The New NES Conversion Model

Although this controller won't be seen by many people because it's under the hood of a car, we still applaud this maker who managed to create a giant NES controller that sits on top of his car's motor. Playing a game with this controller might be difficult if you are driving, although you'll be the popular one at the tailgate party.

My biggest questions... Does this make this model a "GO GREEN" car, and how much more efficient is the mileage after Restart and Enter?

A Few New Teen Stats and Trends

ypulse had a great summary the other day of some new research about teen preferences in a bunch of areas. i’ll break it into 5 posts. second up: Internet

- Teens spend 12.5 hours online while tweens spend only 6.4 hours (typical week during school year)

- Teens have grown tired of MySpace and have moved on to Facebook in the past six months

- Only a couple of virtual worlds are on tweens’ radars

- The top sites tweens visit — Webkinz among both tween boys and tween girls. Neopets, owned by Viacom’s interactive unit as well as Nick.com

- Club Penguin remains in third place for tween girls and dropped from 11th place to 13th place for tween boys since last summer

- AddictingGames is fast becoming the top casual gaming site among all youth, not just the kids and teens

Thanks Marco for the update!

I Just Pity the Fool!

At $200, Burger King Does World's Most Expensive Burger

The pricey burger is for charity, and it's only available in one Burger King in West London once a week. Here's what it's made up of:

The fine ingredients of what is called simply 'The Burger' include Wagyu beef, white truffles, Pata Negra ham slices, Cristal onion straws, Modena balsamic vinegar, lambs lettuce, pink Himalayan rock salt, organic white wine and shallot infused mayonnaise in an Iranian saffron and white truffle dusted bun.

Another megaexpensiveburger. Meh.

Posted by Adam Kuban, June 19, 2008 at 1:00 PM

Cardboard Testimonies

What would your cardboard have on it? Are you trusting in and on Jesus Christ to transform your life into the image of our Lord? How has your life been transformed by the Saving Grace of Jesus Christ? What's your story? Are you prepared to share it?

Lost....Found!
Unloved...Loved!
Suicidal...Living Passionate for Jesus!
Manager...Minister!
Hopeless...Have Hope!

Clone High School Musical

Who would have thought that even the warriors of Star Wars would catch the "High School Musical" Fever. I guess they just..."Gotta, Gotta, Gotta Get in the Game." Obiwan is such a skeptic sometimes!

My Day at the Office

Just a few of my books that were ruined with mold from the flooding of Agape.

My Office after the destruction crew finished. Almost as bad as Doug Fields' office after the weekend.

My home away from home. I think I am suffering from white lung!

Guess what I get to do tomorrow?
Trying to see the glass as half full!

Early Christian Church

Archaeologists have found what they believe is the earliest discovery of a Christian Church, in a cave in Jordan, dating from 33 AD. Pretty amazing, Huh?

Archaeologist Abdel-Qader Hussein, head of the Rihab Center for Archaeological Studies, Abdul Qader al-Husan told The Jordan Times:’We have uncovered what we believe to be the first church in the world, dating from 33 AD to 70 AD.

‘We have evidence to believe this church sheltered the early Christians - the 70 disciples of Jesus Christ.’

Mr Hussein said there was evidence that the underground cave was used in the first century after Christ’s death, which would make it the oldest Christian site of worship in the world.

The cave was unearthed in the northern Jordanian city of Rihab after three months of excavation and shows evidence of early Christian rituals.

Agape Christian Church doesn't look much different after all the damage caused by the flood and sewage water.

Thanks Marko for the heads up!

Agape Impact Students @ CIY 2oo8

Can You believe that HS students were this awake at 7:30am?

Buck Buck... it isn't just for Fat Albert and the Gang anymore. Definitely a CIY attraction!

Agape Has Left the Building

After a great week at CIY, this is the picture I came back to. Yes, the flood did much more damage than previously expected. Now all the walls, flooring, and cabinetry has been removed out of our Family Life Center and Atrium. WOW... What a mess. We have much work to do after Serve Pro clears and drys everything out. This is a real shot in the arm to the momentum we were building in our student and children's ministry.

But… God is so amazingly awesome. It is in times of struggle that we see the greatest work of our Lord. We are unified in our efforts, people are being saved, and He continues to provide for our need.

All our services will be held at 10am. in the Oakley Auditorium at Ivy Tech Community College directly across the Highway from the church.

Headed to CIY

Just a quick note to let all my fellow Blog friends know that I am headed to the CIY Conference in Anderson, IN. It will be a week until my next post; however, I will be making frequent updates to my Twitter page, which will keep everyone informed of all my happenings throughout this week. You can catch the excitement here or on my Facebook page.

Pray that our students would develop a heart of passion for our Lord and Savior. Pray that they might hunger and thirst for Christ and His righteousness because of this week long experience. It is my desire to see all attending students from everywhere "Move" from apathy to excitement and passion.

Also, keep Agape Christian Church in your prayers, as we recover from serious flood issues from the weekend. Great headway has been made to clean up, but much work still ahead.

May God bless you all,
Shan

Agape Flooded by 7 Inches of Rain Last Night

Family Life Center

FLC Entrance

Foyer and G-Force Sign In

Kitchen and Glen's Legs

My Library Under Water

My Office Under 2 Inches of Water

CIY 2008 @ Anderson IN.

Agape Student Ministries is headed back to Anderson, IN for CIY 2008. We are expecting God to do some miraculous heart transformations next week. With a focus on the Book of Acts, my prayer is that we would develop the passion of the early church and desire to become deep in our personal relationship with God and others; as well as, develop a boldness in our witness and mission. Pray for us and the many other students that plan to attend this year's Christ in Youth Conference.

Maria Chapman Memorial Service

Only by the grace of God can one endure such tragedy and remain true and hopeful.

Phoenix Landing on Mars

Just watched the coverage of the Phoenix landing on Mars from NASA on Fox TV. I don't know why, but this amazes me. I understand it's geeky, but I am still interested in how we can put satellites and robots on planets light-years away. I am also interested in more of God's creation. Awesome pics to come I am sure. On the watch.

Strategic Thinking

Why do we do what we do... the way we do it?

Is the church healthy and balanced? (5 Areas of Ministry)
Is the church focused on ministry over maintenance?
Is the church focused on growth over individual control?
Is the church really about spiritual health?

What is Jesus asking the church to do?

Strategy:
What is the church doing now? What does the church do in the future to achieve or remain fresh in the future? Are lives being transformed? Is the church's uniqueness attractive? How is the church assimilating visitors? How does the present or future church strategy effect the calendar?

Staffing:
Is the church properly staffed for growth? Does the church have the right people in the right places? What are future needs staffing wise for the church to grow?

Funding:
Is the church financially stable? What funding is needed for future growth?

Prompted by an interview by Kerry Mackey

What Would God Have Us To Know

I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. (Ephesians 1:18-19).

What do you think Paul means by the phrase “that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened”?

What three things did Paul pray the Ephesians would know? (The hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, his incomparably great power for us who believe.)

In your own words, how would you describe those three things? For help with this, check out following paraphrase of these verses from The Message:

I ask—ask the God of our Master, Jesus Christ, the God of glory—to make you intelligent and discerning in knowing him personally, your eyes focused and clear, so that you can see exactly what it is he is calling you to do, grasp the immensity of this glorious way of life he has for his followers, oh, the utter extravagance of his work in us who trust him—endless energy, boundless strength! (Ephesians 1:15-19).

Why is it important that believers understand and live their lives in the light of these truths?

What practical difference might it make in a believer's life?

Are you willing to spend time this week asking God to take you to the next level in your understanding of one of the three things described in the verses above?

Do you have unreached friends who need to hear about ‘the hope to which he has called you'? Are you willing to look for opportunities to share the message of the Gospel with them?

Dare 2 Share "Energy"

A Incomprehensible Tragedy

Sometimes, I just don't understand things. We read in Roman 8:28 that "We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." Well, Steven Curtis Chapman has given his life "For the Sake of the Call" for many years and is now facing the most extreme devistation that one could face... the death of a child. His teenage son accidentally ran over his youngest daughter, 5 yr. old Maria, in the driveway while she was playing.

My heart was torn just hearing of the incident. I just don't see the good in a situation like this. After teaching a study on the Sovereignty of God, I still cannot totally grasp why God allows evil, pain, and suffering? Am I just weak? Or just blind.

However, this I do understand... there is a high price tag for a loving relationship with the Creator of the universe. Freedom costs. God gave us the opportunity to freely love or reject Him, knowing that our freedom would result in pain. Jesus is the only remedy for that pain and for a restored relationship... for the hope of eternal life.

So, even in the sight of evil, pain, and suffering, I have to ask myself, do I believe God at His Word? Do I trust, that even in despair, that He will make all this wrong right? Where is my faith? I must understand that I have trusted in Him and on Him, despite my understanding. I pray that the Chapman family can walk through this trial in confidence, knowing that tomorrow will bring peace, hope, and understanding.

Prayers with the Chapman's!

White Stripes meet the Lego Masters

Wow!!! I bet it took longer to make the video than it it did to write, practice, and record the song. Way to go Lego builders!

The Wheaton Terrier

My wife, Jennifer, loves the wheaton terrier. She has completed much research about sizes, habits, temperment, and such. If she finds one, I am sure a purchase order/request will follow. They are so cute; but, how does one in ministry find time to love and train such a cute beast? If you have suggestion, let me know!

"New" Clone Wars Trailer

Schyler is going to love this. It will be a must see, must own. He's the biggest Starwars fan I know besides Josh G. and Kevin G. Can't wait!!!

Light of the World

You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:14-16).

What does it look like when Christians live as the 'light of the world'?
What are some specific examples of ways you can 'let your light shine before men'?
What kinds of things can Christians do to deflect 'praise' from themselves for their good deeds, and direct it instead toward God?
Do you think Jesus' message in these verses was a radical, revolutionary message back in His time? Why or why not?
Do you think Jesus' message in these verses is a radical, revolutionary message today? Why or why not?
Jolt and Bolt

Grow Deep accountability question: Are you willing to spend time in prayer this week, asking God to help you be His light?

Go Wide accountability question: What is one thing you can do this coming week that would allow you to 'let your light shine before men'?

Dare 2 Share 2008

American Teen

American Teen is a documentary on seniors at a high school in a small Indiana town and their various cliques. This film is do out this summer on Sundance.

As my friend Evan Courtney asks, "In high school which one are or were you?"

The Geek
The Rebel
The Princess
The Heartthrob
The Jock

What are Your "Hard Thing" Goals?

by The Rebelution

Thought this was an interesting list for students to "Do the Hard Things."  

If we were to ask ourselves what we desire or aspire to accomplish in this life, what would our list include?  It is interesting how our priorities take new shape when we develop a "Life/Purpose Statement" or a "Things-to-Do" list.  

How much stress would be eliminated from our lives if we focused primarily on God's checklist everyday?  

I know for me, a list as such, might be quite convicting.  It would definitely force me to simplify. 

Ironman: The Amazing Armor

 I caught the amazing Ironman movie the other evening.  Great movie and effects; however, I was disappointed in the first quarter of the movie.  Why is it that all these new movies have to include trash and innuendos to make it to the top?  Those of you who have seen the movie know what I am talking about.  The trash was not needed.

The Armor scenes were totally awesome.  Great correlation between the details of Ironman putting on the armor and Christians putting on the armor of God.  Good stuff.  Love to see the last three-quarters of the movie again.    

The Go-Green Mustang

My son and some friends have just designed the new Go-Green Mustang out of recyclable cardboard boxes. This beauty has kept them busy for the last 4.5 hours. You would think Ford could come up with something as fast with all their technology. If gas prices continue, we might really have to put wheels on this box-style Ford to drive to church.

NES Controller Coffee Table the Works

Kyle Downes has modded the coffee table into its best version ever: a retro-tastic NES controller. Just look at the sleek lines, the high quality finish and classy glass top. And then giggle at the fact that it actually works. This is a must have for the ever serious gamer!

Beverly Hills Chihuahua

Only thing that would make this funnier is building a Taco Bell in the center of the desert scenes and making it the dating hotspot.

Jason Castro is "Going Home"

Dreadheaded folkie Jason Castro spoke with reporters Thursday after being eliminated from American Idol's final four.

USA TODAY listened in on the conference call.
Q: Simon (Cowell) said last night on the news, 'I think he forgot his words on purpose. I think he just wanted to go home.' What's your reaction?

A: I definitely did not do that on purpose.

Q: So you still wanted to win?

A: I wanted to win. I think what it came down to was my inexperience. Once we doubled up on songs, I wasn't able to focus on both of my songs. My mind was just split. I just couldn't deliver either/or.

By Luz Elena Avitia, USA TODAY

What Does it Mean for Us to Surrender?

Matthew 16:25

For whoever wants to save his live will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it.

Surrender: Freely giving up something for something totally better!

What guarantee does Jesus give us if we surrender our lives to Him?

What do you think He meant by what He said?

How will we gain our life if we surrender it to Him?

Jesus promises us real and true life. 

The God who sees all, knows all, and controls all has told us that if we want to truly live, the first step to that is surrendering completely to Him.

In light of that promise, besides your iPod, is there anything that’s not worth surrendering? (Just kidding about the iPod--I'm just a little addicted to Podcasts)

Lord, help me daily to take up my cross and follow you.  Give me the courage to surrender my WHOLE life to you.  Do what You will!  Not what I desire!  

He's Got the Whole World in His Hands

Don't you wish you had this strength?  I may not, but God does.  "Where I am weak, He is strong!"  And, God does have the whole world in His hands.  I sure am glad He does, because we sure seem to make a mess of things sometimes.

Doug Field's Office

I commented on Doug's twitpic that "I get nervous just looking at this creative haven.  But, as you all know, I am a little OC or AR."  I suggested he make a call to Clean Sweep!  I must really be a neat freak.  Maybe my priorities are a little off balanced.  

Cards Over Cubs 5-3

Skip Schumaker hit a two-run homer in the 11th inning, taking struggling closer Jason Isringhausen off the hook in the St. Louis Cardinals' 5-3 victory over the Chicago Cubs on Friday night.

Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Rich Hill hangs his head on the mound as Cubs manager Lou Piniella comes out to pull him from the game during the first inning of a baseball game against the St. Louis Cardinals Friday, May 2, 2008, in St. Louis. Hill was pulled out of the game in the first inning after loading the bases and walking in a run. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)

By Jeff Roberson (AP)
Published: 2008-05-03 00:05:03
Location: ST. LOUIS

The Real Garfield

Came across this photo on Marko's Blog.  Thought it would be a thrill for my friend Joshua, who is the biggest Garfield fan I know.  This cat weighs 35 lbs.  I cannot imagine the cat food bill or the size of litter-box needed to maintain a cat of this size.

Change

One of the greatest problems associated with church growth is that we as leaders often fail to move forward or challenge direction based on our fears and the fears of other leaders behaving as bureaucrats, not creative thinkers. so, the question we face is, "How open to change are we and our leadership team in today's ever changing church culture?"

The first step to any change involves a personal and team examination.  We can begin this examination by evaluating our response and reaction to any and all of the following questions.

Do we avoid change, not seeing or acknowledging the need for it?

Do we often resist change and defend the status quo?

Do we cooperate, going along with change, even if reluctantly?

Are we out in front as someone who anticipates and sees the need for change even before others do?

Are we leaders in creating change, taking action to bring it about?

Following the results of our actions, we and our leadership team must uncover the reasons for our resistance or the losses we fear, and determine how much those losses may prove advantageous or destructive to our mission and us.  Many times our churches fail in the mission because of personal and leadership fears.  Let us understand that God has placed us in leadership to stand up, be creative thinkers, take risks, try new things, and not to be obstructionists satisfied with complacency.

 

Black and/or Gus

I love the way the News Anchor throws the Script Writer under the bus.  Evidence that newscasters are puppets and are not in touch with the farm communities.  What would have happened if the news report was about a Jersey?

Distractions Lead to Larger Brain Capacities

A resent report stated that people who are distracted during the process of learning large amounts of information stand a better chance of learning, retaining, and dispelling that info.  Research actually says that we can expand our memory capacity with a life of distraction.  If this is the case, Youth Pastors must be the smartest people on earth, with the exception of a few like myself. 

Miley/Hannah Writes a Book

According to the Art section of the New York Times, Miley is writing a book about her family. Having dominated cable television and the concert circuit, and coming soon to the cineplex, Miley Cyrus, the 15-year-old star of the Disney Channel series “Hannah Montana,” has agreed to write a book about her early life in Tennessee, her move to Los Angeles and the influence of her parents — especially her mother — on her success.

In a seven-figure deal, Disney Book Group acquired the rights to Ms. Cyrus’s book, to be published by the Disney-Hyperion Books imprint in spring 2009, when the Hannah Montana movie is also scheduled for release. Jeanne Mosure, global publisher of Disney Book Group, said the company had already sold 15 million copies of some 60 Hannah Montana-branded titles worldwide, including novelizations and gift books about the show. She said the new book would have an initial print run of one million copies.

“It’s rare that you hear from someone her age that they want to talk about their family,” Ms. Mosure said. “How she sees her family in light of everything that she’s exposed to on a daily basis is pretty incredible.”

By MOTOKO RICH; Compiled by Lawrence Van Gelder
Published: April 22, 2008

What the Presidential Race is Beginning to Look Like!

This was posted on Marko's blog today. Sorry to copy your thought Marko, but I thought this was extremely funny. We still have 6.5 months left. I am sure Shimp will enter the pic at some point. I am just thankful that no matter what happens in November, the One True God is soverign--in all and over all!!!

The Whole House Shook

No, I did not fall out of bed! It was a magnitude-5.2 earthquake, centered at West Salem in southern Illinois, which struck at 5:36 a.m. our time, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

The epicenter of the earthquake was about three miles below ground, six miles northwest of Mount Carmel, Illinois, and 38 miles north-northwest of Evansville, Indiana, according to the USGS. I am very familiar with the fault line that meanders through this area. My Dad was a coal miner in this area and spoke often about this particular separation in the rocks. I have actually been 900 feet below the surface and have seen this fault line which goes under several rivers. Amazing!

People as far north as southern Michigan and as far west as Des Moines, Iowa, reported feeling the quake according to The Associated Press. Air traffic was halted for an hour at Indianapolis International Airport while the control tower was evacuated. At least 30 people reported feeling the quake in Clarksville, Tennessee -- 227 miles south of the epicenter -- according to the USGS Web site. Buildings swayed in Chicago's Loop and people were shaken awake in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the AP reported. People as far away as southwest Michigan and northeast Georgia e-mailed CNN to say they felt the tremor.

In response, I just have to ask, “Isn’t God’s protection great?” I feel safe that He is still and always will be sovereign and in control.

What makes you think your god is better than everyone else’s god?

Because the God I worship . . .

. . . is before all things.

Col. 1:17, Ps. 90:2, Rev. 1:8, 1 Tim. 6:16
. . . created all things.

Gen. 1:1, Jn. 1:3, Col. 1:16
. . . upholds all things.

Heb. 1:3, Col. 1:17
. . . is above all things.

Eph. 4:6, Isa. 45:5-12
. . . knows all things.

Isa. 46:10, Ps. 139:4, 6
. . . can do all things.

Jer. 32:27, Lk. 1:37
. . . accomplishes all things.

Isa. 14:24; 46:10, Eph. 1:11
. . . rules over all things.

Dan. 4:34-35, 1 Ch. 29:11-12
. . . is in control of all things.

Job 42:2, Ro. 8:28

He Controls the following:
earthly kings - Pr. 21:1, Rev. 19:16
human events – Dan. 2, 7, Ps. 33:9-11
good angels – Col. 1:15-16, Rev. 4:8
Satan & bad angels – Job 1:6, Eph. 1:21, Php. 2:10
Human decisions – Eph. 1:11, Ro. 8:29-30, Acts 2:23; 13:48

No other god makes these claims. My God, the one true God, not only claims, but fulfills His Promises. Choose Jesus.

...Chip Ingram

Skateboardin' with Extreme Pete

Caught this on Fox News this morning. Thought to myself, "There is hope for me yet! You can teach an old dogs new tricks." I just wish that this statement would apply to the technology struggles I often face.

Audience Response Technology Tells the Story at Rebelution Conference

How important is the Word of God to you? Why? Is it important enough for you to read everyday? Are the decisions you make based on your preferences and desires or based on the Truth of God's Word? Truth is not truth because we believe it... it is truth. The Word of God is Truth. We cannot pick and choose to accept part of God's Word. We either believe all of it or none of it. Do you desire the Truth? Then Read His Word!

4 Ingredients that Produce Life-Long followers of Jesus

Kurt Johnston, Saddleback Community Church Jr. High Pastor, blogged, "This morning, Kara Powell made a case for 4 ingredients of a youth ministry that produces students who remain Christ-followers as they enter college. Her 4 (in my words):* A clear understanding of the gospel.* A ministry that welcomes and provides opportunities for doubts to be shared.* Opportunities for inter-generational relationships.* Students learning how to feed themselves spiritually."

Thanks Kurt and Kara. It's statements like these that help me evaluate the effectiveness of the Youth Ministry I lead at ACC and challenges me to make the necessary changes to lead students to be Life-Long Followers.

1. Does our Student Ministry provide a clear understanding of the gospel?

2. Is our Student Ministry a ministry that welcomes and provides opportunities for doubts to be shared?

3. Does our Student Ministry provide opportunities for inter-generational relationships?

4. Does our Student Ministry teach students how to feed themselves spiritually?

All to early to answer; however, I do think we have some work to do to create the greatest opportunity for success...to see students passionately and intentionally follow Jesus for the rest of their lives.

NEW YOUTH ACTIVITY: "LED HOOPS"

Who said disco was out of style?

I don't know what all the obsession is with hula-hoops lately, but unique hoop options keep popping up on Geeky news. Maybe hoops are coming back as the activity or exercise of choice. But, an LED Hoop! How cool is that? All we need to do is have a DDR and LED Hula-Hoop Night and we will surpass the ever-so-popular Youth Group Halo Tournaments. NOT!

Love to see 3 or 4 hoops circling in one room.

A Must Read for Students and YP's!!!

Do Hard Things by Alex & Brett Harris

Checkout http://www.therebelution.com/ for more details.

Something Handy for "Summer Camp"

Designers Feijun Chen & Bin Zhao clearly were reading Skymall when they dreamed up these "Pioneer" sneakers with built-in recharging headlights. They've got a battery inside which charges on each step, using some mysterious tech that doesn't look piezoelectric. Apparently this can power the LEDs in the front for a full 12 hours. So you can, you know: run in the dark down dim-lit streets, or something. Who knows the cost!

Maybe they'd be handy for Youth Summer Camp?

Paper Covers Rock

Chris Davis posted this video from 12 Movies in 12 Months. It will leave you on the edge of your seat. Or, you might fall off your seat in laughter. You might not want to try this in your youth group, someone could really get hurt.

Does the Bible really claim that there is only one way to Heaven?

It seems like I answer this question every time I meet with students. It is not that I am intolerant, but the Bible states it very clear…

Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14:6 NIV)

Jesus is the only way to Heaven. We may want to buy our way in, work our way in, or think our way in. But the Bible is clear—Jesus Christ provides the way in.

“But, what if I believe that everyone goes to heaven…what if I am good…what about Muslims and Buddhists and you fill in the blank?”

The Bible says, “Jesus is the way.” It’s Jesus or it’s Hell. That’s what it says. That’s what I believe.

My New Custom Made Toys

Yes I finally did it! And, yes they are all here. Now the real task is finding time in such a busy schedule to find my "chops" again. They sound sooo good. I just wish I did right now. It will not take long.

Either way, "This is my act of worship." I can totally get lost in the worship of Him when I am playing. Pray that I force myself to spend the time. If nothing else, my son Schyler has a great inheritance ahead of him.

How Are We To Respond To God’s Goodness?

Repent of our unbelief and ingratitude –

Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God's kindness leads you toward repentance? (Romans 2:4)

Rest in His goodness when encountering adversity.

How great is Thy goodness, which Thou hast stored up for those who fear
Thee, which Thou hast wrought for those who take refuge in Thee, before the sons of men! Thou dost hide them in the secret place of Thy presence from the conspiracies of man; Thou dost keep them secretly in a shelter from the strife of tongues. (Psalm 31:19-20)

Risk stepping out in faith like never before!

For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD gives grace and glory; no good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly.
Psalm 84:11

It is my prayer that we all will lavish in and respond to God's Godness in the preceding ways. I challenged each Common Grounds participant to journal a leap of faith in which they will take before our next small group meeting. If you are willing, take the leap with us and jounal God's generocity. Feel free to comment.

What to Do With Old Youth Ministry Hula Hoops

Architecture & Activity

Beautify the Landscape around your Church and Create a unique Youth Activity.

Check it out...mass studies architecture studio created a temporary installation for the 25th Anniversary of Storefront for Art and Architecture Gallery in New York City. The installation was created from about a thousand hula-hoops zip-tied together to form a massive dome structure.

If we could just figure out what to do with old Rubick's Cubes!

3rd Graders Plot to Kill Teacher

Officials in Georgia have thwarted a plot by a group of third-grade special education students to kill their teacher.

Officials at the Center Elementary School in Waycross, Ga., learned of the plot on March 28, when a student told authorities about the plan before the start of the school day, the Waycross Journal-Herald reports.

The plot by as many as nine boys and girls was a serious threat, Waycross Police Chief Tony Tanner said Tuesday.

The students allegedly brought to school a broken steak knife, a roll of duct tape, handcuffs, ribbon and a crystal paperweight in a bid to kill their teacher, Belle Carter, the paper reports.
"We did not hear anybody say they intended to kill her, but could they have accidentally killed her? Absolutely," Tanner said. "We feel like if they weren't interrupted, there would have been an attempt. Would they have been successful? We don't know."

The children, ages 8 and 9, were apparently mad at the teacher because she had scolded one of them for standing on a chair, Tanner said.

"It’s our understanding that she did in fact discipline one of the students, and they did not like it, he told FOX News. "After that, she began to plot revenge on the teacher."

What is possessing this culture to take things into there own hands? What makes them think that their actions do not have consequenses? We cannot continue to soften or neglect issuing consequenses in our school systems. At this time, teachers and administrators have no authority in the classroom. Why have we allowed this to happen? We are reaping what we have sown. Maybe we need to teach more Old Testament where the Israelites were not spared the rod.

Customer Service

"...are the people we deal with in church environments more like customers or more like employees?"

"It’s much easier to cater to everyone’s personal preferences than to challenge people to a life of service and accountability."

What would life look like if we all chose to be employees rather than customers? To serve rather than consume? It’s backward from our human nature and especially the Western mindset. I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but Kingdom ways often seem upside down and inside out. But when employed properly, it changes the world. I don’t know about you, but that’s a gig I’m signing up for.

Erik Cooper
Lakeview Worship

I read a sentence from "The Knowledge of the Holy" by AW Tozer. Tozer states, "The first step down for any church is taken when it surrenders its high opinion of God." This statements forces us to ask ourselves and our congregations, "To you who is God? What is your perception of Him?" The response can directly affect wheather our churches grow according to this statement. I think most churches are holding on to the perception that Jesus was sent to make us happy...which causes many churches to decline in number and Spirit.

Great Points from Ministry Mutiny by Greg Stier

God works more in the whisper than He does in the big, the loud, the fiery, and the blustery.

How do I hear from God?
Get alone with God.
Read His Word.
Pray.
Listen.

Too many times our devo time is a mechanical time of forced reading and a prayer list. We need to…
Take much time to read His Word.
Think through what the Spirit of God is teaching us.
Spend time in silence, reflecting on how it applies to our lives at that very moment.
Discern the whisper of God during times of reflection.

When we listen for God’s whisper, we learn how to deal with teenagers more effectively because we are being sensitive to God’s Spirit. We impact more lives because God is making a maximum impact precisely through you because we are listening for His direction. The quiet revolution comes about when we spend time in quiet reflection and then act on what God is teaching us.

1Kings 18:17-40

Children and Ultimate Fighting

If we have outlawed things such as Dog fights and Cock fights, why are are we so reluctant to outlaw 6 year olds participating in Ultimate Fighting? Is is because there is no money exchanged during betting hour, or is there? What are we thinking? Everyone thought allowing children to watch Bugs Bunny and the Road Runner challenged brutality and increased violence in children, but what about this new phenomenon? My wife say, "Some parents are just idiots." I agree totally.

The Greatest Definition of Youth Ministry I Have Ever Seen

My Friend Josh Griffin posted this on his blog, "Morethandodgeball.com." This is the greatest because Youth Ministry is like herding cats...especially JR. High Ministry.

Kutless' "Strong Tower"

One of my favorite songs. Really ministers to me when doubt sets up camp in my life.

Check it out!

Knowing Christ is the Goal of Life!

I am preaching this weekend on the Life Goals from the premise that if we were to ask the Apostle Paul, "What is your Goal in Life?" Paul would probably respond, "I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead." (Philippians 3:10-11)

"What does it mean to really know Christ?"

J. I. Packer gives four characteristics of those who know God intimately and authentically:

1. Those who know God have great energy for God.

2. Those who know God have great thoughts about God.

3. Those who know God have great boldness for God.

4. Those who know God have great contentment in God.

If knowing Christ is Paul's Life Goal, what is yours?

Jesus is risen! He is risen, indeed!

Laurin, one of my Facebook friends, posted her thoughts on Facebook. I think her excitement about our Savior needs to be caught. Too many people just think of Easter as another day...ham sandwiches and chocolate bunnies. Let's boldly share this message of hope through out the remainder of the year, not just once a year! And, let's get excited...as believers, we have the hope of eternal life.

As my pastor shared on Friday night, Jesus' resurrection changed everything. Without it, His followers would've scattered, and what we know as Christianity would've simply died off as just another sect of Judaism. The faith would have died when Jesus did.

But He rose. And that changes everything. That means that everything He said was true. He was the Messiah, our Savior. He was God. He had come to earth to show us who God is and to show us how to live. And His death had bought us our salvation. The resurrection changed everything.

Many truths in scripture became true about us when we accepted what Jesus did on the cross as payment for our sins 2,000 years ago. "If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins" (1 Corinthians 15:17).

But He did rise. Our faith isn't futile. Our sins have been paid for. Our salvation is secure. Our King is alive!!"He is not here; he has risen, just as he said!" (Matthew 28:6). Thank You, Jesus! May we live in the truths You died to give us.
Live like the children of the King you are, y'all!! Have a great week, rescued ones!

Laurin Makohon, YW editor

New Again

God’s Longing

What does it tell us about our Creator that He would go to such extraordinary lengths to make himself accessible to us? We can see this throughout scripture, but even more so in Luke 19:41-44.

“As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it 42 and said, "If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace — but now it is hidden from your eyes. 43 The days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment against you and encircle you and hem you in on every side. 44 They will dash you to the ground, you and the children within your walls. They will not leave one stone on another, because you did not recognize the time of God's coming to you."

Jesus wept because they didn’t recognize that He came from God. He wept because the consequences of their blindness kept them from knowing and experiencing His peace and forgiveness. Do we recognize the real Jesus? The rejection of Jesus did not divert His desire to know each us. He died on the cross saying, “Father forgive them for they know not what they do.”

What would happen in our lives if we actually began to believe that the God of all time and eternity wanted us to know him? It starts by understanding that God sent His only Son to die a gruel death, so that we might have life, but also so that we might know Him as He knows us. Do you want to know Him? You can today!

Adapted from GOD: As He Longs For You to See Him by Chip Ingram

Reporter Flips Over News Report

There are somethings you just don't learn as a Radio/TV/Film Major...like keeping some distance from the report, no matter how great the story.

HowDo You See God?

J. I. Packer wrote, "Our aim in studying the Godhead must be to know God Himself better. Our concern must be to enlarge our acquaintance, not simply with the doctrine of God's attributes, but with the living God whose attributes they are."

This quote is the foundational primise of a new study I am beginning with our College/Careers Small Group called Common Grounds. We are studying seven attributes of God based on the Chip Ingram Series, "God: As He Longs For You To See Him." The Series starts with some very thought prevoking questions, such as:

1. When you think of God's existence, how do you perceive the culture is thinking about Him?

2. What do you think other people are thinking are thinki ng about when they ponder God?

3. If you were forced to describe God with one word, what would you use and why?

There is a huge difference between understanding God's attributes intellectually and letting them shape our lives.

A.W. Tozer states, "What comes to our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us."

I used to feel that God's love and delight was connected to my ability to successfully perform. Maybe that comes from my years growing up in a family where nothing was ever good enough. But, after being introduced to Christ, I found that He loved me dispite my successes or failures.

Checkout Zephaniah 3:17 and see if it does change your image of how you see God. I trust that you will ponder these soul serching questions, and I pray that you too might find freedom...the freedom that only comes from knowing God, for this is how He longs for us to see Him.

Hard Things or Harder Things?

There is so much truth to the comments made by Alex and Brett Harris in "Do Hard Things". The points they make are so applicable to the way society aproaches nearly everything..."I will only participate if it's easy!" How often do we fail to pick up God's Word because of the excuse, "It's too hard to understand!" Yet, we will spend hours studying "How to build a Web-site" for a class or practice hours making the perfect hit in our favorite sport... which really has no eternal significance what-so-ever. "What shall it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?" (Matt. 16:26)

True character is built by enduring hard work. What kind of character do we desire of ourselves? We will do almost anything, dispite the level of difficulty for almost anything, except when it comes to serving and following God. Why is that?

If we approached our jobs, sports, and even families the way we approach the work of our Savior, we would be fired, kicked off, kicked out, or divorced. Will we be continually late for work like we are for church? Why do we skip church and not practice? Does our coaches have the authority to grant life eternal? Would our friends or mates continue to remain so if we gave them the time we give God?

Sure, following Christ can be hard work...and can demand time, but is the sacrifice desired more than what He already performed? Let's remember that He is worth it.

Following article by Alex & Brett Harris

"What happens when we avoid hard things? The answer is that hard things come to us. It’s like the guy who won’t go in to the gas station to put some air in slightly deflated tire, only to have it blow out on him on the freeway when he’s late for an important meeting. Maybe it’s even happened before, and he’s already used his spare. Tough luck.

The truth is that we can’t really avoid doing hard things. We can only decide when to do hard things and how well-prepared we’ll be to handle them. You either do the hard thing of getting prepared, or you deal with the harder thing of being unprepared. We either “do it” now, or we end up having to “deal with it” later.This about a lot more than flat tires or missed meetings. Resisting temptation is hard, but not as hard as dealing with an addiction. Finding and keeping a job is hard, but not as hard as dealing with unemployment and struggling to make ends meet.

When we fail to do hard things, we not only disobey God, we set ourselves up to fall short of our true, God-given potential. Even worse, we act as if God is not worthy of our effort - or as if He is unable to accomplish through us what He has called us to do."

The remainder of this article can be viewed in Alex and Brett's New Book, "Do Hard Things."

To veiw more from these teens. checkout: http://www.therebelution.com/

Stuck in the 7th Grade

Lately, I have been reminded—yet again—about how much life really doesn't change after seventh grade.

You still have a goofy side.
You still love to laugh with your friends
You still have to eat your vegetables.
You still eat your vegetables out of guilt, not desire.
You still have friends that are tried and true.
You still have some acquaintances that will stay just that.
You still hate being forced to exercise.
You still have trouble mastering the "spiritual disciplines."
You still have a workload that consists of mostly things you love and a few things you hate.
You still have a "teacher" (or seven) in your life.
You still have a deep hatred for changing your clothes in a public place (gym/fitting rooms).
You still have the "butterflies" feeling in your stomach around the man/woman of your dreams (even if you have been married for 15 years).
You still have moments of uncontrollable weakness, when tears are all that will come out, without any explanation.
You still think things are funnier at 2a.m.
You still give in to peer pressure.You still misspell words.
You still choose to use a calculator instead of multiplying two numbers in your head.
You still find a slight thrill in breaking a small rule.You still have an issue with ridiculous authority figures. ("Yard Duties"/ Ushers, Security Guards, "Rent a Cops")
You still don't have enough money to do everything you want to do.
You still have to go to bed at a reasonable time because you have to get up in the morning.
You still have people you just "click" with.You still have people you just "clique" with.
You still have the group that thinks they are better than you.
Most of the time, you still feel like they are better than you.
You still have to remind yourself, daily, to find your value in being God's child.

It's funny; I operated under the assumption that life would be different, and somewhat easier, as I grew-up. From where I stand right now, it doesn't feel all that different. Maybe I'm not there yet. But maybe, when all is said and done, I'm okay with that.

My friend, Allison Hibbard

Too Busy to Pray

by Jim Burns

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. — Mark 1:35

A Christian youth worker I know recently described the students in his youth group: "Our students are just too busy to get serious with God." Can you identify with this? Most of us aren't evil. We aren't trying to stay away from God on purpose. We are just too busy to pray.
Have you ever had a conversation like this with God?

God: I'd like to spend some time with you today, Jim.

Jim: Great. I'd love to.

God: How about right now?

Jim: Right now? Uh, I'm a little late for school. I'll catch you later.... I promise.

God: Okay, I'll be waiting.

Jim: I'll see you at the lunch break.

God: Okay, I'll be waiting.

God: Hey Jim, I missed you at lunch. Your body was there but your mind wasn't.

Jim: I know. I'm sorry. I've got so much to do and so much on my mind. I just forgot to pray.

God: Are you ready to spend some time with me now? I know you only have a few minutes before class.

Jim: Well, uh, er, I haven't studied for my math test. I'll have to catch you later.

God: Okay, I'll be waiting. (After the 10:00 p.m. TV show)

God: Jim, I love you and I miss you. I've been waiting all day to be with you, Jim. Let's just focus for maybe five minutes.

Jim: I know. I'm sorry. I really feel bad. I'm so busy. Thanks for being so understanding, God. Thanks for... (Jim falls asleep.)

God: Oh well, maybe he'll have time for me tomorrow.

Are you too busy to pray? If you are, then you are simply too busy. God loves you and wants regular time with you because you are so special in his eyes. When is your special appointment with God? This may seem overly simplistic but it is true: People with a regular time with God will have a closer relationship with Him.

Promises, Promises

Paddy was driving down the street in a sweat because he had an important meeting and couldn't find a parking place. Looking up to heaven he said, 'Lord take pity on me. If you find me a parking place I will go to Church every Sunday for the rest of me life and give up me Irish Whiskey!'

Miraculously, a parking place appeared. Paddy looked up again and said, 'Never mind, I found one."

by Bill Rayborn

Web Design-aster

What a day! What started out as a day of building a NEW web-site for the church ended up as a technical visit to Web-site Design Training. We are unable to uplaod our new Agape site due to a security blockade with the present domain register. We have to wait until April 15th to begin the upload; however, I think you all will be in for a treat. So, Get ready!!!

Thanks to David Reed and his brilliance with web design, we were able to make some interesting changes to the http://www.accstudentministries.com/ site. Yes, you are reading one. We were able to use the old Impact web-site for a my personal blog. You can get to this blog by the sidebar tab on the web-site or by visiting http://www.lovemug.blogspot.com/. I hope you enjoy the youth site and the blog.

Feel free to e-mail me with any fresh ideas or cool articles or stories...no forwards please. Look forward to hearing from you on the changes. Be patient Agape Family on the expected site.

Jake's New "Overnighter" Video

National Youth Ministry Conference

Had some great conversations with Doug Fields throughout the conference. I have been invited to serve with a Veteren's Youth Ministry Affinity Team and a new friend Vince Beresford. Together, we will partner with Group to help new YP's adapt and grow their ministry and write article to foster community among Veteran's YP's.

Purpose-Driven Youth Ministry Writer and YM Guru Doug Fields

Kutless belting out "You are My Strong Tower

The gut-busting Skit Guys performed on Saturday and Sunday


Did I say learning track? Yes! I had a wonderful time hanging out with Mark DeVries (author of Family Based Youth Ministry), and listening to his outrageous stories that he experiences when working with the Youth ministry Architects team. He and Jeff Dunn-Rankin really know how to evaluate a healthy youth ministry, and have vast amounts of experience to help those who are traveling the road to destruction. Mark makes me laugh excessively, esp. when hanging out talking about blogging and facebook.

Yes, this is exactly what it looks like...the SYM "Live" Podcast. Saturday night was filled with laughter as the Podcast team shared the mantra that we all know is true..."Just enough Youth Ministry that you don't feel guilty for listening." Afterward, Josh and I went out for a midnight bowl of chilli with the Podcast team. And, to tell you the truth, it really was too late for chilli!

Tim Timmons led worship throughout the NYMC. Tim's humility is evident in every song he writes and sing.

Tony Dungy spoke at the NYMC on Friday evening. He challenged YP's to persevere and to keep perspective on what matters most...God, Family, and Consistent work ethic.

Josh Moore and Me

After a night of treking through snow and ice and Jake's accident, Josh Moore and I got an opportunity to eat and talk ministry in a smoke-filled Kentucky Wafflehouse with the Saddleback Sr. High Youth Ministry Team.

Jake and Josh

Josh Moore and I hangin' with the Saddleback YM Team