A Conversation...

Yesterday evening right before our "Wired Game Night" event, I had a parent call. I answered the call thinking it was a parent asking about when the event was over. But to my surprise it was a parent concerned about the nature of the "games" we would be playing, or more specifically the game HALO.

This father was extremely gracious to me and rather brought to my attention that HALO is rated mature. I was unknowingly aware of this, but the father seemed to be concerned about the influence this would have on students. So I told him that I would look into it, and make the proper decision.

After researching why HALO is rated "mature" I found that it is so because of bad language and some blood.

What validates my decision for using HALO in the youth ministry is this:

1. The bad language is only in the Legendary setting and or campaign setting. Our students use the split-screen mode.
2. The blood factor is rather pathetic, in which would see more blood from a simple paper cut than on HALO.
3. Students like and it's a fun way to connect students who wouldn't usually hang out together.
4. It's easy to set up.

With this said, 5 years ago after having a conversation like this, I would have been angry and discouraged. But I look at like this:

1. I wish more parent's would be as forth coming as this father was.
2. This parent is concerned about me as much as he is concerned about his student.
3. Parent's can tender some form of encouragement.

Five things About Me!

This is my opportunity to be a little selfish and talk about me. Here are five things that most people don't know about me. You should feel privileged if you know a few.

1. When I'm quite, it means that I'm thinking, analysing or daydreaming. It never means that I am angry.
2. I hate turkey stuffing, or anything of the sort. I will puke if forced to eat the stuff.
3. I am a medieval buff. I own a few swords and have taken sword lessons before.
4. I am an hypocondriact. I fear disease!
5. I can not dribble a basketball down the court. I can only dribble at a static position.

More thoughts on Leadership

So, today I witnessed something that proved to be something that I need to address. Without going into specifics, I realized something about leadership. Here are few thoughts:

• Leadership is having the "guts" to have "that conversation" with "that someone" even though someone will awake away with their "ego" bruised.


• Leadership is having the "guts" to understand both sides of the coin and still making that decision that will make some people "unhappy."


• Leadership is understanding that regardless of age, schooling and personality, one must yield to those who God has placed in a higher position.


• Leadership is "understanding" your position and excelling at that. Not overstepping your bounds because you "think" you have all the answers.


• Leadership is purging those selfish desires, and making good choices that help students and ultimately glorify God.


• Leadership is knowing and understanding those who are in a position of higher authority and "respecting" that.

Tell me what you think....

Trucks, Cookies, and Singing

Yesterday I helped Mike Lovato move a family member from Yucipa to Riverside. It seemed that we (Mike, myself and Jon) were in for an adventure. Here is a timetable of what happened:

• Got up at 7:30am to meet Mike at church at 8:30am. This in fact was a miracle.
• Mike drove a Ford F-150 to Yucipa to pick up the 1st round of furniture.
• After packing what we could in the truck, some crazy lady came by to see the "goodies" that were "going" to be sold at the estate sale the next day. She was by far the strangest women I have ever met. She claimed to be the Yucipa cookie-making champion, and would leave. She went through everything!!! Like 30mins of waiting for her to stop looking. Then she bought a bag for nuts (birds of a feather, flock together) to use for her cookies.
• On the second trip back, the truck we were borrowing had some radiator issues. In fact I was two cars behind Mike, and I saw most of the radiator fluid. Fun times.
• I am now officially bored typing this. More to come later.

Reflections on JH Discipleship

The weekend is finally over and I must say that it was downright an awesome experience. I am still processing much of what was said and done this weekend. I guess the ultimate purpose of this weekend was to take a small groups of JH students to an environment that would be free of distractions and "try" to connect with God in many different ways. The important thing that I walked away was this notion of "do we really know our students?" A simple question, right? Do we know their hurts, their dreams, their home life? Do we know what makes them laugh or cry? This what I observed by watching my leaders this weekend. I also observed how lazy some students can be. I know that its still JH, but when do we start (or should I say they start) to (teach/learn) servanthood? This is my new study, more to come this later.

Here are some highlights and lowlights....

Highlights

• Worship and camping at the beach...can't beat that!


• Watching the students being stretched beyond their comfort zones.


• The foot washing by the light of tiki-torches that lined the beach at night.


• Watching the red tide light show at night.


• Body boarding at San Clemente


• Watching my buddy Mike present a fine job of what it means to be a disciple of Christ.

Lowlights

• It was overcast the whole weekend.


• The drunkards in the camp next ot us.


• Students killing squirrels.


• Under packing cooking gear.


• Not knowing your camping gear.


• No hot showers.


• Sand in places that it should never be.

I leave you with this; junior high students are very much capable of way more than we can imagine. Discipleship is a process that is different for everyone, and must be taken seriously. Yet, it is very much corporate in the sense in what it accomplishes. More to come on that.

Reflections on Leadership

Lovato posted an awesome article that he found basically saying that "are you making leaders or followers." Props the Del La Vato for his post.

I have been re-examining what it means to be a leader. More so, what are the traits of a good leader. From this, I must confess that just as there are fish in the sea, so to are the perspectives of a what a leader should be. Here are my thoughts on this matter:

A Leader Must...

1. Be willing to make hard choices. You know the one's that don't please people, but is proper for the vision and purpose.
2. Listen. This is a hard one for me.
3. Delegate when necessary (really not an issue for me).
4. Must do what is right for his ministry, and not what's going to make others feel comfortable. This might sound harsh, but imagine having way too many leaders who want to help out at an event, but you have have the budget or place for them at that time. How do you pick and choose who goes and who stays? The problem here is that we tend to invite those who we are most comfortable with. That's not a bad thing, but it really dampens your ministry and support level with your leaders.
5. Be willing to do the crappy things.

This is just some of the things that have been going through my head this week.

Disicpleship Weekend Retreat

I'm taking a Small group of students to San Onofre for a discipleship retreat this weekend. It should be fun. Here are some things that they will experience:

• Fasting


• Experience a time of prolonged silence


• Foot washing


• Journaling


• Sharing


• Surfing


• Body boarding


• Learning what it means to be a disciple

I think this trip will be exciting and different at the same time. My friend is the speaker for the weekend, I'm excited to see him chat about his passion. More to come!

Spiritual...too much?

Have you ever been around those who are so spiritual that you get turned off? You know the one's who get pissy when you talk about seeing a movie that is rated PG-13, or when the conversation doesn't include something about Jesus, are you with me? Yeah, I had one of those conversations today. Fun times. Why do people need to make everything a fiasco?

Done!!!

I just finished my last final (which I rocked out). I am now officially done with CBU. Now the hard part: cleaning my apartment...

Reflections on Public Safety

Okay, can someone explain to me why public safety is now utilizing the use of Kevlar vests? Are they serious? At CBU? Is CBU such a high risk campus that they need to protect themselves from the onslaught of vicious crimes directed towards public safety officers? Silly me, I forgot. There are those numerous gangs on campus that furnish nerf-guns and are deadly accurate with the hot-pink foam missiles. Or could it be the fact that CBU is home to some of the most dangerous people that can toss bibles at such velocity that it could kill man in seconds (especially those NIV's)? Really people, Kevlar vest....? At CBU? I didn't know that CBU was Beirut and that we needed tactical equipment. Where's my nerf-gun again??? Fun times.

PLEASE NOTE: My experience at CBU (for the most part) has been a wonderful experience. The education I received has been second to none. This social comment is just that, a comment. If this offends you, please discontinue reading my blog.

Surfing Rats

This is so funny!!!

Why?

Why do I always think the worst of situations? Why do I think that the motives of people are based upon some sort of negativity? Today, I realized that I need to allow motives and perspectives to form their own image. I draw too much conclusions, and this ultimatly will hinder my ministry efforts.

Got paper....?

As some of you might know, I will be traveling to the wonderful country of Thailand in July. I will be there for about three weeks. As I continue to research the culture and geographic areas of which I will be working in, I ran across this reality: Thailand endorses "squaty-potties!" I pray that either God will give me strength to use one of these or there will be some sort of western counterpart. Either way, I will rough it out, although crapping my shorts seems like a better option at the moment. For those of you who have shared in this experience (you know who you are) bravo!!!

By the way, I am writing a book entitled "Fun with Feces." It will be hitting the bookstores this summer. I know that its a crap shoot writing a book on things that makes people sick, however, after a few years in student ministry and having to clean up many overflowing toilets (because miraculou students forget how to use a mop) I have learn the value of fecal-talk. Forgive my crudeness, wait...if you have a problem, quit reading my blog!

Okay I Lied

Okay, this has got to be in my top five, along with Ladytron.

Ladytron

Ladytron "Destroy EverythingYou Touch"

This is one of the coolest video's I have seen in a while. Extremely interesting!

This is so funny!

This is the funniest commerical I have ever seen, and I don't care what Josh thinks!

Current Synth Favorites

Some you might know that I am a connoisseur of synth-pop-electro-clash music. Here is a list of my top favorites that I think you should check out!



1- The Knife

2- Panda Bear

3- Ladytron

4- Lindstrom

5- Figurine

6- Norway³

7- Artemius

Imagine this...

Imagine a church telling you that you couldn't promote a missions trip "within the church"!!! I was not aware that missions trips were so secular that we needed to keep them out. What an interesting day so far!

My Last Few Words...

This week is the beginning of my last three weeks of school. I am reminded of how much I have grown as a leader and as person. It is weird to see how God works. I look back now and think about the issues that once plagued me. Please note that I stated "once." Now I view those as the learning blocks of life.

It's interesting to read my old youth ministry journals. So much has changed in these last four years. I have learned so much and still continue to learn much. I must confess that am embarrassed of the things I used to hold as the "only way" to do youth ministry. If there is one thing I learned, youth ministry is constantly changing, and once you become complacent, things begin to become rough. Fluid mobility is something anyone working with students needs to have in the arsenal.

I can't to see what else God has for me in the next four years.

B.Y.O.F. Weekend Review

Wow, BYOF is finally over and exhaustion has finally set in. The weekend was hugely successful, not to the fact that students had a blast, but that I got to connect with students I didn't know very well, while meeting some new ones. Our visitors for the weekend had a blast and can't wait till Wednesday for more. I think two elements really played a part in this weekend being so successful: intentional and relational. Every leader (regardless whether or not they were tried or not) loved on the kids, and really tried to break through those superficial barriers. Breaking those barriers are not the easiest things to do, but the impact one makes in the lives our their students is incredible. Enough reflection, here are some highlights and lowlights:

Highlights

• Laser Tag- It was awesome!!! This was the fav for most students.
• HALO for days- Guy's played HALO and watched Thundercats cartoons.
• CastlePark- Cheap Thrills and a neat time to hang with students. No one Puked.
• BBQ- good food, XBox 360, basketball, volleyball Sardines at night and fire...good times.
• Hanging with students and meeting new ones.
• Seeing students step up the leadership table...priceless.

Lowlights

• General tiredness
• Students with attitudes
• Snoring
• A dare that involved the licking of armpits (after an hour of DDR) for a $10 movie card
• A 6 ft. turd that plugged a toilet. Yes, I had clean that crap up (pun intended)
• Resources that were requested, not provided (2nd projector)
• Students and cliques
• Grease fires...they suck!

Overall, it was an awesome time. I am glad I went ahead and did the event. I need a nap...

Changes, Changes, and more Changes...

well, it looks like I'm not moving to Texas as soon as I'd had hoped. But, I know that God has plan. I just need to listen more...dang, it did it again!

B.Y.O.F Weekend Adventure

So after careful prayer and a strategic message, BYOF is still a go! The fun starts tomorrow at 5:30pm and ends on Sunday morning. We have about 20 students going, most are bringing friends. Please note that I mentioned the word "most." Here's my issue; In order to sign-up to go, a student needed to bring an "un-churched" friend. This later afternoon I received a call from a parent stating that her son's friends just bailed on him, can he still go? I thought rather quickly and stated "yes." It only seemed fair. He made the contact, he was intentional, and these things happen. So, our ratio is not completely 50/50, but its pretty darn close. I am so proud of my students!!!

Conversations with Public Safety

Here is a real conversation I had with a public safety officer, I use the word "officer" loosely. My thoughts on public safety are this: I feel that they are needed on campus, but they take their job to a level it should never go. CBU public safety employees are not "real" peace officers. Yet they act like they run a maximum security prison. It's just a college guy! Your not on SWAT and this isn't your beat. Seriously, there have been public safety employees that have actually came to work in a tactical jumpsuit! What are they a afraid of? The Hollister gang littering the campus with credit cards receipts? Okay, here's the conversation...

Background: my friends and I are playing a game of nerf war at night in the courtyard, when public safety coming rolling up...

PS- why were you guys running from me!
ME- Sorry, I didn't think walking feet in your direction necessitate running, we were not running from you, just didn't see you.
PS- Student ID's please
ME- here you go
PS- You can't be playing games like this
ME- Why?
PS- People get real nervous when people run around with objects that look like guns
ME- You know, you're right. I thought the hot pink coloring on my nerf gun was a dead giveaway!
PS- Have a good night
Me- You too!

Nerf guns that look real...what a retard!!!

Reflections on Numbers

I often wonder why attendance numbers are a like a roller-coaster ride. There are many factors that can influence this issue. One issue that plagues our ministry is that many of our students come from single parents. We have a rather high amount of students who come broken homes. From this, I am able to deduce that most of our missing students on Wednesday and Sunday are with the "other" parent for weekend. It's not a bad thing, but it is something we have to keep in mind before we throw in the towel, and need to figure out a way to keep them encouraged and loved on, not to mention plugged. What about their "other" parent? Anyone have a thought on this? Hit to Lovato...

Has this ever happen to you?

It's been awhile since I last posted something, and I'm too busy to get into that at the moment. Here's the question for all those who read this blasted blog: Have you ever had to cancel an event because no students signed up for it? This is my dilemma at the moment. My students are either out of town or don't have the money to go on BYOF weekend. I fear that I might have to cancel it. Your thoughts?

The Otherly Opus

I bought the new Joy Electric album "The Otherly Opus/the Memory of Alpha." It is different, but absolutley amazing. It seems that I am never disapointed with JE.

Coffee & Bagels

So, I'm sitting at this little coffee house in Tehachapi, CA. It's not a bad place, free WiFi, coffee is decent, and the atmosphere is livable. But, I must confess, the price for a breakfast bagel should be anywhere from $2.00 to $3.75. This place has breakfast bagels for a whopping $5.00!!! Now, this would seem appropriate if the bagel was rather large and was down right delicious. Not the case here. The bagel tasted fine, but the size made me laugh. Paris Hilton weights more than this bagel. Funny, but my wallet is thinking "I just paid for what again...?"

Favs & Hates

Here are few of my favorite things:

• The Beach
• WiFi
• Coffee
• Ritalin
• Cartography
• Student Ministries
• Dental Insurance
• Friends and Family
• Parents who make me smile and support their students in ministry

Here are few of things I hate:

• Traffic
• Senioritis
• People who are unwilling to sacrifice for the greater good
• Parents who are devious
• People who are flaky
• Liars
• Expensive gas

This is just an little rant...please forgive me!

F.Y.O.B (Form Your Own Band)

Okay, if you were to form your own band who would be in it?

Guitar- Nick Hexum (311)

Bass- Gordon Sumner (Sting)

Drums- Alex Albert (Project 86)

Synths- Ronnie Martin (Joy Electric)

Other- Andy Hunter (DJ)

Who would be in your band?

Spring Break

In 1.35 hours my spring break will begin...I can't wait. Here are somethings that I will be doing this week:

• Homework (it is never-ending)
• Going to the beach with some friends (trying to get in as much body boarding before I leave for Texas)
• I'm taking my small group to Castle Park tonight (fun for days)
• Going home for a couple days
• Maybe even get a few hours of sleep
• Prayer, prayer and more prayer
• Go to Java Bliss
• Look for a job in Texas

Yeah...I'm done with CBU already!

My resume

It is done...my resume is now on Youth Specialities. It's weird putting it on there...I really need to find a job!

Strange-ness

Today I spent the afternoon programming our summer camp and missions trip, both of which I will not be leading or participating because I will be in Texas. It was strange planning and thinking about what will work and the typical logistical issues that come with planning an event. Things are so different now...

Windows Office 2007!

I just upgraded to Windows Office 2007. It is AWESOME!!! It has some fresh concepts, new look, and it loaded with useful stuff. If you don't have it...its worth the purchase!

Winter Camp 2007

• 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  

  This year our JH ministry joined Saddleback, Mariners, and Journey for a winter camp up in Thousand Pines...we had a great time. Here are some highlights and lowlights:

  
  

  Highlights

  
  

  • The volunteer staff I brought with me were absolutely amazing. I could delegate and know that the job would get done with precision, tact, and love. These guys really love our students. This was evident this weekend when exhaustion set in, and yet they still were able to discipline with love.
  
  
  
  • Thousand Pines was awesome. Paintball, ropes course, art shoppe, basketball, foose ball, snow, off-road rides, snowball fights, the food, the camp set-up, the cabins...all were awesome!
  
  
  
  • They had a underground coffee house. It was very cool. On a funny note: students brought coffee thinking they were getting caffine...nope...they got de-caf!
  
  
  
  • Seeing students getting into worship!
  
  
  
  • Seeing students offload their paintball hoppers are at a group of leaders (I mean it was 30 to 7!!!) Long Live Bergadine!!!

  
  

  Lowlights

  • Students who think they are too good to do anything (help clean the cabin, sitting at the dinner table, etc.)
  
  
  • Students and cell phones (student cell phone suck!)
  
  
  • Rude people...or should I say exclusive cliques
  
  
  • Students who lie then pull the "do you know who my dad is...?" card. I don't care who your dad is.
  
  
  • Rich kids and their little rich attitudes...I never knew that they sold that crap at Neiman Marcus.

  
  

  It was a good trip. Now I have some uber-following up to do...peace out!

  
  

Middle School Ministry Reality Check

I just read a blog that really hit home. Everyday, I am reminded of how much I have learned, as well as how much I still need to learn. It is a constant pursuit. In all honestly, I struggle with ministry. I have this vision for our students, our leaders, me, and often times I lose focus on the task at hand. More often than not, I forget the reality of junior high ministry...it's about seeds, its about planting them. Tonight, I realized something and was encouraged by a guy who I don't even very well, yet can sympathize with him in his journey with his junior high students. Thanks Josh!

The Forgetful Massacre

They all forgot...
They lost out...
Some don't care...
Yet, remember not to worry...
While others lie to avoid...
So much for friendship...
Although, I must stay...it was overrated!

They found out...
Now wallow in lies...
and still don't care.
I remain steadfast in position...
for friends come and go...
and like the pebble in the shoe...
they pissed the hell out of me!

They all forgot...
they all are now lost with discontent!

Definitions of a hoovering YM

At the beginning of this year we had this intense feeling of excitement for what the new year would bring. We were hoping for some change, growth (both spiritually and numerically), testing new ideas, and becoming more relational with our students.

Now, it is seems that the new year has had the opposite effect. Our numbers haven't dropped too much, but it has been an issue. The lack of enthusiasm of events and the like have taken hold. I have observed issues I thought were taking hold, and found that its not what "we are doing" or "not doing," but its about priorities and time.

Students today are soaked with extra curricular activities, not to mention the plethora of non-curricular activities that seem to plague our students today. What can we do to change or accommodate a schedule that benefits maximum exposure of the ministry while allowing students miss whole months because of the 50 sports activities they're involved in? Or should we look at having an extreme makeover of the ministry? What's the point of doing anything if ministry gets put on the back burner because: camping, surfing, boring church, the mall, theater, sports, parents, homework, life....

My Stomach

I went to the Doctors this morning. I need to have an upper GI done, I heard that I have to drink some barium cocktail? Bummer. At least I will know whether or not I have a "real" ulcer or not.

Sick...update

Praise be to God, I do not have food poisoning! However, I do have a 24 hour flu. I missed my class in which everyone got to baptist someone...bummer. I body feels like I just got done playing a game of rugby.

Sick

I think that I have food poisoning. Someone please kill me now!

Creepy

The location from someone has viewed my blog is a cemetery. OK, that's freaky!

24 of no 24

I missed the last two episodes of 24...I feel out of the loop.

My Small Group Field Trip

Tonight, I took my guys to a Hindu temple in Riverside. We tagged along with CBU and their comparative religion class. The guys had never experienced anything like it and were blown away at some of the things they saw. Here's a few things that happened:

• They witnessed people giving gifts (fruit, money, incense, etc.) to things that had no value.
• They witnessed people praying to nothing.
• They smelled some pretty bizarre smells.
• They understood the importance of reaching the lost with the Good News.

I try to provide a cross cultural experience once a month for my small group. These guys have fellow peers that are practicing Hindu's, as well as other religions, so it was good to put a face with the culture and religion. Hopefully this experience encouraged them to begin to make some contacts and relationships in hopes that they would be able to share the Gospel message.

Overall, a great experience. We walked away with our hearts saddened for those who bow down and pray to nothing and have no hope. May we have the courage to show them to the Truth.

Seminary...update

Totally weird... as soon as I posted my last blog I recieved a phone call from Texas. I'm in!!!!

Seminary...

This week I should find out whether or not I'm accepted to Southwestern Baptist Theoligcal Seminary. I'm extremely excited, but neverous at the same time. A few alumni have stated that I have nothing to worry about...a comforting thought. Nevertheless, if Texas doesn't work out, I have a plan B...I think that's Golden Gate...

Definitions of a starving world

Well...I survived to live another day. I walked away from this weekend training with bizarre sense of emotions. I feel sick to my stomach, I'm really tired, and yet I know that there are people that would kill for my life. A painful reality to the fact that I am a selfish bastard. Here are some cold facts:

• I live to eat, others eat to live
• I own a computer and a vehicle, people can't even read, and walk 6 miles for water
• I don't even walk 6 miles in a week
• Why do suffering and starving people make me emotional?...yes, I cried
• In two days, I will probably will start to feel apathetic...again

God...please continue to keep me uncomfortable, that which I might not forget those who are dying, and dying for a clean drink of water.

ISP

So, I broke away from the group to post this, because I have to. Here are somethings that God has allowed me to see in myself:

• I am a selfish bastard! It's all about me...and I really don't have any concept of sacrifice.
• I am rich! I have to got to witness how others live in poverty...I have not right to even open my mouth.
• I am hungry! Within the last 24 hours I ate the following: 1- bagel, 1- glass of apple juice, 1- PB&J, 2- spoons of rice. I am not starving...I have no idea what starving is!
• I am a leader! God has gifted me...and he IS using me.

More details will follow....God with you!

Intensive Training Weekend

This evening at 6pm, I will embark on a two night three day intensive training weekend for a trip I'm taking in July. I heard that it will be taxing and hard-work. Here's my thoughts:

• Most ITW "really" don't expose you to the "real" issues you find in country.
• It will be a good bonding time with team mates.
• I will lose weight
• I will try and keep a good attitude
• I am not looking forward to a 5am hike...how this further the kingdom?
• I heard that all we get is water and crackers...I'm packing some snack-packs
• We will be sleep deprived
• Rules are meant to be broken

The Java Bliss

Tonight I met with a friend at this new place called Java Bliss. I've meaning to try it out for a few weeks now...glad I did. It was nice place, the coffee was decent and the environment...well... here's what I thought:

• The place looked like Martha Stewart took a creative dump and flung her feces all over the place...coffee and sea foam green do not go together.
• If Ikea and bed, bath and beyond had a love child...this place would be it and Richard Simmons would be a charter member.
• The place also contained games, "connect-Four" are you serious?
• The crowd was that usual "trendy" kids that knew nothing of intelligence, but could tell you what latest t-shirts were at Abercrombie & Fitch.
• They sold ridiculous priced coffee cups...$20? Does it cure cancer too?

That all I have to report. Please stop by and enjoy a nice cup Joe....my bad JAVA!!!

Frustration...

• If there was ever a day where I wanted to quit...tonight would have been that day. My student's were off the hook tonight. Did someone give them a sugar sandwich before they came to church? Now, I understand that Junior Highers are squirrelly...it's who they are, and I am extremely patience with them. But, tonight, they were so rude, not to me, but the other leaders. I literally stood on stage with another leader for 5 mins. till they decided someone was needing their attention...no respect! Man...I need some sleep.

24 and the Newsboys

Is it just me or does Peter Fuller of the Newsboys look a lot like Abu Fayed from 24?

"They don't serve falafel's in hell..." Okay that was just bad humor....sorry!

The "New" Thing

I can't wait to introduce this form of communication at work. "Hey...Chris $%Slap&*...how was Sunday?" Okay, maybe not so much....


The New Thing



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My worst flaw.... (or at least one of my worst flaws)

This semester has been the worst ever. Not so much due to an overload of homework, projects or work. I think it's because of Senioritis. Now, years past, I always regarded senioritis as a myth or a personal issue that some people had. But, now I find myself having no motivation to do anything. I mean, it has gotten to the point where "C's" actually are becoming more acceptable to my academia. This has got to be my worst flaw...

Senioritis is a term used colloquially in the United States and Canada to describe the decreased motivation towards studies displayed by students who are nearing the end of their high school or college careers. It is typically said to include slowness, procrastination, apathy regarding school work, and a tendency towards truancy. Many of these high school and college students find themselves in a type of lame duck situation: their plans are made and a new chapter in their life is about to begin, so finishing the current chapter (the current term separating them from graduation) becomes just a formality or "holding pattern."

Bowling for stolen bikes...

Yesterday we had our "Bowling-4-Friends" event. Here are the highlights and lowlights:

Highlights

• Bowling is tons of fun
• Students actually brought friends this time
• We had an 80's theme
• Good times hanging out with students

Lowlights

• Half of the students who signed up, showed up
• A student got his bike jaked in front of his face
• Driving around the neighborhood looking for the thieves
• No leaders showed up (except me and the JH intern)

As I mentioned before...what makes an event a more appealing than others?

This is funny stuff

The Good Word

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Quite Time

In my pastoral ministry class I have to turn in a weekly overview of my quite time with God. Basically, I am to state how the "Lord spoke to me during the week." Each overview is worth ten points.

Now explain this to me, how does one receive a 7/10 on a quite time? I mean it's MY time with God. What happens and how the Lord chooses to communicate with me is completely subjective. There is no textbook that states that "this HAS to happen in order to have a quite time with God." How can a professor judge whether a quite time is worth 5, 6, 9, or 10 points? Wow, I can't believe this!

Seminary

Well, it's finally done. I have submitted everything and now I have to wait to hear what lies ahead of me in Texas. I was told not to worry...I'm the kind of man they want to have at Southwestern (this information coming from a Southwestern Alumni). We'll see what the Lord has in store for me. Fun times!

the not so SONSet, sonset!

Tonight was one of our Junior High SONset. It's a time of gathering, food, hanging out, games, knowing God on a deeper...you know the "typical" church event stuff. Tonight, we had the worst turn out of any Junior High event we ever had. What happened? Not enough promotion? Something else better came up? Couldn't find the host home? Why do some events flourish while others fall dead to the ground? If you know...write a freaking book on it! This is ridiculous. Why do I try?

We live in a fishbowl

In ministry one must constantly remember that they live in a fishbowl. People are watching them and proving judgment upon one’s character. This is where I often fail. I tend to be oblivious to the demands of character analysis’ that parents, co-workers, friends, students, and why should I? Am I not an individual that can think for myself? Am I not intelligent enough to develop my own sense of belonging in the world? The answer does not lie within the process of my individual need, but in the process of who I affect due to my live as a follower of Jesus Christ. It is true that I am not contained by the mere social choices that people will often tender as profitable action that I must take, but I am contained to the conscience of my own being and the will of God for me life. What then is to be looked upon with disgust or disappointment due to the nation of another individual’s point or view or more carelessly their perception of me as a person? What do I care what people think of me as a person, as long as my ministry is growing and I am (God forbid by some people) doing the will of God? Titus 1:6 tells us “if anyone is above reproach…and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination.” I find this verse fitting because it shows me that we as pastors are to be living examples and ultimately sacrifice for the needs of others. Why make a brother stumble, because we want to be our own person. What if they are offended something we say, wear, do, or example? Do we continue to pursue that level of personal infliction or do heed the call and try to compromise? My life is a fishbowl…

My Small Group

For the next few months my small group and I will begin to look at God's global agenda as seen in the Old Testament and as well as the New Testament. I have to say that the group of guys that God has blessed with in my group are sharp. I'm not even joking...these guys are "little theologians." Today, the question of predestination came up. I was shocked! Not only did Patrick say a word that is so foreign to junior highers, but even pronounced it correctly. Needless to say, it was a heavy discussion. I'm blown away...totally awesome!

A new Kind of Book

Just finished "A New Kind of Youth Ministry" by Chris Folmsbee (yes, I read extra books other than my textbooks). I recommend it to everyone. It contains some fresh thoughts, good ideas and it's really not a model.

Wisdom

I am one of those types of people who hold people to their words and or actions. I believe that people are responsible to follow through, regardless of the pending circumstances. Call it a moral obligation if you will. Today, my attitude and frustration blossomed in full force. Without going into specifics, I felt wronged. At that moment I felt useless, disrespected, not "one of the favorites". A normal response to issues that happen in one's life. But, within the midst of feeling devalued, wisdom enters and removes the blinders that make me who I am.

I am grateful for the people that God has blessed me with. Tonight, my friend explained to me that my issue was not a hill to die on. After pointing our certain flaws (that were based upon valid evidence), I am grateful for the wisdom that God gives certain people. I understand the need to surround one's self with people of different thoughts and paths, for they will help you understand, and often times God uses these people to help one understand their own faults.

I am a man with many flaws. Yet, is it wrong to feel wronged or devalued? Is it a sin to feel useless or ill-regarded? It is wrong to feel that if you're going to do one person, you should do for all? What makes some people better than others? How could one do someone and not the other? It is my prayer that I will learn see the brighter side of things...yet I hate that Pollyanna crap...

My Worship Problem

Why is it always the same? Why do I feel like I have to go against the grain? When everyone is worshiping, I just stand and think. I don't open my mouth to sing or engage. It's not the music or the environment. I love worship. But, what I don't like is a fake automatic response. I feel that if I raised my hands and screamed the lyrics from my lungs it wouldn't be my true form. I feel that in the quietness of my mind I'm worshiping God for who He is. If it wrong for me not give in to the emotional response to worship...do I need therapy? Anyone have Dr. Dobson's number?

First week at school

Today finishes my first week of my last semester. Here is a snibit of my classes:

American Government: Not too much work, the professor is rather animated which proves to be useful when the class is at 9am.

Philosophy: Probably one of my favorite classes this semester. The professor surfs a couple times a week, the topics are engaging and I love to rock the boat during discussions. I anticipate a fun class.

Pastoral Ministry: A good class...so far. We get to learn "how to baptize" people. I must attend a: funeral, a wedding, a Lord's supper, and a baptism.

Marriage & Family: Not much to say, the professor was absent. However, this is a hard class to get into. I heard it was the best class at CBU.

Global Perspectives: A class facilitated by Jeff Lewis. It's going to be awesome...and will probably rock my socks off!

Missions Practicum: Not really a class, but I will be traveling and learning in regards to this class.

Overall, a fun semester. I will be extremely busy. Keep me in your prayers...Peace!

I need one of these

I saw this on MiddleNet today. This is so funny! Unfortunately they are out of stock. Bummer.

My Small group

Today I met with my small group as we always do on Tuesday's. I have been mentoring these guys since they were 7th graders and now they are in the last semester of junior high. It has been incredible to see God work in their lives, and to watch them grow in their faith. With that said, today's meeting (although accompined with pizza) was a litle different. We talked about what we want to get out the next semester. Although their answers where typical for my group: a head nod, a white rabbit, and a comment about being more active in the community, I have boiled down what I think are the three cruical elements these guy's need to learn this semester.

1. I want them to be more bibically literate. This is so important. Although everything we do has foundation of God's word, I think we may have sacrificed some good exergesis for being relevent and relational. Nevertheless, being relevent and relational can exist with scripture exergesis.

2. I want them to live out their faith daily. So many times we get caught up in "doing chruch" that we forget to be church, or more importantly, being Christ to others. It is my prayer that my guy's start to understand this and develop a desire to live out their faith in their speical way.

3. I want them to understand what a "disciple" is. In essence, they already know what a disciple is. I what them to know how to repeat the process with others.

This semester holds many challenges...I can't wait!

My last semester

Wednesday will mark the first day of my last semester. Words can not describe how happy I am that this is now coming to a completion, but as with anything...this too shall pass. As well as being my last semester, this will also be one of my challenging semesters. It will be challenging in the sense of academics (although some classes will be tough), it will be challenging by the time schedule I have to live by now. It seems that my procrastination skills will be destroyed this semester...Lord's willing! Here is class schedule:

• Marriage & Family and the Christian Community


• Intro to Philosophy


• American Government


• Global Perspectives


• Pastoral Ministry


• International Field Practicum

It will be a crazy semester!

Reflection

Today I was asked what my 2007 goals were for our junior high ministry, I found myself honestly giving an un-articulated answer. So, I spent the rest of the day reflecting upon this. Here are few things that I have found to be true of myself:

1- I am too critical of people and often times of students as well. Today, I realized that perhaps I standards that are too high for some. And from this, need to be more intentional in how I interacted with students and foster a life of faith. I often systematically clump students into groups, instead of really understanding who they are as individuals.

2- I am still wet behind the ears when it comes to ministry. Being 26 and having a somewhat mature streak to my work ethic, I am still learning and am in no position to boast of what I have done or haven't done. God has blessed me with a tremendous opportunity at the church I'm currently at, and from this I am still learning "the ropes" and still need time to make mistakes (which seem to be often) and learn from them. Although MAG has given me a different dynamic in regards to youth ministry, it still hasn't completely prepared me for ministry. Only time and grace will be able foster a seasoned youth worker. Nevertheless, MAG has tried to prepare me the best way they can.

3- Sometimes what is missing is not the core of ministry, but within the core of myself. I have taken advantage of time, energy and resources to further pursue me own selfishness. When I could have been reading more scripture, I was playing more HALO. When I could have been comforting a hurting student, I was at the movies. When I should have been living out my faith in my own community, I was cutting corners by "trying" to produce a "thriving" junior high ministry.

Now, those who are reading are wondering what does this have to do with The Refinery? Before, I can have a vision for this ministry, I must first let God and His vision (for me) work in my life. So many times I have put up this wall of "everything's great" when deep inside...I'm rotting!

2006 Highlights and Lowlights

The 2006 year is now gone forever. Here are few things that have left some sort of impact upon my life:

Hightlights

• Experiencing God through school, ministry, and personal reflections.
• My sister's wedding.
• Finishing my junior year and half my senior year with a 3.5 GPA.
• Seeing my guys in my small group grow in their faith.
• Having some awesome air-soft wars.
• Experiencing a relationship.
• Flying to Texas for the first time.
• Watching a ministry grow.
• Flying to Atlanta.
• Experiencing summer camp at Catalina.

Lowlights

• Procrastination got the best of me.
• Having to make hard decisions.
• Ministry issues that cause me to compromise.

I am confident that 2007 will foster new opportunities and fond memories.

Tonight

Tonight, I thought that things would crash and burn just because our worship band couldn't make it. So, I thought and prayed...and we had our first worship experience. One word can describe what happened...WOW! God moved in the heart of our students. We had three stations set: 1- an adoration board where students could write "who God is", then there was station 2- a place where students could write a prayer, a song, stuff that they are struggling with, etc. and the last station was a outside where students could write down their most deepest sins on a index card and light it on fire and toss it into a pot, releashing and giving themselves up to God. Absolutely amazing!

Tomorrow

Tomorrow is our first lock-in. I pray that it is a success. Here are a few things we are wanting to do and or happen:

• Connecting with students we normally don't connect with.
• Learn to be more relational with students.
• Getting to know another youth pastor whom we are co-opting this event with.
• Getting to hang out with leaders that normally don't do "these" types of events.
• Pretend to be exciting about staying up till sunrise.

Fun for days....

I suck!

For the past few days I have been slacking on my quiet time. I have been working like a mad man trying to update our new website, organize the Lock-In, develop a ministry profile on myspace, and I have placed my time with God on the back burner...I suck! It's weird how much a person feels (off or different) when they don't have that time. What is even more interesting it the fact that I promised myself to use this time to grow and spend quality time with Him. Yet, it was the first thing to go...I suck! I'm sure that everyone goes through this, but having a mild case of ADHD, I seem to be more susceptible to it. I know "excuses are lame" but, today I'm leaving and having my quite out under some ancient oak tree. God here I come...

Okay...it too cold...Starbucks it is....God here I come...!

The Monster House

When I was a kid, my friends and I would dare each other to go and knock the the door of this house. I never had the guts to and neither did my friends. We would always get as close as the stairs that lead up to the front door and then bolt for our bikes that were nearby. This house is infamously known as the haunted house on Cummings Valley road. Although I can't be sure if it is really haunted or not, I know that it has that evil feel to it, and with fog it makes this place even more creepy.

Pictures of a misty morning

Here are some pictures I took this morning. They are just random pictures of Tehachapi and my neighborhood. It's going to snow tonight. God help me!

Thailand Update

For the past few weeks I have been trying to learn some conversational Thai for my trip in July. It is extremely hard to learn!!! Being a tonal language it contains five tones that with a simple sound can mean five different things. It requires more application within the masculine tones as well as the feminine tones. I have to be careful not to use the feminine. This is going to take some time!

The Tehachapi Coffee (Gossip) House

So in Tehachapi there are a lot of families, well to do ones. They drive Ecalades, Hummers, and Lexus'. Nevertheless, within all the money that some people have, sin still manifests itself in different ways. As Tehachapi tries to employ the image of a safe, clean and a growing city (or should I say town), there still is this need to GOSSIP! As I sit here in this coffee house, I can hear (without straining my ears) all of these mother hens talking about kids they don't like at the high school or the middle school. I can hear about the dislike about certain teachers and boasting of their students in regards to sports. This coffee house has become a beacon for stay at home mom's to come and talk wild smack about people. I want to puke up my breakfast bagel sandwich. Tehachapi has lost it's innocence...

The Lock-In

For ages I have been against lock-In's of any sort. I couldn't believe that people (or should I say youth pastors) would actually lose their minds within such an event. Now, I find myself promoting our very first Lock-In. I am so excited about this event, I had to take my ridlin. I pray that the students will find an environment that is loving, fun, caring, exciting and a place the they could call their own. Okay, so here are the details:

• Ice Skating at Ice Town
• Game works in Ontario
• Xbox & DDR till the cows come home
• Junk food that would make Willy Wonka cry

Please keep us in prayer!!!

The Tehachapi Update

The day is slowly lingering and I am in a state of trying to find something productive to do. I did find this box that had some old pictures and CD's. I can't believe that actually listened to some of them. The temperature has risen to the grand high of 42 degrees! I am now officially looking for a job as a glass cutter...I'm that cold!

Working in Tehachapi

Okay, so I know that I'm supoosed to be on vaction, but a vaction in Tehachapi is quite boring. So, I'm now sitting a little coffee house working on church stuff. The best part is the free WiFi and FREE COFFEE!!! Its still extremely cold -current temp. is 34 degrees! Pictures are on the way.

My Early Years

Today as I was cleaning out my office came across an old box of papers and books. To my surprise there was a notebook of my very first youth ministry position. I had taken notes, wrote down thoughts, and frustrations within this notebook. What is funny, is to see how much I have changed in my thinking and perception of youth ministry. As I was reading "what was I thinking" was going through my head. Wow...so much has changed! I will never forget my humble beginings...wait I'm still in humble beginings.

JH Christmas Party

Last night was our annual Junior High Christmas party. Here are some highlights and lowlights:

Highlights

• We had a good band play
  
• Plenty of food
  
• 6 foot burritos
  
• Eggnog chugging contest
  
• Huge turn-out (I think we had 65 people)
  
• Cool time to hand out with students
  
• Some parents brought hot coco and cider
  
• The White Elephant gift exchange
• Great leader/volunteer support
  
• Most of all...the students had a safe, fun, and memorable time
  

Lowlights

• It seems that every student was suffering from ADD, ADHD, & Turrets.
  
• Leadership miscommunication
  
• Spilled cider
• No one puked during the eggnog chugging contest...sad day
  
• An awkward moment (that's all I'm going to say)
  
• The lack of interest in the band from the students
  
• I didn't get to hand with the students as much as I had wanted to
  

Overall, a great night…I’m glad it’s over!

Thailand

This summer I get to go to Thailand for study. It's going to be an incredible trip, although, the language is rather hard to understand and learn. Nevertheless, I'm forcing myself to be able to hold a coherent conversation with someone while I'm there. I just picked up some books on Thailand and some maps...now I have my winter break reading material.

My week at a glance

This is my week, for those of you who are faithful readers:

• Finals (they should be realitivly easy, but everytime I state that, I end up failing)
• Junior High christmas party on Wednesday, I'm already looking forward to 9pm when it ends
• Christmas shopping on Friday
• Coffee with some of my most awesome friends
• A Wahoo's run
• Mailing out Christmas cards
• Working on my music (my CD will be out in 2007)
• I'm going to go hiking Saturday morning to have my devo time (should be really cool)
• Clean my disgusting apartment (my roommate needs to take a class on picking up his crap)

Seems like a lot stuff in one week, but trust me, it will get done!

Starbuck Don'ts

Coming from the horse's mouth, here are a few things that Starbuck employees hate about customer habits:

1. Not knowing the menu and taking eons to order.

2. Hassling employees about company policies that they have no control over.

3. This is the most important one- people who LICK the whipped cream, caramel, etc. before leaving the receiving bar! Do not even make eye contact. Quite disturbing... in fact don't even have your straw ready.

4. The most frequent occurring annoyance is people who STARE while the bartista is making the drinks. They know what they are doing folks, and more importantly you don't!

Thanks Ashley!

Book Question

Can anyone recommend a good book on JH/HS student counseling?

Favs and Loaths

here are few of my favorite things...

• Antique books
• Middle school ministry
• Morning fog
• Church history
• Coffee
• My dog (Ba'leigh pronounced "Bay-Lee")
• Synthesizers
• My family
• Thai food
• Sci-fi novels
• Journaling
• Haggis
• Languages
• Coffee
• Adults with ADD/ADHD
• sarcastic people
• Working with awesome friends
• My heritage (Irish and Spanish-yeah that's right, I can sing and dance)
• Chinese food
• Hiking and taking walks by myself

Things I loath...

• Traffic
• Ignorant people
• People who cry about EVERYTHING (get some thick skin)...okay maybe not so much
• Sleep
• Turkey stuffing
• Fake people
• Abercrombie and Fitch
• Not having coffee
• Library fines
• The sound of ice being crunched inside someone's mouth
• People who lie
• The French (just kidding....:.)
• Professor's who take forever to grade assignments
• CRV taxes for anything that comes in a bottle, plastic container, etc.
• Foul language
• Not having health insurance
• Expensive gas

What are some of your favs and loaths?