The Journey

A Long Hard Look At Christian Culture

Last week on the Radio show, we interviewed a blogger named Stephanie.  She's got a great blog at http://stuffthatchristianculturelikes.com.  It was an interesting conversation about the things Christianity takes from culture, and then tries to re-brand for a profit.  Like Guitar Hero. 

You know the game that took the world by storm?  You have these toy guitars and you essentially follow the song on the television pressing the correct buttons to get points.  There are multiple levels, so it gets harder the more you play. 

Evidently a Christian marketer got a hold of the idea, and turned it into a praise game.

Now don't get me wrong, I'm all for having fun.  In fact, even this idea of getting music that is wholesome while we play guitar hero has it's good points.  But the overwhelming thought among the creators of guitar hero is, "Why do Christians rip off our ideas?"

The same thing happens with T-shirts we make using the brands of the world, or music we rip from secular artists, and insert Jesus' name; and then all of the sudden we accept the music as if it was God's intent all along.

I guess my question here is...why do Christians always follow culture instead of leading it?

We have creative people.
We have good ideas.
Is it because we're too scared to go out on our own and create products that will appeal to people of faith AND the world?

I'm all about having Christian music. It's a wonderful thing to have positive music to play in the car on the commute to work, or even at a party with teenagers; but if our music just copies the beats and styles of the secular world; isn't that a bit like stealing?

I have a dream...(not to sound too cliche') 

I have a dream to encourage teenagers in their gifts to create high level art.
I have a dream to help teens develop high level, quality music.
I have a dream to fan into flame the gifts of the students I get a chance to encounter, so they can go and create careers that both glorify God and stay true to driving culture.

Not creating another.
Not copying something that is successful.
Not trying to be cheeky.

But real people, creating real art/music/sport/business/ or whatever they're good at; so WE can enjoy the entire body of Christ.

I guess the short of it is...let's be leaders in culture...not simply people who rip off what's popular in the world. 

Teenager Taking Responsibility? Not Likely

Focus

Yesterday I started our teaching session by helping teenagers understand the power of direction.  There's no magic to goal setting, but it's necessary to have some sort of direction in your life, in order that you don't wind up just in the ebb and flow of whatever the world throws at you.

I don't mean you have to plan out the rest of your life, and have 5 year, 10 year, and 20 year goals; but it only makes sense to take life by the horns and start working on understanding the gifts God gave you, and how you want to implement those gifts into your whole life.

My book this year is called, "Where are you going?" It came to me as I was driving down the highway, probably lost, when all of the sudden that old Dave Matthews song started playing on the radio.  I stopped on the side of the road, and started thinking....

I wonder how many teenagers even engage in ideas about their future.
I mean, I know they think about where they want to go to school, what they're going to eat, and who they want to date; but how many of them are actively seeking a place where they can hone in on their gifts.
I wonder if some of the issues with suicide, teenage drinking, teen pregnancy, and some of the other traditional things we give to teenagers as failures, can be curbed if we just spend time trying to find those things that fan into flame a future of bright success?

Paul said, "Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function," (Romans 12:4)  Maybe it's time we focus on the gifts of every person individually, and try to make up a whole body. 

How fun would it be to have a group of teenagers, able to see and respect each other's gifts, and have a 'one body' view.  The focus of that group, well...it would change the world.

What Happens When Teenagers Take Their Faith Serious

Every year I've watched the global traditions around Easter, and some catch my eye with intrigue.  Like the Filipino celebration where men actually walk the streets beating themselves and literally re-enacting the Crucifixion Jesus experienced on that dreadful day.  Now don't get me wrong, I don't think we need to experience what Jesus experienced, after all, that's the reason He went o the cross, so we wouldn't have to, but it's an interesting analysis of the difference in faith we all experience in our different traditions. 

I got an e-mail from a mom today.  Actually, her son has been under our training for a while, and he decided to stage a crucifixion on Friday.  He and a few of his friends decided good Friday was going to be a place where the hole community could witness a re-enactment in front of the church. 

They gave the community a 'real' viewing, and they stayed on the cross for four hours last Friday.  Immediately I thought back to those Filipino people, but these guys didn't actually hurt themselves.  They just wanted the community to experience the power of the crucifixion visually alongside them.  The reports, well, they were very interesting.  With mixed reviews, the reality of Jesus' crucifixion was made clear for all to see.  And the experience of the boys?  Well, they'll never think about the cross the same way again.

Even though I don't think we all need to re-enact the event, it is an interesting idea.  To physically feel a portion of what Jesus must have felt on that day, would surely help the hole of the experience become real. 

I wonder, if we ever decided to look at the brutality of Jesus' crucifixion, what would be the difference in the way we perceive the Easter Holidays? 

Kudos to you guys, and my hope is we all have a different view of the gospel story, as we see Jesus' death necessary for our reconciliation with God. 

Twitter? So What's the Big Deal?

I had a few teenage friends over at the house abut a month ago, and I they started asking me about some of the newest social mediums out there taking off.  They were really trying to see if I knew anything about Twitter.

"What is Twitter?"  one of the girls asked
"Oh, I think it's a High school thing." another guy piped in
"Ughh, I don't have time to learn something new right now." she said as she texted one of her other friends on a Blackberry Storm.

I sat back and thought it kind of amusing that here were some college students that were trying to understand the change in cultural communication, and most of the conversation was negative in scope.  The silly part is, most of the current communication mediums we have came from college students trying to push the envelope 5-10 years ago.  Both MySpace and Facebook were dreamt in the minds of bored college students, and subsequently became two of the most used information highways in the world. 

But the question remains...What is this Twitter thing?

I'm no social Media Expert, but I think it important to be in places where people are hanging out.  I don't think anyone should feel like they have to be involved in a place online that they don't feel comfortable or don't understand, but I do think it's important that we understand the shifts in communication, and how they are being used.

So Twitter.   Here's my Top 5 ideas about Twitter. 

1.  It's a "Micro Blog."  Obviously if you're reading this website, you know a blog is a place in the world where people voice thoughts, explore ideas, convey information, or just jack around online.  Blogs can be serious.  They can be funny.  They can be long.  They can be short.  A Blog is the basic ideas of an author that people follow. 

Twitter takes that idea and compresses it into 140 characters.  In other words, Twitter is a place where people can post information about what's going on in their world in under 140 individual characters. 

2.  It's a way to communicate to people in a virtual shout out.  Much like Facebook walls, Twitter allows people to identify those they want to communicate to individually.  You can post something like "@braner, I like your blog."  And If I was following your twitter action, I could receive that message and communicate back to you.

3.  It's totally controlled by the user.  Twitter is a place where the user can decide to follow certain people or groups, and deny others.  For example, I can follow news organizations and get 140 character updates when they post them, but they have the decision to follow me.  So you can in essence be a virtual listener.  An online eavesdropper of sorts. 

4.  It's becoming a way that everyone can have access to seeing what friends are doing at any given time.  You can leave a message like "I'm going to the store,"  or "I'm heading to church" and all your friends following you can know what's going on in your world.  It might seem a bit invasive, but remember; the messages are controlled by the user, so you don't have to post anything you don't want.  AND think about how many times you've been somewhere and your friends say, "I wish I knew you were there so we could hang out."  Well now, with Twitter, they can.

5.  While E-mail ruled the world in the 90's, and Facebook style took over in the 00's, I think places like Twitter are beginning to shape not only the way we communicate with each other, but they begin shaping our own online presence.  It allows for people to have a personality online, and communicate that personality to as many people that wish to know about them.  Some might think it narcissistic to keep posting things about yourself, but remember communication is a two way street.  To be known, and to know are the two principles of relationship. 

So, I don't know if it's going to be the next wave, the new wave, or just a crashing wave; but for now Twitter is being used by companies, individuals, news stations, non-profits, and yes....yours truly.  (you can find me on twitter by typing in the name "braner")

Test it out and see what you think.  Just click on the icon above and you'll be directed to create your own Twitter profile.  I'd love to get your comments if you have an opinion either way.  Social media is an interesting study on how and why we communicate the way we do. 

Don't forget to come and be a part of the radio show today at 4:00 CST. I'll be unveiling some new stuff going on at K-Colorado.  Just click on the blog talk radio button below, and you'll be directed to the live stream at 4:00 CST.  See you there.

Another Story of K-Colorado Kids Catching the Vision

A couple of Kanakuk Colorado students went over to Ethiopia for Spring Break with an organization called Buckner.  They sent me this video, and I wept as I am witnessing a generational shift in Faith.  Here are teenagers....that's right....TEENAGERS who are recognizing life is more than iPods, fast cars, dating relationships, and pizza parties.  They're getting it!!!!  Won't you join me as we set the table for the world to see God's Love shared through the Next Generation?

I'm so proud of you guys.  Way to go Crowson Boys!!

You're an inspiration to us.

The Power of Together

On the eve of the first full week I've returned from Rwanda, I can't get it out of my head that we need to continue developing the notion that togetherness is the key for progress both spiritually and physically. 

As a fifteen year Veteran in Youth Ministry, I'm constantly being challenged by my colleagues to do ministry certain ways.  They say things like, "Well this is the way we do it," as if ministry is like some open up the box off the shelf and press the START button for your minute of spiritual development.  It might sound intriguing, but it rarely works. 

For example,   I've been told on more than one occasion, "Short Term Mission Trips are a Waste of Time and Finances." 

According to one of the largest youth ministry organizations in the world, somewhere they've done studies on those who attend short term mission trips and they've compared their attendance to their continued faithfulness and pursuit of the gospel. 

What a ridiculous notion!

After seeing 33 students encounter the poor of Africa, I can say with certainty that their lives will never be the same.  Whether or not they pursue the gospel is a matter only they and God can reconcile.  It's not the success or failure of a short term venture that can be the only variable in the equation.  After all, with that criteria for a study, you might as well ask, "How many people sitting in your church are following God with all fullness in their heart?"  The conclusion might lead to a statement that "Members of your church who sit in the pews are a waste of time."  (Obviously I'm overstating this notion, but you see how ridiculous some people might tend to go to prove their point.)

Sure, short term trips don't have near the impact that a long term tour might be, but we must begin measuring the success of our trips and the fullness of our impact on the next generation more comprehensively. 

I'm sure if you ask the three widows whose home we painted, they'll never be the same.
I'm sure if you go back to the orphanages we visited the kids will never forget the Umuzungu (the white people) who visited one week in March.

I'm sure as we watch Kids Across Africa grow into a vibrant center for African development, we will forever be a part of a place where Rwandese people might come and be discipled in the name of Jesus.

My notion is, we must pull out all the stops if we are intentionally trying to help teenagers develop a whole worldview consistent with the Global Village we are a part of. 

They must be exposed to the ideas of other cultures. 
They must see how the gospel can go forward translated into different countries. 
They must be able to be intelligent when they extend the hand of compassion to the poor.
And the bottom line is, we're all humans on this planet trying to live together; and togetherness is the only way we'll be able to share.

After all, the sum total of God's explanation about how we should all come together is detailed in Paul's discourse to the Romans, "Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others." (Romans 12:4-5)

The Power of Togetherness is crucial to the way the Love of God must be presented around the world.  We need to couple worship services with discipleship training sessions, camps, retreats, and yes; even short term worldview trips, in order that we might fan into flame the gifts God created in each one of his members to function as a part of a larger body of people. 

It is my desire that we might have a place where students and adults alike could be encouraged to fulfill their God given gifts, and we might be able to bask in the creativeness of a wonderful Creator as His will continues to go forth.  Loneliness has no place in this story.  For God created a way that we might worship Him together no matter who we are, what color skin we have, or what culture we come from. 

May we be a people who ignite a movement of togetherness.
May we be willing to share our lives with others, rather than at others.
May we continue to push the boundaries of what we know, so that we might extend the hand of god to all those who need to hear. 

I told you they're catching it...

I told you they're catching the vision. 

Another one of our students has started a T-Shirt company in Dallas Texas.  They've been holding fund raisers, selling retail, and trying to get the word out on global issues, ALL IN THE NAME OF JESUS. 

Once this generation begins to see the importance of reaching across the boundaries of nation or tongue, watch out world.  They've got the energy to change the face of history. 

Way to go guys...

Check them out at A Generation That Speaks.

When We Watch Our Friends Grow Up

Working with Teenagers is a BLAST!!  I feel like they've all got hidden gifts the Lord has fashioned them with, and it's part of my job to begin searching for the those gifts.  The Bible mentions it when Paul says to, "Fan into Flame the gifts God has given," (2 Tim. 1:6-7) and part of the joy of working with students is to find that gift and encourage it.

I've watched some students fan into flame their love for people.
I've seen others fan into flame their love for athletics. 
Some for service.
Some for encouragement.
Others for hospitality.

And one of my long time friends just sent me a picture of a gift near to my heart, acting.

One of my long time friends Tyler was cast in a play at his church.  He was a blind man whose sight was restored by the touch of Jesus. 

When I got these pictures, my heart just smiled as I remembered conversations Tyler and I have had over the years concerning art, acting, and his own personal development.  The greatest part of it all is watching the Lord grow in Tyler's heart. 

It's been a joy to be a part of your growing up pal.  I wish you all the greatest.

May your gift reach no boundaries.
May those who are around you see the Love of God as you fan the flame.
May you be a light to others who need to know the Creator.

The Results are in...

The numbers are in.  Over 75% of you decided to vote that some sort of adventure is the perfect date.

So, throw away the ideas for dinner and a movie, get excited, and plan something that pushes the boundaries of the normal everyday dulldrums of life. 

Get creative, and let's start and dating adventure.

Feel free to share your ideas here, and let's compel people to re-invent dating.

Spring Break '09, Is It Safe?

Each March and April, Spring Break comes around the country, and high school and college students jet set for a little reprieve from the doldrums of day in and day out class schedules.  Some choose to stay at home and get a little work done, but a large migration happens from the slopes of Colorado to the beaches of Mexico.

But this year...It's different.

For whatever reason this economic climate, coupled with a rise in violence around border towns, Mexico has become an outright shoot out.  Thousands of people have died over the last few months because of a cartel war, and it's not just those involved.

A few days ago, one news outlet reported 6 Styrofoam coolers found on the highway to Guadalajara.  Each one has a human head in it, with a note, "I'm coming to get you."

Yesterday two U.S. teenagers were arrested and charged with being a secret assassin cell in the U.S.  Evidently the two went to a club in a boarder town, and they were recruited by the drug cartels to carry out their murderous activity.  With the fast life at their fingertips, driving expensive cars, and living the high life, the two became the 'go to' guys for the Cartel's war with other drug dealers.

This is no joke. 

If you're going to spring break next week, take caution. 

Don't go by yourself.
Don't find yourself out late alone.
Be sure your friends know where you're going and when you're coming back.
The U.S. State Department has a site where you can register your travel, so they know you're abroad.
Keep you head about you, and if you can at all possible, stay away from boarder towns.

But overall, the best idea...Go somewhere else. 

There are plenty of places to go and be with friends or family that don't carry the risk.  It's just one of those times in world affairs that you need to be really careful. 'That all coming from a guy who loves adventure.'

Be Safe.
Have Fun.
And remember, Truth doesn't hide away just because it's spring break. 

God Bless.

Uh Oh...Longer School Days?

There's no question the American education system is in great need of overhauling.  As I travel the globe and watch students from different countries tackle subjects that we don't even introduce our students until later High School or early College; it's not hard to deduce, a long term generational problem. 

Somehow we need to re-energize the love of learning to our kids, and expel the myth that getting C's in school is cool.  We need them to understand the value of Math, Science, and the Arts; not to regurgitate an answer on a test, but rather; to embrace the love of learning.  So how?

President Obama's Secretary of Education Arne Duncan proposed last week that students should go to school longer so they can get smarter.  If Duncan gets his way, those long days of summer may erode away to just a few weeks, and the hope is, our kids will embrace learning. 

As the new administration sees the educational void in America in relation to the rest of the world they are trying to solve it with a day quantity solution rather than a day quality answer. 

I'm not sure they're hitting the nail on the head. 

What do you think?

Will a longer school year help America be any smarter?

Click Here to See the Full Story

All Kanakukers in the Springfield Area...Unite.

All you Kanakukers in the Springfield Missouri area, get ready.  Today From 10am to 5pm at the Discovery Center we'll be sponsoring the WIRE BIKE.

Come hang out with the Kanakuk crew, ride the wire bike, or just see all the cool stuff the Discovery center has to offer. 

It’s FREE and open to the public.

It will be great to see all the Kanakuk kids and families there. If you come, wear your Kanakuk shirts and bring your friends. We are going to pass out some T-shirts and just have a great time hanging out and riding the wire bike.

Come on out, and support the Kanakuk crew.

Rwanda Worship

Video clips at Ustream

Ok Guys, here's a chance to worship with my Denver Friends online, AND, you get a chance to help teenagers go abroad to serve in one of the poorest countries in Africa. Click Here For a Denver K-Life Night of Worship and join us in praying for the trip.  They'll be online 8:00 p.m.

I'm sure it would mean a lot to the group that you showed up online.  

God bless. 

It's a little less than Two weeks away

With a little less than two weeks until Valentine's day, don't do this...

You'll look like a total idiot.

Maybe It's time to re-evaluate How We're Teaching Kids About Sex

Ok, before all you critics start writing let's get on the same page.  Teenagers having sex is a MAJOR issue.  Not only are we seeing pregnancies that are adding to the abortion debate, diseases that teens have to deal with for a lifetime, and the guilt associated with marriage counseling in the future; the bigger issue is the fact that God's intention for sexual relationships has been hijacked. 

Somewhere between a culture of hedonism, and a background of extremism (i.e. the extreme middle eastern ways of keeping girls virgins is akin to barbarism) we need to re-think this one.  We've either allowed too much hedonism to invade our own world view, or we've pushed kids away with our extreme ex-communication ideas of piety; and they're falling into a very dangerous place.  Our future culture is dependent we get this one right.

Traditionally, as a people of faith; we hold "True Love Waits" rallies around valentine's day.  Or, we encourage kids to "Kiss Dating Goodbye." Both of which have had minimal success in curbing the sanctity of intimate relationships, and neither help the issue.  A report released yesterday claims that Virginity Pledges DON'T WORK! 

I know it's anti-thetical to the way we are doing ministry, and for sure we're not going to stop calling for abstinence; but I wonder...is it time we step back and re-evaluate and revolutionize this ever growing problem. 

My take is, spirituality is something that must be taught as an all encompassing way of living. If we teach students the pillars of the faith, (the fact God is God, His Son Jesus came to give Life, and the Holy Spirit is alive and well in the world today) then we help students create a whole world view about life in light of God's intention.  It's much harder to engage in things God isn't involved in when we see it as an everyday religion, rather than a "Sunday-Wednesday-Sunday" type faith.  We must re-ignite the necessity of a people that hold to belief systems where God is at the center.

I think somehow, we've allowed spiritism to be compartmentalized and teens have a chance to pull out the God of the Bureau whenever they want, but the fact is; God is always near.  He's not waiting to punish those who choose to live life differently; He's longing to collide with us in the world and provide a way of forgiveness and reconciliation. 

That's why, at Kanakuk Colorado, we help teens think through these issues so they can live a whole life increasing in wisdom, stature, and favor with both God and Man. (Luke 2:52)

But I suppose the facts remain the same.  God gave Adam and Eve a choice, and they had the opportunity to obey or reject His commandments.  I hurt for the teens that make decisions that change their lives so dramatically.  And I will continue to be a sanctuary for those who make mistakes.  For His Love Endures Forever.

May we be a people ok with examining the ways we do things, and try to make them more effective.
May we pray for our future.
May we help teenagers see the weight of their decisions.
May we love those who make mistakes.
May we Show God's Love to All.

It's not Just K-Colorado Teens Interested in Helping People...Check this out.

Teenagers Making A Difference. The Movement Gains Momentum.

My friends often ask me, "Andy, when are you going to give up on camp life and come to the real world?  When are you going to get a job?"

I know it's ignorance they ask those silly questions, because they have no idea how many hours you have to put into this "job" to actually make it work.  I study teenagers.  I breathe teenagers.  I hang with teenagers all over the world, in an effort to invest Jesus centered values in the next generation.  And you know what, I don't really care when my peers look at me and wait patiently for me to get this "youth ministry" thing out of my system.  It's WORKING!

There is a generation of teenagers today that are making a difference like I've never known.  They are laying down the iphone, ipod, fast cars, and fun times to be a part of a world that makes a difference.  My friends in Denver were one example, but I just got an e-mail from another girl who came out to K-Colorado this summer.  Read this, and you'll see I have no other choice.

Hey Andy! I was a kamper this summer 5th term and I just wanted to tell you how much kamp really impacted me this summer! At the other kamps they always talked about how we needed to be i'm third by doing the dishes for our moms and and stuff like that... but this year i was really challenged in institute to go beyond that, to look further than doing little nice things for the people around me... when you showed the videos of kids my age in places like the Philippines that don't know where their next meal is coming from or where they are going to sleep..it really struck me that i am so consumed with the material things that this world is pushing at us. I get upset when i have to eat leftovers or have my mom has drive me to school because my car is in the shop. So when i came back home all i could do was brain storm ways to give up what i had for all those kids just like me who were not nearly as blessed who lived in africa. Soon after school started my church announced that we were about to start a big building campaign to build some new buildings for our growing church. Every member was asked to consider what they could give up to contribute to the fund. My youth pastor asked us to think about what was the one thing we couldn't imagine giving up and think about sacrificing that for the church building fund... some people said their phones and stuff like that but the first thing that popped into my mind was kamp... i am a seven year kamper and kamp is what i live for the whole school year... but God kept on laying giving up kamp on my heart and i couldn't get it off my mind... i really did not want to give it up... and one day i was sitting in my room and i was thinking about some things that you had said this summer... you told us that if we get what you are teaching in institue... we get how to reach out to others  and how to make a difference.. then not to come back... to go out and make that difference. So i decided that i would give it up... and i have actually found that i find joy in that... that one day a kid might find God for the first time in the new youth building that this money will go to build.. that maybe in my open spot at kamp a girl will turn her life around for God or be challenged to make a difference like i have. I just wanted to thank you for everything that ya'll do out there in colorado and in all the kamps... I have been challenged in so many ways in my faith! Maybe i will be back in two summers for my senior year! i can't wait to see what else God is going to do through k-co!

 

Ladies and gentlemen, the movement is on.  Come be a part of it, and let's watch the world turn a different direction.

The Movement Is Beginning

One of the greatest honors of my life is to mentor teenagers and watch them grow into people who think about the world in a larger scope.  It's what we do out at Kanakuk Colorado. 

We spend countless hours trying to help students understand the power of the Kingdom of God.  Starting with their belief system and moving on to a global world-view, we hope to train students to go out and make a difference in the world. 

Well, today it's with great pride that I introduce to you MAJI.

Started by a few students in Denver, Maji has a goal to help the world's poorest have access to clean drinking water.  They're high school students who have started a "for real" company to give to the less fortunate.  And I couldn't be more proud of my friends. 

So today, please go by and check out their new website, their new products, and help be a small part of a great mission.  We wish to show the world in all areas of our lives that we care more for them than we do our own materialistic desires.  We wish to use the capitalistic system to bend poverty on its ear, and in the face of hopeless existence, we wish to give hope in the name of Jesus. 

Turn This.......

          To          This....

May the movement continue it's momentum. 
May students from all over the world be encouraged to reach beyond their own sphere of influence. 
May you, join with me and my friends, as we put feet to our faith, and make Jesus the centerpiece of our lives. 

Go and check out the fellas at Maji. (click on Maji for the website)

And just in case that doesn't convince you.  Check out the video the boys made for their new company.  I think this is AWESOME!!  Way to go guys.

Or you can check this out from their parent company Charity Water.

I told you this was going to be a place to share

So, I told you this would be a place to share what's going on in our lives.  Well, here we go.  Here's a story from a good friend of mine who's going through the ringer right now. 

Braner...

So about two and half hours ago, I was standing in line at the cafeteria getting dinner when I get a call from my Dad saying that, "We lost Grandpapa a few minutes ago."

(a little background)

I always perceived my Grandfather as some sort of super natural hero. The man was a month from 94 years old and he basically lived the live of someone 40 years younger. He still drove, gardened, took out the trash.... etc...(still hunted up until his 93 birthday, when his car broke down and he had to walk 5 miles to the nearest house). He was a WWII vet who started his own business the he continued to assist my Dad in running today. To me, he was invincible. When I left for school in August he was still is same old active self. But when I came home a few weeks ago for fall break he was not he Grandpa I remembered. I saw him wasting away in a chair in his basement, miserable, just wanting to die. This really shocked me but all I could think is well he'll get out of it. He'll cheer up.... On Friday of last week, he fell in his kitchen and broke his arm. My Dad took him to the hospital and he had surgery. He never recovered.

So as I'm returning to my room with my dinner in hand, I all I can think about is the legacy that this man left behind. How much he will be missed by the people in our town (everybody knew and loved him), our family, but most importantly me. This summer before I went to school I had really gotten close to him. And now to know that he is gone...man that just killed me, still is. I had a conversation with one of my brothers we talked and cried and  all that jazz. Then a few minutes ago in the midst of everything I get on to facebook and see you posted a video.......... And wow. talk about a sign. I'm speechless. Not to mention a few days ago God was just telling me to start reading Job. And I know understand why.

It's just so amazing the way he works. One minute I'm feeling terrible and the next I've got a smile on my face just thinking "what in the world?" I'm not saying I'm no longer sad, but bro that sure did help. Thank you!

Who knows?  Who knows how many people are in the world right now feeling the same way. 

What if...

Instead of trying to bear this burden, we could all just help show compassion.
Instead of trying to come up with something trite to say, we could just empathize.
Instead of trying to fit this into some theological problem that needs to be fixed, we continued placing our hope in a future where this just isn't going to happen anymore.

And...in the meantime.

We extend ourselves to others, like Jesus extended to us. 

(Still excited to share your story.  Don't be afraid.  I'll keep it generic.)

And The Winner Is...

The Winner to Last Week's Poll, What Movie are you most likely to watch is...

Real Life with Teenagers at Kanakuk Colorado

hey andy!

how are you doing? i hope all is going good for you! i hear kankuk is having
a good fall season! i cant wait for this next summer of 2009. i think it
will be a really great year!

junior year has already had its ups and downs for me so far... including a
break up with a very close boyfriend, some health issues, car accident,
broken relationships within my family, and grade issues... but its also had
its good times... including new friends at school and church, homecoming
week, and answers to prayers:)

even though ive had some hardships so far and continually, i know God had
this planned in my life for a reason, and though i dont know what that is at
the moment, i know everything will work out for the good. i have been
relying on God so much more after coming this summer to kamp. thank you for
coming to retreat at my school, and for all the lessons youve taught me at
kamp. you have been a real blessing in my life:)

well i hope to see and hear back from you soon!

cammie

Teenagers Do the Darndest Things

So, a friend of mind is going to school on the east coast, and he's run into a really cool group of friends.  They helped him unload the car with all his stuff from the first day, and have continued hanging out with him through the semester. 

Well, I talked with his mom and dad today, and they told me this story....

One day, They decided to play a prank on the young lad.  So instead of doing the normal short sheets, or saran wrap the toilet, or toothpaste under the door handle, they went out and bought 4 rolls of aluminum foil and made sure to metamorphically metalisize this kid's room.  Check this out. 

The did the whole bed. 
The trash can.
The sheets

Even his coffee mugs...

And remember he only has one side of the room, so they only did one side of the mirror, the desk, the closet, the door handle. 

When I looked at this, I almost laughed myself off the chair I'm sitting in.  This is AWESOME!!  Who would have ever thought to pull this one off. 

Anyway, just a good reminder to have fun in life.
Make good memories.
Create your own stories.
Be thoughtful, yet creative. 

And LAUGH ALOT.  That's Why I love teenagers.  They do the Darndest things.....

Do you Believe in Me?

A good friend sent me this.  WOW!!  What a kid. 

I believe in you...

I believe in this generation....

I believe in Teenagers...

I believe in the mission...

I believe

Our Future...

Have you ever thought about the conversation that was held around the dining table in heaven after Jesus ascended to sit at the right hand of the Father?

For thousands of years, the heavenly hosts anticipated his glorious defeat of death.  They watched and waited as the world took on every evil under the sun, and they couldn't bare it anymore.  When God sent His only Son to defeat death and sin, they knew it was only a matter of time before things would return to the good old days. 

Walking in the Garden.
Talking with man.
Not fearing the warriors of evil at every turn.

After Jesus was crucified and raised, I'm sure the party in heaven was one not rivaled by any cosmic explosion.   Nothing in history could drown out the cheers and celebrations happening throughout the Universe. 

Have you ever wondered???

In the aftermath of the victory, Jesus standing around with Gabriel. 

"So, you defeated death on that cross huh?"
"Yea, it was terrible, but you know, now they have hope.  They have restoration.  They have a reconciled life with US."
"Jesus, that's awesome.  Thanks so much for caring about mankind like you do.  I know the troops will be excited as I tell them about your major battle with the enemy."
"And now the real fun starts."
"I was going to ask you.  What's the plan now?'

And Jesus pointed down to the disciples.  Peter, James, John, and the bunch. 
"That's the Plan."

"Are you kidding me?"
"They're going to start the next generation.  They're going to be the one's who carry the legacy.  They are my chosen ones."
"Ummmmm...Jesus?  Any thoughts for plan B?"

It must have been uncomfortable for the angels to put their confidence in the future bearers of the gospel.  After all, they'd seen all the stupid stuff they were capable of.  They knew how many times they'd messed up.  How scary!!  To place the future of the cosmos in the hands of a few cowardly fishermen?

Well, that's where we are today!

Our future is here in this picture.  These are the one's that will take the gospel to the rest of the world.  These are the bearers of truth in the next generation. 

And I BELIEVE IN THEM!!!

May we be a people who encourage the next generation to rise up.
May we ready them for the days to come.
May we not run in fear or doubt their ability. 

It's their time!

A New Place for Teens to Hang Out

It's a hard world to navigate the online communities out there.  You never really know where you can go without the trash of the internet.  Well, a friend of mine launched this awesome website called Blue Chowder.  It's facebook, myspace, itunes, and youtube, all in one.  And...what's super cool...they have a standard for their online community. 

They don't seem to want to be a place where everything is cookie cutter, but they do want to host a place where you don't have to worry about nudity, filthy language, or other stupid stuff you find at those other places. 

If you're looking for an online community where you can have a one stop shop for music and entertainment, check out www.bluechowder.com.  They're assimilating an awesome team of people to answer hard questions while still trying to keep people connected to the world. 

I don't know about you...but I'm on, and loving it.

Come on....

Whatcha waiting for.  Get off this page and get over there www.bluechowder.com.

There's Snow!!!

It's been a long dry last few years out in Durango, and guess what!!  THERE'S SNOW.  check these pictures out of kamp.   The snow is literally as tall as the buildings in some areas.  and I know for sure this is a welcomed site to a region wondering about the future of water. 

There's been several natural disasters happen because of such a dry climate.  Forrest Fires, Pine Beetles, and Wells that just run dry are a constant issue in our community.  Luckily we are smack dab on the beach of a long river, and we've never had any issue, but my friends find themselves struggling through the busiest season of the year, mainly summertime.

It's been an incredible journey, starting back in the summer of 1999.  We decided we wanted to create a place where teenagers could come out and experience all the outdoor sports Colorado has to offer, and K-Colorado was born.  K-Colorado because our parent company, Kanakuk Kamps, helped get the project off the ground. 

Since the first summer buses started rolling in this has been a place where true community is being formed.  You know the world says teenagers are a bunch of thugs just looking to get into trouble. 

I'll say just the opposite.  I love hanging with teenagers, because of their honesty as they traverse the weirdest time in life.  They're trying to find out who they are, how they are, and what things are going to be the most important parts of their lives. 

We created K-Colorado to offer a place where they could relax, find new adventurous activities, and develop a belief system they could be comfortable with.  The friends they meet and the relationships formed from a two week term at K-Colorado are truly shaping the way some communities are being formed around the world.  And, I'm just happy I get a chance to be a part of it. 

It won't be long, and the snow will melt away.  The flowers will push up through the green grass, and it will be time to welcome a new summer into existence.  And I can hardly wait!

I'm so excited to make new friends, celebrate with old ones, and focus on trying to develop a community of people who are interested in caring about one another. 

I suppose if I were to get too spiritual, the snow melting and the flowers growing represent the new growth that happens in the students that visit us in the summer.  It's such a great time!

Anyway, if you'd like to check out what we do, go to Kanakuk Colorado and sign up soon. It's filling fast for summer 2008, and we'd love to meet you, introduce you to our staff, and live life with you!

Check it out!!!  THERE'S SNOW!!!!

A Story in Scottsdale

I was with my friends in Phoenix this week.  I started at Valley Christian, down in Chandler, and then I headed up to Scottsdale Christian to spend some good time with some great kids.

It was so much fun to hang with students, teachers, and administrators.  Sometimes when I work so hard on my own stuff, it doesn't cross my mind that people all over the world are doing their thing at the same time.  I know that's a simple concept, but when you're transplanted into someone else's life, it's really cool. 

Anyway, I was hanging out at Scottsdale Christian working on their chapel for the week, and teaching upper level Bible classes, when the missions coordinator showed me a really neat concept for teenagers in high school today.

She told me how SCA shuts down their high school for a week so all the students can go on a mission.  Some go to phoenix, some to California, and others around the world.  They go to help people where people are.  They go to experience life in someone else's shoes.  They go to experience a world different than Scottsdale Arizona.  What a great idea!

How can we teach students to give a rip about someone else in the world?  Take them to the places where other people are.  Help them see the plight of the orphan, the concrete world of the homeless, or just walk the streets and look for people.

It's the old mission trip idea.  The crux of a mission trip is to go and help someone else out of your own day to day world of relationships, but what ends up happening is a crucial memory seared into the mind of those students, that end up driving students to at least be aware of other people around the world.

I couldn't believe there were actually high schools out there interested as much in adoption as they are in algebra.  They teach history, and then go hand food to the homeless.  It was an incredible program, and I would give Christian School administrators a generous encouragement to check out what Scottsdale Christian Academy is up to in light of their mission program. 

 

All Alone in a Big World

It's been an eye opening travel season this year.  Coast to coast, I've been with hundreds of teenagers who walk the hallways of school; calm, cool, and collected.  Their heads held high, dressed in the latest teen fashion.  Some with boyfriends and girlfriends.  Some laughing.  Some walking silently, alone. 

No scratch that, ALL of them screaming...alone.

They act like it's all together, but none have it figured out.  Some think it's the clothes they wear, while others try and outperform each other in sports, grades, or friends.  Who can be the best?  Who can set themselves apart?  Who can be different?

but deep inside the show, behind the curtains of their soul, every single one is silently screaming, help me.

Help me know I'm worth something. 
Help me know I'm loved.
Help me know I matter to the world.
Make this pain go away. 

With a smile on her face and a skeptical eye wincing she looks at every person she passes, "Are you going to love me, or be like everyone else?  Are you going to care?"

Help me know I'm valuable.
I feel so alone.
Help me see the truth.
I'm sick of this silly game.

He walks with head held high and chest stuck out.  "I've got it all together.  I could beat you with one hand tied behind my back.  I don't need anybody.  I can do it on my own."  And he just keeps walking, alone.

I can do it by myself.
I don't need any help.
You'll just get in the way
Let me be, alone.

_____________________________________________

It's a great time to be alive with a new generation fueled by the possibility they an make a difference in the world.  But don't be fooled, it's a hard generation to be alive.  It's almost like that book I read back in high school, THE LORD OF THE FLIES. 

A group of kids are stranded on a desert island, and they have to start living together.  They form different social groups, and economy everyone understands, rules, laws, and basically become their own sovereign nation. 

Such is the state of the union of teenagers today. 

They feel like they're on the desert island all alone, fearful to ask for help as that might indicate weakness, which brings rejection, and leaves them more alone.  And so they do what the kids did on the island.  They create their own tribes where the rules are different, the language is different, the economy is different, all based on a life void of real heroes.

Heroes that could walk them through hurtful times, and reach out to lift them up in the celebration.  Heroes that could speak soft words of value in their ears, while also giving them advice on the potholes in life's road.

Screaming silently...help.

Be real today.  Reach out to someone and just ask them, "How are you?"  Tell them you value their time, their friendship, their world. 

After all, cars rust, houses burn, even big boy toys end up in the dumpster, but friendships last a lifetime.