As a youth worker, nothing was more exciting to me than getting out of the church, out of my office, and reaching students in public schools. I never found much success doing that behind my desk, with the expectation that they would come to me, participate in my youth program, on my turf.…
Did you know that as you age your ears keep growing? Yep, one day we’ll all enjoy some big beautiful ears. But it is important that our listening skills grow with our ears. Recent events might tempt all of us to talk more than we listen.…
[Disclaimer: In no way, shape, or form am I aiming to disrespect moms of our youth ministry kids with this post. But for real, I’m just say’n.] There’s these moms… Sorry I’m late! No, no, I don’t think you are. You’re always waiting for this mom.…
The journey to inclusion is the road less traveled. It’s a road I didn’t even see until I had my own wrestling match with God. I’d been traveling a safe youth ministry road. This safe road led me to teens who were like me, where I challenged students and didn’t allow them to challenge me.…
One of my favorite things to do is speak to middle school and high school students. Over the years of being privileged to do this at weekend retreats, I’ve learned that I need to keep an open mind about what to expect.…
In 1983, I was 7 years old. My second grade teacher at Mira Mesa Christian School asked a question that made my little heart race. “Would any of you like to invite Jesus into your life today?” My mind quickly went to the amazing stories I’d heard about Jesus.…
Good Morning America: “Uh Bob, uh, tell us your impressions of Baby Steps.” Bob: “Mash potatoes and gravy, Marie. I couldn’t be happier about Baby Steps. I was a terrible disaster and now, because of Baby Steps, I’m on TV in front of millions of people.…
Lately my heart has been pulled to one position in the church. This person is often full of heart for ministry; a position that is necessary but so often left out; overworked and underpaid. If you feel like I’m talking about you, most likely you’re a part-time youth worker.…
Seattle Seahawks’ running back Marshawn Lynch has become my all time favorite interview to watch. Many of you will watch this entertaining athlete this weekend as you host youth group Super Bowl, sorry, youth group “BIG GAME” (thanks, NFL) parties all over the country.…
(Before you read any further, pray. Please do. This topic is less about what you already think and more about us digging deeper to what we have missed. Maybe we can listen to God on this and let Him have the most important word on this.…
