Thursday, February 19, 2009

Dare 2 Share

Tomorrow, February 20th, I, and 2 other leaders, get the priviledge of accompanying 11 youth to the Dare2Share conference in Lincoln, Nebraska. I. AM. PUMPED. Seriously! If you have never seen these guys, please check out their website. They have such an amazing way of presenting the Gospel and challenging us to spread the Word. They are gifted beyond belief and I can't wait to see how God moves in the lives of the kids who are going. (OK.....in us 'adults', too:)

Also, I can't wait to spend some quality time with these kids! Some of the kids that are going, we only get to see once a week at youth group. It will be great to get to know them better. Others, we know a little better and it will be fun just to connect with them outside of youth group.

There isn't a lot of spiritual 'depth' to the kids who are going, so I am really praying that God will penetrate their hearts deeply. Often, when youth come back from a conference they are gung-ho, but it's short lived. They are on that spiritual high that goes as fast as it comes. I am praying that this will be different. I am praying that there will be some 'real' conversions this weekend!

What a blessing to be able to be a part of these kids' spiritual journey.....no matter where it leads!

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Happy Birthday Jo!

Dear Jordan,

12 years ago you entered this world and my life hasn't been the same since. You have brought so much joy to me and our family. I can't imagine my life without you.

I can't believe you are 12 already. It seems like yesterday that you were just our 'Sissy Who down in Whoville'. Now, you are growing up and I am so proud of the young lady you have become. I love that you are concerned with modest dressing. I love that you are not 'boy crazy'. I love that you love Jesus and aren't afraid to tell people. I love that you are genuinely concerned about other people. I love that you are a good friend. I love......you!

Enjoy this day, sweetie. This is the day the Lord has made..........just for YOU!

Happy Birthday Whoobee Doodle!
Mommy loves you soooooooooo much!

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Lord, thank you for this child. Thank you for entrusting her to me. Please mold her into the woman you planned her to be. I am so anxious to watch her story unfold, but Lord....could you please slow down the time a little? She is growing up so fast and letting go, well, it just isn't my strength. Please help me to be the mom she needs me to be over these next few, very important, years. And above all..........please plant yourself firmly in her heart. Amen.