There are different types of tragedy that strike our ministries. Sometimes they happen to students under our care, other times it is an illness or accident or a devastating choice a student makes that ends in pain. the scenarios can vary, but in my experience the feelings that follow almost always are the same: grief, hurt and a helplessness that there is nothing you can “do” to “fix” the situation.…
A friend’s attempt at the “Resurrection Bun.” In the last 40 days we have taken the time to reflect, be solemn, and come to celebrate the sacrifice God made on the behalf of our humanity. He was mocked, beaten, humiliated, and tormented.…
A couple of weeks ago I turned to find my 6th grade daughter with her fingers in her ears as I answered the question of one of my students in our small group. We were having a night, well actually a series, on “the talk.”…
****Warning: Spoiler Alert**** If you haven’t seen it, or don’t want to know details, avoid reading on. There has been a lot of controversy in the Christian community as whether or not to see the “Noah” movie. I thought we were prepped and prepared for what we would see and feel.…
Today I was looking through some really excellent small group curriculum. I loved the way it dug into lead students in going deeper with their relationship with Christ. However, it also held one of my biggest pet peeves when it comes to pre-written curriculum: It was really written for an adult, not a student.…
I live in a land of perpetual spandex. Everywhere you go women seem to be on their way to or from a workout wearing yoga pants or something of the like. On top of this we seem to be bent on resurrecting the 80’s as leggings and tights have made their way back on top once more.…
There are preconceived ideas of who “people in ministry” are supposed to be.This holds especially true in youth ministry. You can make the stereotypical list yourself, I don’t think I even need to name the traits. The problem is that not all of us are capable of becoming the resident IT person.…
If you ask people in ministry about their “calling” they give you the answer about what they now “do” for Jesus. You know what I mean. We are “called” to be youth pastors. However, I believe that “calling” is a far more transformational experience than any “one thing.”…
I received this text the day it happened. “Paul Walker is dead.” My mind stretched and searched and I could not think if this was someone I was supposed to know. (Maybe I live in a cave?) After being informed he is the face of the “Fast & Furious Franchise,” I honestly wasn’t sure how to feel about this guy I knew nothing about.…
Looking for an “easy” lesson the week after Thanksgiving? This one is for you! Should we really only say, “Thank You,” once a year? Here is an easy video that is funny and gets students thinking about those “things we should say.” …
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