:30 or 5:30. I guess me, Kristen, and Dylan are going to make a "guest appearance" at the Garage to see how everything is going. I just cant wait to see my family. I cant beleive it already been two months. If I could survive two months here, then I guess I can survive the whole year. ( It's not really that bad). But sometimes people just need a taste of home, you know.
Just give us your prayers as we come home to be safe. I'm a pretty good driver so we should be alright:)
Also, I would just like to say that God is good. He's been "re-modeling" alot of things in my life. It's incredibly hard because sometimes I dont feel close to Him, but I know it's for the best. He's doing alot of great things here at Lee. Alot of us have been praying for Revival here, not only does Lee need it, but I think that this whole world needs revival too. When we pray, we need to start expecting much from our God. Were expecting too little. If we start to expect much great things can happen. I need to start believing in the impossible, because our God can do anything.

2005-10-10T13:42:00.000-07:00

Im so excited to come home next week. At first Fall break seemed like months away. But I cant wait to see everyone at home. My relationship with God has drastically changed since home. Its been very different for me these past couple months. God has definitely been teaching me to cling and rely on Him alot more. I still stumble with some things, but Jesus just picks me right back up. Its been so much better because not only has that changed, but my prayer life has been the best! I dont know how to explain it. Its like I actually feel like God's listening to me now. Its so true in the verse that says, " Draw close to God and He will draw near to you". I love everything about our relationship.
Lately i've been living the college dream, alot of food, alot of God, alot of friends, but no money... I had an interview with an on-campus job at "Academic Projects", they just do catering and all that jazz. But everything seemed to be going awesome and I was just stuck waiting to see if i got it. I waited about a week and I prayed hard for it. I wanted God to know how bad I wanted it. Today rolled around and I got an email saying someone else got the job. Surprisingly, I wasnt mad or sad or upset. I was just a little bummed out. I know for a fact God is teaching me. I know he is testing my trust and I think i'm doing ook on it:) God is awesome, thats all I got to say. Lee University has what they call Fall Convocation(like a revival or something), but i'm excited to go, its awesome. I cant wait to come home everyone! I love you all and I hope everything is going great.

2005-09-28T11:44:00.000-07:00

I wonder how everything is going at home...I was so happy to see my Dad two days ago. It was great. Me, my Dad, and my brother went out to my favorite restaurant(arron, if you read this...it was OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE!!!) But it was so good. Their food like acsended down from the heavens or something. It was so nice seeing someone from home, especially my Dad. Im doing a little bit better. College is definitely a rollercoaster. Its way overrated too. Everything that everyone was saying about college sounded so great. When me and Kristen got here, we both said the same thing, that it ws overrated. It is alot of freedom to handle, so thats kind of nice.

I miss everyone from home. I wish I was still at southwest, and the little town of Springboro, as annoying as the people get sometimes, I still wish I was there. But there is a good side to being here. Im learning so much about God here. I thought I was close to Him at home, wow, I was wrong. There is so many people down here that love God. ITs a great atmosphere. In previous posts I did mention that there is still some people that havent really grown up yet. But thats ok. I love to be immature at times. Once you get older and into college your eyes are immediately opened to what the world really is. YOu find things out about people you never would of thought. You even find things out about your family that you were shletered from. Throughout all of this God is in the midst. I swear to anyone Hes never ever left me and thats the greatest feeling I could ever have. It puts a joy in my heart that I cant explain. God is good man. I feel so strongly that Hes going to use me as a Youth Minister in a huge way. He uses EVERYONE, anyone can be a minister, but I feel His presence in my life. No matter if I slip up a couple of times, you have to get right back on track and not dwell on the sin you committed.He wants you to be forgiven and get on with growing and getting on with your life.

Lately Ive had alot of opportunities to be a servant. From going to a nursing home and playing Bingo, to helping load supplies for hurricane katrina and rita. But iv'e taken on a new one. Me and Kristen have decided to go down to Mississippi in November to help with hurricane relief. I feel so great that God is really using all of this school to reach others who are hurting. And im serious when I say that the news doesnt do a very good job of showing the destruction. Lee has had many speakers since the hurricanes and they say its unbelievable what happened. But im not telling everyone in order to receive recognition. I want everyone if they would like to, to pray for me and Kristen as we go. Also pray for the people who are already helping, also for the rest of the student body that will be going down throughout the year. My eyes have been opened since home. And suddenly my life isnt bad at all. I miss everyone and im coming home for fall break, which is going to be Wednesday, October 19th through sunday after church:)
Me, Kristen, and Dylan will be looking forward to it.

Decisions....decisions

2005-09-20T13:39:00.000-07:00

I'm just sitting in my dorm room. Different things are going through my mind at the moment. Especially how everything is the same, day after day after day.. Its so boring. I like Lee, but I dont. I dont necessarily know if God wants me to be here. But then again I dont know if I just feel that way because i'm bored. I dont know, im confused about the whole thing. I was thinking about going to Indiana Weslyan University. Its a great school. My sister goes there and se absolutley loves it. Its a great campus and its $23,000 to go there. BUT, I could go for $10,000 because of the help we get. We really dont get much help at Lee. I pay what everyone else pays. I keep talking to my parents about the whole thing. They say to wait for the year and see how everything works out-which im going to do. I dont know where God wants me. I figure if I stay here, God wanted me to. But if I end up at IWU by a twist of events, then thats what God wanted.
Its really hard to know where He wants you to go to next. Thats life- God takes you to the places He feels you do your best. He wants you in the place where you can grow and learn and to witness to the people who really need it. I dont know what's gonna happen next. I trust God, ill tell you that much. In Psalms, it says that if the Lord delights in a man's way, He will make his steps firm so he wont stumble. That gives me some encouragement. I always have to try to remember that if I trust Him, then I have nothing to lose. He'll put me wherever He wants.
I get really torn down sometimes by some of the people here. I hate talking about this, because then I sound like im all perfect, which im not even close to. But anyway, theres just so many people here that talk like their not even remotely close to being a Christian. I know thats a strong statement to make, but I truly feel that way. There are some people that are great and could be good friends. But mostly, people want to go out clubbing, drinking, smoking or what not. I know the world isnt a great place, but I need to grow and go farther. I can't afford to be brought down by dumb decisions. I have alot of willpower, but I hate "warding" off people who all they want to do is, go find girls, go out and party or do things I absolutely hate. I know you all out there are saying, " youll find that anywhere". My high school wasnt as bad as this(it comes close though). I hope an have to know God will make everything work out, He always does. Maybe I just need to come home for a while and think. Then ill feel better. I need prayers people:) I love and miss you all!

2005-09-12T13:29:00.000-07:00

College is getting alot better. The first couple weeks it was hard because of adjustment problems(ive never been away from home for more than a week). But God has been with me and He comforted me. I feel great now. I have tons of freinds, me and Kristen have met and hung out with different groups of people and its just alot of fun. Dont get me wrong I still really miss home, but its ok here. I'm so anxious to get my freshman year out of the way though, because I want to start taking my youth ministry courses. They sound so much more alove to me than the stupid courses I have to take now. But I wondered if anyone could comment on something....maybe you jeff? But i was trying to think if it would be a good idea to take sociology or counseling(probably sociology), as a minor. I think it would suit me better as a youth minister to have some sociology or something. But I dont know ill figure it out. I got my care package from my parents today. It seriously feels like Christmas again beause I was waiting for it like a present. Anyway, God has been doing an awesome work in my life. I feel so much closer to Him. Im actually interested in reading the Bible now. I read Genesis, and most of Exodus, then skipped around a little bit. But its awesome because it makes me realize who God really is. Not just what everyone else has said about Him. But I really know now what kind of God I im serving. I cant wait to come home on fall break. Im excited to see how everyone is doing. I really kind of hate being this far away, but hopefully thatll dissappear. Ill be praying for everyone back home, including southwest!

2005-08-30T14:02:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting here in my dorm room by myself...peaceful(sometimes). I just got done writing a paper for my college writing class. I love all my classes except for one..... you guessed it...math! So today I went and did some stuff so I could drop college algebra and take "contemporary math". I dont really need math for my major, so I figure i'd much rather get a good grade in a class I dont really need than a bad grade. But everything here is well. I miss home...but I really like it here. Im down here doing youth ministry, my girlfriend is with me, my brother, and I have some good friends. What else could I ask for. There is alot of times where I wont have a good day, but we all have to have those every once and a while. The thing that im trying to focus on the most is finding good christian friends that I can just hang out with and not have to worry about whether or not they're going to try to influence me or Kristen to do something thats not smart. I guess ive done a pretty good job so far. Youll find good people who are true to what they preach, and youll find the people that totally contradict what they say they are. There are so many people here that are like that and I find myself asking the question, why in the heck are they in a Christian university? Then someone the other day told me that these people need us, theyre still searching for something they havent found yet. Yeah, it will definitely get on my nerves alot, but I know that I should at least try and have a good attitude about it and try to show them the right way. Im not perfect either, but they can learn from me and i'm sure I can learn from everyone here too. Theres so many different cultures and so many different people here. And this is my chance to walk by the example that I talk so much about. I hope everything is going well at home. If you know me you know that I worry way too much and sometimes its all I ever think about. Tell me how you all are doing.

2005-08-25T13:09:00.000-07:00

This week has been awesome so far. College is pretty fun. You will find theres bad groups and good groups even though its a christian school. You just have to kind of surround yourself with great christian friends. We started classes yesterday. They werent too bad, just incredibly boring. I think I fell asleep in my college algebra class twice this morning. Think about it, my worst subject, only its at 7:45 in the morning. I meet so many new people everyday and its impossible to remember everyones name. The girls names dont really matter( I have Kristen), but its the guys that I have to try to remember. But most of everyone thats here is real nice. Its really easy to get involved in things. Im going to a rugby meeting tonight at 9:30 to check it out with some friends. I have mixed feelings about it because I kind of like where my teeth are and dont want them knocked out again. Im just really excited to actually start my major next year. When your a freshman you usually just take your basic classes. But after your freshman year it really gets interesting. Ive already gotten a chance to talk with people who are struggling, people who I know and people that I meet. It gives you a great feeling to talk to these college kids and to know that your helping someone. Tonight me and Kristen and some friends are going to go to a college age bible study/fellowship(with papa johns pizza:) But everything is going pretty good, but dont get me wrong I really miss home too. A random thought: the food in the cafeteria is so amazing. They have all kinds of choices. Fatening pizza, fatening hamburgers and grease fries, then theres the international section which has the types of food you dont really trust what it is. But its great here and im finally all settled in. Keep praying for us all though, because I know this year isnt going to be an easy one.

2005-08-12T22:19:00.000-07:00

So lately its been kind of wierd now that everyones leaving for school and everything. I just cant believe that its already here. Now I realize when older people or my grandparents say life flies by, I realize what they meant. Tonight everyone met up at the Howards house for the last time(for just a while,hopefully). We swam, had some pizza, then Kristen came about 10:15 just as the party was dying down. When I was there I felt a sort of sad feeling just for the fact that im just now becoming close to all these people, but now im leaving in less than a week. So that kind of sucks. But I know college will be alot of fun and it will be great to see alot of interesting people. I just hope not everyone talks in those horrid country accents. It just gets on my last nerve sometimes. Also, it will be nice because my roommate is of some hispanic descent, so no country talk in MY room:) Well, I can say that I actually had a pretty good summer. It got alot better when I didnt have to get up at 5 anymore. CIY was amazing. I enjoyed it alot. I got alot out of what some of those speakers said. No offense to any Aaron Pelsue Band fans( which im sure theres not many), but they were just ok. One of my favorite times was "his time", a time where you were able to share what God did for you that day or your favorite moment. I felt like I kind of hogged it though because everyone knows that im definitely not shy. But I shared two things on the last night. God totally changed my whole perspective on a real personal relationship with Him, and also that I wanted very much to become a youth minister. Just when we think we have it all right, and we think were right with God, He taps us on the shoulder and says we have much more to learn and were far from learning all there is to know about christianity. I felt great because I feel that all that I have learned at CIY and what God shows me I can take to college and when I start living on my own.
Well....me, Kristen, and Dylan all have 6 more days, it feels really wierd, but i'm excited to be out on my own. Packing is gonna suck. But, on another note Now that ill have alot of time by myself at school ill definitely be posting more often:) (finally)

2005-07-20T13:30:00.000-07:00

As I get home from work I always go over what happened each day, good or bad. As I was thinking an image came into my head. The world always knocks us down and kicks us around. God planted an image into my head that helped me cope with that thought. I was knocked down on the ground, dirt smeared all over my face, holes in my clothes and weary. You feel like its too hard to get up, too hard to keep trying to beat sin. You feel like Jesus is just standing at the sidelines waiting for you to come to Him. Your wrong. Jesus is standing and battling right beside you. He's the one who's already defeated this sin thats weighing you down so heavily right now. He knows how to win if you just trust Him. Jesus grabs you by the arm, not caring about how dirty or messed up your life is saying, "keep on going, your almost there. Keep fighting, i'm still right beside you". Like a father he takes you in His arms like His child that you are, He revives you and strengthens you for your next battle.
Someone once told me that theres a crowd in heaven cheering you on. To me, thats enough to revive me. Thats enough to get my energy back up to defeat Satan and the temptations he throws at us.
Hes already carried the worlds burden once, and wants to carry ours again.

2005-07-09T08:20:00.000-07:00

So I got through another Saturday of getting of at 5:00. Im pretty much used to it by now. I actually really kind of like working there. I mean you get to work in the beautiful outdoors and walk mow greens for 3 hours...:/ But I work with some awewsome people. Theres a guy name toby I work with and hes such an inspiration to my life as a christian. He works every saturday and we always talk about whats going on with each other as far as christianity. He gives me all this awesome advice whenever ive got a question. We got onto the topic of trusting God and faith. Along with that came tithing. Thats really something I sometimes have trouble with. I actually have a story behind tithing. A couple of weeks ago I got my paycheck of about $400. Most of it went to my parents for debt for some bad mistakes I made involving a lawyer but thats another story. I ended up having about $45 left and I started doubting. But I owed Jesus(thats what I call it:) $40. So I did it without even thinking. I put it into the offereing bag knowing that it wasnt myself who had given me that job anyway, or given me anything for that matter. So I had $5 until the next payday, I didnt care. A couple of days later my neighbor asks me and my brother if we would care to help him move for $100 cash. Now how could I refuse that offer. then I remembered that my bank was supposed to give me $50 for opening a checking account a while back.(National City is awesome!:) But I told myself I would never doubt giving money back to God because He knows your situation and knows how Hes going to take care of it. God has been so good to me and for anyone who has trouble giving part of your money back to God, let me tell you how awesome it feels. God repays you so much more than we could imagine. Sorry if this post was boring.

2005-07-02T07:19:00.000-07:00

My life lately has been pretty good. Work is the same....boring and long. Sleeping has become a luxury lately( trust me, getting up at 5 every day takes a toll). But everything has been going well. Me and Kristen went to a Gavin Degraw concert last night. They also had howie day and this guy name michael tolt, he was probably my favorite. But we werent really planning on going until my sister had offered to sell us tickets so I figured why not( it would make Kristen happy and excited:) But we had decent seats, they were in the bleachers. I would much rather have sat where we did than down on the lawn with the drunk dancing people. They were the "hippies" of 2005. We had these two women sitting in front of us and just out of nowhere we all started talking to each other. So Kristen and I had a chance to witness to them both. They both kind of ended up telling us their life story and they both have had a rough life. What made me really sad was that both of them asked us the same question. They asked, "are we both going to hell for having premarital sex"? I replied by saying that anyone can go to hell for anything. Then I said the reason why me and Kristen know that were going to heaven is that we have asked for forgiveness and accepted Jesus. We went on talking and she ended up giving me and Kristen her number to call about going to our church. I thought that was the coolest thing ever to have witnessed to theses two 25 year old women who had no idea who we were. Max Lucado wrote a book and it talked about "divine appointments", where God has already set a time up for you to witness to a certain someone and I guess we got ours. That $25 ticket was well worth it. Plus I got to see drunk people dancing around like there was no tomorrow.

2005-06-08T21:10:00.000-07:00

Ahhh...summer finally arrives. This word equals getting up at 5 in the morning EVERY DAY. Now I know how it feels to not get very much sleep, it sucks. Being 18 and an adult is no cakewalk..its tough sometimes. Now back to summer talk. Every summer is filled with fun memories and hanging out with friends, going to youth events, and seeing coldplay in concert:), and all that good stuff. Its kind of sad, but summer is the time where I feel closest to God. I guess its just because I have alot more time on my hands than usual. Its very important to ALWAYS stay close to God no matter when it is. And thats something that i'm sure alot of people struggle with. I think this summer may be kind of sad just because its our last summer before college(sorry all of the sad mothers out there). Now, as i'm thinking about life in college I think its always good to reflect and ponder over whats going to happen. Its funny how when we were young we wanted to be older so bad. We couldnt and didnt want to wait for it to come. Being 16 arrives without notice, you get your first car. Freedom is nice isnt it? Then 18 comes in a flash(a crapload of responsibility). As alot of you know i've come to know that word a little too well. But its so amazing to think how god put everyone he did in your path. Throughout my life i've learned SO many things through experience(good and bad). God makes you grow up really quick. No wonder older people and grandparents talk forever, they have lived through 60-70 years of experience and growing. Well I can say ive done alot of growing up in the past few years and strengthened my walk with God. The path is hard and bumpy but ive also learned the true meaning of patience. Things go too fast sometimes. The next thing I know ill be out of college. getting married, having kids, and creating my own career for the rest of my life(in four years Rochelle:)
Its sad to look back on the past 18 years of my life and see everything fly by. Its also good to know that your starting a new "chapter" in life. Through all of this God has truly been with me. He has made me grow incredibly spiritually and mentally. (Although I enjoy being immature sometimes, I think its fun:) ALright I think i'm done with the sad talk for now. I just look forward to going to college, its not as scary as id like to think. Itll be awesome to have my brother and Kristen down there with me. If anyone would like to pass on some words of wisdom do so. Even if you have some good advice on being immature i'm good at that so I could use some more ideas:)

2005-05-21T09:05:00.000-07:00

I went and saw Star Wars last night and it was the greatest movie ever! Its definitely the best out of all of them.I went and saw it with the youth and Kristen and her parents. It was fun watching it with Kristen:) Me and Kristen were talking after the movie was over and she compared it to good and evil-kind of like God and Satan type thing. Its an awesome example. Anyway, I started my job today at Heatherwoode Golf club. Its good stuff, its really easy, but the only thing is I have to get up at 5:20. Its all worth it though. These next couple weeks are going to be incredibly busy with graduation and everything else. I hope you all dont miss out on my sweet graduation party:) Its beautiful this weekend, hopefully it will be like this next week for graduation. This is a good weekend:)

2005-05-04T15:08:00.001-07:00

I know what you guys are thinking...wow hes actually posting something, but dont get your hopes up because its nothing too important for this post. Its amazing how fast this year has gone as a senior. I guess you could think of it as the lest they can do for those four wretched years of being in High School. This week seems to be dragging by...maybe its because i'm just waiting and anticipating for next week to come. Theres a long story behind that. I guess ill tell some. Well as you all know prom was last saturday and it was an amazing time spending with Kristen and we all had alot of fun. Then after prom came and me and Kristen and My friend aaron and his date decided we would get some ice cream before hand.(only dorks show up on time:) Anyway...Me and aaron were driving side by side when suddenly blue and red lights filled the sky. I knew those lights too well. Well it turns out I got a ticket for speeding and what the officer calls "drag racing"(which neither of us was doing), and aaron got one also for "drag racing". Me and aaron both are fighting this "drag racing" to the death! So we go to court next wednesday so try to remember to keep the "drag racers" in your prayers. So hopefully everything will work out and nothing will come out of it. But theres still graduating to look forward to! That will be an exciting day. Well maybe ill post something else soon, or maybe ill just wait another month:)

2005-05-04T15:08:00.000-07:00

Spring Break in Chicago

2005-03-31T18:17:00.000-08:00

Me and my family went to Chicago for spring break. Well, all I have to say is its VERY different from the little town of Springboro. Kristen ended up going to California with a freind so its kind of wierd being that far apart. Im glad spring break worked out well for all of us. Its really hard to beleive how big of a city Chicago is. The people here are so much different then what im normally used to. Lets just say ill have alot of interesting stories to tell everyone when I get back. Theres also alot of nice places to go in Chicago. All the comforts of home...we went to a starbucks(I know darrel would like that one), theres also a borders, a Virgin music store, and some other nice little shops downtown.
All of this is mainly bunched on Michigan Ave. Its actually kind of nice being somehwere different for once. You know, to get out of the bubble we live in Springboro. It also opens your eyes to alot of things(good and bad). We went to Bucca Di Beppos for dinner tonight( im about to explode!) We have one in Ohio, Kristen and her parents took me to one for my birthday in Cincinatti:) Well ill talk to you guys when I get home! Have a fun week(how can it be fun without me, right?)

bored

2005-03-12T13:59:00.000-08:00

So this is probably the most boring weekend ive ever had...My weekends are usually full of fun and excitement but Kristens gone so its incredibly boring:( Today I went to work until four then I think ill stop by church setup to talk to Roger. Im doing a skit for both services tomorrow.(honestly I'm not exactly sure what im supposed to be doing, but thats ok ill just wing it like always:) Oh yeah, plus im the greeter guy at the info table.(tell me if im better than rochelle..haha) Tomorrow I think im going to go hang out at anths house after church, then wait for Kristen to come home:):). Well, school is almost over and then ill be going down to Lee. It feels almost unreal to be graduating already. I hope youth ministry is what God wants me to do I just ask that everyone would keep me, Kristen, Dylan, Anth, and anyone else whos going down in your prayers. Itll be fun but ill miss you guys! And you know youll miss me too, just admit it:)
Later

Without selfishness

2005-02-27T16:50:00.000-08:00

" Take my yoke and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest in your souls.
-Matthew 11:29

This morning in church I picked up a booklet from the seat during the time the band was practicing. By the way Kristen did amazing!:) But I started to pray, I prayed for my attitude. Lately ive encountered alot of selfishness and I needed to take care of it. So I picked up the booklet and I turned automatically to day 37. And I felt that was exactly what I needed.
It asked what the most Christ-like attitude was and it came down to Christ ALWAYS being unselfish. This is the only time in scripture that Jesus describes Himself. Its incredibly hard sometimes but to have unselfishness in your attitude makes all of the difference to your relationships and freindships.

A never changing God is a good thing

2005-02-16T15:22:00.000-08:00

God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything.1 John 3:20

You and I are governed. The weather determines what we wear. The terrain tells us how to travel....God–our Shepherd–doesn't check the weather; He makes it. He doesn't defy gravity; He created it.God is what He is. What He has always been. God is Yahweh–an unchanging God, an uncaused God, and an ungoverned God.

I know I havent posted anything in a long time(sorry guys), but life keeps you busy sometimes. This was in a daily devotional by Max Lucado-who else? But I was thinking about how God being a unchanging God-is it a good thing? Of course! God is always there when you need Him, and He will never change the way He feels about you...its constant! Thats something thats amazing about the God we serve, He knows everything about us and everything that weve done, yet still doesnt change the way He thinks about us, He still loves us regardless. To me, thats someone worth having in your life:)

The big one eight today

2005-01-26T11:44:00.000-08:00

Well.....today is my 18th birthday. It seems like ive been waiting forever for it to come and its finally arrived. It seems like everyone was extra nice to me today(go figure).
But today was a good day. My girlfreind transformed my car into a "birthday mobile" which was fun. My parents also got me a laptop which was kind of for christmas and birthday, and graduation combined. You know, everyone makes such a big deal about turning 18 but I dont feel much diferent. Most of the things you can do I wont even attempt to do anyway. I got study hall to sing happy birthday to me which was funny...it lasted about 10 seconds. But today was a good birthday.

Martin Luther King Day

2005-01-17T08:04:00.000-08:00

Today is MLK day and its just a day to remember what he did for us. I dont think many people stop and think about all of the scarifices he made to make ALL people equal. He was persecuted, threatened, and made fun of, sometimes things even worse than that for what he did. Ive seen movies and documentaries on his life and he had a very difficult life.
MLK day today made me think of how hard his family must have had it too. I know I couldnt have done what he did.

Made for heaven

2005-01-10T06:21:00.000-08:00

My kingdom does not belong to this world.John 18:36

"Unhappiness on earth cultivates a hunger for heaven. By gracing us with a deep dissatisfaction, God holds our attention. The only tragedy, then, is to be satisfied prematurely. To settle for earth. To be content in a strange land.We are not happy here because we are not at home here. We are not happy here because we are not supposed to be happy here.
We are “like foreigners and strangers in this world” (1 Pet. 2:11)….And you will never be completely happy on earth simply because you were not made for earth. Oh, you will have your moments of joy. You will catch glimpses of light. You will know moments or even days of peace. But they simply do not compare with the happiness that lies ahead."
-Max Lucado
This was the devotion for today and it made me realize something. As much as we can be happy on this earth and as much fun as we sometimes have....does not even compare for what lies ahead. The places we live in on this earth arent our homes. We simply reside in them for the time being. Its wierd to think, heaven, a place weve never been to, will feel more like home than this earth ever will.

Prayers answered

2005-01-07T06:17:00.000-08:00

This morning in G.R.I.P. we talked about prayer. We each told the crowd about examples in our own lives and how God came through on a prayer.
I didnt have a "big" thing in my life that God's answered. He's done so much for me already and he gives me what I need. I sat down and talked to the crowd and said that whenever you pray for something you may or may not get it. God gives you what you need not necessarily what you want. I have had experiences in my own life where God came through for me in certain situations. God is your caretaker and knows exactly what you need.
Right now i've been in prayer for my parents.Their going through alot because of me, my brother, and my sister are all going to be in college next year. I always worry(i'm the biggest worry wart youll ever know). But I was reminded by not only my amzing girlfriend :), but also by my parents to keep my trust in God and He will give me what I need. I found a verse when when we were planning grip yesterday after school.
1Peter 3:12
The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right, and his ears are open to their prayers.
(I officially christen that my favorite verse! Its amazing:)

New Year

2005-01-01T09:02:00.000-08:00

Its finally here! 2005...I have been waiting for this year for a long time. I love every new year that comes along because its almost like you get a second chance at things. Another chance to change, to ask that person out, to recommit spiritually, even physically. I cant believe I graduate this year. Freshman year made it seem like 2005 was out of my grasp. It all reminds me of Christ. It reminds me of how many chances he gives us. An infinite number of chances that we dont deserve.
This year make your mark with the second chance youve been given.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 - For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:

Immersed in Grace

2004-12-28T10:09:00.000-08:00

He called you to share in his glory in Christ,
a glory that will continue forever.1 Peter 5:10

"To believe we are totally and eternally debt free is seldom easy. Even if we've stood before the throne and heard it from the king himself, we still doubt. As a result, many are forgiven only a little, not because the grace of the king is limited, but because the faith of the sinner is small.

God is willing to forgive all. He's willing to wipe the slate completely clean. He guides us to a pool of mercy and invites us to bathe. Some plunge in, but others just touch the surface. They leave feeling unforgiven….Where the grace of God is missed, bitterness is born. But where the grace of God is embraced, forgiveness flourishes….The more we immerse ourselves in grace, the more likely we are to give grace."
-Max Lucado
Ok, ok I know its another quote from Max, but this one really was something I always dealt with.
Theres no end to Christ's forgiveness. Looking at my own life and all the times I screw up I say to myself...ok, this has got to be the last time hes going to put up with this. I feel like that all the time. But thats not what this is saying. God WANTS to forgive us. Its not like it's a chore to Him, He loves it when His children realize they need more than just themselves to get through life. If we have the faith all our sins can be forgiven, then they can.

Merry Christmas!!

2004-12-25T14:10:00.000-08:00

I had such a good christmas so far today. I got what I wanted and more. I really dont deserve anything and I was again reminded to be sure and remain thankful for everything. Today was fun but it was also kind of sad. Just in the sense that this will be our last christmas together before were all off to college. I know its going to be so much fun at Lee:) But ill be such a worry wart once i'm gone. I always worry about my parents.
I just need that thought to stay in my head that God cares for them. I just think to myself what are they gonna do without me? But I know its the best thing for me to just trust God and know that He's in control. Its almost impossible for me to stay in that mindset. Its hard sometimes, but thats where the faith comes in. I'm looking forward to the plans God has for me and my freinds and I cant wait to see where He leads me.
Anyway....my grandparents are coming over today...what fun:) I cant stop craving those delicious magic bars. Mmmmm:) Some more exciting news..my brother is going to buy Napoleon Dynamite! I love that movie, its amazing.

Christmas is almost here

2004-12-23T20:50:00.000-08:00

Ahhh Christmas...such good times. Its almost here. Tomorrow is a very busy day. And to top it all off complete petmart is making everyone work. But its not really that bad, because my manager said all we do is order like 10 pizzas and talk. They are such a family there....I kind of want to stay away from it. (its kind of wierd)..haha. But then they have this gift exchange and party the day after christmas, of course I said I couldnt go. But you could say I still got my co-worker a present. I did so but simply asking my sister for any unused girly stuff, like lotion, or candle stuff, or perfume. So She gave me two bottles of hand lotion stuff. I know, I know, i'm cheap, but its just work. :)
Im so excited for tomorrow and christmas day. I was thinking to myself today( which I had alot of time to do because of snow) and getting so excited about this stuff made me think. I should never take these things for granted. Having a loving family and awesome freinds is the best gift I could have ever received. In all this excitement I need to still keep my eye on whats important and what keeps me going. Jesus.

Down on your knees

2004-12-20T13:18:00.000-08:00

As everyone knows Christmas is the busiest time of year. Buying gifts for each other, or returning them...
Also, family comes to visit and we go to all of those wonderful family Christmas parties(i'm being really sarcastic there). But beyond all of that, we tend to forget what its all really about in the midstof all the hustle and bustle. Its hard to see God in this tall world sometimes. You just have to look hard enough and youll find Him. As I was reading today Max Lucado had a great little story about this.

"A small cathedral outside Bethlehem marks the supposed birthplace of Jesus. Behind a high altar in the church is a cave, a little cavern lit by silver lamps.You can enter the main edifice and admire the ancient church. You can also enter the quiet cave where a star embedded in the floor recognizes the birth of the King. There is one stipulation, however. You have to stoop. The door is so low you can't go in standing up.The same is true of the Christ. You can see the world standing tall, but to witness the Savior, you have to get down on your knees."

When does it end?!

2004-12-16T15:13:00.000-08:00

Lately school has been killing me! The homework...the tests....when does it all end! This week has kind of been a stressful one for me. Just getting everyones Christmas presents, dealing with school and work. Sometimes trying to juggle too many things makes your life hectic. Man, I thought senior year was supposed to be fun. Wheres all the assemblies?...the teachers that love the seniors? I guess it will all be better after the break. I think this break came just in time or I think I would have gone insane. Its also hard to do all those things and keep God first. I always feel guilty if I forget to spend time with God or forget to talk with Him. Its so important to keep your focus on God when dealing with stress, its the only way out. Usually I would write more but I have to go to Kristens choir concert. I guess its supposed to be like 2 hours long...(I hope they have restroom breaks).

In need of confindence...

2004-12-13T11:49:00.000-08:00

As most of you all know I have felt led to become a youth minister. I am so incredibly excited about it. I mean, what job could be better than telling teens and kids about the love that God has for us. But on another note...I am always losing confidence. I contemplate these kind of questions...How will I find a church?...Will I be able to come up with messages of the top of my head? Will people actually listen to me?.. But then I realized that thats just the enemy speaking lies into my head.
A person that has really helped me get rid of these reoccuring thoughts is Anthony Barnhart. He has been like a mentor to me(he also wants to become a youth minister). He has taught me to just trust on Gods love and that should be enough for me. I know now to stop relying on myself and to just let God lead me through my life as it goes. I was reading Max Lucado today(go figure) and he was asking if anyone was "spiritually dry". He said if we deprive ourselves of "water" our skin becomes clammy, and our organs begin to wrinkle. If you take a drink from God every day then you will be full not having any room for anything else. Those doubts have no place in your mind.
I was telling Kristen the other day that its going to be a very long, bumpy road ahead...but I have God and the people He's put in my life to get through it!
If anyone would like to share any verses on this subject please feel free.:)

A freind...

2004-12-08T13:12:00.000-08:00

Today I went in to get my usual haircut. The same guy does it every time. We usually talk alot and make conversation, but I knew this one would be different. He asked me about college and I told him I was going to go to Lee University. Somehow he remembered that I was going to major in youth ministries. So the church subject came up. I was glad to see that he was interested. I knew that he was trying to find something. I knew he wanted to get it, but didnt know how.
He had said to me that he really needed to find a church to go to. I thought to myself...this is a perfect opportunity. So I told him to try Southwest Church or Far Hills church. I had gone to Far Hills before and liked it sp I reccomended both. He pretty much summed up the last time he went to church. They pretty much told him he was going to burn in hell(in his words). This really saddened me. Arent we supposed to treat people with kindness? All Jesus wanted was for us to be their freind. Jesus chose US because he knew we could do it. I thought of what to say next or what to do. I remembered that we learned about these situations in church. The only thought that popped up in my head was simply to be his freind. Keep your eyes open for anyone looking like they might need a freind.

Wheres the snow?...

2004-12-07T11:36:00.000-08:00

Ok...i'm not a big complainer, but when it comes to snowing its a must for winter.
The question is, where is it? It's December 7, and its 53 degrees....whats up with that?!
We want at LEAST 15 degrees or less and at least 4 inches of snow. So start praying for snow!

Lee University

2004-11-30T11:59:00.000-08:00

I went to Lee university on a visit Monday. I absolutely loved it! The campus was an amazing place. Everyone there was so freindly and I just felt right at home. Im really excited to be able to go next fall. On the other hand, this trip made me realize something else... it made me realize how much i'm going to miss everyone here.
God has been SO good to me here and He continues to do so. It makes me happy to know that I have a family that loves me and awesome freinds that will always be there for me. Its going to be incredibly hard to leave home...but in another light I know that God will put people in my path that will guide me. I think its the right place for me. Its also comforting to know that im not going to be the only one from little Springboro there. (Kristen and maybe Shelby if she decides to go!) This also made me know and be assured that God knows what He's doing and He knows the plans He has for us.

Infinite Patience

2004-11-27T13:08:00.000-08:00

Patience produces character, and character produces hope.
And this hope will never disappoint us.
Romans 5: 4-5

God is often more patient with us than we are with ourselves. We assume that if we fall, we arent born again. If we stumble, then we arent truly converted. If we have the old desires, then we must not be a new creation.
If you are anxious about this, please remember,"God began doing a good work in you, and I am sure He will continue it until it is finished when Jesus Christ comes again".
-Max Lucado
That is just something I will never understand...how God has so much grace, patience and forgiveness with us. No matter how many times we sin if we ask Him to forgive us they are gone. He is the most gracious and loving person. His grace and love is something we will never understand until we are in heaven with Him.

God's good gifts

2004-11-22T15:41:00.000-08:00

Every good action and perfect gift is from God.

-James 1:17

Ever feel like you have nothing? Just look at the gifts God has given you:
He has sent His angels to care for you, His Holy Spirit to dwell in you, His church to encourage you, and His word to guide you...
Anytime you speak, He listens; make a request and He responds.
He will never let you be tempted too much or stumble too far.
Let a tear appear on your cheek, and He is there to wipe it.
Let a love sonnet appear on your lips, and He's there to hear it.
As much as you want to see Him He wants to see you more...

You have been chosen by Christ...He has claimed you as His beloved.
-Max Lucado
What does it really mean to give thanks? We talked about this in our group after school today. We all went around and said what we thought we were thankful for. We all said about 2 or 3.... but really, we dont stop to think about exactly how good we really have it. I'm thankful especially for my freinds, family, and most important of all that God found me. I would be so lost if God hadn't caught me dead in my tracks. He's saved me and i'm thankful.

God's name in your heart

2004-11-15T15:31:00.000-08:00

The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.
-Proverbs 18:10

When you are confused about the future go to your Jehovah-raah, your caring shepherd. When you are anxious about provision, talk to Jehovah-jireh, the Lord who provides. Are your challenges too great? Seek the help of Jehovah-shalom, the Lord is peace. Is your body sick? Are your emotions weak? Jehovah-rophe, the Lord who heals you, will see you now. Do you feel like a soldier stranded behind enemy lines? Take refuge in Jehovah-nissi, the Lord my banner.
Meditating on the names of God reminds you of the character of God. Take these names and bury them in your heart.
God is
the shepherd who guides
the Lord who provides
the voice who brings peace in the storm
the physician who heals the sick, and
the banner that guides the soldier.
- Max Lucado
Sometimes I feel consumed with worry. Sometimes i'm afraid I cant do it. When you know the names of God it lets you know what He is capable of-anything.

If only..

2004-11-10T16:24:00.000-08:00

Think about Jesus' example. He held on while evil people were doing wicked things to Him. So do not get tired and stop trying.
-Hebrews 12:3

Heaven was not foreign to Jesus. He is the only person who has lived on earth after he lived in heaven. As beleivers you and I will live in heaven after time on earth, but Jesus did the opposite. He knew heaven before He came to earth. He knew what awaited Him upon His return. And knowing what awaited Him in heaven enabled Him to bear the shame on earth.
"He accepted the shame as if it were nothing because of the joy God had put before Him."(Heb.12:2). In His final moments Jesus focused on the joy that God put before Him. He focused on the prize of heaven. By focusing on the prize, he was able not only able to finish the race, but finish it strong. -Max Lucado

If only we could get a glimpse of what heaven is like...if only we could get a view of our father. This is something I constantly think about. Think of all the messages Anthony had on heaven. How beautiful it is, how much fun we will have, who we will be reunited with. I sometimes focus way too much on this world and all it has to offer. Its so easy to do sometimes, but when you focus on the life thats ahead of you it makes you want to do things differently. I always pray that I will see things as Jesus did when He was on earth. I pray that Jesus will let me focus on the prize.

Perfected

2004-11-08T16:41:00.000-08:00

Their sins and the evil things they do- I will remember no more.
Hebrews10:17

With one sacrifice He made perfect forever those who are being made holy.(Heb. 10:14)

Underline the word perfect. Note that the word is not better. Not on the upswing. Not improving. God doesnt improve, He perfects. He does not enhance; He completes...
Now I realize that theres a sense in which were imperfect. We still sputter. We still stumble. We still do exactly what we dont want to do. An that part of us is, according to that verse, "being made holy". But when it comes to our position before God, were perfect. When He sees each of us, He sees one who has been made perfect through the one who is perfect-Jesus Christ.
-Max Lucado

God tends to focus on US rather than our faults and iniquities. Yeah, we may stumble every once and a while...or everyday. But He's standing right there next to us saying I still forgive you, my child, you are perfect in my eyes. You see, once we have Jesus in our hearts and weve accepted Him God knows we are His. That thought is comforting to know every time we screw up. God is always waiting on the other side of the door. He's waiting for us to run to Him saying I need you! It takes time for us to come to that conclusion sometimes. God, no matter how long it takes...will wait for His people to come back to Him. When we do He's standing there with open arms.

A time for everything

2004-11-06T10:58:00.000-08:00

And do this, understanding the present time. the hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. so let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.
-Romans 13:11-12

Time...something we always want on our side.Its something we always need. Time to spend with God, time to pray, time to spend with our boyfreind or girlfreind, time to spend with our freinds or family. Time is so very precious and is something that we shouldnt waste.What are you doing with your time? Life on earth is an instant compared to eternity. It is the blink of an eye. Sometimes i'm guilty of not spending enough time on what God tells us is important. God wants to see how we will spend our time here on this earth. Will we spend it loving one another? God wants us to spend our time loving each other, showing everyone on this earth how to love. Think about how you could spend the time here on earth. Talk to the lonely person at lunch, step up to do what is right when a decision comes your way, talk to the nerd in your math class,love one another with unfailing love.

God knows you by name

2004-11-04T15:14:00.000-08:00

I have written your name on my hand.
Isaiah 49:16

Quite a thought isnt it? Your name on God's hand. Your name on God's lips. Maybe youv'e seen your name in some special places. On an award or diploma...But to think that your name is on God's hand and God's lips..my, could it be?
Or perhaps you have never seen your name honored and you can't remember when you heard it spoken with kindness. If so, it may be more difficult for you to believe that God knows your name. But He does. Written on His hand. Spoken by His lips. Whispered by His mouth. Your name.
- Max Lucado( He is amazing)

This is amazing. The God of the universe has our names written on His hand. In the business of this world its very comforting to know that He is thinking about you. He knows what were going through and He NEVER forgets about His children. Just when your about to give up, the answer you need may be on its way. God remembers us and has planned all of our lives out already. God knows each and every bit of stress and worry that were going through. He wants to see if we will rely on Him. He will always be there for us and He will always give us what we need. Lean on God for your problems because He's the only one who can take them away.

Later

2004-11-01T10:42:00.000-08:00

I am so fortunate to have the freinds I have now. They always build me up and are one of the things that keep me going. They keep my faith in check. I'm always reminded to trust in God and give my worries to Him. Sometimes I feel as if theres something I can do about it. Going to the right college...getting the right job. I was thinking and praying and I realized that I can't do anything about these things. I have to give them to God or i'm just fighting against it. My theory on this is whatever happens is supposed to happen. Everything in my life is mostly apart of God's will. Jeremiah 29:11 is constantly in my head..For i know the plans I have for you, a plan for a hope and a future. I encourage everyone to just rely on God for all of lifes problems and stresses. Theres nothing you can do but give them to God. He is bigger than all of the worries of this world. He made the universe. He can throw our worries away.

Audience of one

2004-10-27T10:45:00.000-07:00

I find myself trying to please others often times and nothing comes out of it..then my father reminds me the only person I should be trying to impress should be Him. Thats all we should strive for...all we should give our hearts to..is to live for an audience of one. God, of course, is our audience we should strive to please. I find that its very stressful in trying to please you freinds, family, and even peers and trying to please God at the same time. I am constantly reminded to keep my focus on Him. In this world that we live in its very difficult to lose our focus of God. But in my last blog I picture God focusing in on us looking over the horizon in search of His child. When we become weary and lose focus God will care for us. Whenever we pray I know that as the words come out of our mouth not one is lost. God silences heaven to hear and answer our prayers. Listen for His answer.

God calls us by name

2004-10-19T17:49:00.000-07:00

This is what the Lord God says: I myself,will search for my sheep and take care of them. Ezekiel34:11

He's wating for you. God is standing on the porch of heaven, expectantly hoping, searching the horizon for a glimpse of His child. Your'e the one God is seeking. God is the waiting father, the caring Shepherd in search of His lamb. His legs are scratched, His feet are sore, and His eyes are burning. He scales the cliffs and traverses the fields. He explores the caves. He cups His hands to His mouth and calls into the canyon. and the name He calls...is yours. The message is simple: God gave up His son in order to rescue all His sons and daughters. To bring His children home. He's listening for your answer. - Max Lucado

Lets listen for the calling father in the distance. He yearns for us to have conversation with Him. He yearns for us to love on Him. And we should to. He is our renewal of strength. We find rest in the Lord from our suffering...we can run to Him.

Later

Be a light

2004-10-15T14:15:00.000-07:00

Sometimes...it feels pointless to witness. Sometimes you feel God tugging on your heart to witness to a freind or family member. From my experiences it is very difficult to witness to someone. We think that witnessing has to be a certain way...you ask your freind to come to church..he gets saved. That is the way we most think about. But by far the best method is to lead by example. Sometimes I just feel like blowing it all off, thinking another opportunity may roll along. But Jesus thinks differently. He wants to use us to do it. He doesnt want any one lost in this world. We may have only one chance. We shouldnt pass those opportunities up. When we get to heaven I want to hear,"well done my good and faithful servant". I want to see my freinds and family in heaven with me. Just a thought to think about...in what ways can we be a good witness. You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on a stand , and it gives light to everyone in the house.
Matthew 5:13-15

Love...

2004-10-13T15:10:00.000-07:00

Do we truly know what love is? Some peoples viewpoint's are skewed on this matter. Love is our greatest weapon...our only cure. Love is the greatest of all things. Everything thats talked about in the bible....laws....commandments. But one thing is layed above all the rest, Love. We think we know love when we get a girlfriend..or get married. All of those things are good and well, but they dont say enough. True love is what Jesus did...enduring pain for a loved one....being persecuted day after day for loving His children...not stopping at anything to save every last one. Thats love. We should not be governed by law but by love. Whenever were in doubt or were in a rough spot in our life remember that God loves us. If God had a refrigerator, your picture would be on it. If God had a wallet your photo would be in it. He sends us flowers every spring and a sunrise every morning. He could live wherever in the universe He wanted...but he chose your heart.(Max Lucado)
God is love.

Later

Forgiveness...

2004-10-11T13:08:00.000-07:00

What is forgiveness? Is it just saying i'm sorry then your forgiven?.... No, it's much more than that. As much as we sin and rebel against God He forgives us. No matter what we do or say if we just ask we are forgiven. BUT- we should not take that forgiveness for granted. We will never know how much grace Jesus has for us. I am just astounded that Jesus is willing to forgive ANYONE...no matter what...unconditionally. Let's just think about this for a second...the man who died in place of us...for our wrong doing, forgives us? Well the answer,obviously is yes. I encourage everyone to just focus on that forgiveness and to not ever take it for granted. Everytime we sin He is standing there with open arms saying...you're still mine...I still love you. To me thats love...Lets dwell on this thought. Whenever you feel the temptation or sin creeping up behind you...think of our father on the whipping post. Think of all the pain he endured for us...we stumble...yet He still forgives.

Later

Keep the fire burning

2004-10-05T20:00:00.000-07:00

When we started all those "gatherings" since school started some of us think that they will stay. They will if we keep running for God. It's no mistake that God is truly working in our school. He is so awesome and He has blessed us. But for those "gatherings" to keep running they need us also. God gives us choice for what He gives us. I encourage EVERYONE who is involved or not to join with me in prayer each day to save our school and our community and our freinds. I know the idea sounds a little far-fetched but God can truly do anything and everything. He has no bounds...or restrictions. Neither do we when we partner with Jesus...lets keep that fire burning bright for everyone in the school to see. Some may need this badly...some may be lost having no place else to go. No matter who the person is or what they have been through Jesus loves them more than anything and He wants us to tell them that. Prayer is a giant part of how this works. In the bible it says if you keep asking then you will receive...if you keep knocking the door will open. We will make a difference if we just make an effort to pray and to be a light in our school. Alot of people use that metaphor, "to be a light in our school, community or workplace", but we should examine that phrase for what it truly is. We are a light in the darkness of this world. We can overrun that darkness through the holy spirit. Be excited for what God has done for you and want to share it with others. I have to do my part also, but i know we can leave our mark if we just trust..love..and have faith.
Later

Don't lose faith

2004-10-04T16:16:00.000-07:00

This is something that I have struggled with alot...whenever you are worried, give it to God. Whenever you are in doubt...give it to God. Whenever there is noone else to run to...give it to God. Whenever worry consumes you just lay it all before the Lord. We talked about this at the bible study today. I think worry and doubt is very troubling for all of us...but there is hope! Have some quiet time each day to lay down your worries before your King. He will take away your worries and problems. Every burden we have is never going to be nearly as heavy as Jesus'. Whenever you have a worry remember God is in control.
Later

A thought....

2004-09-27T14:34:00.000-07:00

I was thinking about this lately. Why do we have denominations in the church? Does God want us to? In the bible it says that we should all live in unity and not have separations in the church. When I become a youth pastor I have to choose a denomination. I'm not sure what i'm going to choose. I would like comments on this one on what you guys think about denominations...
Later

PRAYER

2004-09-22T17:27:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! I just wanted to let some people know some things that Ive been thinking about lately. As you know God has been working in our school. It's been so amazing so far. You can tell God has a hold on that school. But i wanted to talk about not only reaching people in our school but reaching anyone we come into contact with. I know it sounds really original but not alot of us do it. I know I'm going to start doing it. But the main source that all this can come from is prayer, its so amazing how it works so well. God DOES hear us and He is listening. Lets just be sure that were loving others like your loving Jesus. In the word it says that whatever you do to your neighbor your doing it to Jesus. So I encourage everyone to think about that. I along with the 412 group and some others need lots of your prayers. Weve got alot of things started here at school already and their doing amazing, but the only way we can keep them running is if we ask God for it. Just in specific, pray for our prayer groups in lunch, pray for me and Anths bible study, G.R.I.P., and just school in general. I hope i get the chance to witness to as many people possible this year. I owe it to my God.
Later

His touch

2004-09-20T17:16:00.000-07:00

We had the first after school bible study today at school. It actually went very well for it being the first one...we had about 19 people in it. It was kind of choppy, it being my first time, but it all worked out perfect. I think alot of people learned something. God is working through us to get to our school. His touch is on everything we do. Its just so exciting and so awesome to see all of my freinds serving God alongside of me. I ouldnt of asked for anything better. Weve already reached so many of our freinds. And God has yet to keep working in us. I think and I know that God will make His mark on our school. I mean just think about this...all of 412 and alot of others are so much on fire for God and all we had to do was ask. Just think for a second...what would happen if we got twice that many people on fire or more for God!! How awesome would that be? Our youth groups full. Our nights busy learning more about Christ, spending our sundays and wednesdays worshipping the one who made us. Whenever someone wants something more just ask God He will definitely give it to you. I highly reccomend The prayer of Jabez for teens if you havent read it already. I cant tell you how awesome God is and the way He works. Everything the beginning of the school year is just the beginning for God. Just keep praying and keep your heart and eyes open.

Later

Wow!

2004-09-16T14:37:00.000-07:00

Today was a good day....at lunch today we had 40 people come to our prayer group. I truly beleive that God is spefically working with us to save this school. I am priviliged to have the God along with the Holy Spirit to be working inside of me. He has healed me of so many sins and now its time for me to start wininng lost sould over for Him. Also today I got a chance to talk to my principal about the bible study I am starting. He was so supportive to it. I thought he would just blow it off and not think anything of it. But he put me in his calendar and gave us a great room to have the bible study in. God is awesome!
Later

See you @ the pole was amazing!

2004-09-15T14:15:00.000-07:00

This morning over 100 teens joined at the flagpole to pray for our leaders and our country. You could tell that obviously God was working this morning. Last year there was about 20-30 students. What a change! I was talking to one of my freinds earlier this week about the prayer of Jabez and its working. Lets keep it up. This year had been awesome so far and I think God is pleased. lets just keep showing His love through us this year. Keep praying for our school and our country and leaders.
Later

See you @ the pole!!

2004-09-14T20:16:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to tell you guys that see you at the pole is tomorrow next to the flagpole at 6:45. I hope alot of people can make it. This is just one of our many chances to step out boldly as Christians. I know alot of people will see what were doing and they will wonder. I hope everyone will realize what were doing and that were just doing all this for God because He greatly deserves it. I thank everyone who planned this and I think its just a start to what God's going to do this year at Springboro high school. Later

My bible study!!

2004-09-14T17:19:00.000-07:00

hey guys . I just wanted to let everyone know that i'm going to lead a new bible study with anthony on mondays after school at 2:30. I hope anyone who can come will. Its gonna be awesome. This isnt going to be the same old bible study on thursdays...(im joking anthony)lol. But really me and anthony are make it interesting and fun for everyone. Starting next week come at 2:30 in the commons! ...God is working...
Later

Leaders

2004-09-13T13:24:00.000-07:00

Hey guys!

I just made my own blog so bear with me. Anyway i just wanted to talk about how much God has already been working in our high school. He's so awesome and if we just ask for something big, even a miracle well get one. I done know if anyone has read the prayer of jabez or not but i think its perfect for those who want to make a difference for God in their High school. It's for people who wont leave their school without making a mark on the lives of their fellow classmates. I just want to say a little bit of what God has been revealing to me lately. At the end of the summer I was like, O.K. here comesmy last year of high school...then it just hit me. I felt this tugging on my heart, and i was praying. Jesus kind of revealed to me, what are you going to do for me this year? Are you going to live for me and be a light unto others so they may see my love and kindness? Or are you going to act like you dont even know me like you have all the other times. I was such a hypocrite all these years! I want you to know if anyone feels or has felt like that before knows how bad it feels to be letting God down. I've learned so many things this summer about Jesus and how much GRACE He has for us. Sometimes we are so rebelious against God and we dont even stop to realize how much its hurting Him. Everytime we sin we are whipping the back of Jesus. Even to the smallest thing like cussing..it literally hurts God. This year let us be a lamp to others so that they may see Gods love. Let's give ourselves fully to God so that He can put His power in us. This year has been AWESOME so far. G.R.I.P. has been great..its growing...weve started a prayer group in each lunch throughout the day. Now who has ever seen a prayer group in lunch at springboro? Or seen 35 people come to one. I'm telling you guys God has been working already I just encourage you to pray the prayer of Jabez and ask God to enlarge your territory, so that you can have more influence on people and their lives for God. This year we can make our mark. Lets do it.