Lake Shore Church of Christ Youth and Family Ministry

End of this blog...

2011-01-10T08:12:00.003-06:00

http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/group.php?gid=67210099047

I have decided to close this blog and switch everything over to our facebook page. You can find it at the above link.

Update...

2010-12-16T08:44:00.003-06:00

Wow, it's been way too long since I've taken the time to put something on here. Sorry about that.

If you read this blog and are a member of LSYG tell me a few things:
1. How often do you read this?
2. Would it be better just to put all of this on our facebook page?
3. What kind of things would you like to see/read?

Beautiful Girls Day

2010-09-27T17:58:00.002-05:00

Parents...you NEED to read this.

2010-09-22T10:09:00.005-05:00

This was posted on Mark Oestereicher's blog the other day. I had the privilege of meeting Mark at NCYM this past January (we had chatted several time online, but never met face to face.) Mark is a guy who has touched many lives in the Youth Ministry world through his own work as a Youth Minister and through his work with Youth Specialties and his writings. He's moved on to a new career as a consultant and is still writing and speaking. I thought this was a very thought provoking post and wanted to share it with you. (Hat tip to Mark!)

a youth ministry friend pointed out this amazing blog post, by scott linscott (didn’t his parents realize he already had a “scott” in his last name?). he writes as a parent of young adults. this is what so many of us youth workers have wanted to say to (some) parents over the years; and scott says it so well. with his permission, i’ll post it in its entirety here:
————-

The church in America is puzzled. Young adults are leaving in droves. Magazines, books and blogs are wagging the finger of blame to point out who is responsible. Some say it is a failure of youth ministry, some point to church budgets and some nail the blame on outdated, unhip worship services. We parents are shocked that our kids just really aren’t all that into Jesus.

When I look for someone to blame I head into the restroom and look into a mirror. Yupp, there he is. I blame him. That parent looking back at me is where I have to start.

If you’re a parent, I’m might tick you off in this post. But, hear me out. I think that we, as parents are guilty of some things that make it easy for our kids to put faith low on their priority list.

Keys to Making Your Kids Apathetic About Faith

1) Put academic pursuits above faith-building activities. Encourage your child to put everything else aside for academic gain. Afterall, when they are 24 and not interested in faith and following Christ, you’ll still be thrilled that they got an A in pre-calculus, right? Instead of teaching them balance, teach them that all else comes second to academics. Quick … who graduated in the top 5 of your high school class? Unless you were one of them, I bet you have no idea. I don’t.

2) Chase the gold ball first and foremost. Afterall, your child is a star. Drive 400 miles so your child can play hockey but refuse to take them to a home group bible study because it’s 20 minutes away.

2b) Buy into the “select,” “elite,” “premier” titles for leagues that play outside of the school season and take pride in your kid wearing the label. Hey now, he’s an All-Star! No one would pay $1000 for their kid to join, “Bunch-of-kids-paying-to-play Team.” But, “Elite?!?” Boy, howdy! That’s the big time!

2c) Believe the school coach who tells you that your kid won’t play if he doesn’t play in the offseason. The truth is, if your kid really is a star, he could go to Disney for the first week of the season and come back and start for his school team. The determined coach might make him sit a whole game to teach him a lesson. But, trust me, if Julie can shoot the rock for 20 points a game, she’s in the lineup. I remember a stellar soccer athlete who played with my son in high school. Chris missed the entire preseason because of winning a national baseball championship. With no workouts, no double sessions, his first day back with the soccer team, he started and scored two goals. Several hard-working “premier” players sat on the bench and watched him do it. (Chris never played soccer outside the school season but was a perpetual district all-star selection.) The hard reality is, if your kid is not a star, an average of 3 new stars a year will play varsity as freshmen. That means there’s always 12 kids who are the top prospects. Swallow hard and encourage your kid to improve but be careful what you sacrifice to make him a star at little Podunk High here in Maine.

2d) By the way, just because your kid got a letter inviting him to attend a baseball camp in West Virginia does not mean he is being recruited. You’ll know when recruiting happens. Coaches start calling as regularly as telemarketers, they send your kid handwritten notes and they often bypass you to talk to your kid. A letter with a printed label from an athletic department is not recruitment. When a coach shows up to watch your kid play and then talks to you and your kid, that’s recruiting.

3) Teach your kid that the dollar is almighty...

I won't post the entire letter here. To read the rest of it (and you really, really should) follow the link. http://whyismarko.com/2010/open-letter-to-parents-of-teens/

Mission Trip 2010 Video.

2010-09-16T13:50:00.001-05:00

2010-09-09T08:27:00.001-05:00

What do Jr. Highers struggle with most?

2010-09-08T08:41:00.001-05:00

An interesting little article for parents and youth ministers that comes from Kurt Johnston.

http://www.churchleaders.com/youth/youth-leaders-articles/138105-what-do-junior-highers-struggling-with-most.html?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=general

School stuff....

2010-09-02T11:31:00.001-05:00

Here's a few pictures from China Spring and Bosqueville football games featuring some of our kids from LSYG!!

Mid-week

2010-09-01T12:04:00.002-05:00

Tonight is the last night of our Bible Hour for the 2yr olds - Kindergarteners that we've been having this summer. Next week, everyone goes back to their "normal" classes.

I'm toying with an idea regarding the mission trip next summer. Honestly, we may have two trips next summer. More details later.

Hope everyone is having a good second week of school! Study hard!

5 for 21...how ya' doin'?

2010-08-23T10:44:00.000-05:00

A Tribute to Dads....

2010-08-11T10:00:00.001-05:00

Great lesson for life...

2010-08-11T09:53:00.001-05:00

Just for fun...

2010-08-06T15:40:00.001-05:00

Have you ever wondered if Tigers like catnip? Here's your answer...

Teen Internet addicts more likely to develop depression

2010-08-06T09:14:00.001-05:00

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/38526858/ns/health-mental_health/

HONG KONG — Teenagers who spend excessive amounts of time on the Internet are one and a half times more likely to develop depression than moderate web users, a study in China has found.

Researcher Lawrence Lam described some of the signs of excessive use spending at least five to more than 10 hours a day on the Web, agitation when the teens is not in front of the computer and loss of interest in social interaction.

"Some spend more than 10 hours a day, they are really problematic users and they show signs and symptoms of addictive behavior ... browsing the Internet, playing games," said Lam, co-author of the paper which was published on Tuesday in the Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine.

"They can't get their minds off the Internet, they feel agitated if they don't get back on after a short period of being away," the psychologist at Sydney's University of Notre Dame's School of Medicine said in a telephone interview.

"They don't want to see friends, don't want to join family gatherings, don't want to spend time with parents or siblings."

The study involved 1,041 teenagers aged between 13 and 18 years in China's southern Guangzhou city who were free of depression at the start of the investigation. Nine months later, 84 of them were assessed as suffering from depression and those who were on the Internet excessively were one-and-a-half times more vulnerable than moderate users.

teens still distracted by texting while driving....

2010-08-06T09:12:00.001-05:00

http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2010-08-02-teendrivers02_ST_N.htm

Thoughts from Mandy Conner

2010-08-04T11:14:00.000-05:00

Last year, around this time, my dear friend Kristie Gleaton encouraged me to train for a half marathon with her. Little did I know how much I would love running. It has become a great way for me to release all the stress and tension life sometimes brings.

Now, usually, I strap on my iPod and run to songs that keep me at a good pace, and that motivate me to keep going. However, one night, because I had forgotten to charge it, I ran without it.

That night, I ran with God. Instead of listening to music, I listened to God’s creation…listened to my heart…and talked to God. What an amazing run! I began to put the iPod on hold, and just ran, enjoying my time with God.

How many times do we just put the affairs of this world on hold to spend time with God? Unfortunately, it’s not very often. We get so wrapped up in the To Do Lists and responsibilities; we leave little time to talk to God.

It sometimes takes some life changing event or tragedy to get us back to God. He sends us small reminders all the time! We just don’t pause long enough to take notice.

A few weeks ago, I set out for an evening run after the rain…ah…the smell of rain…and turned the corner to see this BIG, beautiful rainbow!!! God sent that! He reminded me again to PAUSE…to take notice of who and what’s around me…to talk to Him…to lay my burdens on Him…to confess to Him…to ask forgiveness…to thank Him…to REMEMBER Him.

As you go about your daily business, take time to hit the pause button. Look around you…listen…PRAY. As the song goes: Pray in the morning…pray in the noon time…pray in the evening…pray all the time!

Until next time,
Mandy Conner
3 John 2

What Are You Thinking About?

2010-08-04T09:13:00.001-05:00

With all the bill boards, magazine pictures and article, music and movies it is really easy for us to let our minds slip into the gutter. It’s easy for us to think bad thoughts after watching an off-color movie on television. It is also easy for us to think bad thoughts when we see how many dress.

God does not want us to have these terrible thoughts in our heads. If we make those thoughts happen, it will be sin.

Philippians 4:8-9 says, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”

1. What do you do to distract yourself from all the bad visuals that society is throwing your way?

2. How would you encourage a friend to be careful of what they watch and listen to?

3. Do you ever think of “What would Jesus do” when you are in a touchy situation?

4. Who has most impacted your life spiritually?

TNT - August 5th

2010-08-02T10:39:00.002-05:00

This week's TNT will be at the Abel's house on August 5th. You will need to bring $3 for pizza and your favorite ice cream topping. We're going to watch a great movie, you'll have to wait and see what it is! It starts at 6:00 p.m.!

Don't forget to sign up for the Back to School Bash and the Lock-Down both on the 13th!

Check this out...

2010-07-30T13:53:00.003-05:00

One of the blogs I read regularly is by Walt Mueller of CPYU (Center for Parent Youth Understanding.) I had the pleasure to meet and be able to chat with Walt for a little while at NCYM this past January. He had a blog post on the 29th that I thought you might like to read, I highly reccomend it...

http://www.learningmylines.blogspot.com/

TNT

2010-07-30T10:12:00.003-05:00

Last night for TNT we went to the $1 theatre to see How To Train Your Dragon. There were fifteen of us and we had a great time! I'll admit that I wanted to see this movie since the first time I saw a trailer for it. It looked very good and it didn't disappoint!

One of my favorite scenes was a very brief one in which Toothless the dragon was trying to smile.

Next week's TNT, August 5th, will be at the Abel's! We'll pick another movie to watch and have ice cream!

If You Really Knew Me...

2010-07-28T09:49:00.002-05:00

One of the things that I've become convinced of over the past couple of years is this. We adults like to say that "we remember what it was like to be a teenager." But in reality, most of us never had to deal with some of the things that teens today do. It breaks my heart some days to hear the things that teens, (yes even teens in our own youth group here at Lake Shore) are struggling with on a day to day basis. Sometimes, I don't know how they do it.

http://www.mtv.com/shows/if_you_really_knew_me/series.jhtml

There's an interesting new series on MTV. I'm normally not a fan of anything that MTV does, but this show has merit. Here's a summary of the show...

In high school, there are the students who rule the school -- like jocks, cheerleaders, and the popular kids -- and the ones who get picked on -- like nerds, emos, and outcasts. That's just high school, right? But what if you could change that?

Like a reality version of The Breakfast Club, each episode of If You Really Knew Me takes place at a different high school, and follows five students from different cliques as they go through the life-changing experience of Challenge Day, a one-day program that breaks down the walls between cliques, and completely changes the way students view their school and each other. Watch the amazing transformation each week as new students open up for the first time and try to change by revealing who they really are, behind the cliques and the labels. Is it possible to change your life, and maybe even your high school, in one day? These students are going to find out... on If You Really Knew Me.

I've only seen one episode but I'll be tuning in again. Parents, it might be something worth watching with your teens (I realize that's way out of some people's comfort zones, but give it a try!) It could lead to some interesting discussions. At the very least it'll give you a glimpse into some of the things that teens today are struggling with.

VBS 2010

2010-06-17T09:19:00.002-05:00

VBS 2010 was in my opinion, a huge success! There are so many people to thank that I won't try to name any of them here. If you had a hand in preparation and the execution of our VBS this year, thank you! Here's the closing night slideshow...

VBS 2010

2010-06-15T11:35:00.002-05:00

VBS 2010 kicked off last night. Our theme is Hero Headquarters!

TNT - Thursday Night Things

2010-06-11T08:33:00.003-05:00

Last night was our first TNT for the summer. Nineteen of us went to Lake Air Bowling and had a great time!

Wednesday night Bible Hour!

2010-06-10T09:01:00.003-05:00

Last night we started the Summer Bible Hour for ages 2yrs-Kindergarten on Wednesday nights. We'll have singing, crafts, coloring, Bible stories, and occasionally some special visitors will drop by and see us! Here's a few photos from the first night, check out our facebook page for more!

Don't be average...

2010-06-07T14:48:00.001-05:00

This past Sunday night 13 of us went to Western Hills church of Christ in Temple for an Area Wide teen worship. The theme was Ascend. We had a great time and Western Hills did a great job of hosting over 100 teens and sponsors.

The lesson given by Brandon Baker (the Youth Minister at Western Hills) really challenged me to look at some things in my Christian walk.

There is a website called My Average Life (I kid you not, Google it) and on this website people use their twitter accounts to update things that are happening to them that are “average.” Here’s an example taken directly from the site, “Today, I passed an aisle with bug spray in it. One companies motto was "kills bugs dead." Is there another type of killing that doesn't involve death that I'm not aware of?” You can read more of people’s average days if you wish.

Here’s the point, if you read these posts from different people, very few of them seem to be unhappy with being “average.” They seem to be okay with the knowledge that they aren’t changing the world or someone’s life for the better.

As Christians, we should never be happy with being “average.” God, the creator of the universe did not call us to mediocrity! He wants us to be above average!

He doesn’t want us to accept being like everyone else, or “giving it our best shot.” God wants us as his children to go all out! He wants us to “go big or go home!”

God wants us to get rid of the things that were keeping us from being above average. He wants us to sacrifice those things that keep us from being the best.

Paul encouraged Timothy to be above average in 1 Timothy 4:12-16 and 2 Timothy 1:6, 7.

Make a decision today that you will be above average in your service to God. Sacrifice the things that are keeping you from doing that. As the Nike commercials use to say, “Just do it.”

Summer

2010-06-03T11:37:00.002-05:00

This Sunday, June 6th, the Jr. and Sr. High Sunday morning classes will start meeting together for the summer. We're going to spend eight weeks talking about different aspects of prayer. Come join us...really!

Thursday night June 10th starts TNT (Thursday Night Things.)

Summer Prep...

2010-05-05T08:43:00.002-05:00

Wow! Didn't realize it had been so long since I had put anything on here! I'll try to do better at updating.

Final preparations are under way for a busy summer. With three camps, VBS, mission trip, TNT, and who knows what else going on we have a lot to do!

I got this email from Amy Whittle this morning. I know a number of folks received it as well but I wanted to put it up here...

I am asking you all to pray for Sonny today and in the next few days. He is having surgery today to fix the leaks in the small intestine. If he is doing well, and can stand a longer surgery, the Dr. will go ahead and do the colon reversal. It also depends on everything being in good shape and there is enough of the intestines left to perform this surgery. The Dr. will also be able to close up the open hole because he has enough extra skin. He's getting a little tummy tuck today!!!

We ask you to pray for the success of the surgery. This will increase his healing 50x quicker! The leak and the open wound is what has been slowing him down, so we feel like this will speed things up for him. However, surgery on him is still critical due to all that he has already been through. We also ask you to pray for his healing in the next several days and that all will take well and HE WILL GET TO COME HOME!!!!

Thanks, we appreciate and need all of the prayers!

Let's keep Sonny in our prayers this morning and for the next days as he recovers. He's been in the hospital a long, long time. Keep Amy in your prayers as well, as she continues to recover.

Spring Retreat 2010

2010-04-01T10:05:00.001-05:00

Spring Retreat 2010

Influences...

2010-03-20T20:40:00.001-05:00

I was reminded today of a man that I considered a friend and mentor who passed away several years ago. I received a message from someone about a house that the church he worked for had built for his widow and some things to do with it. I hadn't thought about Willie Sandlin in quite some time. Willie was one of the veterans of youth ministry who had been in the trenches for quite some time when I started my first job. I had known Willie for quite a few years by that time having heard him speak at several different youth rallies around Arkansas. I felt privileged on more than one occasion to get to sit down and pick Willie's brain and learn from him. He was a good man, and left a great legacy.

I don't know if Willie knows how much of an influence he had on me. We didn't get to talk often, usually it was two or three times a year. But, each time we did I listened as much as I could and was eager to pick up whatever he shared. I still use some of the things he taught me today.

Whether we realize it or not, we each have people that we influence, for good or bad. Someone is learning from us. What are we teaching? Are we teaching them worldly lessons or Godly lessons? Are we teaching them things that will help or hurt them spiritually? Are we teaching them things that will help them get to Heaven?

We all influence someone in our lives. I don't know who it is that I have influenced or who it is that I will influence, but I pray that I can be half the positive influence that Willie Sandlin was for me.

Fall Retreat '09

2010-03-16T09:16:00.001-05:00

stuff...

2010-03-13T11:47:00.003-06:00

two weeks from today some of us will be on our spring retreat! I look forward to these retreats because it's a great time to get away from a lot of the distractions that we have around us all the time. things like cell phones, t.v., computers, ipods, etc, etc, etc... our theme for the retreat is rugged prayer and we'll be talking about sincere, honest, open worship. we'll be looking at the Psalms and how David was completely honest with God about how he felt.

in case you haven't heard I'm teaching a class for adults this quarter on Sunday mornings. it's not a permanent thing, Rob and I will be back in the high school class this summer, and we're still teaching the combined jr/sr high class on Wednesday nights. this is just an opportunity for a couple of things to happen. first, it's causing me to stretch in my teaching. teaching adults is an entirely new thing for me. two, it's giving Rob a bit of a break and a chance for him to attend an adult class. let me pause and say how much I appreciate Rob and Lacreta. Without a doubt these two folks love our teens with all of their hearts. if you doubt that, spend some time with them and hear them talk about our group. watch them in action. secondly, it's allowing some folks who have expressed a desire to teach to do so. Greg Chandler and John Green are teaching the high school class this quarter and I appreciate their willingness to do so.

don't forget about our mission trip to Cherokee this summer. plans are being made for our work there. what I'm most excited about is that they want us to bring the full compliment of 20 people with us. twenty is the max number of folks that they can house. we can do so much with a big group, after what the seven girls and two adults did last year, I have no doubt. as for the fee I've mentioned before to help take care of food, a couple who wish to remain anonymous has graciously offered to take care of that. i'd like to see us get some really cool t-shirts for the trip. they would cost $10 or less. I hope you'll go with us.

Springboard video

2010-03-10T14:29:00.002-06:00

Mission Trip '09

2010-03-03T07:49:00.002-06:00

Here's the second version of our Mission Trip '09 video with music from Acapella.

I hope you'll join us for our return trip to Cherokee Home for Children this summer on July 4-7! We need 20 people to go!

2010-01-27T09:02:00.003-06:00

Parents, if you'd like to see some great resources for you, check out CPYU.org. It's the Center for Parent Youth Understanding. I was able to hear Walt Mueller, President of CPYU this month at NCYM. I've read several of his books and other books that they put out, great stuff.

Things for 2010

2010-01-22T10:00:00.002-06:00

A couple of weeks ago I asked the Jr. and Sr. High students to come up with a list of things they wanted us to do in 2010. Here's the list they gave me:

Service Projects
Mission trip
Spring Retreat
Adopt a Child to Sponsor (this has been done as of 1/16. More info this week!)
Finish the "Upper Room"
Have a lock-in for just our group.
Have activities for our Pre-school and Elementary students with our teens serving as chaperones.
Texas Rangers/Six Flags trip

This isn't a complete list but it's what they came up with in a short period of time. As mentioned above, we have adopted a child to sponsor. His name is Juan Carlos Rivera Bonilla. Juan is 3 years old and lives in Honduras. There is an information sheet about him on the bulletin board above the Youth Bulletin.

We will collect money for him once a month and the church will then send a check for him to Compassion International. The monthly support for Juan is $38. I'm only asking the teens to give $1 apiece but if they want to contribute more that's fine as well. We will collect money on the third Sunday of each month unless we're not here on that Sunday then we'll adjust the date. So, that means our first Sunday will be February 21st.

To Save A Life...

2010-01-20T13:03:00.000-06:00

http://www.tosavealifemovie.com/spreadtheword/index.php

Congratulations

2010-01-19T11:08:00.002-06:00

Congratulations to three of our students who received awards this morning...

Molly White received the Character Counts Award.
Brenden Sheehy received the Growl Award for outstanding effort and perseverance.
Hannah Sheehy also received the Growl Award for her class.

Congratulations to all three of you!

Teen: Im a Christian Not a Stereotype

2010-01-14T10:16:00.001-06:00

http://www.mercurynews.com/bay-area-living/ci_14166656

I found this great column written by a Senior in high school. Parents and teens, give it a read and see what you think. She makes some great points.

Are you addicted to your cell phone?

2010-01-14T09:12:00.002-06:00

Here's a quiz for you. Answer the questions then tally your score. See how addicted you are to your cell phone.

1. How many texts do you send each day? (a.) I don't text (b.)1-10 (c.) 11-25 (d.) More than 25

2. Have you ever gone over the number of texts on your cell phone plan? (a.) Nope (b.) I did once and my parents were not happy! (c.) It's happened a few times...ooops! (d.) My parents got a plan with unlimited texts so they wouldn't have to worry about me going over.

3. What do you use your cell phone for? (a. ) To make phone calls or send texts (b.) Phone calls, texts and photos (c.) Phone calls, texts, photos, and facebook updates (d.) Phone calls, texts, photos, Facebook, GPS, internet browsing, and entertainment

4. If your phone comes up in conversation, your friend is most likely to say something like: (a.) I called you last night. Why didn't you answer? (b.) Send me a text when the game is over. (c.) Will you use your phone and find out where the nearest Sonic is? (d.) Would you put down your phone for two seconds and listen?

5. Do you ever leave the house without your phone? (a.) Sure, all the time. (b.) I leave it at home if I don't need it. (c.) Only if I forgot to grab it before I head out. (d.) I never leave home without my phone!

6. It's 3 a.m. and you get a text message. What do you do? (a.) I don't even wake up. (b.) Wonder who sent it, but decide it can wait until morning. (c.) Read the text and fall right back asleep. (d.) Spend the next 20 minutes having a text conversation with the sender.

7. How old were you when you got your first cell phone? (a.) I don't have one yet. (b.) 17 years or older (c.) 13-16 years old. (d.) 12 years old or younger

8. What's the worst thing that's happened to your phone? (a.) It was lost for a few days because I couldn't remember where it was. (b.) I forgot to take it out of my pocket and it went through the washer. (c.) My phone gets dropped a lot because it's always in my hand. (d.) I've worn out the battery from so much use and charging.

Give yourself points for the answers: A=1; B=2; C=3; D=4

8-13: Embracing an "off the grid" status are we?
14-19: Moderation is your middle name.
20-25: Your thumbs have well developed text muscles.
26-32: Put the phone down and back away slowly.

taken from tc magazine...

2010-01-13T08:14:00.002-06:00

Winterfest...

2010-01-12T12:31:00.002-06:00

Those of us going to Winterfest this weekend will leave from the church building at 6:30 this Friday. You'll need money for 4 meals, clothing for Saturday and Sunday, and if you haven't paid me yet, $60. Make checks out to the church.

Wednesday Night...

2010-01-12T12:26:00.003-06:00

Starting This Wednesday in the Jr. and Sr. High Class

We're going to do a character study based on the movie Spiderman 3. It's a six week study and having used it before I can say that it's very interesting to say the least. If you haven't seen the movie, and you're parents will let you watch it then I suggest you do. It'll help if you're familiar with the characters.

Parents, I'll try and provide copies if you'd like of the study we'll be using. I'll also try to post them on here.

Almost 2010

2009-12-28T13:12:00.002-06:00

It's almost 2010...that's weird to think about! This year will be 20 years since I graduated from high school. When I was a senior back in 1990, the last thing I was thinking about was where I would be in 20 years. Little did I know that I would be in Waco, TX. Frankly, I'm glad I'm here.

Where do you think you'll be in 20 years? Ever thought about it? Ever pondered where you would be 20 years from this moment? Ever wondered what God has in store for you five years from now? Ten years?

You may think you know but really, you don't. What we have are dreams, wishes, hopes, desires, goals. That's it. We may think we control our own destiny but in reality it's God's plan. Now, granted we can try to change it, but that usually ends badly. Trust me on that. What we have to do is trust God. We have to believe that he is and will always be in control of our presents and our futures.

Jeremiah 29:11 - "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future." NIV

Let me give you a challenge for the coming year. Instead of focusing on your dreams, focus on seeking what God's dreams for you are. Pray sincerely about it every day. Then, have the courage to look for, see, hear and act on the answer you get.

Special Guests for the Holiday!

2009-12-15T13:22:00.002-06:00

Fall Retreat Day 2

2009-12-05T11:30:00.002-06:00

We arrived last night about 9:00 pm. We had a quick devotional and then sent everyone to their cabins. Thankfully the cabins have heat, but they had to work hard to provide comfort last night! It was cold!

Day 2 started off with a great breakfast thanks to Amy and Janet. We've had two great times of study and some free time. Now we're waiting on lunch then time for more Bible study.

2009-12-02T08:27:00.002-06:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7cEV2FIN2_Q

Here's a link to a video about Winterfest 2010. Sign up by December 13th. Cost is $60 per person. This includes:
1. Registration
2. T-shirt
3. Hotel

You'll also need money for 4-5 meals. Most if not all of those will be fast food. On Saturday we'll also be going to a local mall.

Announcements...

2009-12-01T10:06:00.002-06:00

LSYG video reminder

2009-11-20T12:45:00.002-06:00

Some stuff you need to know...

2009-11-19T08:21:00.002-06:00

Sunday morning

2009-11-05T10:20:00.002-06:00

This Sunday morning in the High School class we'll be studying Romans 6. See you there!

Wednesday night I challenged you to read the book of Acts this week and pay close attention to the way that the Holy Spirit worked through the Apostles to spread the gospel. How are you doing?

Retreat and Winterfest

2009-10-27T11:58:00.001-05:00

Don't forget to sign up for the Fall Retreat by November 15th. Cost is $50. Be sure and include your t-shirt size.

We would like to go to Winterfest in Arlington January 15-17. Sign up.

**Both sign up sheets are on the High School room door.

Family Night/REACHOUT

2009-10-21T09:11:00.002-05:00

Don't forget about our Family Night/REACHOUT on the 31st at the Eubank's estate! Some things to know:

Starts at 5:00 p.m.
Bounce house for the little kiddos!
Kids are encouraged to wear costumes
Pumpkin carving contest (Note - bring your own pumpkin and carving implements.)
Hayride
Bobbing for apples
Other games
Hot dogs

We need you to sign up for two things, first so we'll know that you're coming and how many are coming with you and secondly we need you to bring either hot dog buns, chips or drinks. Come out and join us for a good time!

Faith of a child...

2009-09-17T14:04:00.002-05:00

What follows is a recent conversation that took place in our van early one morning after we dropped Kim off at work…Hannah – “Daddy, why is Mommy carrying so much stuff?” Me – “Well, she’s a teacher and sometimes teachers have a lot to carry.” Brenden – “That’s why I want to be a dentist.” Hannah – “Well, I want to be a mermaid!” Brenden – “You can’t be a mermaid!” Hannah – “Yes I can!” Brenden – “No you can’t! You don’t have fins!” Hannah – “Well I can grow some!” Brenden – “Well, we don’t live near the ocean so you can’t swim!” Hannah – “I could swim in Lake Waco and the dolphins would come and see me!”

By this time, I was laughing so hard I thought I was going to have to pull over!

Kids are funny! They can keep us entertained with their logic and their beliefs. Most children have no limits to their imaginations. At some point during our development, we lose that innocent belief in the ability to do anything we dream of. Little girls forget about being mermaids and swimming with the dolphins. Little boys forget about being superheroes or transformers. At some point they learn about a thing called reality which shatters those dreams.

Another thing that seems to change during the transition from childhood into later years is our faith. Many go from believing that God can do anything simply because he says he can to questioning whether or not God will ever make something happen.

Kids are also great teachers. Jesus knew this. In Mark 10:14-15 Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. It tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”

If a child trusts an adult, they will believe them. They don’t have to understand all the little things that go along with that to have faith. We need to be the same way with God. Face it; there are some things in this world, in this universe that we will never understand. We don’t need to. Jesus said that we need to have a childlike faith. Understand that God loves us; trust him to do what’s best for us. That’s childlike faith. Yes, it’s that simple.

See if you can put it into practice this week. Stop trying so hard to figure everything out and trust God. Believe that because he loves you he will take care of you. Who knows, you might even grow fins or be a superhero!

Have a great week,
Dale

2009-09-17T14:02:00.000-05:00

Starting Wednesday, September 23rd - Jr and Sr High.

The Marshmallow Test...

2009-09-16T12:44:00.001-05:00

http://vimeo.com/5239013

This is a cute little video that made me laugh! Enjoy!

Wednesday night class....

2009-09-16T09:47:00.003-05:00

Tonight we'll finish 24-A Day with God by discussing the Evening hours. Next week we'll start a series of lessons called Experiencing Jesus' Passion. See you tonight!

Congratulations to Justin Phillips and the Amarillo Dillas!

2009-09-09T10:52:00.000-05:00

Dillas claim ULB crown with 7-3 win
Amarillo Globe-News

They took about as long as they possibly could, but the Dillas won the United League Baseball championship for the second consectuive season with a 7-3 road win over San Angelo on Tuesday night. Amarillo, the third seed going into the ULB playoffs, fought through multiple weather delays Tuesday and a walk-off home run on Monday night to finally take down the top-seeded Colts in the championship series by winning three of the five games.

The Dillas got an early lead before weather interrupted play and extended it to 6-0 by the bottom of the sixth inning. San Angelo's Jason Landrith plated three Colts with a double in the bottom of the sixth to get San Angelo on the board. But Amarillo added another run in the eighth inning and took a 7-3 lead into the ninth inning.

The Dillas won the final two games at Foster Field in San Angelo.

The Dillas could have won the ULB title Monday night. They were one pitch away until Nick Mahin crushed a 3-run homer in the bottom of the ninth to push the series to Tuesday's deciding game five.

2009-09-08T09:49:00.002-05:00

We’re starting a series of lessons called The 13 Most Important Bible Lessons. Our first lesson was about Who God is.
-God is the only perfect father. As good as some earthly fathers may be, they all have flaws. God does not.
- The father image is the one he’s chosen to use in describing himself to us.

Even though our own earthly fathers aren’t perfect, we can learn a lot about God by looking at him as our heavenly father.
How would you describe God if you were introducing him to someone?
- Jeremiah 31:3
- Matthew 7:9-11
- Acts 17:24-29
- Ephesians 1:3-5
God wants what’s best for us. He also wants us to show how much we love him by obeying what he’s given us in the Bible.

-There are people who think God is waiting to crush us when we do wrong. That he’s waiting to pounce on us at the first sign of disobedience.
-What do you think? Is that how you view God?

-If God is the all powerful creator and he loves and cares about us so much, we certainly can trust him to help us.
-Choose an area in your life where you need to depend on help more. It might be your future, school problems, relationships or something else.
-God takes care of his children, better than any human father could.

Change...

2009-09-08T09:24:00.000-05:00

On August 24th of this year, the class of 2023 started Kindergarten. (I don’t know about you but that makes me feel old!) Included in that class were six of our kindergartners who attend China Spring. All six of them are in two of the eight kindergarten classes. In one class you have Brenden Sheehy and Elizabeth Hooten. In another class you have Hannah Sheehy, Molly White, Molly Green and Kailey Combs. As of this date, all four of the girls in Ms. Henningsen’s class have proclaimed that they are “best friends”, while Brenden and Elizabeth are “just friends.” To the best of my knowledge these six have settled right in with only a few “bumps” along the way. It’s funny to watch my two run into school excited about seeing their friends and teachers, hearing Hannah and her “Whoo!” as she gets out of the van. I’m glad they're liking it, they have at least thirteen years of it ahead of them!

From time to time we all have to try new things. For some, that’s no problem at all. For others, it can be a situation that creates havoc in their lives! The smallest change can cause them a great deal of stress and anxiety. Others seem to just be able to “go with the flow.” Sometimes change is a choice and others it’s forced on us. Change happens.

How do you handle change? How did the people we read about in the Bible handle change? They thought they were doing really well with the Law of Moses and then along comes this man teaching a new way. He narrowed all the laws down into two; Love God and love others. What chaos this man created! He cleared out the temple with a whip! Said he was sent by God, claimed to be God! Then, to top it all off, he said that he was going to die for the sins of the world on a cross, be buried and then come back from the dead three days later! Madness! But, look at the lives that Jesus changed, twelve guys that we know as apostles, a man who was possessed by a large number of demons, a little girl who was dead, a man who had been dead for four days, a woman that no one cared about who only wanted to wash his feet with her tears, a man bent on destroying the followers of this person they called Jesus who after a face to face chat on the road to Damascus became a devoted follower (talk about change!) Me. You?

Jesus can bring great change to the life of anyone, if he’s allowed. It can cause chaos in your life, without a doubt. You may have to change the way you think, speak, and act. You may have to change the people you call friends for those you can call brothers and sisters. He can change you, if you let him.

Allow Jesus to change you.

Daughters of the King

2009-09-08T09:22:00.002-05:00

Here's a short video regarding Daughters of the King for girls in grades 7-12. The deadline to sign up is this Sunday, September 13th!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=790qEjSVxHY

24 - A Day with God - morning

2009-09-03T09:43:00.003-05:00

The Morning Hour:

1. Shout it! Words of Worship

Deuteronomy 4:39

Psalm 118:24

Psalm 18

2. Feel it! You're worth to God

Psalm 31:21a; 63:3

3. Hide it! God's Word

Psalm 119:11

Psalm 119:165

Psalm 119:105

4. Say it! Prayer

Matthew 7:9-11

Psalm 1:1-3

Next Wednesday - Midday

Jr. and Sr. High Class tonight...

2009-09-02T08:23:00.000-05:00

Wednesdays this fall....

2009-08-27T09:02:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to give you a heads up if you're in the Jr and Sr high class on Wednesday nights. Starting September 2nd we're going to have a three lesson series called "24 hours without God" and then we'll kick off an interactive series called "Experiencing Jesus' Passion." I hope you'll plan to come and participate in these classes. I'm looking forward to them.

Upcoming events...

2009-08-26T09:51:00.005-05:00

Here's a quick list of some upcoming events for LSYG:

August 28 - Pizza Party for 3rd - 5th grade Sunday morning Bible class. 6-8 pm in the Annex.

September 13 - CTCT kicks off for the '09-'10 school year here at Lake Shore. 4 pm in the annex.

September 27 - REACHOUTS resume at the home of Wayne and Charlynn Rogers. We'll start at 4:00 and have a devotional there.

October 3 - Daughters of the King at the McDermott Rd. church of Christ in Plano, TX for young ladies in grades 7-12. There is no cost for registration but you may need money for a few meals. I'll have more information soon.

Sign up on bulletin board outside the high school room by Sunday, September 13.

October 24 - REACHOUT at the Eubanks home. **This will be a family event for all those who would like to attend! More details soon.

December 4-6 - Fall Retreat at Camp of the Hills.

We're almost done with our summer combined class for the Jr. and Sr. High. Beginning Sunday, September 6th (on Sunday mornings only) we'll be going back to split classes. The Herbelins will be teaching the Jr. High and Rob Carr and myself will be teaching the Sr. High. The series will be on The 13 Most Important Bible Lessons for Teenagers.

On Wednesday nights the Jr. and Sr. High will still meet together in the Sr. High classroom.

2nd Annual LSYG Golf Classic

2009-08-21T09:30:00.002-05:00

Last night was the 2nd Annual LSYG Golf Classic at the Lake Country Club here in Waco. We had ten teens, 7 adults and 2 five year olds on the Par-3 course. Some had played golf for years, some had never played or even swung a club. In my opinion, we had a great time and I'm already looking forward to next year!

Sadly, yours truly forgot to take any pictures with his cell phone. I'll make sure and get some next year!

Update...

2009-07-28T09:29:00.002-05:00

Well, I think we all survived the lock-"down" recently. I haven't heard that anyone suffered any ill effects from it...It was an interesting night to say the least. It's been quite a while since I stayed up all night and I managed to do so last Friday night. A special thanks to all of the adults who stayed all night. Most of us even went without sleep! The bonus was that we were largely coherent the next morning and Sunday morning!

Quote of the night honors go to Kourtney Gardner for "It tastes like jello!"

With just a few weeks left until school starts...I think I just heard a cheer from many parents...let me update you on some things coming up. We still have a few TNT's to go. This friday we will meet at the Abel's house for movie night. It starts at 5:30. There will not be a TNT on the 6th because the Sheehys will be out of town. On the 13th - Scavenger Hunt! And our last TNT for 2009 will be on the 20th when we plan to play golf again at the Lake.

Girls, there is an event in October specifically for you. More information coming soon!

2009-07-16T10:56:00.001-05:00

IMPORTANT NOTICE!!!

The lock-in has been changed to include 3rd-5th grades so it is now 3rd-12th grade.

Friday, July 24th - 7:00 p.m.

2009-07-14T17:19:00.001-05:00

Coming events...

2009-07-14T17:11:00.003-05:00

Friday, July 17th - 6:00 p.m.

We need to move furniture

pull items off the wall

pull staples out of the wall

prime the walls with Kilz

bring your own supper

Saturday, July 18th -9:00 a.m.

we'll start putting color on the wall.

lunch will be provided

Sorry for the gap...

2009-07-07T14:02:00.003-05:00

I didn't realize how far behind I had gotten on blogging here! Sorry 'bout that!

It's been an eventful summer so far! VBS and Camp are now behind us and soon the mission trip will be here. I wanted to post a picture from Junior Camp...Ashley Gleaton is eating...wait for it....here it comes....a snail! I had several as well, quite yummy actually! And yes, they were cooked!

Answer to a question...

2009-06-15T10:24:00.001-05:00

Someone asked me yesterday how things are going. Here’s the answer…

This is one of those months. It’s one of those months where I have to say, “If I can just make it until…then I’ll be okay.” It’s one of those months that I’ve faced every year I’ve been in Youth Ministry. It’s one of those months that I always feel like I’m behind even if I’m not. It’s one of those months that I lean especially hard on God. This week is Vacation Bible School, on Sunday; I’ll leave with a group for camp at Lake Cisco Christian Camp. We’ll be back on Saturday and have enough time for me to do laundry, spend a few hours with my family and then the next day after morning services pack up and head back to LCCC for Junior Camp. Basically I will be running from June 15th until July 2nd. Now, let me assure you that I’m not complaining. It’s what I signed up for when I became a Youth Minister and I knew that. The only thing that bugs me about this time period is the amount of time that I’m away from my family. I’m looking forward to the time when the kids are old enough to go on all of these trips with us. That’s one way to see it, here’s another…

It’s one of those months. It’s one of those months where my relationship and trust in God will be strengthened because I’ll be ever so gently reminded that it’s his strength and endurance not mine. It’s one of those months where I’ll have the opportunity to deepen my relationship with the teens I work with, perhaps more than any other time of the year. It’s one of those months where I’ll have the opportunity to see God working in the hearts of those same teenagers and the effects that will result from that. It’s one of those months where I can have a great time at VBS and camp singing silly songs, playing silly games, studying the Bible together and seeing God all around us. It’s one of those months where I may be able to minister to a teenager or a parent(s) on a deeper level than ever before. It’s why I became a Youth Minister. It’s one of those months that will make me appreciate my wife more. It’s one of those months that I will look forward to hearing two little voices yell “Daddy!” when I come home.

It all depends on how you look at it. I choose the latter.

This month, though already just about halfway over still has so much to offer. I’m looking forward to all of it. Hope you are too. Oh and then there’s July, that’s when our mission trip is!

2009-06-04T10:39:00.002-05:00

Parents, what follows is part of a blog post and link to Walt Mueller's blog. Walt is the founder and President of CPYU, Center for Parent and Youth Understanding (www.cpyu.org). This post deals with the Gosselin family whom Walt was neighbors with for several years. He gives some great insight and some thoughts that I think are crucial not only to this family but every family. I hope you'll read it and share some thoughts in our comment section.

Dale

A train rolled into my tiny little neighborhood three years ago. About a year later, that train was making some noise as the wheels were starting to come off the tracks. Now, that train - as everyone with eyes and ears knows - has full-scale derailed.

For some reason, the world is enjoying watching this train wreck. To be honest, those of us who knew enough to see it coming can easily fall into the proud and self-righteous "I told you so" mode. To be honest, I have. And, it's even easy to wish ill-will on people who seemingly did everything they could to steer their train off the tracks through an endless series of unwise decisions and caving in to the ways of the world, thereby bringing all of this on themselves. Yep, let them get what they deserve. The Gosselin family has gotten themselves into a ridiculous mess. We watch them tearfully ask "Why?" and "What can we do?" and they look even more ridiculous. The curiosity factor is off the charts. Jon and Kate Gosselin and their kids are in trouble. We all know it.

http://learningmylines.blogspot.com/2009/06/jon-kate-too-late.html

2009-06-01T14:03:00.002-05:00

Duct tape...so many possibilities! Including taping a teen to a wall! At CTCT Sunday night we divided the group up into two teams. Two volunteers were then stood against the wall on chairs and the duct tape was opened. Here's some of the pictures from Emily's "taping." She loved it up until they pulled the tape off. The last picture is of the team that put her there.

Spiritual thoughts from a five year old...

2009-06-01T09:01:00.000-05:00

I got this e-mail from Joe Hooten a few days ago relaying a conversation he had with his oldest daughter Elizabeth who’s five one night at bedtime. Now, here’s the important thing...put aside any problems you may have with any of the theology (remember she’s five,) and share with me the joy and the chuckle that the mind of a five year old can bring as she ponders things about God.

“I had a theological discussion with the girls, especially Elizabeth, tonight. I had mentioned the devil and she asked who he was. I explained that he used to be an angel but he chose to do bad instead of good, and we talked that around for a while. Then we read Adam and Eve from the "real Bible" because her children's Bible doesn't have the snake part in it. (What's the deal there? That's kind of the whole point of the story!) Fast forward to bedtime. As I tucked her in, she asked, "Daddy? When Jesus comes back and everybody gets to go to heaven when God forgives us, will Satan be still on the Earth?" (Said I didn't know.) She asked, "What will he do if he's still here? What will happen to him?" (Same answer.) Then we really got into it: "Daddy, what if Satan asked God to forgive him and he wanted to do good again? Would God forgive him so he could come to heaven too?" I said, "If Satan decided to ask God for forgiveness and tried really hard to be good, I suppose God would probably forgive him. Would you like it if that happened?" Then, just to remind me she's only five, she said, "Yes, I would like it if he went to Heaven and I could ask him what his middle name is."

Children never cease to amaze me! They ask questions that confuse, befuddle, and sometimes embarrass adults! Especially when they ask questions about God and spiritual things. Please God, may they never stop asking!

For Caring Craft Girls...

2009-05-26T11:50:00.002-05:00

Anyone interested in learning how to make handmade items while working on service projects is invited to meet at the building from 10:00 a.m - 12:00 p.m. each Tuesday this summer beginning June 9th.

We will need ladies who know how to quilt, sew, crochet, knit, cook, etc., to teach the young girls. All of the items we make will be donated to others.

If anyone has supplies that we could use (yarn, crochet needles, etc), those would be appreciated as well.

For questions, see Robyn Donaho. (Boys who may want to participate are invited as well.)

Harding Night with the Texas Rangers...

2009-05-14T08:09:00.002-05:00

This Sunday is the deadline to sign up for the Texas Rangers game on Monday, June 8th. Tickets are $15 and include a pre-game meal, t-shirt and tickets to the game vs. the Toronto Blue Jays.

Money is due on Sunday, May 31st.

I will be ordering tickets on Monday, the 18th. If I order you a ticket and you can't for any reason go, then you need to find someone else to take your ticket or you will still owe for the ticket(s.)

What teens and Cats have in common...

2009-05-14T08:04:00.000-05:00

For all of you with teenagers or who had teenagers, you may want to know why they really have a lot in common with cats:

1. Neither teenagers nor cats turn their heads when you call them by name.

2. No matter what you do for them, it is not enough. Indeed, all humane efforts are barely adequate to compensate for the privilege of waiting on them hand and foot.

3. You rarely see a cat walking outside of the house with an adult human being, and it can be safely said that no teenager in his or her right mind wants to be seen in public with his or her parents.

4. Cats and teenagers can lie on the living-room sofa for hours on end without moving, barely breathing.

5. Cats have nine lives. Teenagers act as if they did.

From Mikey's Funnies

Upcoming Events...

2009-05-11T13:47:00.002-05:00

May 17th - Special Sunday. Fellowship Meal after morning services and then our "evening" service will be at 1:00 p.m.
May 17th - deadline to sign up for the Rangers game on June 8th. Sign up on the bulletin board outside the high school room.
May 31st - CTCT here. Money for Rangers game is due.
June 5th - 6:00 p.m. Prep for painting the high school room. Lots to do before we can even put primer on the wall! Any and ALL help is appreciated!
June 6th - Paint the high school room - Time TBA.
June 8th - Rangers Game in Arlington. Time to leave TBA.

To All of Our Moms...

2009-05-08T15:02:00.000-05:00

Happy Mother's Day!

Busy, busy, busy summer!

2009-04-29T07:56:00.005-05:00

Summer is almost here! The last day of school is approaching...no more getting up early, no more homework, no more bus rides (backing up traffic for what seems like miles every time they stop to drop off kids,) no more tests, no more heavy backpacks! Until school starts again in August!

We have a busy summer shaping up here at LSYG...here's what's on the calendar so far.

May 31 - CTCT here

June 8 - Texas Rangers game (see the bulletin board outside the high school room for details and to sign up.)

June 14-17 - VBS

June 21-27 - Senior Camp at LCCC

June 28-July 2 - Lake Shore junior camp

(Dale will be at both sessions)

July 19-22 - Mission trip to Cherokee Children's Home (this is for 7th - 12th grades)

August 1 - Family Day, place TBA

Our Thursday night activities will start on Thursday, June 11th.

There's also another camp opportunity if you're interested...

Crossfire Christian Camp

Senior Session - July 19-24

(this is for those who have completed 8th - 12th grades)

Junior Session July 25 - 30

(this is for those who have completed 3rd - 7th grades.)

There are registration forms in the foyer. Travel arrangements to and from camp will be the responsibility of parents. If you have any questions, call Charles Daily in Groesbeck at 254-729-5355.

Monday Madness...

2009-04-27T11:25:00.002-05:00

What a weekend! A few of us spent Friday night and all day Saturday in Mexia at the Northcrest Church of Christ for their youth rally. Hats off to Coy Siders and his crew, they did a great job of planning and executing. Having run several of these events myself I know it's not easy! We heard two great speakers, Rob Duncan from Colorado and Mike Kouba from League City, TX. Both of these guys really challenged us and it was a blessing to get to spend some time chatting with both of them!

I'm working on the slideshow from the retreat pictures I promise! I should have it done soon!

Taking it for granted...

2009-04-14T10:57:00.000-05:00

I'm sitting here as I write this waiting on Kim to get off work. From my vantage point I can see the playground at the Head start she works at. There is a little boy crawling across the playground. He's not crawling because of a game; he's crawling because he can't walk. He's four years old. Late last year he was in a car wreck and suffered a traumatic brain injury. Now he is learning to walk, talk and many other things over again. His movements are slow and unsteady; he wears a helmet in case he falls to protect his head. He has a wheelchair which he spends a good deal of time in. I'm sitting here watching him thinking, "what if that were me?” Would I have the will power, the intestinal fortitude to start over? Would I crawl wherever I needed or wanted to go? Would I use a wheelchair? Or, would I wallow in self-pity? Would I crawl to get somewhere or would I be too embarrassed? Seeing this little boy crawl makes me think how blessed I truly am. I have two legs that work, I can speak well, and I don't have to use a wheelchair for anything. I take it for granted. I don't think to thank God for those things. I get up, move around freely and never think anything about it. I'm selfish. I want to get up when I choose to, not when others want me too. I grumble and complain sometimes when they do.
What about you? What do you take for granted? What do you complain about doing that others just wish they could do? What makes us feel embarrassed or out of sorts? Anything?

God has blessed most of us richly in very many ways. Sure, we don’t all have the same abilities (that would be boring,) but we all are good at something. That’s what makes us unique.

So, here’s my challenge for all of us. The next time we want to gripe about something, the next time we want to complain because we have to get up and move. Think about the little boy who crawls because he can’t walk, and be thankful you can.

VBS meeting....

2009-04-14T10:51:00.002-05:00

If you have any interest or desire to work in VBS this year then there is a meeting that you need to be at! This Sunday, the 17th at 5:00 p.m. we will meet in the Annex to talk about this year's VBS. See you there!

This week...

2009-04-09T08:44:00.000-05:00

This week many people in the world will remember and celebrate the death and resurrection of Christ. It is an event that some scoff at. There are theories that try to refute this event from many different quarters. One says that Jesus never actually died on the cross but simply passed out, later regained consciousness and walked out of the tomb. Another theory is that his disciples stole the body and moved it somewhere else. There are others that say the women went to the wrong tomb, that thieves stole the body and even that the religious leaders stole the body of Jesus. I’m not going to take the time here, nor do I have the space to dispute these claims. One thing I do know is that Jesus made appearances to numerous people after his resurrection. 1 Corinthians 15:6 says that “he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time.” Not bad for a dead man. What was the affect of his resurrection and appearances? It made those who believed in him bold. They went from hiding out in fear to preaching the gospel of Christ with excitement and confidence. Why? Because unlike any other religious leader before (or after) him, Jesus had died and then come back from the dead, just as he said he would. These Christians went out into the world, and they couldn’t contain what they knew to be true. They had to share it! It was too good not to! They had such a great desire to share it that many of them died for it. But, despite all of the attempts of the religious leaders to quiet him and his followers, despite all the ridicule that some had hurled at him and those that preached about him. In spite of all the doubt, and failures of some who claimed to be followers, the message of Christ and his resurrection spread and continues to do so today.

This week the world (at least a good portion of it) will celebrate the risen Savior, Jesus Christ. There are of course still those who don’t believe that he is alive. There are certainly those who haven’t heard the message yet, and there are those who for one reason or another will leave the faith. What do you believe? I choose to believe that there is an empty tomb somewhere around Jerusalem that once held the body of my Savior and that after he’d been dead and buried for three days, he came back to life and walked out of it. In some people’s eyes that makes me a fool. I’m okay with that. How about you? Will you tell someone else about it?

Monday....

2009-04-06T10:25:00.002-05:00

Those of us who went to Salado last night for Ascend had a great time! They're going to do it again so I hope you'll go with us next time. We heard a great lesson from Jordan Hubbard and spent quite a bit of time worshipping God in song.

Our next event is April 24-25 in Mexia. They are hosting a youth rally. Check out the teen bulletin board for details. You need to sign up by Sunday, April 12th. The only cost will be for dinner Friday night and a meal on Saturday. Hope you'll join us!

Sunday, April 26th will be CTCT in Whitney. We only have one left after that and we'll be hosting here at Lake Shore.

Parent Newsletter

2009-04-01T13:02:00.002-05:00

Parent Newsletter

Tools for Parenting Teens
Learn Their Lingo
Movie Reviews
Links to Learn From
A Little Encouragement...And Humor

1. Tools for Parenting Teens

From http://www.realworldparents.com/blog/

Teaching Wisdom On Purpose

Are you teaching your sons and daughters wisdom? And if so, what wisdom are you teaching them? We just came late to a great blog called 1001 rules for my unborn son. According…
Read More:
Resource: Wisdom On Time & Money

There never seems to be enough time or money for what we want to do. Sometimes it can be overwhelming trying to manage our schedules—between school, work, sports, friends, and our family. And keeping track of our money—and using it wisely—can be just as challenging. It may not be something you think of very often, but whenever you hit a time or money crunch, a little wisdom could help.

Receive 30% off Wisdom On Time & Money using coupon code RWPN103 by April 18th, 2009.

http://www.realworldparents.com/store/item/wisdom_on_time_money/

2. Learn Their Lingo

MOOS = Text message slang for member of the opposite sex.

Nonversation = A completely worthless conversation, wherein nothing is illuminated, explained or otherwise elaborated upon.

3. Movie Reviews for Parents

Monsters vs. Aliens

This Dreamworks Animation film isn’t built to provide lots of worldview issues to chew on. It’s a funny 3D romp packed with recognizable actors voicing…
Read Review:
http://www.blogger.com/%3Cahttp://www.realworldparents.com/movies/review/knowing/">http://www.realworldparents.com/movies/review/knowing/>

4. Links to Learn From

Teens Love Texting and Here is Why [Worldwide Lab at Alcatel-Lucent]
http://www.blogger.com/%3Cahttp://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/educationnews/5066078/Research-reveals-how-to-be-both-clever-and-popular-at-school.html">http://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/educationnews/5066078/Research-reveals-how-to-be-both-clever-and-popular-at-school.html>

Study Has Mostly Good News About Predators [CNET]
http://www.blogger.com/%3Cahttp://www.freep.com/article/20090401/COL/904010380/1081/Find+a+niche+to+become+a+mentor">http://www.freep.com/article/20090401/COL/904010380/1081/Find+a+niche+to+become+a+mentor>

5. A Little Encouragement...And Humor

Never lend your car to anyone to whom you have given birth.
- Erma Bombeck

April Birthdays...

2009-03-31T13:15:00.003-05:00

4- Molly Combs

11 - Kayla Upchurch

Elizabeth Hooten

15 - Yours Truly (Dale Sheehy)

Leigha Adair

17 - Rachel Farley

18 - Haden Rhodes

22 - Lindsay Hawley

26 - Chesney Abel

Where it has to start...

2009-03-31T13:07:00.000-05:00

This past Sunday night I mentioned that at our recent retreat we had two young ladies emerge as leaders for the group that went. This was one of the goals I had set for the weekend. I wanted to challenge these two to step up and take that role. They responded accordingly. I want to make clear that these girls are not the only leaders we have in our youth group. I feel the need to do that because of someone coming to me after services and stating that I needed to be working on developing our young men as leaders. They’re right; I have been and we have a couple of young men who have shown some leadership in various activities. However, it doesn’t fall just on me or the volunteers who work with our teens to develop leaders. It has to start at home with Moms and Dads.

In 2 Timothy 3:15, Paul reminds Timothy that he has been taught the scriptures since he was a small child. Timothy was one of the first second generation Christians. He became a Christian not because he heard some evangelist preaching the gospel but because his mother and grandmother taught him. (As far as we know, Timothy’s father was not a believer.) His mother and grandmother made it a priority to teach young Timothy about God and then after their own conversion about Jesus. As a teenager, Timothy met Paul who became a mentor to him. Paul completed his training as a preacher and Timothy would travel with and help Paul establish several churches. Timothy even stayed in Ephesus to work with the church there.

A parent’s role in developing their children’s faith is important. Think about it this way, if you count Bible classes, church, and events, I might spend six or seven hours a week with the teens here. How much more are they at home? Much more than six or seven hours a week I’m sure! Who has the opportunity to have the greater influence? Me or you the parent? You! Now, please don’t take this as me fussing at you, I’m simply trying to make a point. I love teaching the teens. Bible classes and things like retreats are some of my favorite aspects of youth ministry. But still, my time with them and therefore my influence is limited. You have so much more of an opportunity to shape your child’s faith than anyone else. There does come a time during their teenage years that they have to decide for themselves what they are going to believe, but until that time they are like clay to be molded.

Timothy’s mother and grandmother understood this responsibility and took it seriously. They understood that as Timothy’s mother and grandmother they were to be the ones to prepare Timothy for adulthood and to teach him about God. I have no doubt that when the opportunity came for him to travel with Paul that they not only encouraged him to go but also knew that he was prepared.

Proverbs 22:6 says—Train a child in the way he should go and he will not turn from it.” NIV.

Parents, we have a great responsibility to teach our children about God and to help them discover the gifts that he has given them to use in his service. I am blessed to be here to assist you in that in any and every way I can, but there is only so much I can do. It has to start at home.

New Facebook Group...

2009-03-26T08:11:00.003-05:00

http//www.facebook.com/groups.php?id=503221038#/group.php?gid=67210099047

If you're not on facebook or even if you are, there is now a LSYG group on facebook. We have a number of members. It doesn't really matter if you have children in the youth group or not. This group is for anyone who is in the youth group, or cares about the youth and family ministry here at Lake Shore. Check it out!

More retreat pics...

2009-03-23T10:16:00.004-05:00

Sunset on Saturday evening...

Kirk and Alayna and Brandi the camp dog.

This was one of their small group times.

Yet another fun game!

One of the fun activities we took the girls on was some base jumping. That's me out front and Chesney Abel jumping off the cliff..........I'm kidding! Seriously, I'm joking! We didn't do this!

Spring Retreat '09 - Camp of the Hills

2009-03-23T10:02:00.002-05:00

Here are a few of the pictures from our Spring Retreat at Camp of the Hills. I'll have more later. Note...No adults or animals were injured by any of the teens pictured here and only good times were had...

Here we are leaving the church...no, the van wasn't moving yet. It took approximately 45 seconds for someone to ask, "Are we there yet?"

This is the main dining hall and lodge at Camp of the Hills

Amy Whittle had some crafts for the girls to do. She also led their small group discussions.

This is Emily in the midst of a silly game and she's being Emily!

After each lesson I sent the girls off for some time alone with God. They were given journals and ideas about things to write in them. Here's Kaitlyn during one of those times.

I have to say this was hands down one of if not the best retreat I've ever been on. The seven young ladies that went behaved themselves and it was truly enjoyable to watch them interact with each other. We had two visitors with us and the other five welcomed them in as if they'd known them for years.

I also have to thank the adults who went along. Kirk and Amy Whittle and our cooks Amy Abel and Janet Farley. I can say that without a doubt this was the best food I've ever had at a retreat! Amy and Kirk were also invaluable in helping me in so many ways. Thanks to all of them!

We're going to do it again in the fall, I hope you'll join us!

Congratulations to Koby Westbrook!

2009-03-19T12:55:00.003-05:00

Congrats to Koby Westbrook, he was elected mascot at

Mt. Calm Jr. High School for the 2009-10 school year!

Random stuff...

2009-03-19T08:35:00.002-05:00

In April we have two events for sure...
1. Sunday, April 5th we'll be going to Salado for evening worship. It's from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. We'll eat supper on the way there.
2. April 24-25 there is a youth rally in Mexia. We'll go Friday night, come home and then back up on Saturday morning. There's no cost except meals.

I haven't heard anything about CTCT in April, Whitney is supposed to host it. We will be hosting in May.

I'm looking for ideas about what you'd like to do this summer on Thursday nights. Here's some things that will be repeated...

1. Golf at the Lake

2. Putt-Putt

3. Bowling

What else would you like to do as a group on our Thursday night get togethers? Give me some ideas!

Update...

2009-03-17T11:45:00.006-05:00

If you're going on the retreat this weekend we will be leaving at 5:00 p.m. on Friday. Bring money to eat supper on the way down. If you didn't get the email I sent out yesterday regarding what to bring, schedule and other information let me know and I'll get it to you. A few of you still owe me $40 as well. Please get that in A.S.A.P.

Some upcoming events....
1. ASCEND - in Salado. Sunday, April 5 from 6:00 p.m. 'til 7:30. We plan to attend this.

2. Mexia Church of Christ Youth Rally - April 24-25

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2009-03-17T11:45:00.001-05:00

RETREAT...

2009-03-11T14:01:00.002-05:00

If you are going to our first Spring Retreat on the 20-22 of this month, your money is due Sunday. Yes, this Sunday! $40, make checks payable to the church.

Family Night Rewind...

2009-03-11T13:58:00.002-05:00

Thanks to all those who came out last night for a little fun, food and fellowship at our second Family Night. As predicted there was a hotly contested game of dominoes, the outcome will be debated for a few more minutes...(yes, that was sarcasm,) there was good food and the kids had a great time on the bounce castle!

A special thanks again to Rachel, Erica and Emily for helping me set up yesterday afternoon and to those who helped clean up last night.

We'll do it again soon.

What's going on...

2009-03-10T09:12:00.003-05:00

Don't forget about the Family Night tonight at 6:00. Hope to see you there!

IF you're on facebook, we have started a page for the Youth and Family Ministry. If I haven't sent you an invite then it's because we're not friends on facebook. It's called "lsyg." It won't replace the blog but it will be a fun place.

Springboard 2009

2009-03-09T12:36:00.003-05:00

This past Saturday a group of 2nd-5th graders and adults went to Springboard in Georgetown, TX. The theme was Mountain Movers and we talked about faith. Georgetown did a great job and we're already looking forward to next year! Here's some pictures from the day.