Altotonga, Mexico -- I'm very content at this moment. I've been working on getting information from an organization Dimension Juvenil for a conference in September. They just released information last week, I believe about the conference. And as I return about 2.5 weeks before the conference, I really needed to get everything taken care of beforehand.
It's actually a wonderful conference for youth pastors and leaders who are youth. There are a lot of dynamic speakers, it's very practical and Word-deep. And of course, you throw in a couple of singers/bands and you have an excellent conference. And the theme this year is Convictions + Passion = Destiny. Umm... exactly what I've been teaching!
So, I was really concerned because the inscriptions are $25, and bus tickets are $40, more or less. Plus food. Chris had talked to Abel Lopez (founder) about lodging (we've stayed at hotels in the past), and he hadn't received an answer yet. The addition of hotel costs (for 2 nights) really had me like Ahh!! SO, today I got a response to my email that there is lodging still available in the congregation's homes. YAY!!!! This means a huge cut in the costs, plus I've found a few ways to make things less expensive for the youth. I didn't want money to be a problem for them, but I'm not able to dish it out for them (and I shouldn't, they should have to work a little, ya know!). This also means that I don't have to look for a hotel in Mexico City (a hassle I didn't want to have to put up with the last week I'm here).
Tomorrow, I go to Xalapa to deposit the money for the group. And, I finally got ahold of the last youth who is on vacation right now with her family, and she wants to go... so I was also waiting on her. What a productive day!
Apart from that, I've been doing the usual around here-- being at the Club, meeting with youth, discipleship, prayer/band practice, preparing for meetings, and the evangelism class... and making sure I'm fully prepared for the licensing interview for church.
This Wednesday we're setting aside to seek God and the Holy Spirit. I'm with expectations that God's going to do something powerful... as we've been talking about the Baptism with the Holy Spirit. I'm excited... God's been speaking to me, giving me words, and I've had some good conversations with youth and others lately. I'm praying that God will do amazing, "revolutionary" things here. I believe He will, as long as we're awake and alert to what He's telling us.And next week, I head to Texas, New Mexico and Oklahoma... I'm excited to see people whom I haven't seen in forever. Well, I need to get. There is still a whole lot of stuff to do in this week... I have a list for everyday! (I'm not kidding...)
Monday, July 28, 2008
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Something New Here
Altotonga, Mexico -- Well, after an interesting few months, things are getting more interesting.
The kids are doing well with the transition. I think it's due to the fact that we've had a good transition the last few months. But they seem to be ok.
We've been talk a lot about various themes lately-- revolution, passion, unity. And I think God's getting ready to do stuff here--The point is, and what I'm trying to stress is that we have all these wonderful plans and ideas, but if God isn't anointing them, and if we aren't doing it for love of God, then it's nothing. A clanging cymbal. It's better not to do it.
I've been anti-routine lately... which for those who know me, I'm very routine oriented... or rather, I like stability and knowing what's going on. It doesn't have to necessarily be the same. But with youth, routine becomes religion easily and apathy sets it. I don't want routine or wildness in what we do-- I just want the reason why we do things to be our love and our passion for God. Christ has to be in the center, not me, not anyone or anything else. The Holy Spirit has to be what spurs them on. Sure, it's going to be different, and sure, there will be changes. But, that our burning love for Jesus and our unity as a group would be the thing that is the "coolest". I don't know, I think God's getting ready to do something big. But I'm just praying that they jump on the wave quickly. It's funny because the same things I've been feeling and even same ideas and same sections of Scripture that I've taught from have been confirmed in other people that I haven't talked to about it. Leaders are feeling the same impulse, saying the same things. There are various individuals that God is speaking the exact same thing to.
So, even in the midst of things that have been difficult here, God is showing that He's in control. We're on the brink of something, I feel it very strongly in me-- and I've been heavy in prayer about it. That's what leadership is about though, right? Taking the people along where God is leading. I'm excited to see where God is leading... So, my friends, the transition continues.
The kids are doing well with the transition. I think it's due to the fact that we've had a good transition the last few months. But they seem to be ok.
We've been talk a lot about various themes lately-- revolution, passion, unity. And I think God's getting ready to do stuff here--The point is, and what I'm trying to stress is that we have all these wonderful plans and ideas, but if God isn't anointing them, and if we aren't doing it for love of God, then it's nothing. A clanging cymbal. It's better not to do it.
I've been anti-routine lately... which for those who know me, I'm very routine oriented... or rather, I like stability and knowing what's going on. It doesn't have to necessarily be the same. But with youth, routine becomes religion easily and apathy sets it. I don't want routine or wildness in what we do-- I just want the reason why we do things to be our love and our passion for God. Christ has to be in the center, not me, not anyone or anything else. The Holy Spirit has to be what spurs them on. Sure, it's going to be different, and sure, there will be changes. But, that our burning love for Jesus and our unity as a group would be the thing that is the "coolest". I don't know, I think God's getting ready to do something big. But I'm just praying that they jump on the wave quickly. It's funny because the same things I've been feeling and even same ideas and same sections of Scripture that I've taught from have been confirmed in other people that I haven't talked to about it. Leaders are feeling the same impulse, saying the same things. There are various individuals that God is speaking the exact same thing to.
So, even in the midst of things that have been difficult here, God is showing that He's in control. We're on the brink of something, I feel it very strongly in me-- and I've been heavy in prayer about it. That's what leadership is about though, right? Taking the people along where God is leading. I'm excited to see where God is leading... So, my friends, the transition continues.
Monday, July 14, 2008
A moving day
Altotonga, Mexico -- Rather, a series of them.
Saturday was the big day around the club. Well, for me, it started Friday. Zuri and I went to go buy a gift for the Briles family on behalf of the youth. We decided on a nice watch set for Chris, and a big frame for the family in general-- one of a back and white rose on a reflecting table, and we put the words on it, We will always love you, thank you.
Wednesday, I had found out that Julio wasn't going to have time to do the power point. So, Friday night, I stayed up till 2:30am working on it... and had problems attaching the song. It was late when I finally got to bed.
Got up at 9, to go get the frame for the pic, since it was made. Did other running that had to be done that day and no other. And still hadn't made the cakes for the Briles. Crazy. Came home, scarfed food, and get ready really quickly, while Zuri came over, and Julio too, to help me take down stuff. It's great that Julio has a car.We got down, and Karen showed up. She speaks English, so I showed her my recipe, explained it in Spanish, and set her to work making it, with Rosa as a helper. It was funny. Every 2 minutes, I was called down--- well, at least on the first one.We ended up having technical problems, but got them fixed.The praise and worship was good, as it was the last time that Aaron and Jessie played with them. Then we had the videos of thank yous, memories, and a surprise message from our friend Paco that we had filmed some 2 weeks beforehand. And a power point, that was kinda moving, I must say.They were crying (the Briles, that is) and the youth were wiping their eyes. Then we presented them with the gifts (well, 2 youth did), and boy was it teary.
The Briles then had time to share a few words, and wow. That was one of those things where they talked while crying and held the toilet paper with them. We gathered around them and prayed for them, and choked back the tears. Litle Carmen just sobbed.
Then, we said, ok, enough of crying. We played some of our favorite games and I went down and helped get food served with a couple of other youth. Julio ran things upstairs, meanwhile with fun videos or random things. Julio and Magno's mom had prepared taco meat, and I bought chips and 2 of the youth made the cakes. It was a group effort, really!It was pretty cool. Once all the food was served, I ran upstairs to check on things. Even though the evening was totally about the kids and the Briles (which is why I tried to stay behind scenes as much as possible), I was happy to get to see Chris open his gift. He didn't know I was watching, but he looked stunned at the gift, and looked as if he were really moved. I was so happy for that.
Anyway, it was a great evening, and I didn't get home till 9:45. I normally get home on Saturday nights at 8.
Sunday, the church did their thing. Chris shared, and there was a video of their time here, and some church members shared, and they were presented with a plaque (sp?) that commemorated their 9 years of service here. The pastor then asked if Chris would pray for him, and so they did. And then we had a big dinner, and more videos. Of course, they cried, but it wasn't nearly as much as the Saturday night. Even Vonda said that she didn't feel half as wiped out.
Chris, when talking to another youth who hadn't made it to the party, said that it was a very cool party and that everything went really well. I was very happy to hear that, because I wanted them to enjoy the night. And, because it was my first event (not really a big thing) that I did, with the youth, that the Briles weren't involved in-- and the youth did amazing, everyone enjoyed themselves, and even with very frustrating technical difficulties at the last minute, it was a great party.
This morning was moving day. Everyone was teary. Many kids came up and wrapped their arms around me and said, "At least you're staying with us." They had goals of kidnapping little Carmen so that the Briles would have to stay. And they also hung onto the side of the car. It was all in jest and of course, none of it happened. We were teary eyed, but we're all ok.I went by to see a recent disciplee of Vonda's to drop by a notebook Vonda had left for her. She was teary eyed, but strong in understanding the reason why they left. I gave her a big hug and she asked if it was ok, if she had any questions about the Scriptures, if she could ask me. Of course! I gave her a big hug.
So, please be praying for the kids here. The next couple of days, maybe weeks will be hard on them. Latin culture is very emotion-based, so we'll be dealing with that. Even so, I've heard from various youth, even through tears and just in plain conversation, that it'll be cool to have them come back and see all the changes that have taken place.It looks as if they've grabbed ahold of the vision.
Saturday was the big day around the club. Well, for me, it started Friday. Zuri and I went to go buy a gift for the Briles family on behalf of the youth. We decided on a nice watch set for Chris, and a big frame for the family in general-- one of a back and white rose on a reflecting table, and we put the words on it, We will always love you, thank you.
Wednesday, I had found out that Julio wasn't going to have time to do the power point. So, Friday night, I stayed up till 2:30am working on it... and had problems attaching the song. It was late when I finally got to bed.
Got up at 9, to go get the frame for the pic, since it was made. Did other running that had to be done that day and no other. And still hadn't made the cakes for the Briles. Crazy. Came home, scarfed food, and get ready really quickly, while Zuri came over, and Julio too, to help me take down stuff. It's great that Julio has a car.We got down, and Karen showed up. She speaks English, so I showed her my recipe, explained it in Spanish, and set her to work making it, with Rosa as a helper. It was funny. Every 2 minutes, I was called down--- well, at least on the first one.We ended up having technical problems, but got them fixed.The praise and worship was good, as it was the last time that Aaron and Jessie played with them. Then we had the videos of thank yous, memories, and a surprise message from our friend Paco that we had filmed some 2 weeks beforehand. And a power point, that was kinda moving, I must say.They were crying (the Briles, that is) and the youth were wiping their eyes. Then we presented them with the gifts (well, 2 youth did), and boy was it teary.
The Briles then had time to share a few words, and wow. That was one of those things where they talked while crying and held the toilet paper with them. We gathered around them and prayed for them, and choked back the tears. Litle Carmen just sobbed.
Then, we said, ok, enough of crying. We played some of our favorite games and I went down and helped get food served with a couple of other youth. Julio ran things upstairs, meanwhile with fun videos or random things. Julio and Magno's mom had prepared taco meat, and I bought chips and 2 of the youth made the cakes. It was a group effort, really!It was pretty cool. Once all the food was served, I ran upstairs to check on things. Even though the evening was totally about the kids and the Briles (which is why I tried to stay behind scenes as much as possible), I was happy to get to see Chris open his gift. He didn't know I was watching, but he looked stunned at the gift, and looked as if he were really moved. I was so happy for that.
Anyway, it was a great evening, and I didn't get home till 9:45. I normally get home on Saturday nights at 8.
Sunday, the church did their thing. Chris shared, and there was a video of their time here, and some church members shared, and they were presented with a plaque (sp?) that commemorated their 9 years of service here. The pastor then asked if Chris would pray for him, and so they did. And then we had a big dinner, and more videos. Of course, they cried, but it wasn't nearly as much as the Saturday night. Even Vonda said that she didn't feel half as wiped out.
Chris, when talking to another youth who hadn't made it to the party, said that it was a very cool party and that everything went really well. I was very happy to hear that, because I wanted them to enjoy the night. And, because it was my first event (not really a big thing) that I did, with the youth, that the Briles weren't involved in-- and the youth did amazing, everyone enjoyed themselves, and even with very frustrating technical difficulties at the last minute, it was a great party.
This morning was moving day. Everyone was teary. Many kids came up and wrapped their arms around me and said, "At least you're staying with us." They had goals of kidnapping little Carmen so that the Briles would have to stay. And they also hung onto the side of the car. It was all in jest and of course, none of it happened. We were teary eyed, but we're all ok.I went by to see a recent disciplee of Vonda's to drop by a notebook Vonda had left for her. She was teary eyed, but strong in understanding the reason why they left. I gave her a big hug and she asked if it was ok, if she had any questions about the Scriptures, if she could ask me. Of course! I gave her a big hug.
So, please be praying for the kids here. The next couple of days, maybe weeks will be hard on them. Latin culture is very emotion-based, so we'll be dealing with that. Even so, I've heard from various youth, even through tears and just in plain conversation, that it'll be cool to have them come back and see all the changes that have taken place.It looks as if they've grabbed ahold of the vision.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Isn't Summer Supposed to be Slower?
Altotonga, Mexico -- Hey there people. What's up? How's your summer going? Mine is rainy, and slight 60ish. Well the last few days have been busy.
I've been attending ridiculously long graduations, studying, and writing a course on evangelism, that I just finished. And I managed to catch a cold, but I'm on the upper side of that now.We're starting that course tomorrow, which is about a month and a half early than I had first proposed.
Oh, and trying to get things set for my trip up north. Emailing, phone calls, writing notes to myself: don't forget _________.
It's just been over-all busy.Tomorrow I've gotta go to Xalapa to a meeting to try to get my money back from a business that hasn't given me my contacts and has refused to give me my money back after almost 3 months. So, I should probably get it back tomorrow (I hope), as I filed a complaint with the government. I love having a roommate that tells me these things. ha!Next Monday the Briles leave. That's pretty sad, but we have a cool program that the kids and I lined up for the family on Saturday. They'll enjoy that, I'm sure. The Briles are leaving their microwave to me. It's about as old as I am, but it works.
So, Monday night, I've decided to take a night off and watch a movie, drink a Dr. Pepper and have some popcorn.You remember how excited I was to get a coffee-maker? Yeah, well, this is a microwave. It's pretty cool. It's going to be soooo much easier to reheat left overs. Thursday, the band wants to practice at 6am. They've been wanting to do something different and they've been talking about it, and since this is their last opportunity, that's what we're doing. 6am, gosh I must love these kids. But anyhow, I told the kids they could practice as long as they wanted... I just do sound... so I'm going to take a book and study.
And next Tuesday, I'm going to Veracruz for a day to see Dale and Kathy. I'm pretty excited about that. I could use a break from the mountains. That, and hey, it's Dale and Kathy... and I like them!Apart from that, there's just the day to day stuff, working with the kids, planning and preparing, and stuff.So, as I have to get up again in about 6 hours, I should probably get to bed... Be seeing ya'll soon!
I've been attending ridiculously long graduations, studying, and writing a course on evangelism, that I just finished. And I managed to catch a cold, but I'm on the upper side of that now.We're starting that course tomorrow, which is about a month and a half early than I had first proposed.
Oh, and trying to get things set for my trip up north. Emailing, phone calls, writing notes to myself: don't forget _________.
It's just been over-all busy.Tomorrow I've gotta go to Xalapa to a meeting to try to get my money back from a business that hasn't given me my contacts and has refused to give me my money back after almost 3 months. So, I should probably get it back tomorrow (I hope), as I filed a complaint with the government. I love having a roommate that tells me these things. ha!Next Monday the Briles leave. That's pretty sad, but we have a cool program that the kids and I lined up for the family on Saturday. They'll enjoy that, I'm sure. The Briles are leaving their microwave to me. It's about as old as I am, but it works.
So, Monday night, I've decided to take a night off and watch a movie, drink a Dr. Pepper and have some popcorn.You remember how excited I was to get a coffee-maker? Yeah, well, this is a microwave. It's pretty cool. It's going to be soooo much easier to reheat left overs. Thursday, the band wants to practice at 6am. They've been wanting to do something different and they've been talking about it, and since this is their last opportunity, that's what we're doing. 6am, gosh I must love these kids. But anyhow, I told the kids they could practice as long as they wanted... I just do sound... so I'm going to take a book and study.
And next Tuesday, I'm going to Veracruz for a day to see Dale and Kathy. I'm pretty excited about that. I could use a break from the mountains. That, and hey, it's Dale and Kathy... and I like them!Apart from that, there's just the day to day stuff, working with the kids, planning and preparing, and stuff.So, as I have to get up again in about 6 hours, I should probably get to bed... Be seeing ya'll soon!
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
I'm a REAL missionary!
Altotonga, Mexico -- Hey there friends!How are you?
Well, first let me say that yesterday I received my two-year evaluation and have completed the training program. So, as of yesterday, I'm a real missionary! Or rather, not in training anymore. However, I continue to learn and grow everyday. This does not make me all-knowing, haha.
So, last Saturday, I felt really moved of God to speak on the name of our building, Revolution. I really feel God wants to change, revolutionize and spark new life in the teens here. I really feel moved of that. So, I'm watching the horizons to see the rain cloud... not literally, however-- because they're always here.
This week is "Graduation Week", in which I'll go to about... 3 or 4 graduations, that are incredibly long. But, the kids will look for you-- and I'm proud of them for accomplishing this in their lives-- one out of 5 finishes high school here. And then, there's one graduation dinner tjat I've been invited to.
Next week, I'm starting a series with the core group of kids on focused and effective evangelism. I'm excited, though a little cramped for time in putting it all together. We're going to start at the beginning-- our salvation itself, what it means, the spirit-filled life, and Christ's command for us to evangelize and proclaim His message to everyone-- not just specific people. Not to give witness is to be disobedient. We are His witnesses. And after I get back from itineration up north, I'll start a course on discipleship-- how to disciple someone. For this, I already have material. So, that will not be too difficult.
I would just like to say how much I love these kids. They are so special, and I am honored to serve them.The Briles are moving in less than 2 weeks. It's weird to see their house get so empty. I met with the kids, I'm sorry-- teens-- on Sunday morning while ya'll were are church to plan the last Saturday that the Briles will be with us. It was a good planning session, complete with coffee and bread... and spastic 13-18 yr olds. That evening, we went to a meeting in Teteles, which is about a half-hour or so outside of Teziutlan.. so it was about an hour, or a little over, long trip. It was an outside meeting-- it wasn't too incredibly cold... maybe about 55-60. Definitely jacket-worthy. We got there at 4:30, and it started at 6. Typical. I think it was actually supposed to start at 5. And it went until 11pm. We were expecting to be back around 10 at the latest. But it was good. I got lost in some of the firey-preaching (not like Hell-fire... but rather... very passionate preaching) but that was because of the microfones-- that's always been a little tricky for me. And what did they preach on? Avivamiento-- or Re-awakening-- my translation falters at this moment to choose the correct word-- but anyhow, in other words-- Revolution. Spiritual revolution. And our good friend Paco was there. He had a really good message, and I wish I could put "really" in italics. I may have to use some of it... ;)Anyhow, more news to come later. I hope you guys are doing super and having great summer vacations with fam and friends. I'll be seeing you guys in August!
Prayer focus for this month: Transition/Revival!!!!!
Well, first let me say that yesterday I received my two-year evaluation and have completed the training program. So, as of yesterday, I'm a real missionary! Or rather, not in training anymore. However, I continue to learn and grow everyday. This does not make me all-knowing, haha.
So, last Saturday, I felt really moved of God to speak on the name of our building, Revolution. I really feel God wants to change, revolutionize and spark new life in the teens here. I really feel moved of that. So, I'm watching the horizons to see the rain cloud... not literally, however-- because they're always here.
This week is "Graduation Week", in which I'll go to about... 3 or 4 graduations, that are incredibly long. But, the kids will look for you-- and I'm proud of them for accomplishing this in their lives-- one out of 5 finishes high school here. And then, there's one graduation dinner tjat I've been invited to.
Next week, I'm starting a series with the core group of kids on focused and effective evangelism. I'm excited, though a little cramped for time in putting it all together. We're going to start at the beginning-- our salvation itself, what it means, the spirit-filled life, and Christ's command for us to evangelize and proclaim His message to everyone-- not just specific people. Not to give witness is to be disobedient. We are His witnesses. And after I get back from itineration up north, I'll start a course on discipleship-- how to disciple someone. For this, I already have material. So, that will not be too difficult.
I would just like to say how much I love these kids. They are so special, and I am honored to serve them.The Briles are moving in less than 2 weeks. It's weird to see their house get so empty. I met with the kids, I'm sorry-- teens-- on Sunday morning while ya'll were are church to plan the last Saturday that the Briles will be with us. It was a good planning session, complete with coffee and bread... and spastic 13-18 yr olds. That evening, we went to a meeting in Teteles, which is about a half-hour or so outside of Teziutlan.. so it was about an hour, or a little over, long trip. It was an outside meeting-- it wasn't too incredibly cold... maybe about 55-60. Definitely jacket-worthy. We got there at 4:30, and it started at 6. Typical. I think it was actually supposed to start at 5. And it went until 11pm. We were expecting to be back around 10 at the latest. But it was good. I got lost in some of the firey-preaching (not like Hell-fire... but rather... very passionate preaching) but that was because of the microfones-- that's always been a little tricky for me. And what did they preach on? Avivamiento-- or Re-awakening-- my translation falters at this moment to choose the correct word-- but anyhow, in other words-- Revolution. Spiritual revolution. And our good friend Paco was there. He had a really good message, and I wish I could put "really" in italics. I may have to use some of it... ;)Anyhow, more news to come later. I hope you guys are doing super and having great summer vacations with fam and friends. I'll be seeing you guys in August!
Prayer focus for this month: Transition/Revival!!!!!
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