Flaming Bushes and Warm Fuzzys

by Luke on January 9, 2012 in Luke's Life with 3 Comments
Sand couch

[Note: This is more of a rant/getting something off my chest. It's what I'm thinking through right now, and sometimes I find it helpful to hear how other people think through the things I'm wrestling with, which is why it wound up out here in cyberspace. That's all.]

I think I’m starting to understand Job’s perspective.

At the end of Job, there is the near-cliche confrontation where Job lays out his complaints to God. Complaints that most rationale people would consider fair. He had a bone to pick, and after staying silent longer than I probably could have about it… he finally lets loose. Continue reading →

To Grow or Not to Grow

by Luke on January 7, 2012 in Youth Ministry with No comments

I have been reading a lot about youth group growth lately. After 5 years at my current church, we’ve grown into the youth group I set out to create when I began. I am not naive enough to think we will ever “arrive” at the perfect group/model/method, but all the things that I knew would be important for a growing youth group (well trained leaders, sense of community, traditions, parent support and involvement, culture of servanthood, etc.) are present in our group, and we are certainly enjoying the success. But now the question is, “What’s next?” What is it that will drive us for the next year, or two, or five?

Anyway, back to what I’ve been reading. Continue reading →

A Christmas Note (and plea for prayer)

by Luke on December 24, 2011 in Luke's Life with No comments

A dear old friend of mine is celebrating this Christmas in the midst of the most challenging time in her life. Her husband has been hospitalized for nearly a month, and has remained in critical condition for most of that time. Tonight, she posted a note on the CaringBridge site they’ve been using to keep everyone up to date. I found it to be a perfect reminder of what Christmas is about, and a deeply touching example of the strength our faith provides. I wanted to share the note with you all, that the truths and perspective she shares might resonate in your soul as they did in mine.

And perhaps you can join me in praying for Tony’s health to be restored quickly and completely. Continue reading →

An Update on Video Announcements

by Luke on September 19, 2011 in Youth Ministry with No comments

Earlier this month I posted on using video announcements to communicate with students. It’s been a few weeks, so I thought a little update was in order. Here is what I’ve noticed so far:

  • The announcements are popular, more people watch them than read emails
  • If students aren’t on Facebook, they aren’t likely to see the videos

    • Continue reading →

Embrace The Ludicrous

by Luke on September 17, 2011 in Youth Ministry with No comments
SHguys

Sometimes a rapper just needs a hug. From his humble beginnings where he had nothing but chicken and beer, to his relapse therapy, this is a man who could really use a warm embrace, don’t you think? What… oh, sorry? Wrong Ludacris. Continue reading →

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