HPUMCstudents

Communication for Spring Break Mission San Antonio 2012

2012-02-20T14:07:00.000-08:00

While we are in San Antonio we want to keep you as updated and informed as possible. We’ve designed several avenues for you to access that information as easily as possible while we are away; Twitter, HPUMC Youth website, our Blog, and our Facebook page. Please read below for more information.

Twitter- If you are on twitter, please follow @HPUMCYouth. If you want to get an account, head to twitter.com, signup for an account, and choose to follow us. Twitter is essentially a mini-blog or mini message board. This is where in 140 characters/letters or less you can say whatever you want. We will use this to post thoughts from the day, photos, and videos. You can access this from both your computer or if you have a smart phone. The youth staff is all on twitter, so if you would like to follow us we are;

Stephen Lohoefer- @StephenLohoefer

Phil Dieke- @PhilDieke

Bill Gepford- @BillGepford

Andrew Beard- @Hasabeard

Hillary Barnard- @HillBarnard

If you have no interest in getting a twitter account, our twitter feed/posts will be on our website, our facebook, and our blog. You can also just go to twitter.com/hpumcyouth and see our twitter feed without logging in or getting an account. When we do twitter updates, we will tag our tweets with #HPFearFactor. So if you tweet something about the trip, please tag it with #HPFearFactor as well.

HPUMC Youth website- HPUMCYouth.org. You can access this by using the URL or you can navigate there through the HPUMC.org website. On the homepage we have a twitter feed that will update every time we tweet something. As well on the youth page you can access the HPUMC Youth Blog. We will probably be having youth updating this throughout the trip.

Blog- hpumcstudents.blogspot.com. This is the website that you are currently on...so somehow you got here before, but here is what we'll be putting on this site. We’ll have youth post thoughts from the day and possibly photos and videos. With inconsistent Internet connection, this will potentially be the least updated form of communication. The blog can be accessed from a computer or a smart phone. There are several ways to access the blog; type in the URL listed above, go to the youth website and click “the blog” link under the video on the right side of the homepage, or scan the QR code below for quick access to a mobile version for your smart phone.

Facebook- www.facebook.com/hpumcstudents. Our facebook page will have our twitter feed as well as photos and videos from our trip. You can access this by going to the URL listed above, from our website, or just typing in “hpumc students” in the facebook search. You will need to “like” our page to have it show on your news feed.

We hope you will take advantage of these opportunities to see what we are up to while we are gone. Please let us know if you have any questions and feel free to pass this information to family and friends so they can stay updated on our trip as well.

Swishin' for Mission Donors Needed!

2012-01-31T13:03:00.000-08:00

Dear HPUMC Youth Families and Friends!

We are excited to announce our upcoming Swishin' for Mission basketball tournament. It is a great event we host annually and this year we need your help!

Swishin' for Mission is a basketball tournament that raises funds for HPUMC’s local and international youth missions – it is our only fundraiser for the year, which enables our youth to serve both our local community and the world at large. With your help, last year we were able to send over 400 youth on our mission trips! Whether you can donate $5 or $50,000 – we need your help! Below you will find listed the donation levels and their corresponding recognition for you or your business.

Silver Sponsors $500 - $1,000 Names/company listed on t-shirts.

Gold Sponsors $1,001 - $2,500 Names and Logo on t-shirts.

Platinum Sponsors $2,501 + All of the above and a banner in the gym.

Here are some of the things our youth have to say about these experiences:

“Mission trips are life changing in unspeakable ways…you are constantly building upon your relationship with God, and the people around you. Giving back to the people that are less fortunate than we are really allows you to grow as a person and a Christian. Without mission trips, I have no clue where my faith would be.” - Blakely Lott

“God doesn't call us to be comfortable he calls us to love and be loved. When you get outside your comfort zone to love a stranger you truly witness God's kingdom” – Lauren Bagwell

The impact these mission opportunities have in the lives of our youth is undeniable, but we want all youth to have access to these same experiences and your financial gift allows us to make that possible.

We need individuals, families, organizations, or companies that will support our youth in this endeavor by donating to Swishin' for Mission.

Your support is vital and can be made out to Highland Park United Methodist Church 3300

Mockingbird Lane, Dallas, Texas 75205

Attn: Lucy McDaniel, or you can donate online - http://www.hpumc.org/pages/youth-donate-hpumc-students

We sincerely appreciate your consideration and we thank you for helping these youth serve those in need.

Stephen Lohoefer

Director of Youth Ministries

Swishin' For Mission

2012-01-23T09:52:00.000-08:00

Time to Register for . . .

SWISHIN’ FOR MISSION

24th Annual 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament

Thursday – Sunday, February 23-26

The Youth Department’s 24th annual Swishin’ for Mission is a 3 on 3 basketball tournament for 3rd through 8thgraders which is held at the Biggers Building. Teams are gender and grade specific. This event is an outreach into the community and fundraiser for our youth. The proceeds from this event help underwrite our spring break and summer mission trips.

$120 per team

Contact Lucy McDaniel with questions

214.523.2233

mcdaniel@hpumc.org

To get more information and team registration:

http://www.hpumcyouth.org/swishin

Summer Mission Trip

2012-01-12T09:00:00.000-08:00

The Youth department is so excited to announce that for our Summer Mission Trip we are headed to............ Pensacola, Florida!

We are fired up about going to Pensacola, as it is going to be a great trip – West Pensacola has twice the poverty rate of the rest of Florida, so we will stay busy fixing houses and rebuilding lives. On our free days, we will head to the beautiful beaches for some fun in the sun!

Here’s a snapshot of the details:

Dates: June 10-16

Cost: January 1 - March 27: $749; March 28 - May 3: $799; May 4 - June 1: $850

Who: Anyone is welcome! Grades 6 - 12 (that does include graduating seniors) – non-members are always welcome, so bring your friends!

Parent Meeting Dates: Mandatory parent meetings will be on Tuesday, May 8 at 6pm, and Monday, May 14 at 6pm in the Youth Basement

– A parent or legal guardian must attend one meeting!

Don’t forget! This is a great trip to invite your friends on, especially if they have never been on a mission trip before!

Your invitation could be the difference in their life!

T's Weekly Thought: I Love You

2012-01-10T07:59:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone!

This last week I received a text message from a dear friend of mine whose husband is a well known coach. She had read a not so nice article about her husband in the paper. My heart sank as I thought how difficult this would be. I mean, if I give a bad thought or sermon - people may talk about it - but you're not going to read it in the paper!

I was talking about it with Topher - telling him how upset this stuff makes me. I mean who does the media think they are! This guy is terrific! And he has a FAMILY. But the media doesn't care about that. They just have a story to tell, and by gosh, they are going to tell it. Regardless of how it personally might affect someone. His/her family. Friends.

I couldn't help but think how we all might be a little more like the media than we would like to admit. How quick we are to judge. Pounce on someone. Someone looks different, acts different. Doesn't wear the "right" clothes. Is socially awkward. Someone makes a bad decision. And BAM! we are all right there - ready to talk about it. "Put it in the headlines". Sometimes just not leaving the kind of room we should for grace, understanding, love.

The other day a friend of mine sent me the following quote:

"Admit Something:

Everyone you see, you say to them, "Love me."

Of course you do no do this out loud, otherwise someone would call the cops.

Still, though, think about this, this great pull in us to connect.

Why not become the one who lives with a full moon in each eye that is always saying,

with that sweet moon language,

what every other eye in this world is dying to hear."

Gosh, I just loved it. Because isn't it so true? I mean when it comes right down to it - don't we all just want to be loved. Honestly - I don't care who you are. How popular, confident, nerdy, alone you are. Regardless of the heirs we try to put on or the masks we wear. Whether you know it or not. EVERYONE - every single one of us is DYING to be loved.

The youth have spent the last 6+ years making fun of me because I always seem to talk about love. Inevitably every Sunday or Wednesday somebody jokingly says,"What are you talking about today/tonight? Oh wait, let me guess, LOVE?" Ha ha ha ha ha!

Honestly, I think I could preach, write weekly thoughts, talk about love every day for the rest of my life and people would still get it wrong. I would still get it wrong.

Why is it so dang hard to just LOVE? Especially when it's the very thing we are all dying to be........loved.

As I write my last weekly thought to you as your Youth Director - my greatest prayer is that you have felt my love for you. I have certainly been far from perfect over my tenure here - but the one thing I actually tried really hard to get right is to love you.

One of the greatest things our Savior taught us is that nothing can separate us from love. Nothing. Not distance. Not death. When you love someone - it's forever. And that's certainly how I feel about my love for you.

Thank you for blessing me with the opportunity to serve you these last few years. I am forever changed, forever better because of my time spent with you.

Never ever forget........

I love you. Always will.

Great News at HPUMC for Cornerstone and Youth

2012-01-09T12:10:00.000-08:00

As you may have seen in a recent email or you heard yesterday at Thrive, we have very exciting news happening in Cornerstone and in the Youth department. Below is a copy of the email sent out.

I am so pleased to announce the following staff promotions within our HPUMC family. Effective January 15th, Tova Sido will move into Cornerstone as the Cornerstone Campus Pastor. Given the rate of growth in Cornerstone, I believe it is vital to have great visionary leadership in place to serve the congregation and plan for the future. Tova has demonstrated extraordinary leadership in her present role as Director of Youth Ministry, and we are blessed to have her accept the opportunity to serve the greater church. As Campus Pastor, Tova will direct the Cornerstone staff, plan and implement mid-week programming, and coordinate discipleship for the Cornerstone community. I will continue as the lead preacher in all Cornerstone worship services.

Along with this transition, Stephen Lohoefer will step into a new role as Director of Youth Ministry. Stephen has been on the youth staff for six years as Youth Worship Coordinator, and he has demonstrated great leadership, innovation, and relational presence in the department. He has a bright future in ministry, and we are lucky to have him on staff and eager to assume the new role. We have an incredibly talented and gifted staff here at HPUMC, and it is a joy to work alongside them as they fulfill God’s call upon their lives. I hope you will take a minute to congratulate each on their new assignment.

Sincerely,

Paul Rasmussen

Dear Youth and Families -

I can't begin to tell you how excited I am about the opportunity to be named the Campus Pastor to Cornerstone. I am equally excited that Stephen has been named the new Director of Youth Ministry for our church. Honestly, we are the luckiest to have someone so incredibly talented to serve as our leader.

As a leader in our Youth Ministry for over 6 years now, I have been incredibly blessed - by the staff, the parents, the church.....and most especially, the youth. For years you have been my family - my blessing. An incredible gift to me. I will never, ever take for granted or forget the time that God blessed me with each one of you.

The ONLY way I can walk away from this position without a flood of tears and immense sadness is two fold -

1. I am moving to Cornerstone - best Contemporary Worship service ever. Right next door.

2. Stephen, Phil, Hillary, Bill, Lucy and Andrew have GOT THIS.

I have NEVER felt more confident in our staff- they are the best I have ever seen - our youth, our volunteers, our families. You are in the best hands ever.......and I know- without a doubt - that God is watching over and blessing us along this path.

Please know that I am never far away.

I love you. Always will.

T's Weekly Thought: LIVE!

2011-12-24T10:55:00.000-08:00

As you know, I spend a lot of time talking about my kids - all the wonderful life lessons they teach me. Most of the time it's because they do cute or sweet things........today I didn't get so lucky.

Today I had a car full - taking and dropping kids off. One of my best friends crawled in the back of my Yukon and immediately pipes up, "Uh.....T, do you know that there is writing back here on your seat? lt looks like someone took a marker to your seat."

No actually, I did NOT know that one of my kids took a sharpie to my leather seat.

This is where the Lord's gift of deep breaths comes in REAL handy.

Shortly after, they got out of my car and headed to sports camp at Biggers. My words were few. They got "the eye" from me - and that was enough for them to know that I wasn't happy - and we would have "the talk" later.

Later today I headed to Biggers to get a workout in before I had to pick them up. From the 3rd floor of the building I could look over the gym where the 3 of them were enjoying sports camp. They caught my eye - and immediately were working diligently to make "everything okay" - blowing kisses, hugs, waving incessantly. I thought to myself - Oh man they are WORKING ME! Trying so hard to make up for the damage done - wanting to be forgiven - back in good graces......for everything to be "okay".

Gosh - in that moment I so sympathized with them. I remember being a little kid and doing something super stupid - getting in to trouble and just desperately wanting for my parents to stop being mad at me. To please just forgive me and move past that yucky feeling of being "in trouble".

Sometimes I don't know whether that feeling is a curse or a blessing. And honestly, I'd love to tell you that one day you'll never have to worry about that feeling again - that you'll stop doing stupid stuff- making bad choices.....live without any regrets.....but here's the hard truth -

You're entire life you will need forgiveness. You're whole life you will need the grace that Jesus taught us to give.

And receive.

I saw something in my children today that is all too familiar in myself. I totally mess up and can't help but wonder-

Am I worth being forgiven?

Will they still love me?

Of course I am. Of course my children are. And of course you are.

But why is that so incredibly difficult to believe?

I think that Jesus' grace is one of the most beautiful things about him. One of those rare qualities that leaves us scratching our heads and saying things like "Really? Are you SURE you still love me? Are you positive I still have value? Even after I did THAT?"

YES. You do.

Jesus himself in Matthew 26 said, "This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins."

Jesus did what He did so we could walk with our back straight and our head high. So we could KNOW that yes, we do make mistakes - we write on our mom's Yukon leather seats with Sharpies - and are STILL worthy of His love. STILL worth forgiving. STILL have value.

I think sometimes in life it's a whole lot easier to look at our past, our mistakes - as some sort excuse for why we aren't living. Why we can't change. That somehow we are destined for this life of "failure" and sin because well, it's what we've always done. We don't believe we are worth more than our sin.

You wanna know something........that's just a sad lie. Because God didn't send His son to die on a cross for you to resign. Give up.

Jesus came to give each one of us hope. Forgiveness. Redemption. And not just once -but again and again and again.

I don't know what you are hanging on to. What sin keeps you from fully living. What failure has lied to you....

Here's what I know. Christ came. He lived a perfect life. He showed us how to live and to love. And then died for our sins. Three days later He rose from the dead - ascended in to heaven - and dwells with our eternal God where WE -ME AND YOU - can and will return one day.

YOU are worthy of that gift. YOU were worth dying for. YOU are worth forgiving. and YOU are worth loving.

PERIOD.

Now........go live that life!! Stop making excuses and live - KNOWING that you are of worth, value, love, forgiveness.

I love you. Always will.

T's Weekly Thought: Already Been Given

2011-12-18T20:10:00.000-08:00

This past week I had an incredibly special treat. My younger sister received a masters degree - and so my entire family (brother, 2 sisters, and dad) were all together for the weekend. It was simply the best. I love my brother, sisters and dad so much. Time with them is like winning the lottery. I was especially lucky to steal a few moments with my brother. Saturday morning we woke up early and went for a jog together. In that 40 minutes I felt nothing but love. We had such a great talk about the holy spirit- and how both of us in so many ways had felt God's love for us. We talked about the different ways God had revealed himself to us. Through answered prayers, other people, comfort, love.

Gosh - God is so incredibly good. His love for us is so real. I am reminded often - whether through a personal experience, or of those around me - that God REALLY does know us. He is so incredibly aware of us. Our needs. Our desires. Our weaknesses. And I believe, more than anything, that it is His desire for us to believe in Him. For us to believe that He really DOES care. Really does know. Really does bless..........even in those darkest, saddest, loneliest moments. Our Savior stands - waiting to hear our prayers and bless us in and through those moments.

Tonight as I was cleaning out an old bookcase I found a journal I kept shortly after my daughter Louisa passed away. I wrote, "Last night I had a dream. Louisa was in my dream. I don't remember what happened - but I know I saw her - and as I looked at her a song was playing in the background -

The smile on your face lets me know that you need me

There's a truth in your eyes saying you'll never leave me

The touch of your hand says you'll catch me whenever I fall

You say it best, when you say nothing at all."

I just had to sit down for a minute......gather myself as I was reminded of God's great love. Again.

Christ isn't physically here - but He promised us before He left that while He was going - we would never be alone. The power of the Holy Spirit is so real. That spirit blesses us and reminds us often that our God would never ever leave us to do this life alone. How could we??

My prayer this Christmas season is that Christ's greatest gift - His love - will permeate your heart. Your life. Your home. That you will be reminded this season that He DOES know you. He loves you. His desire is for you to feel and know that love. And while He isn't here physically, his Holy Spirit can and will bless you through precious feelings, other people, comfort, love........peace.

May Christ's Holy Spirit reign throughout your holiday and remind you that the greatest gift has already been given.......the life and love of our Saviour, Jesus Christ.

Merry Christmas.

I love you. Always will.

Race To Nowhere: Don't Miss Our Unbelievable Panel

2011-12-17T08:35:00.000-08:00

Dear Youth Families -

A couple of months ago our church hosted a viewing and panel discussion of the film, The Race To Nowhere. I was so personally moved by this film that I felt like we had to do more. This film addresses the pressure on kids today to keep up - and the never ending "race to nowhere".

On Sunday, January 8, HPUMC Youth Ministry will be hosting a second viewing of this film with a panel discussion to follow that includes:

Dan Myers, M.D., author of Biblical Parenting
Richard Bohac, Assistant Principal of Highland Park Middle School
Cathie Looney, Certified Reality Therapist and acclaimed national speaker
Tova Sido, Director of Youth Ministry, HPUMC
Candace Winslow, Interim Director of Children's Ministry, HPUMC

I am so excited to have so many incredible, relevant people on our panel. It's going to be a great event - something you don't want to miss.    Please put this date on your calendar. Then make sure your whole family can be there. Then invite 3 families you know.

It's just that important.

See you there!!

Tova

http://www.hpumc.org/racetonowhere

T's Weekly Thought: Prayer

2011-12-13T08:21:00.000-08:00

I have had something on my mind a lot lately. Prayer.

Honestly, I don't know how people in this world get along without it. Whether I am experiencing exceptionally good or bad times-I am all over prayer. In the bad times I need help, and in the good times.......I can't help but say thank you - and please please please........let it last.

I remember when I was about 8, I was visiting my aunt in Florida. Flying on a plane all by myself. I prayed and prayed and prayed for weeks before that I would sit by someone who was nice - and there wouldn't be any turbulence during the flight. The day finally came for me to board that plane. I sat next to a girl my age who happened to be flying alone too. Turbulence free, we sat there and played cards and sipped on Sprite the entire flight. I couldn't have been happier. I knew God had answered my prayers. And I was His forever. I believed that He knew me, He loved me, that I was His child that He really did care about.

Tonight I was at the Festival of Carols at our church. The youth choir sang the most beautiful song......Will We Know Him? It's a beautiful song that talks about the birth of Christ. Here is this King....Jesus, who was born. And even though He is born in lowly manger, when we see the star - and this tiny little baby - will we know Him when He comes?

I love that song. I love how humble Christ was. How sweet and unassuming He came. How precious and beautiful He lived......and how courageous and selfless he died. It's amazing how little He required - and yet how impactful He was. I mean think about it - this one beautiful person changed everything for everyone for forever.

I couldn't help hearing that song tonight, asking myself the same question........Would I know Him? If Christ was here - if He came and stood before me - walk among us - Would I know?

Would you?

I think it's easy to think about "back then". I mean OF COURSE if I was alive "back then" - when Christ was here - I would know Him. I would follow him. I wouldn't deny him. You would too. Right???

Really? Would I? Would you?

How would we know that it's REALLY Him? That He was worth listening to? Knowing? Following?

Back to prayer.......

It seems to me that one of the precious gifts that Christ gave us to KNOW him is through prayer. I believe with everything inside me that this is truly a way to KNOW that Christ is there. That He listens, cares, answers.

I think a lot of us think we know Christ, want to know Christ, hope to know Christ - but how many of us PRAY to know Christ. Beg for His presence in our lives. ASK for Him to help us along our way. Plead for His spirit to help us, guide our path.

Because of your relationship with Christ - Would you know Him if He came? Would you fall to your knees like the wise men? Bringing gifts for the King that came as a poor baby in a barn??

I hope I would. I hope that my life reflects a desire to know Christ. I would hope that because of my persistent reflection and love for Christ that if He came again - regardless of where or how - that I would know Him. Worship Him. Cry out to Him.

Prayer is such a gift. It is such a necessary gift that I feel we often miss. Miss an opportunity to see God in so many beautiful ways........

My gosh He loves us. And believe it or not, He really knows you and really loves you. I have to believe that He desires for us to know and love Him in the same way. I think that prayer is a gift He gave us to fill that desire. To bless us in unbelievable ways. Help us in this crazy world along our unpredictable paths.

I encourage you to use it. Take advantage of this precious precious gift our Savior gave us. Prayer WILL change your faith. WILL bring you more peace. WILL help you see your Savior in your life - blessing you along your path.

I have experienced it in my own life. I have seen Christ move mountains in my life. No question I have seen Him.

I desperately pray for you to believe that Christ wants the same in your life. For you to.......know Him.

I love you. Always will.

Help Us Congratulate Clayton Small

2011-12-06T10:56:00.001-08:00

Dear HPUMC Youth and Families -

I know many of you over the last few years have been incredibly blessed by our fabulous part-time staff Clayton Small. Clayton has truly been a gift to our ministry.

Sadly, for us, Clayton will be graduating from Dallas Baptist University this December and has taken a full time job in Kansas City to be a Jr. High youth minister. This is a great opportunity for Clayton - and his new wife-to-be in the coming year! And while we wish him all the luck, love and blessings - we can't help but be incredibly sad to lose one of the greatest ministers ever to be a part of this ministry. Clayton came here as a freshman in college - wide eyed and green as they come! Almost 4 years later, he will leave a young man - one of the best I have ever know.

This week is Clayton's last week. He will be preaching this Wednesday at WOW and this Sunday at THRIVE - and would love the opportunity to say good-bye to all of you who can make it. I know he would also be blessed by your words of love, gratitude and encouragement. His email is smallc@hpumc.org.

Clayton, thank you - You have been an incredible gift and blessing to this ministry and especially to this staff. We love you. Wish you the best of luck.....and hope you know you always have a home here with us.

God bless you forever and always.

Tova

T's Weekly Thought: Today

2011-12-06T09:44:00.001-08:00

This past weekend I went to a Christmas party where I ran into a friend I haven't seen in a while. As we chatted and caught up I asked her how her children were doing. She answered, "Ya know....today was a good day." I absolutely loved that answer.

Today was a good day.

I wish when I woke up I could think - just do good TODAY. Be kind today. Be a great mom - just for today. I wish I could look at my life in "today" language.

I think that's a super difficult thing to do. I put an inordinate amount of pressure on myself to not just be mediocre - but instead to be darn near perfect. Now - I fail a lot of the time - but it certainly doesn't mean I am not trying. And so when I break that down and think - okay - hopefully I am going to live for many more years.......how am I going to achieve so much for so long? How can I possibly work out, do yoga, jog for the REST of my life? How can I go on being patient with my kids forever? How can I possibly achieve so much as a youth minister for much longer?

It can be incredibly overwhelming.

And let's be honest. Ya'll are A LOT younger than me. You have a lot more years ahead of you than I do. I can't imagine the pressure to look perfect, make perfect grades, be the perfect son, daughter, sister, brother, friend. To move WAY beyond mediocrity in sports, playing instruments, etc, etc etc. I mean I see the pace you have to keep to "keep up" (which is just gives me a stomach ache to write about - I can't imagine the pressure of actually living it!) - it's mind boggling. And I have to imagine that over time - that pressure day in and day out takes a toll. Everybody's worried about the grades you're getting, the colleges you will apply to, who will accept you, where will you go, will you make the team, do you have enough friends, money, clothes, technology?

So.....HOW exactly do we do it?

The answer.........You just do it - Today.

Just today. And then tomorrow, do it....tomorrow. Without worrying about it....Today.

Jesus hit this spot on when he told us - "Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."

Over the holidays (or just life) it is so incredibly easy to get overwhelmed. You have finals, shopping, cooking, guests......finals, shopping, cooking and guests again. It can be super stressful. I think if we take the time to focus on just TODAY - I think it might help. It allows us to let yesterday go - and not worry about what tomorrow will bring. According to Jesus, today has enough trouble of its own. ; )

Take a deep breath. The only thing you have to do today.....is today.

I love you. Always will.

T's Weekly Thought: What A Gift

2011-11-29T14:43:00.001-08:00

com·pas·sion (km-pshn): Deep awareness of the suffering of another coupled with the wish to relieve it.

Last week after the long weekend - great holiday, I was tired. We had traveled from St. Louis all day Saturday - and after 10.5 hours in the car - I was ready to get out - just have a little bit of space. As I put my kids to bed - my patience waned. We quickly said a prayer, I blew kisses and said good night and swiftly shut the door. As I shut the door I heard Anna-Prin say, "Geez, she didn't even give us kisses." I opened the door, and said, "You know what guys, I'm sorry. I am super cranky tonight. I'm tired. Haven't been what you deserve tonight. You come home from vacation and just get dinner and get to go to bed. I come home - need to sweep, clean up, unpack, do mounds of laundry. Sometimes mom just wants someone to feed her dinner and put her to bed. But that's not your fault - and so I am sorry I was cranky tonight. You deserved better from me."

Carter chimes in, "Mom, let's trade. We will get up and sweep and unpack and do laundry and you go to bed. Let us help."

I went to give them all proper kisses and told them how much I loved them.

I have learned from a great counselor that ultimately, we all just want to be understood. Heard. For someone to have compassion.

Compassion is hard. Compassion is hard because it's so much easier to NOT understand. To NOT help. To NOT say I'm sorry. To let pride win. We would rather be right than have compassion.

When someone takes the time to show compassion - to understand what you might be going through, YOUR side of the story, your life - my gosh, doesn't that feel good? When someone asks you how you are doing - and really cares about the answer.

I think compassion is one of the greatest gifts we can give to each other. And frankly, I don't think people have to be suffering in order for us to give it to them. I think we can just have more compassion.

Every single person has a story. Every single person is going through something. Big or small - we all are. We are ALL worried about something, someone. We all feel insecure about one thing or another. We all feel inadequate. Overwhelmed at times. What if someone showed you compassion for all those things. And even better -what if you did for them.

Have you ever considered what it's REALLY like to be your dad? Mom? Sibling? Special needs? Abused? Addicted? Lose someone you love? Have a learning disability? Depressed? Have serious money problems? A teenager?

I promise you, you know people who are going through something, whether you know it or not.

Maybe if we looked on each other with a little more compassion, we would have better relationships. Trust each other more. Be more honest about our needs - and be more willing to let others help.

Your compassion can be an incredible gift to someone who isn't expecting it. My son melted me. In that moment, I was understood - heard - someone reached out instead of getting angry, hurt, taking something personal. Gosh, that was nice.

Each one of us has the ability to be compassionate. To give that gift to someone who needs it today. Reach out to someone. Lighten their burden. Try to see and understand where they might be coming from..........love them, in spite of them.

What a gift your compassion could be.

I love you. Always will.

T's Weekly Thought: Every Last One

2011-11-22T08:06:00.001-08:00

Last Friday I was at Preston Hollow Elementary where I was invited to a nice lunch by the Principal of the school. It was a lovely lunch given in honor of the teachers and volunteers at the school. As we sat there eating, the principal stood to say a few words about his love for the school, learning, the children, his staff......and the gratitude he felt to work in such a wonderful school - a school that you know is different, just by walking the halls. He got a little choked up. And frankly, so did I. After a beautiful prayer, we all sat and enjoyed this really nice meal together.

As I walked out of that school that day, I was so grateful. Grateful that my kids go to such a great school. With such great teachers. Have made such great friends. And are led by such a Godly man as their Principal.

Here's the really funny part. Or maybe not so funny.....

A little over a year and a half ago I went to visit that school as a "potential" place for my kiddos to go when they arrived here from Ghana. When I went to the school I sat down with the counselor and listened as she proudly told me all about Preston Hollow Elementary. I listened, was gracious - but as I walked out, called my husband and immediately said, "NOPE!" There is no way they are going to that school. It is WAY too diverse, too many kids are bused in, we don't know what kind of homes these kids are from, etc. etc. etc.

You can imagine.

I made RIDICULOUS judgments (the very ones I preach to YOU to stop making) about these kids, their families, their homes. And immediately put myself, my family, my children in "another category". This school was nice for "them" - but not so much for me.

Funny how life works out.

Our kids arrived last summer - about 2 weeks before school started. There were no choices or "alternatives". Private schools weren't taking applications 2 weeks before school started - and frankly, it just wasn't an option.

So there I was, first day of school, pulling in to Preston Hollow Elementary. With all my

judgment. All my assumptions.

YUK.

Long story short. I was dead wrong. I was so off the mark about "that school" and "those bused in kids" and "those families", etc. etc. And shame on me for ever even thinking in those terms. In those ways.

Every single Friday now I volunteer at my kid’s school. Yep. I actually CHOOSE to spend my day off there volunteering at "that school" serving lunch and picking up trash after "those kids". And let me tell you something, I love it. I absolutely love it. They are the cutest, sweetest, kindest - most humble kids I have ever met. And wow are they cool. I love their families. I love their parents. I love the sweet community.

My gosh we are sad, silly people sometimes. I mean, honestly, how many more times do I have to hear "we are all created in the image of God" to actually BELIEVE that we are ALL created in the image of God? And how limiting it is to our life and the potential we have to love to place judgments on people that just don't deserve it?

I am so grateful that God continues to teach me - or maybe that through His love, I am reminded of a better way. While I am truly ashamed of my judgment, I walk away grateful. Grateful to be reminded that making judgments on people we really know nothing about is nothing short of unkind. Real unkind actually. There should be little room in our hearts for them. Every single one of God's beautiful creatures deserves a chance.

Every last one.

I love you. Always will.

T's Weekly Thought: Jesus at the Finish

2011-11-15T13:11:00.001-08:00

Sunday was really awesome.

A bunch of people who love Tom Lueder and the Lueder family got together to run for DFW Purple Stride to raise money and awareness for pancreatic cancer. Most of you know Tom passed away due to the disease less than a year ago. So Sunday was awesome.

Sunday was also sad.

As I walked the 5k - I couldn't help but look around at all the signs on people's backs.....

Running in memory of: my friend, my aunt, my brother, my daddy.

Those signs were tough. And even though I didn't know the people, my heart still went out to them - for what they and their loved ones were going through. The toughest one for me was the one on Tom's brothers back. It simply said, "My brother".

As we were driving home I couldn't help but tell my kids how proud I was of them - and grateful that they tried so hard for Tom. Carter said, "Mom, he was there. And he won the race with the angels carrying him." We were at a light and I turned around from the front seat of my car to tell Carter that I thought he was exactly right. There was no doubt that Tom was there and had won the race. Carter said, "Of course he won mom - he was running to Jesus at the finish!"

There is no doubt in my mind that Jesus was at the finish line. And not just for the race Sunday. But for the race Tom ran his whole life. Tom ran every single day of his life. And even though a disease took his body, it did not take his spirit - that no doubt, ran to our Savior the day he left this earth.

I find enormous comfort in Carter's words.

And.........in the words of Isaiah where it says, "But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint."

The only sure thing in this life is death. And while that can be a very scary thought - and incredibly sad - our hope and our joy and our peace in the midst of it all is that on that day, we WILL find new strength. We will soar on wings like eagles. And we will run. And for those who remain faithful, our Savior will be waiting with open arms to welcome us home.

Eternal life is a precious gift our Savior gave us. To one day, win our race - and find Jesus at the finish line.

I love you. Always will.

T's Weekly Thought: THAT is a lie

2011-11-08T07:39:00.001-08:00

Happy Day Everyone! Hope you are all doing terrific!

This last weekend something happened that I guess I always knew would happen -but never wanted......and no matter how much I've thought about it - nothing could prepare me to hear it.

My son, Carter had spent the night out with a friend - while he was at some friends - some more friends (people that Carter didn't know) joined in to play. There was a soccer game and Carter accidentally hit the shin of one of the older/unfamiliar boys. Well -this boy decided to just go off! He called him names - bad names. Names that have to do with the color of his skin. Names he had never heard before. Names I have always dreaded he - or any of my children would be called......that somehow Topher or I would have to explain.

The next day, Carter's friend's mom pulled me aside to tell me about it and how sorry she was. I calmly listened.........

As we got in the car - we all talked about the incident. About the names. About the words. I asked Carter what he thought. He said that he told the boy that it didn't matter what he thought. They were lies - and that he just must feel bad about himself to say such horrible things to somebody else..........

HECK YES!!!!!!

Carter was right on.

It was a wonderful teaching moment. A wonderful moment to remind ALL of my kids that the only true thing about us is what God says about us.......and God said everything not just by his words - but by His life and by His death.

SO.......why can't we all do that? If I could just bottle up what Carter said and sell it and somehow that would make everyone feel better - WOW - I'd be rich. Because every single one of us at some point or another listens to lies that other people say about us. People call us fat or ugly or poor or stupid - or not good enough - or not fast enough or not smart enough or popular enough - and the list goes on and on and on and you want to know something TRUE??

EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THOSE THINGS IS A LIE.

And I think when we believe them - it absolutely breaks our Savior's heart because you are so LOVED and so PERFECT and so GOOD that YOU, yes YOU were worth dying for.

In the Psalms it says that we were perfectly and wonderfully made. Every single last one of us. Of course we were. I mean.........you really think God "forgot" something?? I can just hear it now - "OH SHOOT! I just put Tova in her mommy's belly but I forgot to give her the perfect body and a perfect smile and dang it!!! I meant to give her really blonde hair - not brown! And gosh darn it - I left some of her brain out - she was meant to be WAAAY smarter than I made her....."

Something tells me......that just didn't happen. It didn't happen because God got it right.

God got YOU right.

And so if and WHEN someone comes along with a big fat LIE that YOU or parts of you are a mistake.......you need to remember something - and this is really really important......here it is:

What someone negatively or unkindly thinks or says about you says WAAAAAY more about them then it ever does about you. Period.

And here's why......God calls us to love. And God calls us to not judge. And God calls us to be US- in spite of others - or what they think about US and who God made us to be.

Be you. Be the person God created you to be. Be PROUD of that. And embrace the fact that ANYONE who tells you that THAT person that God created isn't "right" or good or somehow "wrong".........well, THAT is a lie and it says way more about that person than it does you.

You were created in the image of God. Period.

I love you. Always will.

T's Weekly Thought: Suicide

2011-10-31T08:09:00.000-07:00

Over 6 years ago when I was hired at our church to work with the youth, there was a word......a situation.....something that I prayed I would never ever have to deal with.

That "thing" was suicide.

I felt like I could handle almost any other situation as a youth minister.

But suicide......that's where I really struggle.

I struggle for those who find themselves in so much hurt, so much pain - so little hope - that they believe the only way out is death.

And I really really struggle for those left behind. I can't imagine the questions......

Why?

How could they do it?

Wasn't I worth staying for?

Why didn't they ask for help?

Get help?

Why would they give up?

Lose the fight?

What about me?

I have avoided this topic for a long time because I always thought it was only applicable to a few people. Unfortunately, what I've learned over the last few years is that there are very few people in this community that escape without the unbearable sting of suicide.

Let me start by saying that I don't have any answers. I am not going to pretend for one moment that I understand that kind of pain or hopelessness. As difficult as my own road has been at times, I have to admit that suicide was never a real option for me.

So....what do we do in the midst of it? How do we get through it? And more importantly, how do we help others avoid it?

Again, I don't want to pretend for a second that I have any answers. I feel so unqualified to address this issue.......at the same time.....it is an issue.

I think the first thing we have to do is understand that suicide has little room for judgment. I know a lot of people use the word "selfish" when they talk about the person who committed suicide. I guess suicide may appear selfish......but I have to think there is way more to it that someone acting out in selfishness. I think it's much bigger than that. Much deeper than that......and a whole lot more painful than that.

I think suicide, like any death, reminds us how precious moments with the ones we love are. And how we shouldn't take a single one of them for granted. Ever.

I think suicide is also a reminder that we never really really know. We never REALLY know what someone is going through. We don't fully know their pain, insecurities, fears, regrets, emptiness, loneliness.......heartaches. And because we never REALLY know.....the only response we should ever have is love.

Don't get me wrong - I'm not saying that love heals all wounds, takes away all the pain, heals every illness - but I can't imagine that it hurts.

I've said this before - but there is a quote I love.....it says, "When we begin to understand, only then can we love." When we try to understand people, talk to people, listen to people.......it's a whole lot easier to love people.

Suicide just breaks my heart. As I hug those close to me who have dealt with it - in that moment I imagine what it would feel like - to be that person's wife, daughter, sister, mom......and I can't help but well up in tears and pray for the questions, the hurt.......the pain.

My deepest prayer is that before any one of you considers suicide as an option - you reach out - just one more time......cry. Cry loud for help - come to me, to your mom, your best friend......anyone you trust to help you get through that dark moment so that you can once again find hope. The hope that our precious Savior gave us. He promises he came to give us life. Life abundant. I believe in that hope because I have seen that hope shine through the darkest moments of my own life. He will never leave you. Never forsake you........

Ever.

I love you. Always will.

T's Weekly Thought: Live for the One

2011-10-25T07:56:00.000-07:00

So.....the other day I got the following note from one of my daughter Anna-Prin's teachers:

"I have to tell you, Anna Prin made me smile so wide in class on Monday. They were working on vocab and definitions. I asked if anyone knew what healed meant and after some explaining from different students, Anna Prin blurts out, "Oh yea like the lepers in the bible!" Then not longer after that, we were discussing fiction and folktales. I asked,"Do you really believe that chipmunks have a stripe down their backs because one was scratched by a bear a long time ago?" Anna Prin says,"Oh no!""God just made them that way." Not many kids can or would do that these days. I love it.....just love it. Hope you do as well."

I was so dang proud of my daughter. I read her the email and then asked Anna-Prin....."do you know why that's such a big deal?" She said....."No mommy, why?" I told her it's because a lot of people in the world are afraid to talk about Jesus.....and she says,"Why mom? He died for us."

He did die for us. And because of that love we should never fear. Never fear living a life of appreciation through actions and our words for Him.

Live for the One who died for You.

I love you. Always will.

T's Weekly Thought: What Will They Say?

2011-10-17T08:20:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!

This last week I had a nice long lunch with a great friend. I really admire this friend. She's so beautiful inside and out. My favorite thing about this friend is the perspective I am reminded of when I am with her. We were discussing how hard it is to raise kids today. How to keep perspective in the midst of a world and society that often times seems to lack one. My friend has two daughters - and we couldn't help but talk about the pressure among girls for the perfect body. To be skinny. No fat. Something tells me that even though guys don't talk about it as much - the pressure is the same. Big muscles. Strong. Lean.

Then she said something I really liked....."I mean seriously T, I've been to a lot of funerals. NO ONE says......'Oh gosh, she was amazing. Kind, giving - and man - she was sooooo skinny! Great body!'"

She's exactly right. I haven't heard anything like that at someone’s funeral either......

Something really cool happened tonight. My family and I were out to dinner at a barbecue joint and standing right in front of us was Nelson Cruz. Now let me tell you something........my family LOVES baseball. And so......as you can imagine......we FLIPPED!

It looked like he was with his family......mom, dad, maybe a couple of brothers, sister, a cousin? Not really sure. But one thing is for sure.......he was a total and complete gentleman. This guy - who seemingly has it all - was more than just an all-star MVP baseball player tonight. I couldn't help but watch him as he ate. He was a gentle giant with his mom. As he finished eating.....a line formed - and this All-Star took pictures and signed autographs for EVERY single person that wanted one. Here's what really got me....he handed his money clip to someone with him - and as if this person knew exactly what to do - every single staff person in the restaurant that passed was given a $100 bill from Cruz's clip. He stayed until the last person in line had gone through - and as he walked out......the place erupted. Everyone clapped.

It really was an incredible moment.

Incredible because Cruz didn't have to do ANY of that. I mean - it's NELSON CRUZ. He could have ordered, ate - walked out. Never acknowledging all the Ranger caps in the room - dying to be signed. All the kids (especially MINE!) - wide - eyed.......Praying that he would notice that they noticed him. That he was kind to his family. And so giving to the staff of the restaurant.

What my friend said to me hit me again tonight. Don't get me wrong.....I am sure to a whole lot of people Cruz will be remembered for his power homers, huge muscles, incredible skills. Rightfully so. But he obviously cares about a whole lot more than just being a baseball legend......and, my assumption is, he would like to be remembered for more than his RBI's. As much as I love watching Cruz play baseball, I choked up watching him get a picture with my kids.....and being so incredibly generous with the wait staff. So while baseball has got to be important to him - there's more to his story. His value system. Priorities. Legacy. Something tells me......those are the things those who are closest to him, really love him for.....know about. Value. Will remember........

If I were to die tomorrow - I would like to think that I would be known as a decent Youth Minister of a large Methodist Church. That I worked hard. Accomplished a lot.

But at my funeral........I hope they would mostly say that my family was everything to me. That I was a big fan of the underdog. I helped people. Was compassionate. I tried my best in everything I did. I was a good friend and loving sister. A great mom who was crazy about her husband. And that I tried my best to glorify my Savior.

I hope they would say those things because I hope that is what my life reflects. Of course shallow things seep in - I worry about my hair, my house, my body, what other people think - but my prayer is that those are fleeting thoughts/worries and that I actually spend time on those things I deem most important. The things I would like to be remembered for.......

Bottom line.....I hate to be the one to tell you - but at your funeral - they aren't going to talk about your body. Your house. Your hair. Your skin. Your muscles. Your car or how skinny you are.

They are going to talk about your soul, your heart........and the way you made them feel.

What will they say about you?

I love you. Always will.

Spring Break Mission Trip!

2011-10-13T13:51:00.000-07:00

Hey Youth! Bill here, and I’m so excited to announce that we have opened registration for this years Spring Break Mission Trip!

This year, from March 11-16, HPUMC Youth will road trip to San Antonio, Texas to help underprivileged people transform their houses to make them safe, dry, and warm. Many of these homeowners are living in houses that have holes in the roof or rotten walls, and so we will be doing a good mix of flooring, sheet rocking, painting, and even some roofing for the older kids! Since San Antonio has some of the highest per-capita deficient housing levels in the state, there will certainly be a lot of work to do. This year, we are working through an excellent ministry group that is used to housing large teams like ours – we will sleep at their dorms, eat meals cooked by their staff, and worship in their sanctuary! I just got back from a scouting trip to check the place out and meet some of the homeowners, and I think this might be the most excited I’ve been for a mission trip in a very long while – our hosts were incredibly hospitable, and the homeowners were so gracious and humbled by the work being done. One homeowner had picture albums of every team that had worked on his house – these were his prized possessions, and he could tell stories about each of them. We will work all day, have amazing worship in the evenings, and then get to spend some great time bonding as a community at night. The early bird registration cost is only $520 if you sign up before the deadline– that’s cheaper than last year!

The HPUMC youth staff is coming – are you?

For all the details and for registration please follow the link below.

http://www.hpumc.org/pages/youth-mission-trip-payment

T's Weekly Thought: Did You See Jesus?

2011-10-10T06:48:00.000-07:00

So I am FAR from the perfect mom......BUT.....most nights I try really hard to read from Bible and pray together with my kiddos.

The other night all 3 of my kids were cuddled close while I was reading from their children's Bible. We read a couple of chapters and then - per usual - said our prayers.

After the prayer, George (my six year old pumpkin) says, "MOM!!! Did you see Jesus during the story?" I paused......"No Georgie, I didn't". He responds, "Well he was sitting RIGHT THERE (pointing to the open spot on my bed)! You totally missed out Mommy. Maybe next time."

Yeah Georgie........maybe next time.

WHAT!!!!!!???? JESUS!!! Sitting on my bed? Hanging out during bedtime stories?

According to George - no doubt. He was there.

I tucked them in and just took an enormous deep breath. Was Jesus really there? And if he was.......why didn't I see him? Was I too distracted? Was I worried about the time? Making lunches? What was on the "to-list" for tomorrow? How could Georgie see something that was SO real??

I thought about what George has on his mind. Uhhhhh......nothing. My little guy is 100% in the moment. If you are talking to him - he is talking to you. If he's in school. He's in school. If he's reading the Bible -he's reading the Bible. His mind is free from worry, clutter, noise, distractions. My little guy is lucky - he is right where he is.

If you think about it......why wouldn't Jesus be there? The VERY last thing He shares with us in Matthew is, "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of age."

According to Matthew - this is what Jesus left us with.......I will be with you. Forever.

So......if you think about it......is it all that shocking that George saw Him with us? I mean.....really......it's almost MORE strange if he wasn't.

I don't know about you - but I compartmentalize God. The Bible was written. Jesus lived. Died. And now we gotta figure it out......right?

Actually.....not at all.

Why would God and Jesus spend so much time with people in the Old and New Testament to leave us hanging in this day and time? Why would a loving God leave us to go about this crazy life alone?

He wouldn't.

The power of the Holy Spirit is real. Jesus is real. We are so incredibly loved and cared for. Our Lord is forever aware of our needs, our desires, our lives......and I believe with everything inside me - DESPERATELY seeks to be a part of it.......

Even, a sweet simple bed time story.

Did you see Jesus???

I love you. Always will.

T's Weekly Thought: As I Have Loved You

2011-10-04T12:26:00.000-07:00

People are funny.

When I went to college I had no idea what I wanted to do for a living.....all I knew is I was incredibly fascinated by people. So I studied Sociology. I needed to know more about people. How it all worked....and why we do what we do....."human activity" I remember one professor called it.

I was reminded of the "geek" in me when Gregg Medlyn at the Race to Nowhere panel talked about how each one of us are born "self esteem neutral". I found this so fascinating that I asked him more about it......what does that mean exactly??

Come to find out.....apparently we are all born feeling the same way about ourselves. We have NO idea that we are rich, poor, funny, smart, big, small, shy.....and even if we did - we could care less - because we have no idea what those "things" mean. Things that one day.....might define us.

So.......apparently, as we grow older......and we learn more - we start to figure out from different people - parents, youth ministers, friends, teachers, coaches, people in the hall - who we are. And somehow.....along with that - our value. So while we are clueless tots - somewhere along the way - we learned. We are no longer "neutral" - rather -very aware of what we think of ourselves. My guess is most of this comes from those around us.

It's hard for me to believe as a youth minister that we are born "self esteem neutral" - especially when I meet with so many of you - and there is nothing neutral about how you feel about who you are. Most of you (us) are incredibly hard on yourselves. We look in the mirror, we are benched for a game, we get our progress reports, someone says something unkind to us, we make a bad decision - and well, there's nothing neutral about the way we feel.

I think about this and I can't help but think about something Jesus said......

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

It's interesting to me that Jesus chooses to say this....this way. I mean - he could of just said, "Hey- love each other - okay?"

But, I actually think he's way more intentional in the way he goes about it......he says....."AS I HAVE LOVED YOU.......LOVE ONE ANOTHER."

Most of the time I think I do a decent job loving people - but if I'm honest......does my love towards others emulate that of Christ's love towards me??

Ah......that would be a negative.

And I can't help but take it a step further and say......gosh - if we ALL did that......would we all still view ourselves as we did when we were just peanuts. Would all our labels be gone....? Or if we had them......WAY more tolerated? And maybe even beyond tolerated, but LOVED.....?

Jesus took time for all the people that no one else took time for. He invested in people who didn't think they were worth much. He loved the unloved......and because he loved them that way......their lives were changed.

I know it's hard to look at others, our family, ourselves......and just love. I think that's why when Jesus came - he left us with two BIG commandments. I think he realized it would take everything inside of us to somehow just do that. Love Him. Love others. If we could JUST do that......just TRY to love others the way Christ loves you (me)........

It would change everything......

I love you. Always will.

Second Sunday-A Night Of Worship

2011-10-03T12:41:00.000-07:00

Second Sunday

So about a month ago we had our first ever Second Sunday night worship. In case you don't know what I'm talking about, Second Sunday is a time to escape everything for an hour once a month to sing, pray, meditate, or just listen while we sing worship songs with acoustic guitars and simple percussion. This is a totally stripped down night of worship for anyone who wants to. It's not a "youth" thing, a "college" thing, or a "young adult" thing. It's for anyone and everyone who wants to gather and worship God.
I love a big band. I love lights and production. I love a great message...but sometimes it's nice to just escape that and simply gather and sing.
During Second Sunday back in September I was reminded of how rarely I get the opportunity to go back to my "first love". For me, my "first love" is sitting around singing songs to God, about God. For me, it's rejuvenating. Second Sunday may not be your thing. Music and singing may not be your "first love". But I think we all need times of quiet to escape from the world and just think about God. If you haven't found a time to do that, I hope you'll join us this Sunday October 9th in the Youth Basement of Highland Park United Methodist.
Let us know if you have any questions. We are so excited for this Sunday and we hope you are too.

Andrew

What you can do...

Check out the Facebook event and invite a friend.
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=254614944574270

Check out last months blog about Second Sunday and pass the word.
http://hpumcstudents.blogspot.com/2011/09/second-sunday-night-of-worship.html

Join us on Sunday October 9th from 6-7pm in the Youth Basement of HPUMC.

T's Weekly Thought: Where Your Treasure Is...

2011-09-26T10:05:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!

As you can imagine - some of your parents come talk to me from time to time asking questions like, "what can I do to get my son/daughter involved in church?" "should I make my kids go to church?" "how do I make church a priority?".

I can't help but think of my own upbringing where church wasn't a weekly decision. A "choice". Nope. Every Sunday that's just what my family did. In fact, it was the ONLY guarantee in our weekly schedule. Sundays my family went to church. So whether we were tired, or had homework, out late Saturday night or our teams were playing games - it didn't matter.......my family was in church. And that was that.

Unfortunately, it's not always fun to tell parents that I think church and their youth's relationship with Christ is a matter of priority. The bottom line is.......we make time for those things most important to us. So.....if we say that our family is important - we spend time with them, we make time for them, we make them a priority. And if our relationship with God is important......well, same thing here. Then it shows by our priorities. Not by what's convenient.

There's a great passage in Matthew 6 - where Jesus speaks to this. He says, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

I think Jesus is saying......spend time on what matters. What's lasting. What counts.

I have parents and youth tell me all the time that they/their kids just don't have time to go to church. That WOW is RIGHT in the middle of homework and Sundays is their only day to sleep in - their club soccer games are on Sundays......and 2 hours on Wednesdays for church is ridiculous.

My only response is......how convenient was the cross?

Now I know Jesus didn't have the pressures and the schedules that we do today......but something tells me that even if he did - his life would have looked exactly the same. He would have lived his life to make others better. He would have only showed love. Spent time with his family. And he would still die so that we might live.

What are your treasures? What do you value most? Are those things honorable? And does your life reflect those answers?

My prayer is that we can evaluate our lives. What we value most. And then have the courage to live accordingly. No matter the cost.

I love you. Always will.

LiveLove

2011-09-20T12:54:00.000-07:00

We here at the youth department knew we wanted youth to have the opportunity to live out their faith every week in a real life, serving, loving way. We wanted them to LiveLove. So about six months ago an announcement was made that we would kick off a service opportunity where Sr. High youth could LiveLove every Sunday morning. Since then, almost 200 of our youth have started serving regularly in the Cornerstone Cafe, in leading small groups in Children’s, Confirmation, and with the Jr High Thrive. LiveLove youth are greeters, are working lights, are running sound, and much more. LiveLove is literally changing the church, because so many amazing youth are being the church.

“My name is Payton Stewart and I am a senior at Highland Park High School and participate in the Live Love program. I work with the second graders by helping them come in the classroom and sit down, stay focused during the group lesson, and help lead a small group. I love being able to help these kids grow in and explore their relationships with God as well as trying to provide a good example for them. If they can see how a teenager makes time for God in her schedule, maybe they will remember this when they get busy, now or in the future. I also like getting to know kids I would otherwise never get to know. It is so joyful to have a kid ask me to sit with them, be in my small group, or even simply remember my name. They teach me as much as I teach then. They help remind me that sometimes the simple answers are the best answers. I truly love being with these kids every Sunday morning. While sometimes it is hard to keep the kids on track, I know they have learned something new about God or their faith when they leave church.” Payton Stewart

“When I was fresh out of Confirmation and on my way to becoming a part of the Jr. High program at HPUMC, I was so intimidated by the older kids and the youth leaders and the church in general, that my faith began to weaken. I didn't go to church very often, I didn’t pray very much, and I never really thought about God. About a year after confirmation, my friend Emily told me to sign up for the spring break mission trip, so I decided I might as well go. On this trip, I was able to get to know some older girls who led my small group, and they helped me turn everything around. They showed me God’s love and they helped me to grow stronger in my faith all the way throughout my junior year in High School, and now that I am a senior I want to do the same. Livelove is a great way to be a role model in the church, whether it’s leading a 7th or 8th grade small group, or helping out with elementary kids, or even working in the sound booth. It is a way to give back to the church, as well as help others. I don’t know where I would be now if I had never met those girls, and I know LiveLove will provide great role models, just like them.”Caroline Nelson

Race To Nowhere

2011-09-20T09:54:00.000-07:00

I want to encourage each of you to attend this incredible film and discussion to follow. I worry all the time - and not just for the youth - but my own children - "How much is too much??"

The Race to Nowhere will definitely get your attention - and hopefully create some great discussion for you and your youth!

Hope to see you THIS SUNDAY evening!

Read below for details.....

Love,

Please join us for a film screening of "Race to Nowhere: The Darkside of

America's Achievement Culture" on

Sunday, September 25th at 6pm at Highland Park United Methodist Church.

This film will take an in depth look at the pressure our children are

under in our current education system and achievement culture.

Are we pushing our kids too far, too fast, at the expense of their childhood?

Where will these children as adults find their value?

Are we leaving enough room in their schedules for them to become

who God created them to be?

We will take a look at these questions and more with a panel discussion

led by Rev. Paul Rasmussen, Dr. Brad Schwall, and Gregg Medlyn, LPC, LMFT.

"An education film that gets it"
Washington Post
"Must see movie"
NY Times
"Another Inconvenient Truth"
George Lucas Educational Foundation

Click here to view the trailer
and register for this event.

- Bring Friends -

For more information on the film and the grass roots efforts to promote change, visit: http://www.racetonowhere.com/.

For more information, please contact Andi Fancher at 214.523.2286or fanchera@hpumc.org.

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T's Weekly Thought: Live As If...

2011-09-19T08:52:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!

I recently heard a great quote......."The privilege of a lifetime is being who you are."

I can't help but think of Paul's sermon yesterday about weakness when I think about this quote. I loved his sermon. I loved it because I think we ALL spend an inordinate amount of time running from who we are - ESPECIALLY when it comes to our weaknesses.

I was reminded yesterday just how weak I really am. How much I need God....and how often I pretend I don't. That I am "just fine".

I am not "just fine".

And when I thought about it.....is anyone?? I mean, I think most of us are TRYING - but do we all have it all figured out?

Nope.

Honestly, I have a lot of hard days. I don't have it all figured out. I miss people that I love that I've lost. A lot. There are some days I miss them so much I don't feel like pretending like I don't. Some days I just want to stay home and cry.

I'm insecure. I care too much what people think. I am a perfectionist. I worry if my home or my children or my marriage or my body or work and ALL my relationships aren't PERFECT -and not just appear perfect but aren't PERFECT, that I'm a failure.

I'm one of the hardest people on ME that I know.

I thought a lot about that yesterday. What little "slack" I give myself and how I try so hard to be enough - that I forget that I'm just not.

No one is.

But the beauty of this quote is.......in spite of me -it's a privilege to be ME. God created ME. With all my fears, insecurities, short-comings and failures. And just like Paul reminded us yesterday from 2 Corinthians when God spoke to the apostle Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”

What an awesome promise from God! That right when I don't feel good enough - strong enough - that's EXACTLY when Christ will show up if I let Him. Gosh, why do I forget that??

That quote is perfect. It is a privilege to be me. It's a privilege to wake up today and have another shot at another day.....in spite of ME. And in those moments where the parts of me that I don't necessarily like creep in and start to take over - I actually can call on the One who created me. Who loves me. Who's on my side......ready to help.

I don't care who you are - what your weaknesses are. This is what I know. It is a privilege to be YOU. In spite of your weaknesses - you can be better, stronger.....and you do matter. Your life DOES make a difference. You are a gift.....and your life - your presence is a blessing. A REAL blessing on this earth.

Live as if it is a privilege to be YOU. Because you know something.........it is.

I love you. Always will.

T's Weekly Thought: You Don't Throw A Whole Life Away...

2011-09-12T08:25:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys!

Hope you are doing terrific! I hope you know how blessed I feel to work with you all.......I have the best job in the world!

So.......every Friday Topher (my husband, for those of you who don't know) goes to a Bible study. This past week his buddy Brent shared with the group a story about a dog he had found in the bushes.......all beat up. Seemingly hit by a car. Brent paid attention. He took the time to get her out. Pick her up......take her to the vet. Come to find out, this little dog - that Brent named Anabelle - appeared to have been it by a car. And........was pregnant. None of the little ones living inside her were alive. But....sweet Brent took care of her. Got her the care she needed at a local vet. Anabelle had surgery.....and Brent took her home. He prayed for the best. Giving her lots of love along the way......

Topher showed me a picture of Anabelle. Oh my gosh, she was so stickin cute that I thought - as soon as she gets better and can hold her own - I want Anabelle. Precious.

Sweet Anabelle didn't make it. Brent sent an email on Saturday saying that her body was shutting down - and she just didn't make it. I was so sad.......She was so sweet.......

But honestly - I choked up for another reason. I was so happy and relieved that Anabelle didn't die alone in the bushes. That my friend Brent noticed her.....and not only that - took the time.....the time to pick her up, get her help....and love her the last few precious hours of her life on earth. Anabelle's last few hours were spent being loved and cared for. What more could you ask for?

I couldn't help but wonder how many people passed Anabelle. Were there others that passed by - but didn't have the time, money, energy, inclination to help one of God's precious creatures in need?

And then I thought of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). The great parable that Christ shared with us about how often it's actually the GOOD people that pass.......keep on walking.....don't have time to help. To care. To love. And yet the most unlikely reached out. Helped. Loved.

One of my favorite movies is Seabiscuit. In the movie a very unlikely horse becomes one of the all time thoroughbreds........and yet he was smaller, had a gimpy leg.....chronically beaten up! He was one of the winningest horses of all time. His owner - when questioned, "Why Seabiscuit?? Why such an unlikely horse?" He replied, "You don't throw a whole life away just because it's banged up a little." Simply one of my most memorable movie quotes.........

Anabelle was a little banged up. In the parable......the man traveling who was beat up, left for dead.....was more than banged up. Don't we all know someone.....a little banged up? Someone who might need a second chance? Someone to believe they were worth the effort to help?

You know I think about all the people each one of us encounter every single day - people we walk by, blow off, pass over- because we don't have time or energy - or we can't risk the social problems that would come along with caring for someone that's "weird"or broken.......banged up.

If you think about it - didn't Christ do that? Didn't he pause? Pick people up? Help them along their way? Didn't he come for the "unhealthy"?

And he didn't only do that when He was on this earth - but didn't He do that for each one of us on the cross? I mean....if you think about it......aren't ALL of us a little banged up? Don't we ALL need a chance? Help? A hand?

I'm thankful for Brent. My friend - who saved a dog that was left for dead.

It was a great reminder of my Savior - and what He did for me.........how selfless his sacrifice. How great His love.

And a beautiful example of what we can be for others.......there are people ALL AROUND you every single day that not only need, but deserve a second chance. NEED your grace. Your hand. Your love.

Look around......and show and give Christ's love. You never know the difference Christ's love, through you, can make.

I love you. Always will.

T

T's Weekly Thought: Entitled

2011-09-07T09:07:00.001-07:00

Entitled.

I would never ever want someone to describe me as Entitled.

Until tonight. When I looked up the definition and read:

1. To give a name or title to.

2. To furnish with a right or claim to something.

After reading this I thought - okay, if I was given a name or a title or had a right or claim to something......that's not that bad. I would guess that I would receive that name or title because I earned it - worked for it.

Then I looked up something else.

SENSE of Entitlement: The idea that one has a right to be given something which others believe should be obtained through effort.

Ouch.

Maybe that's what I was thinking. Maybe I would actually really be sad if someone said that I had a SENSE of entitlement.

The sad thing is....I think I sometimes do. And I'm not proud of it. It's something I believe has been a part of my make-up since early on.

When I was 14 I totally expected to have the latest fashions. I wanted Jordache Jeans. (Your version of 7's or J brand or whatever it is you are wearing right now).

At 16 - I totally expected a car. And a new one. Even if it meant my dad drove one less desirable than me. I mean....come ON! After all, I WAS the teenager!

At 18 - I was going to college. On my parent's dime. I was ticked that I had to work or contribute or pay for anything. It was my parent's decision to have me - why did I have to pay for it??

YUK!

The worse part is - this part of me rears it's ugly head from time to time and I have to catch myself and think - who the heck are YOU? Why are you entitled to that?? Especially when no one else is...........

I would like to think this is a problem that only exists in little ol me - but I have to tell you......I think we all have a problem. I see it almost EVERY SINGLE DAY!

People who don't pick up after themselves.

The complaining about things that don't even exist!!

Someone who cuts in line, cuts someone off or bullies someone because THEY don't have time to wait.

The idea that you deserve something just because you were born.....like a car, your own room, a walk in closet, tory burch, under armor or jimmy choo.

Admitting you were wrong. Are sorry. Need forgiveness.

I mean people......WE HAVE A PROBLEM!

Where did this sense of entitlement come from? And how do we make it go away? FAST!

I know I may be unusual when I say I love Communion Sunday.........I love it for lots of reasons. But one thing I love about it - is the reminder. The reminder that I am nothing. And Christ is everything.

There is a prayer read in union on Communion Sunday - it's known as The Prayer of Humble Access - "We do not presume to come to this thy Table, O merciful Lord, trusting in our own righteousness, but in thy manifold and great mercies. We are not worthy so much as to gather up the crumbs under thy Table. But thou art the same Lord, whose property is always to have mercy.”

But unfortunately, we do. We trust in ourselves at times. Ourselves only. Thinking we know best. We got it. We deserve it. We need it. It's ours for the taking........

And yet - are so quickly reminded that actually.........we don't.

And without God.......We aren't much - and deserve nothing.

Every single thing we have in this life is a gift. Starting with life itself. And if we could just grasp that. Just that.......my gosh, how satisfied and complete we would be.

This life is a gift. We are completely undeserving of God's grace we receive every single day -and yet, we have it. So unworthy of His unconditional love - and yet........He gives it.

Who are we to think that we deserve - are entitled to more than that?

A king - our Savior - God's son died on a cross for me. For you.

SENSE of entitlement........do you have one?

I love you. Always will.

Second Sunday-A Night Of Worship

2011-09-06T13:43:00.000-07:00

We love worship. We all worship something. That could be money, school, sports, work, music, or somebody. We as a church and a youth staff hope that we all worship our Lord and Savior. Our God is worthy of our praise. And as we have seen, many of you love to worship God through music and singing. With this new school year we are starting a new praise and worship opportunity that is just that, worshiping God through music. So, the second Sunday of every month we will offer a stripped down night of worship called...Second Sunday. This will be singing praise and worship songs from about 6-7pm in the Youth Basement of HPUMC. There’s no agenda, no message, no production, just worship through song. This isn’t a “youth” event or a “college” event. This is an open door for people to come as they are, to gather together, and worship their creator in spirit and in truth. We hope you will take the time to participate in this night of worship. Please pass the word. The first Second Sunday worship night will be this Sunday, September 11^th. Let us know if you have any questions.

T's Weekly Thought: Problems, Perspective, and God's Love.

2011-08-31T09:27:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!

Hope you are having a fantastic week!

So, this last weekend I lost someone very dear to me. One of my dearest friends lost her precious Mom - who was very dear to many.......

As a group of of us sat around at my friends home the night of this enormous loss, we began to discuss how in the midst of hard stuff -great things can happen. A lot of us have seen that. I have experienced it in my own life. Through difficult things come profound lessons. Life changing lessons. I think I used to get worked up about a lot of things that now......well......just don't seem all that worth getting worked up over. Traffic, running out of butter, something in the dirty clothes that I wanted to wear, someone's late, waiter gets my order wrong.....well, all those things just don't seem like that big of a deal.

I love the sermon series in Cornerstone right now. I think that Paul is right -through our problems we gain amazing perspective - and some of life's greatest lessons.

The question that came up is......where do those problems come from?

One friend, who spoke up, thought for sure that God gives us all those things to teach us a lesson. I had a hard time with this....

So.....let me get this straight.......Tova needed to learn perspective so God shattered her life with broken dreams, illness, suffering, loss???

What kind of God is that?? And why would I believe in Him??

And then how on earth do we explain the millions of people that encounter difficulties and end up bitter, angry, hurt, resentful, jealous?? Did God give that trial to the wrong person?

Here is what I know. The Bible in 1 John 4:8 says that God is love. God loves his children. I think that through difficulties in life - because we live on earth - in an imperfect world, full of imperfect people- comes a choice. I think that choice is to praise God and grow stronger in spite of it - or make excuses and live a life of despair and hopelessness because of it. I don't think God gave it to us - but He's absolutely the only one who can see us through it.

Wednesday, August 31 is the 8th anniversary of the death of my precious son Charlie. God - through His amazing love- has seen me through the darkest of nights to show me the brightest of days. I live to praise His name because I believe that His amazing love is the very thing that has seen me through - and continues to every single passing day. He didn't give a disease to my son to teach me, or my husband or my family or friends a lesson. But......praise His holy name we learned one in spite of it.....and here it is.....

God is good. All the time. And all the time......God is good.

He knows you. He loves you. And no matter what this life gives you........I promise you his love is big enough to hold you through it. Use those things to strengthen you - refine you......make you better.......in spite of it. Never worse off - because of it.

I love you. Always will.

WOW Starts Tonight

2011-08-24T12:46:00.000-07:00

HPUMC youth has had a long tradition of gathering on Wednesday night for worship and fellowship with friends. As you know, that tradition continues. Worship on Wednesdays (WOW) is a worship time to grow deeper in your faith for 9^th-12^th graders. As you have probably seen or heard over the summer we’ve done some slight improvements to WOW. We’ve added food and LifeGroups. WOW is already such a great time to gather for worship and a message on Wednesdays, but we know that eating together is such a great time for fellowship and meeting in LifeGroups is such a great way for support. The first WOW will be tonight Wednesday, August 24^th. At 7pm food will be served in the Great Hall. This is an optional free meal that is offered because Wednesdays are crazy, and sometimes it’s just nice to sit and eat with your friends from Youth…and meet new people as well. Then worship and a message will start at 7:30 in the Youth Room/Basement. It will be songs, a message, testimonies, and more. If you’ve been to WOW before or you’ve been on mission trips with HPUMC, it will look and feel like what you’ve experienced there. After that time of worship, youth will have an opportunity to be involved in a LifeGroup. This is a small group of people your age and gender that will “do life” together. And if your LifeGroup can’t meet on Wednesdays after worship, you can meet anytime you want. So, if you stayed for the whole WOW, you could be involved from about 7-9pm. If you are in a LifeGroup that meets another time and you don’t want dinner, you can be there from 7:30-8:30pm. We are so excited and we hope you are too about these new additions to help make WOW even more meaningful. Please join us in spreading the word about WOW. Every Wednesday starting August 24^th from 7-9pm in the Great Hall and the Youth Basement. See you tonight.

T's Weekly Thought: Show Me Your Friends...

2011-08-23T07:22:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!!

I can't tell you how excited I am to kick off another year! But I have to say.....it's always a little bittersweet. Last week I had to say goodbye to all the kiddos who have graduated - those little 7th graders that somehow blew through this ministry and are now getting settled in to their dorm rooms in college! Last week I was invited to a special dinner for one of these great girls in our ministry. Over dinner people who loved her dearly shared "pearls of wisdom" - small words that could make a big difference in her life.

One of the people around the table shared something that I really really liked. She said - "Show me your friends, and I'll show you your future."

I have to say.......I'm way on board with this! Just loved it.

Time and time again I see youth hanging out with kids who they have no business hanging out with. "Friends" that are anything but.......a friend.

I actually looked up the definition of a friend. Here goes:

1. A person whom one knows, likes, and trusts.

2. A person whom one knows; an acquaintance.

3. A person with whom one is allied in a struggle or cause; a comrade.

4. One who supports, sympathizes with, or patronizes a group, cause, or movement.

Interesting.

So according to the definition - A FRIEND - is someone you can trust - so that means they don't talk about you. They don't tell your secrets. They stand up for you - and by you - especially when you need them most. Someone who is there for you. Likes you. Picks you up when you are down.

And according to the old saying - will determine your future.

Of course there are exceptions to every rule. But here's what I think - you keep the company you keep for a reason........and whether you like or admit it or not - ALL of those relationships are affecting you in one way or another. Some of those friends are bringing you up - challenging you - leave you better than they found you. And then there are others that just don't. They don't lift you up - make you feel good - encourage you - or challenge you in a positive way.

I do believe that our relationships - our FRIENDSHIPS - have a MAJOR impact on who we are - and especially when you are young.....who we BECOME. I have seen time and time again great kids change - make choices that they swore they would NEVER make - do things they thought they would NEVER do - simply because of the company they are keeping.

I do believe that YOUR friends- your relationships DO affect your future.

SO......take a look. What company are you keeping? What choices are they making? Are they REAL friends? Do they make you better - just because you were with them? Do they impact your life in a positive way? If not.....why the heck are you hanging out with them?

After all.....those friendships.....could very well be your future........and if so - it might not be what you were hoping for.

It's a new year! Think about those you surround yourself with.....is that who you would like to be? Are they people you would like to become? If so -awesome!!! If not......get out. Life is too short to throw it away to friends that are anything but..........friends........

Show me your friends.....and I'll show you your future.

I love you. Always will.

Sr High LifeGroup Retreat

2011-08-17T08:33:00.000-07:00

As you all are getting ready for school, buying new pencils, notebooks, and backpacks (or whatever it is you need this year), we've also been going 100 miles an hour around here getting ready for the fall. We've seen lots of you over the summer, but we know there are bunches of you that we've missed and can't wait to see. So...as you've probably seen, we are kicking off the new school year with a retreat/lock-in here at the HPUMC this weekend. The retreat will be Friday, August 19th-Saturday, August 20th. You can arrive from 9:00-10:30pm on Friday and we’ll be done by 4pm on Saturday afternoon. We know lots of you have Friday football games or scrimmages or maybe have to work Friday evening, so we scheduled the start time a bit later so you all could attend. You can just come over when you're done. The cost for the Retreat is just $49. This is going to be a great time to connect with your friends you may not have seen over the summer, to hang out with the Youth Staff, to get to know LifeGroup leaders, and to just have a great time.

Register as soon as possible (like today) to take part in this kick-off. If you haven’t been to HPUMC Youth stuff in awhile, you’ve never been, or you come all the time, we hope you will come to the LifeGroup retreat and the first WOW to see what things look like around here. To register for the LifeGroup Retreat, go to http://www.hpumc.org/pages/youth-retreat.

Live Love

2011-08-16T10:41:00.000-07:00

As many of you know there are lots of exciting new opportunities coming with this new school year. One of them is an opportunity for you (9th-12th graders) to give and serve on Sunday mornings. We read in scripture that we are called to love God with all we have and love our neighbors. Starting this school year we are rolling out a weekly opportunity for you to do just that, to Live Love. God says in the Bible, "I will bless you, so that you will be a blessing." In Gen. 12:2 God tells Abram "I will bless you, and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing." We, like Abram, receive blessings from God not just to be blessed, rather so we can be a blessing... so we can bless others or "be God's channel of blessing to the rest of humanity." At first, one could think, "Well why are you blessed in order to be a blessing and I'm not?" I think one could easily argue that all receive blessings from God, each person's blessing looks different, but each person does have the opportunity to take that blessing and use it to become a blessing to others. We believe each person has been blessed by God with different talents and abilities and it’s their responsibility to use that blessing to bless others...just like Abram did. Starting this Sunday August 21st, 9th-12th graders will have the opportunity to serve, to give, to volunteer, to Live Love in lots of different ministries every Sunday. Some areas in which you could serve in are Confirmation, Junior High Life Group Leader, Children’s Choir, Children’s Ministry, as Greeters and Ushers in the Sanctuary and in Cornerstone, with the Tech Team, and with Special Needs Children. We know many of you may not have any idea how you want to serve on Sunday's...or maybe you know exactly how you want to help...no matter your situation, we please contact Phil Dieke at DiekeP@hpumc.org to find out more about how you can Live Love each and every Sunday as a part of your worship experience.

T's Weekly Thought: Live It!

2011-08-15T07:58:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!
So this week has been full of so many highs and so many lows! One of the great highs was celebrating our kids being here from Ghana for one year! What a year it's been. I think with all the talk of the anniversary - a lot of memories surfaced about their "old" life. Their past......and the way it used to be.

Without going in to a lot of detail here - let's just say that their lives in the orphanage......well, were just not good, happy, safe, or fun. And they have experienced things that I just wouldn't wish on anyone. Especially precious children.

As we talked through some of those memories this week - it was tough.

And even more tough to know what to say - how to "make it all better" - the way that moms are supposed to do.

How do you put bandaids on the past? Make it go away?

I'm quite sure that not a single person receiving this email was adopted from an orphanage in Ghana. BUT......I do know that every single one of us has a past. And that each one of our pasts for is littered with "stuff" that we wish didn't happen. Whether it's something we have done - or something that has been done to us - the past is full of "no take backs" or "do overs" - it's just......well......past. Done.

So how do we move forward? How do we move on? How do we use our past to TEACH us - but not DEFINE us?

There's a very big difference.

I was talking with my sweet wise dad today about all of this and he shared a great quote with me. Here goes:

"The past is gone. Learn from it.

The future is yet to come, prepare for it.

The present is here now. Live it."

What a great quote!

Our precious Savior did not die on a cross for us to wallow away in the sins and regret and hurt that EACH ONE OF US have experienced - by things.....in our past. He came to give us Hope. Hope in every new beautiful day. Every precious moment.

All of us (well, except me) are about to start a new school year -some of you are leaving for college and starting a new life in a new place.

Wherever you are in your life.........LIVE IT. Consider who you are. Who God created you to be. What you want to become - and gosh darn it - stop making excuses for why it can't happen because of this or that or him or her - or what is in the past! - LIVE IT.

How many excuses did Jesus have for NOT dying on a cross? Well, for starters He was God........in the form of man. And that's just for starters. He made no excuses. He just did what he knew he was sent to do.

Why don't you?

Stop making excuses. Stop using your past - either what you have done or what's been done to you as some excuse for why you can't LIVE today.

Today is a precious gift.

Live it.

I love you. Always will.

T

T's Weekly Thought: God's Love is Enough

2011-08-09T10:34:00.000-07:00

It's funny - someone asked me the other day how I come up with my weekly thoughts - I responded.....they are just that.....a thought of mine that just happens to stand out in my week. Sometimes I think these thoughts are 100% mine. Other times I feel like someones trying to tell me something.....like a theme that just keeps coming up over and over - so maybe it's not only for me - but for all of us.

That's what happened this week.

I heard it in Pauls sermon from Cornerstone a couple of weeks ago.....and then I am reading this book called Biblical Parenting with the same thought - and then thought it today as - through tears - I said goodbye to some of our youth who are leaving for college......

So here goes - here's the thought.......God's love is enough.

The idea is that - no matter what - God's love really is enough.

This book I am reading talked about how important it is to love your kids - duh. BUT - it's even MORE important to tell them about God's love. I mean......parents aren't perfect. We are human - full of sin. So are youth ministers, senior ministers, best friends, boyfriends, girlfriends, husbands, wives, brothers, sisters, coaches, teachers - and so on and so on and so on. SO.......if and/or when those people let you down, disappoint, fail.....the GOOD NEWS is......

God's love is enough.

It's funny how much we rely on people beyond our God for our value. Our worth. Approval.

What happens when those people let us down? Move? Pass away........

It's still okay - because we have a great understanding of our worth - our value - our place. Because all of those things are defined by our Creator. Not a "insufficent", imperfect human.

When I was young I can't tell you how much I put my dad on a pedastal. Man - I worshipped that guy. He could do no wrong. Make no mistakes......

So when he did......wow, that was tough.

My poor dad is just like me. Human. And so he has temptations, failures, fears - and he disappoints.

I wish growing up I had a great understanding of my value, worth and place as God's child. A God who never lets me down. Never disappoints. Is always there. I would have looked more to God for answers instead of others......who sometimes just couldn't be there the way I needed them to.

So.....where does your value come? Who are you looking to for approval? Who do you "worship"?

For all of us - the answer should be simple. It should be our God.

Because you know what........

God's love is enough - especially when other people's isn't.

I love you. Always will.

T's Weekly Thought: Real Problems

2011-08-04T15:07:00.000-07:00

Hey guys!

So.......I'm getting old, so believe me when I say I know I am super behind in the "hip websites" department. In Costa Rica Andrew told me about a website where people post "rich people problems". I haven't visited it, but I giggled hearing some of the things the kids said were posted there.

I couldn't help but want to post something myself on my recent trip home from costa rica. As I sat there on the plane....reflecting on all the sweet memories I would take with me....the youth, the poverty, the experience, the love......I had to block out a 20 something sitting next to me who did nothing but complain about how sick he was of hiking the rainforest, eating beans and rice, staying in hotels for 6 weeks, etc. He had obviously been traveling with friends in costa rica for some time. I couldn't help but think......rich person problem.

Was he seriously complaining about a hotel bed? Food on his table? Hiking in Gods beautiful creations?

It was hard for me to keep my mouth closed. But alas, I just put my headphones on.

I guess the most embarrassing part is there are a lot of days I sound like this guy. I find myself complaining about things that most people in this world will never even experience. I completely lose perspective. Fail to remember that this really is.......a rich person problem. And I don't even care who you are reading this......if you have a computer or phone to read this on.....you fall into the same category as me. Someone who has more "rich person problems"..........than real ones.

We are blessed....and most of our problems are as bad as we make them out to be. Most of our "problems" really aren't problems at all. It's just us....losing sight of what's really important and how lucky we really are.

So....think about it. And watch yourself. Watch your words, your perspective, your problems..........

You might see, that you really don't have any problems at all.......

I love you. Always will.

T

A Reflection of Costa Rica

2011-07-31T08:54:00.000-07:00

Hey Friends!
Sarah Beard here. In the case you have no idea who I am, I am Andrew Beard's (the new worship leader for youth) wife. I had the opportunity to attend week two of the Costa Rica Mission. What a blessing!
Andrew and I used to lead a student ministry, so this wasn't my first rodeo...but it was my first with HPUMC Youth, and my first experience with these specific people. For me, this trip was about helping the local church of Costa Rica and building relationships. Parents, if you have not had the pleasure of going on a mission trip with your kids, here is what really goes on.
The work was hard work. There were days when the load wasn't so heavy, but there was always something that took a great deal of effort. Mostly we mixed and poured concrete, built cinder block walls and dug ditches/moved a lot of dirt! You may not be able to pin-point a single moment when someones clothes were dry - because the labor produced sweat and lots of it! The other thing the labor produced is help for this local community, it was such a blessing for them to have free labor to get this work done! Each day on the worksite and during lunch was of my favorite things was hearing the conversations taking place. The conversation ranged from "He's the one, but..." (A fun little game that gets played a lot around here) to "Does the end really justify the means". The conversations were both shallow and really deep and both of them allowed for more understanding of each other. The best time came from those little questions we asked each other..."Attribute of you that you are most confident in...GO." and everyone answered and discussed answers.
The lunch break was awesome and provided a great little while of down time - and some DELICIOUS fresh food made by locals!
VBS to follow. Watching your kids play with the little ones was so great. Wether they were playing soccer, coloring, carrying them on their shoulders or playing chase, there was such a great spirit of the community. It is so fun to watch kids feel love from other, older, kids.
And then back to the hotel...
At the hotel we tried to get clean and we tried to eat more rice and beans and then we had worship time. This is where I am going to spend a few minutes. Worship is always an experience - you are in the open air of the jungle with sounds of nature and you are hearing the TRUTH preached, sung, and discussed.
If there is one thing I would like to tell you, parents, about your kids is that they GET AFTER IT! They take it seriously. I just got goosebumps writing that. I led worship with Andrew the first day I got there, and I could barely take it. They worship through song loud and confidently and then they sit and receive the word either through testimony from peers or through teaching and then they go to small groups.
I led the girls who are going into their senior year. I was blessed by their openness and their willingness to share their doubts, struggles, and their strengths.
Parents, encourage your children to continue these relationships and know that we, their leaders, desire to partner with you to engage in the personal and spiritual development of your kids.
All in all, this was a great time for me to get to know the heart of this youth group. And let me tell you, it is beating strong. There are seriously a solid group of kids here who just "get it". I was so proud to lead them and to work beside them. I am excited to see where we go next!

Thanks for checking in, and keep coming back! There are lots of posts to come!
Sarah

This is Your Life.

2011-07-29T22:22:00.000-07:00

Hola! I am Lee Lueder, a senior at Lake Highlands High School. This is my first week ever in Costa Rica, and it has been the best week of my life. I have gotten the opportunity to help build the walls for a health clinic, dig a ditch for the sewage, build rooms for Sunday School, and build a stage for worship, all while forming and strengthening relationships with friends and strengthening my relationship with God. Today, I had the luxury of sleeping in until 10 A.M, which was a welcome break to many days of 7 A.M. wake-up calls from the girls down the hall. After a morning of rest and relaxation, I joined my fellow Wolf Pack members in seeing Costa Rica from the air via the zip line. I will never forget the sights I saw and the relationships I strengthened today. There I was lucky enough to hear Sarah and Andrew Beard share pertinent advice on how to effectively live your life for God as a high school student. After riding the zip line, I came back for a delightful dinner of rice and beans. Then I went to worship in which we sang the Lord’s praises, heard a touching testimony from Haley McCollum and listened to a fantastic message from Stephen talking about showing love through one’s actions and not just through words. With a 3 A.M. departure, I have to go to bed now. Thanks for reading!

-Lee

2 Languages. 1 Love.

2011-07-28T21:53:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Costa Rica!!

It’s Emily Provost here! I am an incoming senior at Highland Park High School. This is my second week in Costa Rica and this trip has been absolutely amazing! Every aspect of the past two weeks has been life changing! The people, the leaders, the work, the worship and the sermons are absolutely mind blowing. I was told we missed a blog last night so here is a recap! Yesterday was a FANTASTIC day! We worked hard, heard two great testimonies, celebrated Stephen’s birthday and ended the night with an awesome dance party!!! Side note- A RODENT JUST JUMPED FROM THE CEILING ONTO LAUREN BAGWELL’S HEAD. WOW THAT WAS GROSS. Well anyway, today was our last day of work for this trip, and it was a great day! I can’t believe this trip is coming to an end! Luckily, we got to see all of our hard work pay off today as we saw some finished results on the smaller work sites. Seeing our hard work pay off was a moving experience because we got to see how our small time here has affected the lives of the locals here! The best part of today was the post work whirlpool! After a long, sweaty day on the work site, we all jumped in the pool in our clothes! We created a whirlpool by all swimming the same direction and it was awesome! Tonight we had worship and a sermon at the church where we have been working. Wow, that was crazy! It was crazy to worship and experience God in the same place that we were building and trying to make a difference! The most moving part of worship was without a doubt singing the same song in Spanish and English. It is hard to express the beauty in praising God in two different languages yet showing the same love. After worship we returned to the hotel for small group! And wow! It was a great one! The senior girls small group started off on an awkward, barely talking, note…and tonight we ended by spending almost two hours talking! We have all bonded on a higher level and now could talk about anything! These are just few of many relationships I have made this week! Which brings me to my favorite part of Costa…TESTIMONIES! It is SO great to hear everyone talk about their struggles and trials with God and to hear how they overcame them! I have learned so much about my peers, and have related to them in so many different ways! It is great to learn that everyone struggles in their relationships with God, and we can all relate and help each other with those struggles! Well… it is my bedtime! All of this hard work has kicked my but so I am off to sleep! We miss you ALL and cant wait to see you on Saturday! We love y’all so much!!!!!! Kisses and hugs!

-<3 Provost J

Time and Distance Makes the Heart Grow Fonder

2011-07-27T21:45:00.000-07:00

Hello all. This is Andrew Beard coming to you from the Hotel El Bambu. Today has been a great day but extremely busy...so unfortunately we ran out of time for a student blog post. We will get one up tomorrow about all we did today. Sorry for no detailed post, but look forward to one tomorrow. Thanks.

Andrew

Chugging Along

2011-07-26T21:46:00.000-07:00

This is Drew Alleman blogging from the lobby of the Hotel El Bambu. We headed to work this morning facing the fact that we are now at the halfway point of the workweek. The whole trip seems to be going by so fast as Tova Sido predicted at the beginning of the week (she wanted a plug in the blog so there you go). Nonetheless we had a great day of work with an hour-long rain/ snack break with dance lessons though by the one and the only Bill Gepford. I am proud to say I did not participate. Finishing the work was probably the best part of the day because awaiting us in a tin roofed building a hundred yards away was one of the best lunches I have ever had prepared by the local women of the church. During lunch instead of napping on the ground like we normally do we had a 50 kilo. bag of rice (a major staple here in Costa Rica) that we had to divide up into ZiplockÒ bags to be handed out on the medical trips that were being done by parts of our team headed up by David Bullinger (he wanted a plug, too). This was a very cool experience knowing that this food would feed someone in need. VBS after lunch was one more push of the day but it was a fun one with all of the kids from the local area. Getting back to the hotel after the day was a major relief. In closing today was another great day in Costa Rica.

This is Drew Alleman signing off.

Sister Sister

2011-07-25T21:29:00.000-07:00

Hi friends!!!! It’s Allison and Lindsey Whitmeyer! We are twin sisters and we both just graduated from Highland Park High School! Allison is going to the University of Oklahoma and Lindsey will be going to Texas A&M University. This is our second week in Costa Rica and we have absolutely loved being here! This has definitely been one of our favorite mission trips!!!! Today was our first day of work for the second week. I (Allison) was at the big worksite and I helped lay bricks for the foundation of the clinics. I (Lindsey) was on one of the two smaller worksites! I helped make concrete to make the flooring of a new church and I also poured dirt for the foundation of their stage. We are so happy with all the new kids that have come in for the second week! They are amazing and have such positive attitudes! Another favorite part of our trip is worship at night! Worship is such a great experience to come together with everyone on the trip. Our worship leader, Andrew Beard, is literally the most AMAZING person ever. He didn’t tell us to say that at all. J. Tonight, Tova gave a sermon about humility and how we are accustomed to placing people in certain “ranks”. We tend to think about ourselves instead of other individuals. Another great part of Costa Rica is being able to be self-reflective. We have so much time to build relationships and also learn more about ourselves. With college around the corner, these messages and moments have helped tremendously by giving a stable foundation of our faith before we leave. THE FOOD IS AWESOME. I just had to put that out there. RICE AND BEANS. YUMMMMMYYYY!!!!!! No one is going hungry. Trust us. We hope this message finds you well and we hope that Dallas (or wherever you may be at this moment) is wonderful! We can’t wait to see y’all and tell you about all of our adventures. We love you! And give someone a hug. It might change their life. J

LOVE LOVE LOVE,

Allison & Lindsey Whitmeyer

P.S. Hey Mom and Dad!!!! I (Allison) fell off a cement brick today. I’m okay. Just an interesting fact that I thought y’all should know about. Hey! (It’s Lindsey) I miss y’all bunches and love y’all! I’m having a blast (if you couldn’t tell) and Allison is clumsy.

Small Groups-Big Change

2011-07-24T21:24:00.000-07:00

Buenas tardes mis amigos! My name is Ryan Ragnell and I’m sitting down to tell you all about our fun filled weekend here in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica. Yesterday, some of us slept in and some got up early, but we all got enough rest after the long week of work. Before and after we ate lunch, people went to the market and to various places as they often do on our off days. A lot of people went to play soccer at a nearby small turf field in the afternoon while many people just kicked back and relaxed both by the pool and in the lobby of the hotel. Later at night around 9 o’clock, after dinner, a lot of us went back to play soccer at that same field. We had the pleasure of playing a group of local Costa Ricans, or as my “Bro Group” small group calls them, Brosta Ricans (some may understand this, others may think we’re weird…). We returned back to the hotel around 10:45. After trip B people arrived last night around 11 o’clock, we headed straight to bed to get up early this morning for church.

This morning we woke up decently early around 8, some later than others, and ate breakfast and headed off to church around 9:15. About two hours later, after a wonderful service, we headed back to the hotel for lunch. More people just went straight back to relaxing, and others went back to play soccer at 3. We came back around 5 or so in time to hop in the pool and cool off before dinner. After dinner we hung out until time for worship. Worship, just like every night, led by our wonderful Andrew Beard, was fantastic. I speak for everyone when I say that worship is probably the best part of the day. It’s so incredible to take the time to just sing and worship God each night after working or after doing anything. Getting to see everyone worship God is just the best feeling in the world knowing that you’re surrounded by people that love our Lord just the way he loves us. I’m now typing this after we finished up our small groups after worship.

Speaking of small groups, I just want to take the time to say how incredible these small groups are. Earlier in the week, I was talking with one of our bus drivers in Spanish who sits in on our “bro group” (Roger) and he said something that defined small groups in just a few words. He said “Me gusta como ustedes comparten los buenos y malos tiempos”. For you non-Spanish-speakers, that means, “I like how y’all compare the good and bad times.” That really is what it is all about. Getting to sit down with just a few of your close friends and a few of these amazing adults (my group’s leaders are David Bullinger and Bill Gepford, both, just like all other staff/adults, are incredible people) is the best. We get to share back and forth our experiences and our advice on each of our lives. Through the thick and thin, we will always have these relationships with these people. Each bit of advice each of us shares with each other help us more and more not only now but also later on in life. God is with each of our groups leading us along and it makes us grow both spiritually and as a person. Sometimes one finds his or herself in a situation where you just don’t know what to do or where to turn, and with these groups, it’s essentially a jury of your peers that you can turn to. Everything is confidential and each of us are here for each other no matter what. In short, small group time is just the best time of day because we end the day by just sitting down and relaxing; everything is set out on the table and we all have each of our backs.

That’s about it for today, and I can say that we’re all having a great time. I hope you parents aren’t missing us too much. I’m off to bed, have to wake up early tomorrow to get ready to go out and start a great week of work. God bless you all, and have a good night. We’ll see you all on Saturday!

Out of Chaos, Life is Being Found

2011-07-22T21:50:00.000-07:00

Hey, it’s Grant Carter. This is my last day in Costa Rica; I really wish I could stay longer. Today was more of a relaxed day. We all had the choice of zip lining through the rainforest, hiking through the rainforest, or staying here, at the Hotel El Bambu. I chose to stay here at the hotel with my BFF, Blake. He’s awesome. And cool. We played soccer in the rain, swam, and watched movies while the others hiked and zip-lined. This past week has been one of the most memorable times of my life so far from working on the work sites to worship every night. Here, you fully experience God’s presence and warmth. You have no idea how sad I am to leave this beautiful place. I have been coming here for four years. The relationships I have built through this church and in Costa Rica have been ones I will never forget. My last and final comment will be a shout out to my boy, Roger, the bus driver. He truly spoke to me last night when he shared his incredible testimony. Hearing about his problems in life really made me put mine into perspective and it truly showed me the amazing power of God’s grace.

-Grant

How He Loves Us

2011-07-21T21:24:00.001-07:00

Hey y’all this is Thornton checking in from Costa. It’s been a busy week that is sadly coming to an end soon for those who are only going for one week, like myself. Today was another tough day out on the work sites. At the big site that I was at, we have almost finished digging a ditch to help remove sewage from the nearby building. It took a lot of teamwork and communication to make the ditch the right width and depth. The lunch was amazing (as usual) that the local women prepare for us. The food was not around long! When we got back from VBS we all jumped in the pool and created a massive whirlpool. That was really cool having everyone swimming around and around. But tonight was something special. After dinner and ice cream at the local heladeria, it was worship time. Tonight we had a special guest with us, Roger (Rojere), our bus driver that takes us from work to the hotel. He was willing to give his testimony about his childhood and the problems he faced when he was growing up. I could not believe what all he went through, to get where he is today. And to be honest it was the first time I had ever cried in worship time. Everyone was touched by his words and his experiences. After everything broke up, it began to rain. I feel God was trying to say something tonight.

-Thornton

Another Day in Paradise

2011-07-20T21:08:00.000-07:00

Hi Parents!! It is Emma Alpert blogging today here to tell you about my day today. I was on the big work site today and we got so so much done in so little time. It was crazy. We carried about 100 loads of cement on wheelbarrows, and carried them into the house and laid them down where Roberto asked. By the end of the day I’m sure we all felt quite accomplished. It didn’t rain here as much as it did yesterday, but it is unbelievably humid. I bet the amount of sweat each individual person has had just in one day is more than the amount of a whole entire football team. Maybe more. But it just cooled down right now because it just started pouring raining as me, Andrew, and Bull sit down in the worship area. The other night there was a HUGEE storm and I bet half of the people woke up in the middle of the night thinking they were going to die. The thunder was so crazy loud, and the whole room shook with every thunder. A big group of girls and I have been scouting out monkeys in our forest by our hotel rooms, unfortunately with very little luck, yet the amount of beetles/June bugs could possibly make up for it. You really cannot even walk into your room without a nice long train of beetles waiting to get in before you. Gross. Andrew and Bull are requesting I talk about how great the leaders have been soooo I guess I should say they are good. Just kidding, but actually they have all been amazing. They have all made it so easy to just be here, and be relaxed and feel so loved. It’s really been the most amazing time and I’ve only been here 4 days. Everyone just really comes together and becomes so close no matter who they are and whom they are friends with. I definitely wish I as staying for week two. Well, it’s time for bed now but we all miss you all, and will see you guys soon, even though I’m sure most of us could stay here forever. Goodnight, Hope Dallas is good!

-Emma

Knocking Down a Wall

2011-07-19T21:07:00.000-07:00

Hello my name is William Ruppert. Today my team, workgroup four, went to the Evangelical Methodist Church Jesus Cristo De Buenos Aires. Our main project was filling in an entire slab of concrete so the church would be less vulnerable to flooding. We filled in about a twenty-foot by eight-foot slab of concrete about two inches high. To maximize our work output we had eight people filling up buckets of rocks and sand and four people moving the concrete with wheel barrels and in turn dumping the concrete to make the slab. After the concrete was dumped there were two more people smoothing it out so that there was a nice smooth surface. This project took us about four hours and as a sort of reward we got to tear down a wall. I was lucky enough to be able to man the sledgehammer and go at the wall. At first we were sort of clueless and just attacked the wall top to bottom. We quickly learned that this was a lot more tiring than going from bottom to top. My friend Tripp Russ and I got on a roll and tag teamed the wall fairly quickly to its fall. This work was very tiring and at the end I was drenched in sweat and had acquired a very manly musk. After work we went to a phenomenally prepared lunch by a few local women. The lunch consisted of rice with chicken, beans, outstanding pico de gallo, rice pudding, mango, and pineapple. The fruit here is delicious and always the ripest and freshest fruit I have ever eaten. For sort of a dessert we had Chickys, which are these almost vanilla wafers with a strawberry frosting on one side. These have quickly become my new favorite candy. After lunch we went to a different church a few miles away from Puerto Viejo where we participated in a Vacation Bible School. We sang, danced, and drew pictures for about thirty minutes, and then the real fun began. After we had finished the required work we played soccer with the kids and it was a blast. Unfortunately our game ended early because both of our soccer balls got kicked into the river by the field. After an exhausting, but fun day of work, we came back to the hotel to another wonderful meal. We had chicken, pasta, rice, and strawberry mango lemonade for our drink. After dinner we got some free time before worship where we sang, heard a testimony, and Wes Cole had a “text message interceptor” where he read out “intercepted” text messages. When worship came to a close we went to our small groups and in my small group we all shared a good, bad, and ugly part of the day. Today has been exhausting, but very rewarding and is definitely an experience of a lifetime.

First Full Work Day

2011-07-18T20:58:00.000-07:00

Hi I’m KK Hudson and I am writing the blog today! To start off I am just going to put out there that I am not the most outgoing person in the world. I get kind of nervous when I meet new people, and this whole experience is great for helping me work on that. Everyone here makes you feel welcome and at home. This is my first mission trip and so far it has been amazing. This morning we woke up at 6:30 and were awake and at breakfast by 7:00. After, we went back to our rooms to change into our work clothes. Once we were all ready to go, we broke up into our groups and headed to the worksite. When we got there we didn’t feel awkward or out of place at all. We were quickly put to work and didn’t stop until snack and then until lunch. People shoveled, made cement, built walls, but most importantly put all their effort into whatever they were doing. No one was lazy, sat around, or complained. Everyone worked their hardest and accepted their job. After worksite, all the groups met for an amazing lunch. Once lunch was over we left for vbs. Vbs was an amazing experience. We met, and tried to talk to the children even though some of us didn’t know how to speak Spanish at all. Even with our lack in Spanish speaking, the kids coped with us and loved every minute of what they were doing. The kids loved the songs we sang with them and the story/skit we showed them. After we left vbs we took the buses home to shower and eat dinner. Once we were back at the hotel we rinsed of in the shower or quickly jumped in the pool, not bothering to change into swimsuits. After everyone showered and changed into clean clothes, dinner was served. Worship and the sermon were after dinner and after an amazing dance party and an amazing worship time, Steven spoke. His sermon truly touched everyone and related and applied to everyone listening. After working, helping with vbs, worshiping, hearing the sermon and having small group, I can take away so much from the day. In our small group we talked about how going home our life would be put into a different perspective and we would be grateful for everything we have at home. I feel that everyone took something with them from the day. We are ready for a great day tomorrow!

-KK

Costa Rica First Full Day

2011-07-17T20:22:00.000-07:00

Regularly we'll have students update you on what we've done and what they've experienced here in Costa Rica. Enjoy today's blog post by Reed Russ.

Today we had our first full day in Costa Rica after an interesting journey to get here, but nevertheless it was a great one. My name is Reed Russ and this is my first ever day on a mission trip, and it started early at least for me. At 8am most of us boarded the bus for a church service. The service was full of confusing Spanish, but also it really made me realize how grateful these people in Costa Rica are, and how much of a role Christ plays in their life. After a mind blowing church service, we had a delicious lunch from our hotel. I could spend all day writing about that though. Next we went to play in my favorite part of the day. Soccer. I have been playing soccer since I was 5, and I have never sweated more in my life, and also never seen a shorter rainstorm in my life. The rain came to everyone’s delight but left 1 minute later. I am convinced the weather consists of 100% humidity here. At the end it was all worth the sweat, my team won and we all had fun. We used our last energy to watch the U.S women’s team defeat in the World Cup and jump in the pool, a for sure necessity. Everyone swam and had a great time. We saw Blake Lueder do a handstand on ground and played Frisbee. The next event that happened was what blew my mind on day one. I went to the super market looking to buy rain boots, but after getting my boots our group of adults and kids ended up in a bakery. The price was nothing I have ever seen. I’m sure I could bring 100 dollars to this country and live here for a year. It’s heavenly. We bought a foot long bread for 1 dollar and five pieces of pound cake for $1.50. Like I said, I plan on moving here soon. Later on we ate a great dinner till no one could force any more food in his or her mouths, but most important we had evening worship. The worship ceremony started with great songs and an incredible atmosphere. Next we went into our small groups in which we traveled in. It helped me realize what I love most about being involved in the church. There is no one mean here, everyone includes everyone and it is a great feeling. I know I have made great friends already on the first day. Then at the end of my list I am here writing and realizing what a great day my first mission trip day was. I can’t wait for round 2 tomorrow.

-Reed

Touchdown in Costa Rica!

2011-07-17T02:37:00.000-07:00

Costa Rica Blog #1

We safely arrived in Costa Rica tonight around 11:30pm local time after some exciting traveling! Our plane had to make an emergency detour through Belize to deplane one of our fellow travelers who was requiring emergency medical assistance (she was not a member of our group, but please respect her privacy) So that means….two countries for the price of one! We deplaned so the flight crew could restock, do inspections, clean the plane up a bit, and then resumed our trip to Costa Rica. The landing in San Jose was smooth, and the trip north to our home took us about 2.5 hours – while that seems like a long time to travel 60 miles in the USA, that is actually quite good for down here, and well within our expectations. We are all safe, and the kids are sleeping soundly in their beds. Thanks for your prayers, and we love you all!

Bill

All Systems are Go.

2011-07-11T10:19:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the HPUMC Youth Blog. Here we will be posting all sorts of thoughts and reflections of ministry, of mission trips and retreats, of current teaching series, and more. We want you to stay updated with everything related to HPUMC Youth. As many of you know, many of us will be heading out to Costa Rica to serve the people in and around the area of Puerto Viejo for two weeks.
As internet allows, we will hopefully be posting what we do throughout the week from a student's perspective. Please know we will do our best to get posts up regularly, but unfortunately the internet at the place we are staying is pretty spotty. In addition to checking out this blog, you can follow us on twitter (@hpumcyouth). Most importantly, please pray for our trip. We want to be the hands and feet of Christ showing love in all that we do. So please pray for safety, for great work to be down, and for God to be glorified in all that we do.

Weekly Thought From T - Pray for Them

2010-12-06T07:34:00.000-08:00

Week of 12-5-10

Hey Everyone!

Hope you've had a great weekend!

What I'm talking about this week has been on my mind for a couple of weeks now. It all started with a prayer card written by one of you that said something like this, "God, please bless all the people who make fun of me at school. I can't imagine how sad they have to be - or what must be going on in their lives for them to be so mean to someone."

WHAT? Bless those who make fun of you?

I mean, I know this kid - a GREAT kid - and I wanted to knock some heads together! Who would make fun of him? He's the sweetest/greatest guy!

But he was right........someone who needed God's forgiveness, blessings, love.

I don't know when I was in high school if I could have written a prayer card like that.......

Last week at LOOP I sat with the junior high. We talked a lot about what they were going through - things they struggle with. Through tears several boys and girls shared how difficult it was to be made fun of at school. Some for the color of their skin - others for the way they looked........

It absolutely broke my heart. My kids were with me and on the way home Anna-Prin asked, "Mom, why do people at school call that girl ugly? She is beauuuuuuuuutiful!"

I don't know Anna-Prin.......

Last week I was at the Advent Festival with my kids. We were eating dinner in Great Hall when a little girl - with obvious special needs walked passed our table. My son Carter looked at her and said, "MOM LOOK!!!!" My heart sank for what was next - I was so nervous he was going to ask, "What happened to her? Why does she look like that?" But instead he said, "Look how beautiful she looks!!" She passed; the mom smiled and said, "Thank you so much....." I couldn't help but get choked up - and said to Carter, "I have never been so proud of you." He said, "Mom, why? And why are you crying? She was beautiful."

Of course she's beautiful.........but how many of us take the time to see that?

Why do we spend time making fun of people? Why is that a popular thing to do? When did that become cool? And why doesn't it go away?

Fast.

I can only imagine how difficult it is for these kids after a class, or a lunch, or a day of being made fun of. How do they recover from that? The cost on someone else's soul - for a moment to feel cool. When really - there's absolutely nothing cool about it.

This afternoon I went to the cemetery where two of my children are buried. There was a couple there who had recently buried their child. The dad was reading a story to the grave - while the mother sobbed along side him. As I walked away tears just poured down my cheeks and I thought, "We have absolutely no idea what people are going through." I could have stood next to that person in the line at the grocery store today and never knew her pain.

I have no idea what people are going through.

You have no idea what people are going through.

And the boy who wrote the prayer card is right - Jesus has told us time and time again, the only choice we have when it comes to one another is pray. Pray for each other, pray for our enemies and pray for ourselves.

In 1 Peter 3:9 it says, "Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing."

I believe it. I believe that we will blessed for being kind to those who don't deserve it - those who have sinned against us - hurt us. I believe that we could never understand what they might be going through - how much hurt or sorrow or fear or insecurity or whatever it is that motivates such disappointing behavior.

Our love, compassion and prayers are really their only hope.

I love you. Always will.

Weekly Thought from T - In Process

2010-11-29T10:18:00.000-08:00

Week of 11-29-10

Hey Everyone!

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

I know I am an old woman to many of you - so - for those of you who aren't familiar with Andre Agassi - let me just start by saying he is one of the greatest tennis players of all time. I recently finished his book "OPEN" and really loved it. He has been through a lot in his life - and in this book seemed to be really honest with people - not only about tennis, but his life. Andre spent most of his teenage years pretty angry - and conflicted.........he said something about that I really liked. Here goes:

"Several sportswriters muse about my transformation from youth to adult - and that word rankles. I think it misses the mark. Transformation is change from on thing to another, but I started as nothing. I didn't transform, I formed. When I broke into tennis, I was like most kids: I didn't know who I was, and I rebelled at being told by older people. I think older people make this mistake all the time with younger people, treating them as finished products when in fact they're in process. It's like judging a tennis match before it's over, and I've come from behind too often, and had too many opponents come roaring back against me, to think that's a good idea."

I have to say, as a new mom - this hit me pretty hard. I think I do this all the time to my kids. I expect them to ALWAYS behave, use their manners, not act TOO silly. I dream for them about what they are going to be when they grow up. I tell them what foods they will eat - and determine when they are hungry and when they are full. I think some times I live through them - like I didn't get this as a kid - or get to do that as a kid - and so I push what I feel like I missed and/or wanted on to them - when really, it might not be what they are missing or wanting at all.

I don't think this is just a parent to kid thing though. I have heard so many of you say - I wish my mom was like ________________'s mom (you fill in the blank). I wish my dad made more money. I wish we went camping as a family like the so and so's or vacationed at _________________. I wish my mom was funnier. Smarter. I wish my dad played more sports, went to more games. I wish both of them were way more cool.

What the heck is wrong with who we all are? JUST THE WAY WE ARE!

My daughter loves that song that says, "Cuz girl you're amazing......just the way you are!" She sings it REALLY loud from the back seat every time it comes on.

I think I know why she likes it. And why I like it.

Because we are amazing. Just the way we are.

And aren't we all - no matter how old - "in process".......far from a "finished product"??

So - why are we all wishing our lives away?? Wishing those closest/most important to us, would change to be who WE want or think they should be instead of what they were created to be?

Where is our grace for them?

Our patience for their process?

Our unconditional love?

LOVE WITHOUT JUDGEMENT. LOVE WITHOUT CONDITION.

What would our families look like if we really just appreciated where we all are in our "process"?

Stop wishing.

Start enjoying.

I think that's the way God intended it to be.

I love you. Always will.

Weekly Thought from T - THIS PLACE

2010-11-22T06:22:00.000-08:00

Week of 11-22-10

Hey Everyone!

So.....some of you know that my husband Topher spent the better half of last week in the hospital. He had a blood clot that settled into one of his kidneys. It was painful, scary, and unexpected. He's home now and okay- but things have changed a little bit. He has to have shots, take medicine, and think more about what he eats, drinks and how much he exercises.

A week ago this was the furthest thing from our minds. A week ago we were thinking about how much life costs, how busy we were, what was on our list to check off before the end of the week and the kids big birthday party yesterday, which friends we were going to spend time with over the weekend, how we were going to get it all in.

And then BAM! Just like that.........our worries became very different. Very real. Not that the other ones didn't exist - but when you are thinking about your life - and/or quality of that life - all the other worries fade........to black.

Instead of thinking about bills I can't help but wonder what would this look like if the blood clot went to his brain? Or heart?

And now - instead of worrying about when am I going to have time for yoga this week - I was worried about getting out of the hospital before the twins first birthday party, Thanksgiving - and about my husbands quality of life. Will Topher get to exercise anymore - play golf the way he used to - be there for his kids and family the way he wants to......

In the middle of it all I couldn't help but jot down something in my phone.

THIS PLACE.
Why are we living for the next and fail to enjoy the one we are in??

I mean we are a MESS - okay I am a MESS. I can't help but live my life for every moment that is coming. Not the one I am living. And I couldn't help but realize how you might do the same.

We are working so dang hard to BECOME the best. Smarter, faster, richer, stronger. Life will be complete when____________ (you fill in that blank).

When we have more friends
When so and so likes me
When my parents change
When my kids change
When we have more money
When our house is bigger
A better car
When I don't have to work any more
When I make the basketball team
When I'm taller, faster, blonder, stronger, skinnier

And we fail to appreciate

The amazing friends we have
The peace in loving yourself first
Appreciating the gift of parents and who they are - not who you want them to be
Appreciating the gift of your kids and who they are - not who you want them to be
If money is your problem, you don't have a problem
You have a house
92% of the world doesn't have a car
A lot of people in this world would die for your job AND income
Teams don't define You. YOU define YOU.
Our health. The beautiful, unique, healthy body that God gave you.
My gosh we take so much for granted. It's like every day we need to put something on our mirror - tape a piece of paper that says - THIS PLACE. APPRECIATE THIS PLACE.

People always say, "It could be worse" - and it's usually the last thing I want to hear when I am in the middle of something tough - but it's so true. It could.

We have been blessed with so much - and yet we seem to be always looking at - STARING at actually - all of our flaws, weaknesses, the things we want - but don't even really need.

My friends - try to enjoy THIS place. Wherever you are.

Life can change in an instant. It really can. It's almost scary how quickly. SO.....enjoy this place. Relish in this place. Love this place. Appreciate this place.

Thank God - for this place..........

because if you really think about it - it's pretty beautiful - and we have so very much to be grateful for.

Happy Thanksgiving.

I love you. Always will.

T

Weekly Thought From T - It's Magic! - Week of 11-14-10

2010-11-15T08:20:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone!!

Hope you had a great weekend and are ready for yet - another week! Only one more til Thanksgving! : ))

So Saturday night I was out to dinner with my family - and we were having a great discussion about Jesus and heaven - you know every day table talk ; ). Anyway, in the middle of the conversation Georgie bursts out with, "Mommy! In heaven if you need to go (enter 5 years old's version of "bathroom" here) then Jesus just uses his magic and you don't have to go anymore!!!" After I fell over laughing for a solid 2 minutes - I said, "You know Georgie, I think you might be right!"

Georgie may be on to something........because if you think about it - Jesus has all kinds of magic. He healed people, raised them from the dead, he even died himself and then came back to life!

The greatest of Jesus magic - is what he did for us. He has so much "magic" that He makes all our sin disappear. It's amazing....and that is truly magic.....! Day after day he gives us hope! Not only in others - but especially ourselves.

Sometimes I worry that this "magic" that Jesus so freely gave gives us an excuse to sin - rather than a reason to change.

If we look closely in the Bible and learn about the people that Jesus spent time with/forgave- the amazing thing was - they not only wanted to be forgiven - but they wanted to be different from that moment on. So instead of Zacchaeus or the woman at the well saying, "hey thanks for spending time with me Jesus and forgiving me - now if you'll excuse me, I'll get back to my old ways..." they thanked Christ - and then completely turned their lives around.

Now THAT'S magic!

Christ died so that we can be forgiven - and then CHANGE. In John 8 He uses a woman who commits adultry as an example. Everyone wants to stone her to death - Jesus picks her up - dusts her off - and tell everyone else to knock it off! Then looks at her and says, "Go and sin no more".

Go - and sin no more.

Christ did not die on the cross so that we could do and live and be whatever we want and in the end say, "Well, thanks Jesus for dying for me so I could do whatever I wanted". Christ died so that we could understand that THAT kind of love REALLY does exist - and that kind of love changes people for the better. FOREVER.

Christ wants us to use his magic - that's why He did what He did - but don't use it as an excuse for what you do - use it to change who you are......

I love you. Always will.

T

Weekly Thought from T - Bake Them A Cake - Week of 11-8-10

2010-11-08T14:49:00.000-08:00

Happy Day Everyone!

Hope you are all doing really great! I can't tell you how awesome it was to see you yesterday! My gosh I have missed you!

The other day I was out jogging and I ran in to a guy who was walking a German shepherd puppy. I had to stop and pet it - it was so cute! I told the guy how precious the dog was - he replied, "Oh gosh he is being NAUGHTY this morning! Isn't minding me at all!" I started back on my jog and yelled back - "Well, aren't we all a bit naughty sometimes??"

I kept on my jog and recalled a great story a friend told me. She told me she recently bought a car - and was really really upset because she felt like the guy she bought it from really took advantage of her. She felt like she was paying too much - and she was really ticked! She went to one of the maintenance guys at our church for advice. His name is Royce. She told him the story......and here was Royce's advice, "I know what you need to do.......bake him a cake!" She said, "Uhhhhh,excuse me?" He said, "Yep! Bake him a cake! Bake him a cake and then take it to him. Look him in the eye and tell him you forgive him."

WHAT?? A CAKE??

Let me tell you something.........that's some darn good advice.

And how sad how surprising that response is. Shocking, frankly.

I mean - it's so much easier to puff our chest, fold our arms, stick our nose in the air and talk about how right we are and how wrong someone else is.

Back to the German shepherd......

Aren't we all a bit naughty sometimes? Don't we all at some point need forgiveness? And don't we all at some point need to forgive?

So if we are ALL naughty and at some point ALL need forgiveness - what keeps us from forgiving others? From baking that cake and telling someone you forgive them?

Right after Christ taught us how to pray in Matthew 6 - he had this to say about forgiveness:

"For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. "

Ouch.

I mean - I'm not sure he could be any clearer.

Afterall, aren't we all a bit naughty sometimes?

Forgive. It's what we have to do. And I promise you this- when you wrong someone, disappoint, let someone down or hurt someones feelings - you're going to hope and pray they do the same for you.......

I love you. Always will.

T

Weekly Thought from T - That's Just the Way it Goes - Week of 11-1-10

2010-11-02T13:48:00.000-07:00

HELLOOOOOOOOOOO!

I can't tell you guys how much I missed you! It's so nice to be back in to the swing of things! Quick update on the kids - they are doing fantastic! The twins (Anna-Prin and Carter) are in 1st grade at Preston Hollow Elementary - and little George (Georgie) is here at CDP during the day - they love soccer, dance, singing in the choir, playing baseball, football, cuddles, kisses, bedtime stories and to laugh LOUD! Thank you to everyone who has been so supportive and made them feel so loved here at our church. They are such gifts........and I absolutely LOVE being their mommy. : ))

It's really nice to be back. I missed the staff, our ministry - and all of you. I can't wait to see you this week!

These last couple of months I have learned a lot. A lot about myself - and a lot about others. It's funny - young people always think the old people have it all figured out. The truth is, we have worries, fears, insecurities, and failures just like you.

As you can imagine.......my family get a lot of stares and a lot of questions. I can't go anywhere without people standing there - just staring. To save them from themselves - I just want to say, "Yes, they are my kids. Yes, I know they have funky accents, afros and are very black. It doesn't matter. They're mine and I love them as if I carried them in my belly." My kids get it too. Just the other day Anna-Prin said, "Mom, everyone always asks, 'Why are your mom and dad white and you are black?" I asked her what she said back - she said - "I tell them you adopted us - and that's just the way it goes!"

Now - don't get me wrong - I don't think everyone is looking at us in judgment - or criticizing - but it is interesting to be on this side of the stares, questions, comments.

But I loved Anna-Prin's answer. "That's just the way it goes!"

Why can't we all look at life like that?

I know as I look around and judge others - this is rarely my conclusion.......my response. Instead of looking at others and shrugging my shoulders and saying, "That's just they way it goes!" - I stand in judgment. I criticize. I make my own conclusions - about things and people that are none of my business.

Why do I do this? Why do we do this??

We do it about the way people look. About the way they talk. About the sin that plagues their life. About the way they spend their money. What they do with their boyfriend/girlfriend. Decorate their house. What grades they make. How they spend their weekends. Eat. Walk. Breathe. Dress. Dance. Sing.

I mean - the way we judge people sometimes it's a wonder anyone makes it out alive.

It's funny. It's funny because this is the exact opposite way Christ taught us to live. To love.

It's so weird to me how we look upon others with such judgment when we know very little about:

what they are RELLY going through

what their home life is REALLY about

how they REALLY feel

what their background is

or what makes them do what they do

and the truth is........it's none of our business - because for whatever reason, "that's just the way it goes" and Christ has told us again and again to be merciful, just as our Father is merciful.

In Luke 6 He says it perfectly........

“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

He also told them this parable: “Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into a pit? The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher.

"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when you yourself fail to see the plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye."

Don't we all have a plank in our eye? Don't we all have "stuff"? And instead of pointing - shouldn't we just love???

Because you know what my friends.........that's the way it SHOULD go.....

Love. That's it. That's all we need to do.

As Carter would say, "Finish."

I love you. Missed you.

And always will.

Weekly Thought from Lisa - Week of 10-25-10

2010-10-29T08:12:00.001-07:00

The other day I was reading in the Psalms. As I read Psalm 141, verse 3 really stood out to me. It says

Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.

Wow. That is a short verse with a powerful message. I don’t know about you but at least once a day something (that something being words) comes out of my lips that shouldn’t. It might be an unkind word about a friend. It might be an angry word to my daughter. It might be something dismissive to a clerk in a store. It might be a sarcastic comeback to someone’s legitimate comment. It might just be a word of agreement to a bit of gossip.

Have you ever stopped to think just how powerful words are? I have always believed that words, that language, have the power to shape the way we think. Our words may have a huge impact on what others think or what others believe. When I think about how powerful words are and how easy it is to say the wrong thing it can be scary. I mean we always talk about how a bomb can be launched with a single push of a button. Aren’t our words like that-a single word can change a relationship, can tear someone down?

In the same way, an encouraging word can bring a smile. It can build up someone who is feeling down. It can bring hope to someone who is hopeless. Jesus’ words brought hope and faith and love to those who heard them.

I really wish God could set a guard over my lips and some buzzer or something would go off when I was about to say something I will regret. But you know, I think God has given me the ability, with God’s help, to guard my lips. I have been praying that God would help me think before I speak. Think before I agree with an unkind comment. Think before I neglect to say something kind to someone is a down. And certainly think before I say anything that does not glorify God.

I hope you have a great week. And that you will think about your words and how powerful they can be.

Weekly Thought From Bill - Week of 10-17-10

2010-10-21T13:09:00.001-07:00

Hey Friends! Bill here.

I love to work on the house and build stuff with my hands. Not that I’m overly good at it, but it’s rewarding to look at a job when you are done – for some reason, I really enjoy looking back at something and realizing that I helped create that. It doesn’t even matter how big or small the job is. Doesn’t matter if it’s something as small as painting a wall or as big as helping build a whole house with Habitat for Humanity. I love looking back at a job and knowing that I got to help make a dream into a reality.

I don’t think I’m the only one who feels this way. I’ve seen the artwork that some of you have created, and it’s really cool stuff. Some of you have crazy gifts and you love to draw and paint and edit videos and play music and just make stuff – I think some of you know what I’m talking about.

Why? Why do we enjoy spending our free time to make stuff? Why spend our energy on making things, instead of goofing off or having fun? Why do we like to put some of ourselves out there for people to critique?

I think it has something to do with our very natures – the first thing we learn about people is that we are created in the image of God – we are created to look like our creator. I don’t think that means that we have the same hair color as God or the same height or some other physical characteristics. I think it’s much deeper than that – to me, it means that at our core, we have a longing to be like God.

That’s the real core of our identity – we are created by a loving God. That’s the first thing we ever know about ourselves, and it’s definitely one of the most important.

This genius theologian named St. Augustine put it this way – “our hearts are restless until they find rest in you”. We’ve got this imprint from God at the core of our being.

God loves us. That’s why he made us. But even better than that, God loved us so much that he created us in his image – He was proud enough of his work that he signed it. He claimed us as his own.

Congrats friends – You are made in the image of God. You are loved by God. Nothing you did to deserve it. Nothing you can do about it. God loves you.

Love you guys.

Bill

Weekly Thought - Week of 10/10/10

2010-10-18T06:41:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I feel that it is easy to forget that there are people in need in the world and in our communities. I know that I can fall into a place where I take for granted the things that I have. I forget that they are gifts and blessings from God. I fear that it is really easy to remember to be grateful for the things we have and to help others during the holiday season, but harder through the rest of they year. I have worked with some soup kitchens in the past during Thanksgiving and Christmas - and they always say they are booked with volunteers. I think we forget that there are people in need all year round!

This past week in Sunday School we talked about the life family of 5 with both parents that work at minimum wage. This represents about a 3rd of the work force in the US. The scary thing - if these parents are working 50 hours a week each, they are still short almost $1000 per month. These families have to make up the difference so they can make ends meet. My hope is I can remember that I am blessed by God and I can give, not out of excess, but give when there is a need.

          We also learned about Meals on Wheels - a program that helps people make up the difference in the amount of money coming in as opposed to the amount going out. They also give some lonely people a friend for a few minutes each day! We wrapped Christmas “presents” for the meal recipients that were hygiene items. The sad thing is that for many of the people this may be their only present for the Christmas season.
          Not that we should feel guilty for what we have, but I hope we can remember that we are blessed when we have the basic needs to keep us clean, have clothes, and have a home.
          I was so proud of the youth this past Sunday, after we talked about the program - we went to work wrapping over 300 items for Meals on Wheels to distribute. Each youth there did the best job they could with wrapping and the end result showed tons of love and care for each present!
          I hope that I can live a life that shares the love and blessings that Christ has given me! I hope I can share His love with others by helping when there is a need, not just the huge things but in the little things. Sometimes its the little things that make the largest difference!

Drew