SABBATH.
I'm the kind of person who would work every day of the week if I could. In fact, last Sunday I really wanted to do a bunch of work just to catch up and get ahead on some things. But sitting in church that morning I had a strong sense that the Holy Spirit was reminding me that I need to observe the Sabbath. Honestly, I've been pretty sloppy about treating the sabbath like the important day that it is, but three thoughts hit me last week that reminded me why I need this day off from work. 1) Taking a weekly day of rest is a sign that I trust God. There's so much that needs to get done - but do I trust God enough to take care of it all why I'm resting? Do I trust God enough to provide for me and my family? Or am I only relying on myself? 2) Taking a day of rest is a sign that I worship God. Over the years, I have definitely been guilty of worshiping my work rather than worshiping God. If I can't obey God's command to take a day to rest it is not only disobedience but idolatry! 3) Taking a day of rest is receiving a gift from God. God gave us this pattern of work and rest as a gift for our souls. A gift that restores us, renews us and helps us continue the work we need to do without destroying ourselves. What arrogance it is for me to say "God, no I don't need that gift You want to give me." We went to church this morning, then I took a nap, and now I'm sitting on our porch enjoying the backyard. Work will be there right where I left it tomorrow, but today I want to put God first in my life and enjoy the gift He has given me.
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WHO I AM
I'm a follower of Jesus, husband to my lovely wife Judy, father of Evangelina, Micah, Josiah, and Jeremiah, missionary to the northeast United States and advocate for all things youth ministry. WHAT I DO
I am the northeast regional coordinator for the National Network of Youth Ministries. I've worked for the last 24 years as the co-executive director of Teens For Christ, a ministry that equips teenagers to share their faith in their schools. I also served on staff at Cherry Tree Alliance Church for 15 years as youth pastor and family life pastor. My Websites
Youth Ministry Consultations Youth Ministry Networking 9 Month Mission Trip Speaking at camps, retreats, youth groups, etc. Archives
March 2022
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