Technique or Christ

I just got finished listening to Louie Giglio interviewing John Piper. Louie asked many questions, but one he asked intrigued me. "What advice would you give young pastors that you wish you had received 30 years ago?"

Piper's answer really made me think about my life. (Being a young pastor). He warned this young generation that we get too into technology than the Word. Another words, you can tell a lot about someone on Twitter for example. Some tweet for the purpose to glorify God and encourage others, but you easily recognize "holy" people tweeting for other reasons. It seems like so many people want the latest quote and latest great idea, more than the word of God.

So he continued by giving the advice to stop doing these "latest" secondary things, and dive into the Word so much that they truly do become secondary things.

I think a lot of us young people, have a heart to save the lost. But I also strongly see that so many of us are not using our energy the right way. We can tweet all day, and make interesting videos, but how is our prayer life? We can create a nice blog that will captivate the eye, but how long have we read the Word that day?

So many of us, and I included, have fallen into this trap of what I want to call a "holy distraction". Because these things are good and beneficial, but we are doing it in the wrong order. Technology should come after having 2 hours in the Word. Not technology first, because then we get too tired to read the word. So another words first things first.

The only thing that moves the world is the power of God. So let's acquire that power.

Good in Life

In today's society, we have blurred the image of what good is in life. I believe if you even ask a "good" Christian what a good life lived is, I believe most of them would answer it wrong. And myself included.

God has been working on my heart so much lately through guidance, scripture, and sermons. I have begun to open my eyes to the fact of what a good Christian life is. I used to believe it was: "To become a great preacher." "Run a big ministry" "Have someone write a book about me after I die". I am realizing first of all, that if I have those motives, those accomplishments will never be fulfilled. And secondly, a good life is living more and more like Christ. Everything we do in the Christian life is to become more and more like Him and less and less like the world. That is what Christianity brings. The second you are born again, God starts a process in our hearts to mold us through trials and blessings to become more like Him!

O how I wish I have learned this earlier, because I feel like so many times I do things for the ministry. Instead of doing things strictly to become more like Jesus. To bring glory to His name by being an example of Him to this lost and dying world. Our world needs Jesus, and it is sad that the only way people can find Him these days is by digging themselves into the word of God. And how many people do that right away? Hence our results as a world. I am not saying that reading the Bible is the wrong way to do it,, Its the BEST way and only way once you've become a believer. But not many people will wake up and think "maybe I should read about Jesus". They need to see it through people's actions first!!! Then they will pick up the book and read!

Tears of the Saints

I strongly encourage you to watch this video. I believe sometimes we need to be reminded on how much our world needs Christ! And about how many do not even know who Jesus is! Don't just have an opinion about this video, make an action. Make a difference to spread the Gospel to the ends of the earth!!

Love

So lately I have seen a lot of posts about love. I have come to a conclusion that

people are OBSESSED with it. Well, at least with the thought of it. But as I meditate, I have come to the conclusion that the majority of people have no idea what love means. For example. How many times have you seen someone put on their facebook "I am so in love" but within the week I read "I hate my life. My heart is broken" etc. But yet people still chase it.

As I read through scriptures it says, "¹⁶This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers." 1 John 3:16. We only can fathom love through Jesus Christ! But people seem to want to skip that step. It also makes me weep that people in the church, chase after love through their significant other. We must realize that in order for God to align our lives up, our lives need to align with Him. We should love God more than anything else! Another words, we are putting the wagon before the horse, and it just is not working.

So pray that people realize God is love. Jesus is the Savior, and without Him everything else is absolutely absurd!!

TobyMac!

So last night I went to the Relient K, tobyMac "Winter Wonder Slam" concert. And it was amazing to say the LEAST. Relient K's lead singer was not there, due to his mom having heart problems. But they did good for what they had. But the real show was Toby Mac!

He is so cool that all he has to say his "Sup People" and the whole crowd freaks out! ha. It's hard to believe that he is the same age as my dad. It just does not make sense to me! The whole Diverse City band was jumping around the whole time. And the greatest part was how they did it all for the glory of God. Its amazing how we can praise God through the talent's he has blessed us with.

But what I got out of the night when it was all said and done, was that the Gathering should have this sort of vision. The vision of reaching soo many lost people for Christ. Loud, bumping, and God glorifying music really opens the heart's of this generation. And I quite frankly do not see why the Gathering could make that kind of impact. I do not see why God can't use talents from all over the globe to spur a revival for Christ!!!

My prayer is that God is glorifed through all I do. Through all of Heart Cry Church. And through all of the Heart Cry Gathering. And to the churches throughout the ends of the earth!

Let's start a revival!

The First Gathering!

Thank you for all of those who were apart of the experience!

We started it off with a twinkie contest! The first 3 people who ran up got the "privilege" to eat three twinkies each, and the fastest would win a Skillet CD. But what they did not know is that we filled one of them with mayonnaise! Paula Martin came out as Champion, but not without a few gags.

We then kicked off the countdown as the beach balls were being tossed around the building. The countdown even made people do the funky chicken!

Now it was time to rock! Our band jammed out songs giving praise to God!!! Guitar Solo's and really loud drums all pointed to Christ! It was a blast! Especially with the lights flashing everywhere.

Treasuring Him, a Youtube video(look it up), was played and it led into the sermon. It was "Don't Waste Your Life". How everything should be about Christ, and nothing else. It is God who gives us purpose and meaning. And when we become saved, we are new creature's that strive to glorify Him. And the Gospel was clearly preached!!

If you missed it, come the next time around!

And if you made it, make sure you bring a friend next time!

Suffer

A Christian is someone who shares the sufferings of God in the world.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer

To believe that everyone in America that claims is a Christian, is living this suffering life for Christ is preposterous. God has always commanded us that we must suffer for Christ and share in His sufferings. But its been such a burden to me, that the only reason so many people are "Christian" is so they have a ticket to Heaven. God is worthy of our entire lives, and I believe He expects the believer to commit his/her life to Him.

Why are preachers today only making sure they have attendance in Church? Let's talk about how we must give it all to Christ. He demands everything!!! And why do we rely on just our preachers to give the Word? Christians need to make a stand for God's word, and living out ALL the Word. It is the only way for change to occur.

Please join me in prayer for our church to wake from the deep sleep and become sold out for the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Take The Savior

Rocking back and forth, the boat continues to move forward. Sweat crawling down my face, my eyes are squinting for more victims who need to be saved. It was 12 years ago today, when I myself got rescued from this bottomless pit of water. This ocean is so vast, and swallows the lives of so many people. In return, I must live my life to give these stranded mortals a life preserver; which is all I can give them. But why do some refuse to use it? It is just so simple, but I ought not let the ones who refuse, to stop me from offering to everyone.

Today seemed somber to say the least. The waves would not stop crashing against the boat, and the debris made it hard to find anyone. "There has gotta be a wrecked soul," I kept telling myself. Immediately my eye caught a hand paddling against the salty monster. The victim then somewhat exposed his face, it was full of despair. So I prepared to put my training into practice. A chance to give someone life, a chance to provide what has already been given to me.

Approaching toward the body, I could sense he was not willing to acquire what I was about to offer him. "Get away, I can do this by myself. I don't need a savior." He exclaimed in disgust. But I continued to approach him, for I know there is hardly ever anybody who wants this gift at first sight. Throwing the life preserver, I begin to explain how and why he should take it. I pontificate on how he must give his life to this savior, or he will lose it. Why wasn't he budging? I knew I was going to have to persist.

I cried, "Trust me. I have been through this as well. I am aware that you think you can do this on your own. I thought so too." I began to plea. "Please! You don't understand. You need this, but I can't lie about it. It is gonna be hard to get into it, but it will be worth it." He continued to not want anything to do with me. Should I just leave this helpless boy alone? Or do I continue to persist in telling him what I know will save his life? I chose the latter.

"But I have made it this far, and I can keep going. I want to do what's best for me. My life is about me, so get out of it." The boy spoke aggressively. "If I choose this, then I can't do what I want. I want to live my life, by my rules." As he spoke, I knew of so many replies to give him. Of course he was wrong, of course he needs to take this only chance. Instead, I proceeded to show him love, the thing he needed most.

"Man, I know you think you can. We all do, but I care about how you end up. If I can just show you what is ahead in this journey, you will want to take this life. But I can't if you don't wanna hear it." Ending my sentence, I began to worry that I lost my chance of leading him to this boat of security. But there was no way I could force him, so what do I do? I fell on my knees in prayer. Asking God to soften his heart, and show him that he needs the only way. The way that requires him to understand that he could not do it. As I continue in relentless prayer, I heard a faint voice.

"Wait. I think I may want to have this life. But I have a few questions first." Not realizing he was still present and saw me praying, I got up and leaned over to answer his questions. He asked things such as where will he end up, will he be fed, and will I help him through it. I answered with such an excitement that I was emerging in dance. For they were the questions that made way for the answers to life.

"You don't need to recite any words after me, just take the preserver man!" I yelled. "I will not rush you. But here it is." So he took it. I was so overjoyed, and I pulled him in. He now was a part of my crew, and as he walked into the boat, he looked into the horizon. I could discern that he was wondering why there were so many other boats in the distance. So I decided to speak up. "Those guys experienced what you just did. They found that savior and want to offer it to all these drowning victims. It is the only way, and we need you to save more lives along with us." He gladly accepted the commission. Of course, we need some more boats to reach this whole ocean. But as for me, I can make a difference one life at a time.

We as evangelist need to realize that its not about numbers.. When Christians don't think about every person and care for their salvation. We just tell them to repeat a prayer so we can count them in our number of "saved" and "baptisms".

Yes, some do get saved from repeating the words... But honestly what is the ratio of it working?!?!?! I hear of a revival in towns and how thousands of people turned to the Lord, but then the people in the church in that town can't find any of them!!! Do we honestly think they are saved? James was not kidding when he said faith without works is dead. If we are truly transformed by the gospel, we change everything! We commit it all to God!

This is short, because I feel an urge to stop writing and to pray. I may elaborate on this later on, but please. please! Tell people the true Gospel!!! Let's realize we are not doing the people a service when we just say pray this prayer that I will say and you repeat. and then claim them to be a child of God. Let's be sensitive about the most precious gift ever given.

Essay for School

Don't Waste Your Life

With senior year coming and going, life is a big question mark to many people. What am I here for on this earth? What can I do to impact this world? These thoughts go through many of our heads whether we admit it or not. In fact, it'd be intriguing to hear everyone's answers if they had one. But what is my meaning of life? And if I know what my meaning of life is, do I show it through my actions?

To answer, the meaning of my life is all about Christ. I am a wretch, a sinner, a no good, dirty, filthy person that has been redeemed. Christ died on the cross and drank from the cup for me and for everyone else. He has extended an invitation to all, but God only rewards those who accept it. But sadly people falsely accept the gospel if they even do at all. Their gospel is to accept the blood and move on with life, the gospel that is in the Bible is to accept the blood and have it be our new life. To radically become a new creation; to understand the old has gone, the new has come. To live my life with a meaningful purpose, is to live for the gospel. To devote my entire life to Christ, even if it means to die for it. To take my money, my family, my job, my friends, and everything else I have as a way to glorify God and not myself.

Why would I invest in myself when I know I am going to die on this earth anyway? I'd rather invest myself in a savior who gives me eternal life, and work for Him by helping lead others to this same conviction. To not waste my life, is to proclaim the good news. And if I don't explain the good news in this paper, then I am a hypocrite. Its the news people do not hear about these days. The news that to get to heaven does not mean you can by a prayer that you repeat after the pastor. It is about recognizing we have sinned and therefore, we cannot connect to the holy God. By admitting that we cannot go to heaven by ourselves, for we are too messed up to get their on our own. We must open our eyes from the deep sleep and see that Christ is the only way to God. His death and blood has covered our sin, so that we can become holy and be near God. But most importantly, after this conviction, we must devote our entire lives for Christ. Its a complete surrender. Using everything to glorify Christ, which you can through all of your talents and gifts you receive, which are from God in the first place.

This simple instruction is the good news, but people would rather put it off another day. Who is to say you have another day? Or people tell me I waste my life because I put it all on Christ. In which I reply "If Jesus did not die on the cross, my life is wasted. But if He did, my life is well lived." People also say they cannot handle the persecution that comes with it. But 2 Corinthians 1:5 says, "For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows." So not only is my life dedicated to this cause, but the cause continues to return the favor and give me peace that passes understanding. So this is my life's meaning, and I do not wish to coerce it on others. But simply invite them with a plea, for who can love someone and not be urgent to save them from death?

A Forgotten Instruction to the Church

During my daily Study of the Word, I stumbled across two verses that I, at first glance, could not grasp the meaning of it. So I began to search deeper and truly see what Paul was trying to teach.

The verses are Philippians 2:12-13.

Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, ¹³for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.

As I read this passage, I began to wonder what "working out your salvation" means. The first thought that came to mind was salvation by works. I know what you're thinking "This guy is crazy". It was my first thought, but I knew it was not correct... That is why I further investigated. I believe Paul was telling the believers, that we must obey in front of our pastors, church members, etc. and away from our pastors, church members, etc. I viewed it as, studying God's word, growing in Christ during your alone time. Many Christians, especially in America, grow on Sunday's and Wednesdays and thats it. They believe church is the place where I do God. But it is quite the contrary. He is saying to prove yourselves you are no longer baby Christians. Prove it, by growing outside of church. Have diligence in your salvation. Being your own self-motivator!

Working out our salvation simply means we need to have God's grace work in every area of our lives. We must take what we have received and apply it. For example, it is not what we eat, but what we digest that makes us strong. We have received salvation, not we must let it do its work in us. And it takes diligence to do so. We can read all day, but its what we remember that counts. Its applying it! Thats working out salvation.

Now I also got caught up on "fear and trembling". Does it mean I am supposed to be so scared I am shivering? No, it is a reverent fear. Many commentaries point that it is the reverent fear showing that you know how important this salvation is. You treat it as a sacred gift, not something you can use and not use whenever you want. We ought to be aware at all times that we are living a life that is called to be imitators of Christ. We need to be consistent in the Word, and daily strive to not be those "Christians" who read it once a week. We ought to daily recognize that the Devil has come to tempt us and take us out of our game. Preparing ourselves is key, which comes from trembling and fear. And always be aware of every decision we make, will affect ourselves and others for bad or for good.

Remember, v 13 says it is God who works through us. We are called to be aware, but not to do it on our own. Giving it to God, and letting Him be the power is how we as Christians can be successful in our daily walk.

This is just what God has spoken to me about today, theologians are more depth in this passage than I am, but I felt compelled because we often overlook this passage!!! America needs to hear this scripture being preached throughout the churches of America and throughout the world today!

Chaucer Project

In English we were assigned to write a Chaucer styled poem about ourselves in form of an allegory. So I chose to be the messenger.

The Messenger

He is a messenger for the king of all

The one which every knee will bow down and fall

To Worship Him as name above all names

And tell people how to run from the flames

His mission is to make him known

To inform people how to not be alone

The true Gospel is what he delivers

Not to conform to the ones who are givers

Standing for Him when nobody else will

Is his hearts vision that he will fulfill

He will keep speaking about Christ's cruel death

Even to the moment of his last breath

For him to live is Christ to die is gain

Any thing less and his life is in vain

He prays at night with a heart broken cry

Knowing they need Jesus before they die

Proclaiming to all they must soon repent

Or be in Hell for eternal torment

His voice is loud with utter urgency

Yelling so they realize its an emergency

Begging to declare Him Savior and Lord

To always abide by God's Word the sword

He lives to hear God say, well done servant

Always showing his love for God is fervent

Association Meeting

Thank you for everyone who has prayed for me for my sermon that I delivered last night. Not only did I preach, but I had to lead worship (which I was even more nervous about), but God delivered! Worship was a great experience, and I feel like God spoke through me. I have received this gift from God, to tell people what God is showing me through Scripture, and I love doing it. I had a man come up to me during invitation, and his prayer really impacted my life. I probably will never forget it.. Of course he was a guy from Set Free Ministries!!! Anyways, I won't go into detail of what he said, but it has really motivated me to keep doing what I am doing.

I without a doubt feel the most comfortable and accomplished when I am up there at the pulpit! I crave for every opportunity! I love it, because it is not even me who talks. I am just one of the humans God uses to get his message across.

With all this said, I am asking you to pray. Pray for the direction I am going with my ministry. I feel God is telling me to open up a Sunday night service that is aimed toward the younger crowd. Where our worship is loud and full of songs from Hillsong, Crowder, etc. And where I deliver the word of God to this young generation.. It is my passion, but unfortunately it costs a lot to rent out the PAC for Sunday night... Which is why we discontinued it for our church. But I ask you to pray for wisdom for me, and for a financial opportunity to achieve this service.. I feel like if we don't tell them around the Queen Creek community, nobody will!

My Call

Ok, So I have not been on here for awhile because it has been busy these last few weeks... But its been a great busy! Kaleo was an experience that has really changed the way I think about some things. Not in a huge dramatic way, but I learned about the "call" from Jeff Iorg. In his sermon, and book, he explains that there are 3 calls that can be experienced. A universal call - (A call every Christian receives the second they are saved. A call to tell everyone the Gospel). A General Call ( When you are called to the ministry, just not a specific role.. Such as God telling you, you need to preach. But not at a certain place yet.) And lastly, a Specific Call. (God calls you to preach, to teach, to serve at a specific location such as a church.)

It was great to learn about because it gave me encouragement. I have without a doubt received the first two calls, but have not yet received the last one. And I have felt that I have been a "loser" for not having a specific place yet. I felt useless that I am called to preach, but never really get the chance other than twice a month at best. But in his book, he explains that especially when you're young, its ok to not have a position yet. I am in the "getting ready" stage. It makes sense, how all my desire is to study God's word and to watch the way my mentors do things.

Paul spent a long time away from people studying the Word before he was sent out. Many others throughout the Bible go through this moment of just getting prepared. So I feel like I am doing what God wants, and because of that I am satisfied. But cannot wait for the third call!!!

Unthink Church

This last weekend I was traveling to KALEO. An event for young people who have answered the call to ministry. Stacey, Nic, Tyler and I drove up there on thursday for the conference. During the drive up, we saw ate at KFC, and they had a sign that says "Unthink what you thought about KFC". I immediately kicked in my "pastor" brainstorm and realized that I can use this as a sermon illustration.

We as a church have seemed to go off track in my eyes. Every time I approach a friend, I always have to battle there presuppositions about "church". Unfortunately, christians have marred the image of the Church. It is no longer a place of freedom, but legalism. It is no longer compassionate, but condemning. When I look at these peoples views, I can't but agree with them. We seem to not know what church should be... We need to start "UNthinking Church!"

Let's not think about how a church from 50 years ago did it. But from 2000 years ago. We need to get back to the New Testament church! It is so imperative! People were so welcoming back then, but at the same time stood for the Word more than any of us have in these days.

Devil, you can't win

On October 18th, I get to speak to the crowd that relates to me the most... Its all the preachers of our association, and its combined with being a youth rally! The audience is exactly what I am, so I am excited to relate to them.

God has really spoken to me about this message I am going to deliver. I have been broken down to tears because of what I have been studying to speak about. God has revealed so much to me, and I am so excited to be an instrument for his Kingdom. Salvation is for His glory, not mine! I can't hold it in and I want to speak this message to everyone I come across with. It will, I believe, change the way we think. At least that is my prayer.

Knowing this, the Devil has really been attacking me. I feel overwhelmed with all of the guns he is shooting at me. But I am persisting in staying pure, but please keep me in your prayers. It is depressing, but so exciting at the same time. Because the Devil knows something great is going to happen. And I believe we need to get used to this. God is going to bring revival to our communities if we get serious with God. Which I pray that we do. And revival means persecution. I am so excited to suffer for Christ, more than I am suffering now. What has puzzled me, is that Chrisitians today do not welcome persecution like the early church did. They knew it grew the kingdom, I pray that we develop that mindset!

WE NEED REVIVAL! Let's let God do it through us.

Word of God

"For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart."- Hebrews 4:12.

I believe so many people underestimate this verse, because most underestimate the power of the Bible. We think that it is the activities that keep people in church, or the way we perform that keeps them there. But truly it is not at all. It hurts me to think that our generation is blessed with getting as many Bibles as we want, but yet do not use them. We do not understand how mighty and powerful it is. In the early century's people could not afford a Bible. So they had a Bible chained to the churches front door. It had to be chained because so many people wanted to take it home to read. They would sit at the doorsteps to read this Holy Word.

Do we have many of those kind of people today? It is apparent if you look around that we do not. And it just makes my heart break. I wish people could truly see that God is speaking to us through the Bible...

Well I got off sort of a tangent. The reason I wrote about this, is because I have seen the Word of God break people down. I send out verses to over 120 people every morning via text. Most of them, at the beginning, were not believers. A matter of fact, I made sure to send to the ones who "hated Jesus" or just lived for all the worldly things. But many of these "haters" have come to me recently wanting to know more. It took almost a year for some, and six months for others... But it is amazing how a verse in their phone every day, has penetrated their souls and open their eyes.

I am not saying for everyone to start texting verses, but God has a point in Psalm 119:13 - "With my lips I recount all the laws that come from your mouth".

We must digest the word first but once we keep feeding ourselves, we can begin to spit it out to everyone else. Which in turn, penetrates souls and makes more disciples! Praise God for his mighty and powerful Word!!!

An oncoming truck

Have you every experienced a truck approaching a child that was on a street? Even if you haven't, I am sure you can imagine the severity of this situation. The feelings of anxiety, urgency, weeping, and so much more would go through your emotions at once... But wouldn't you also attempt to save the child? Especially if you knew you could save them?

I think you can truly experience that every day of your life. People everywhere are dying and going to hell. They are on the road to a truck killing them, and what are you going to do about it? Sadly, we as christians do not think this way. We are too concerned with our lives, our wealth, our education, our jobs etc... And we forget that we live in a world where people are getting ran over.

I am pretty sure if you asked anyone if they had a chance to save that child they would. And I am pretty sure they'd also say whoever did not attempt to try, is a crazy lunatic. Why don't we realize that when we talk about souls? Why don't Christians hold each other accountable when it comes to their friends they should be witnessing to.

Or are you, the reader, the one on the road? Do you not know Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior? Are you on the road looking for something fun, but never finding it? Jesus is the only satisfaction. It is a complete surrender to Jesus. It is not just a prayer that says I am lost. But its giving your heart truly to God, and recognizing you can't but He can. Knowing that He died on the cross for your sins to be forgiven and you are clean through him.

Please e-mail me if you feel led to this life changing decision. - trey.vancamp@gmail.com

Pray, Pursue, Persuade

Today has been a day full of reading God's word. I am loving every minute of it. Recently, God has convicted me to dig deeper into the Word of God. I have always constantly read the Bible, but now it has gone to the point where I know all the stories. I know what the books mean.. So I was at a awkward time in my life. The desire was still there, but where to aim it towards was not.

But I believe that God has been putting teenagers on my heart to pray for. And I have been praying for them a lot! They aren't "religious" or anywhere close to it, they just go to my school. But it is so crazy how almost all of them have come up to me, saying they've been reading the bible and have questions. These are the teens that I decided to pray for, knowing full and well that they need Jesus and have never seen Him. It is amazing how God just tugs on their heart, and they decide to go get a Bible without me asking them to. The great part is that they don't ask questions like "Where is Genesis?", but very deep questions. Ones such as "What does Revelation 13 mean?", or "How is Jesus and God the same?". I love it, and through answering there questions I have been able to lead them to a surrender to Christ!!! And it has also caused me to go wayyy deeper into the Word and I have grown so much from it myself.

It is amazing how when you pray for people so long, they actually come to you about Jesus!!! Gosh God is just so amazing. If only more people would pray for their friends daily, pursue them and tell them about God, and persuade them to come to the faith! How great of a change we'd experience! Out of the 9 guys I have been praying for since school started, 5 have made decisions!

Praise God!!!!

3 gave their lives to the Lord just this week! 2 of them were from pray, pursue, persuade! To God be the glory!!!

My Heart Is Troubled

Sometimes I wonder why people say they are Christians.. Let me explain.

I believe the Bible says that once you are saved you are a new creation! The old has gone, the new has come. You are no longer of this world! Then how come so many of "us" look like the world, smell like the world, live like the world?!?!?!! Why are we not impacting our community?!?!

I weep for the "believer" who does not read his/her word daily! How can you go on so long without food? I weep for the "believer" who will not even say he loves Christ and is a Christian to his friend. I weep for the "believer" who thinks they are radical because they have a Christian t-shirt, yet won't read the word, grow in the word, and tell people about the word. I weep for the "believer" who knows just as much about the Bible as they did when they got "saved".

We need to wake up! We need to be willing to lay our lives down for Christ. We need to be obsessed with the Word! We need to be obsessed with showing God's love! (Showing people love does mean that you show them that sin is wrong and they must stop! It is love because you are telling them the truth about God. And now they will realize the need for a Savior!)!!!

Read 2 Cor 5! Read Luke 14:25-27! We must be true followers of Christ!!! If we don't tell people the true Gospel, who will?

Set Free Ministries

Tonight was an amazing experience. Stacey, the McDavid's and I, went to Set Free Ministries in Phoenix. We arrived there around 4:30 and stayed til about 9. I was just completely blown away by what I saw around me at that church.

What the church does, is take in people from the streets and house and feed them. But the great part, is that they teach the Bible daily and pray daily as a group. One thing that impressed me, is that they had a white board where they ate. And on it was prayer requests that the entire group prayed for every day. One of the pastors said that they get erased all the time because they always get answered. I can't imagine how the unbelievers in the house think when they see that so frequently. It really shows why they do not have many non-believers in their ministry. Because they actually see Jesus and the power and it is so undeniable!!! They take them where they are at, but show them where they can be. And that really stood out to me.

I already was so impressed before 6 o'clock service came, and when it did... I was even more blown away, and felt a bit of a fire being relit in my soul. The pews were full, people were standing in the back listening to the service. Everyone came as they were (remember this was a church that served homeless people, as well as drug addicts and alcoholics). So if you looked at the crowd, it was a bit intimidating. But if you heard and truly felt the crowd, you would get a sense of inspiration. It is so funny to me, because they truly understand what the New Testament church is about. They come as they are, and they understand that God is almighty, and they have a duty to serve Him in some capacity. Everyone is held accountable to serve once they have given their lives to Jesus. The greatest part, is that their hearts want to serve Jesus! Their hearts were so happy in the Lord. They did not need a house, or a car, but all they needed was Jesus.

I know these people have made bad choices in their lives before, but you can truly see 2 Cor 5:17 in action. They had completely new lives, not necessarily in appearance, but in heart. The service began with music from Amazing Grace in the form of an Eagles song, to Jesus Freak. And they sure jammed. People worshipped how they were felt led to. Tradition and legalism was definitely not present. Not everybody stood, but the ones who sat had a reason. I saw so many before worship just reading the Word... Even during and between songs some were led to just keep readin.. Where is that fire in most Christian's lives?

I know that churches such as mine, cannot conform to their style of worshipping. For example, I do not expect San Tan Heights to all get tatoos and long hair. But what they had, that I do not see in most churches, is just a real heart. It was not fake, it was true, genuine, and honest. They all knew that they did not deserve Jesus, and they understood that they could not do it alone. Sure, they had to go through a lot of bad things to find that out... But I don't think that our churches can't find it out. They were transparent, and confessed to one another!

That is the key to the church! I felt like I could write a whole sermon just off of the experience I had tonight ( and I probably will).

We ended the night with our group putting together and serving the food. We served a lot of food, and it was so great to see how appreciative they were of us. Another great part, was that the people living there were serving out food themselves. Because they realize they need to serve God in all they can. But luckily some of them let us take their spot so we can enjoy the experience of serving them. We served lots and lots and lots of food. It was so worth it.

I just really think they know whats going on. I think it'd be wise for our church, and the churches that are "civilized" to go visit Set Free. It is humbling, and it is a wake up call.

Faith Tested

This blog is a little more personal... Tonight Jordan, (my girlfriend) got injured at volleyball and most likely tore her mcl and meniscus. Her parents were not there when it happened, so I had to do a lot of the "taking care" job. But thankfully her mom arrived and she went to the hospital. We stayed there for about 3 hours to get results. She was crying the entire time.

I feel bad for her because it is her senior year and volleyball means a lot to her. She has spent a lot of effort into her "last year of high school volleyball". But in the midst of all this mess and this feeling of hurt. I feel that God has a plan.. He always does. God does things to glorify Him. She has been a very obedient child of God and I am so proud of her. I know that if God is gonna use her, Jordan will not get in the way of it. I just am at that point where I wish I knew what the purpose was. But that's what faith is all about. A faith that cannot be tested, is a faith that cannot be trusted!

Jordan, being a Christian for not even a year yet, has not gone through the "trials" of faith exactly. But I know she is going through it now. But please pray for her, and for me to help give comfort. Jehovah Jirah- The Lord Will Provide!

One of my favorite quotes is "Faith is like a roll of film. It develops best in the dark" (Adrian Rogers).

God's Chisel

I was browsing through videos today on Tangle, and God spoke to me through this specific one. It is called "God's Chisel" by the Skit Guys.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UXut0HxncvY
It is about how we (meaning Christians), do not think we measure up to anything. But at the same time, we don't let God take over. We want to control our lives and not be controlled by the father. It makes me think.... How many Christians actually let God use them completely? I believe if there were at least just some, the world we live in would be much different. We need to constantly set God before us, and let Him take over. We are the glove and He is the hand doing all the work through us!

I know this is easier said then done, but it is my prayer. A prayer that states that my family, my church,my fellow believers in Christ actually realize what the Christian walk is about! About letting Him walkthrough us. And not have him as our last resort when nothing else can fix it.

This is just something to think about.. Please watch the video, and I challenge you to let God do it all. And you just sit back and let him. "You can't do it, He never said you could. God can do it, He always said He would. Why don't you just let Him?" (Adrian Rogers).

One Day Too Late...

I recently just got the new album by Skillet called "Awake". And in this album there are many songs that make me think and really inspire me. But one I want to point out a song that sticks out: "One Day Too Late".

V1

Tick tock hear the clock countdown
Wish the minute hand could be rewound
So much to do and so much I need to say
Will tomorrow be too late

Feel the moment slip into the past
Like sand through an hourglass
In the madness I guess I just forget
To do all the things I said

Pre
Time passes by
Never thought I’d wind up
One step behind
Now I’ve made my mind up

Chorus
Today I’m gonna try a little harder
Gonna make every minute last longer
Gonna learn to forgive and forget
’Cause we don’t have long, gonna make the most of it

Today I’m gonna love my enemies
Reach out to somebody who needs me
Make a change, make the world a better place
’Cause tomorrow could be one day too late
One day too late
One day too late

V2
Tick tock hear my life pass by
I can’t erase and I can’t rewind
Of all the things I regret the most I do…
Wish I’d spent more time with you

Here’s my chance for a new beginning
I saved the best for a better ending
And in the end I’ll make it up to you, you’ll see
You’ll get the very best of me

Bridge
Your time is running out
You’re never gonna get it back
Make the most of every moment
Stop saving the best for last..

How many of us put off Jesus? 'Well you know, he looks so busy. I can tell them about this amazing Savior tomorrow." "I can serve him, but I bet he doesn't want that kind of attention today. Maybe tomorrow will be a better and more appropriate time."

We are all guilty of these thoughts. I know that just one song won't change our lives and we stop putting off these things.. But we should get thinking about this. And start PRAYING for God to remove the spirit of complacency and exchange it for a spirit of urgency! We do not know how long the lives around us will live, and we do not know how long we'll live ourselves, or when Jesus is coming back! Make this our prayer!!! Devote ourselves to not give God "tomorrow" but today!

To fail to grow is a sin!

1 John 2:12-14

What stage in maturity are you in?

Each is necessary, but only for seasons in each individual.

First stage is the Baby stage. You can only digest the milk of the Bible. So you open in John and start learning about Jesus. But it is a crime for a christian to stay a baby for years. Lets open the word and study!!!

The next stage is young men. Young men are the ones who can say they have overcome evil. No longer milk bottles, but mighty battles.

Last stage, is fathers. Father does not mean a male, or an old person, in this context. It means in maturity. Father's are known for having children... Are you reproducing? Have you led people to Christ and raised them? Do you have grand children? Where the people you led to Christ have led others to Christ?! This is the goal!!

A church that has just fathers is not a healthy, amazing church. That would mean our church was not leading more to Christ. Let's meet everyone where we are at as Christians, and disciple them to grow. And in turn, you yourself will grow from it!

So earlier today I was very stressed and discouraged about what I have done, the decisions I have made about football. I then felt God call me to do some bible studies. I wound up taking notes to 3 sermons by different pastors. I feel very refreshed now. I am realizing that I am called to preach, not to play football. Not to take self glorification, but to give God all the glory. I believe this decision will be used to give God glory if I am not lazy. "All of our decisions are either God's will, or are permissed by God. No matter what, He is going to work with it." - Dr. Mac Brunson.

Maybe this wasn't the best decision, but I am confident that God will take this and use it for His glory.

This week has been a very rough week for me. There has been a lot of persecution and discouragement. It seems like nothing has really gone my way, and I feel like I have been removed from importancy. I say that because I feel like I have not accomplished a thing. I felt like the Lord told me to stop playing football... But did I make my decision based off emotion and not God's guidance? If so, I am paying for it now and I am miserable and feel like a lazy individual. I stopped playing thinking it is a chance to do more for the ministry... This week I think is my most futile week in the standards of sharing the Gospel.

But then I have another theory about this week. ( I wish I knew which one was correct). And I realized that maybe I did make the choice that God wanted me to make. Maybe the Devil is working overtime to make me feel like I am a failure, because now I can do even more for the kingdom. The devil is trying to make me discouraged and get me down.

I do wish I knew which one was correct because both seem valid to me. I am just very incontent with my life right now and I am trying to figure out a way to change that. Reader, please pray for me. I just need wisdom and God's peace.

O Lord, Please use me in any way possible!!! Amen.

Axiom Youth Group Goals

Our youth ministry that is growing tremendously is called AXIOM. We had a leadership meeting yesterday, and I found it very productive. We learned how not to lead a small group (Quite humorous) and then we learned how! Small groups have never captured my interest personally, but I have realized that it makes some Christians grow tremendously... So now I am all for it!

Anyways, about the meeting... Stacey had a blank list of goals for us to do, and we were to fill in the numbers. I really enjoy goal setting and I am excited to see these "goals" become a reality!!!

The goals are:

Verbally Share the Gospel

In 1 month our group will share to 35 people together on average per month.

In 6 months our group will share to 60 people together on average per month.

In 12 months our group will share to 100 people together on average per month.

Other Goals were interesting and encouraging such as having a youth group with 85 members in one year.

I suggested to add a goal for the leaders of the group. The goal was to have a certain number of people to tell the Gospel to every week. For instance, right now I am telling 3 per week. In one year I look to do 6 per week. I am very excited!

Our youth group is such a blessing. Please keep us in our prayers as we do the Lord's work.

"What's the Secret?"

I have been very frustrated lately with our Christian "leaders" around the valley. I know I am young and should respect them... I do respect the leaders, but it is so sad how they do not realize how mighty and powerful God is. I went to a meeting recently with some leaders, and all they looked for was the secret to gaining church attendance and to increase baptisms. Sure it is a good motive, but if they gained 10 members their church would be doubled. They are leading dead churches, they don't see how they can make a dent in the community. It just makes my heart break!!!

So what is the secret? I consider my church as successful and I have seen other ones successful and its plain and simple. Do what the Bible says! Obey God's Word, be in a constant state of prayer, and serve the community! Why don't people get this? Especially the "preachers" of our churches around the world. It really breaks my heart because the kingdom could be MUCH larger if we just had people that did what God said... I know we are all sinners, but that should not be a ticket out. We are supposed to have victory as Christians! Christians who are not living in victory over the Devil, the flesh, and the world are a shame to Christ!!!

Let's wake up people!!! Get CLEAN and serve the Lord our God with all our hearts, soul, mind and strength!!!

Decisions: For God, or American Dream?

I have recently gone through a very hard decision... To either play football, or not. This was a thought in my mind throughout the summer that has dragged on to this past week. I guess it is because my priorities have really changed these past few months. Its not like I only recently became sold out for Christ. But I am realizing more and more how football is taking away opportunities to spread the Gospel. Thankfully, this summer I chose to go on my mission trip and get punished for it later. But it seemed like it interfered with more than just that week.... So I decided to put football aside. It was just a meaningless toil that really depressed me. Ecclesiastes 1-4 really helped me realize that it was just "meaningless".

My reason of staying was to witness to my team all season. But I realized I could talk to them just as much at school. I have made my impact on them so that they know who I am. Now I can show them Jesus all day long at school. And it is exciting! Also I get to go home and study the Word wayyy more! As well as go to Wal-mart or Target and just ask people "How may I pray for you today?". This may seem futile to the audience I am writing to, but it really has made an impact. Sure I regret the thoughts of Friday nights. But do Friday night's give God the glory, or my own glory? I know some people use it as a way to glorify God, but for the season I am in, it is more beneficial to make an impact to the people sitting on the bleachers on Friday nights than knocking out kids/ getting knocked out. I have concluded that the only thing keeping me in the sport was the "american dream". So now I no longer play and I have received all kinds of support from my teammates. And I am truly seeing how much my teammates respect me now. I am going to use this opportunity to further the Gospel!!!!

Hero

My teacher has asked my class to write a hero essay. My mind immediately thought of writing about Jesus, or if it's my family I'd write about my Papa or parents. But she told us to write about how we are heroes...

Hero

Hero is defined as a man with noble qualities, and obtains a divine origin. To look at myself, with the thought of being a hero, is somewhat difficult for me to comprehend. But as I meditate and think about the life I have lived, and the life that is still in me, I recognize that I pass the qualifications as a hero. Every hero faces battles in their lives, and how they come out of it truly makes them the hero or not. My life resembles many battles in my daily walk with Christ. At the age of 13 I surrendered my life to be a preacher. I instantly painted a huge target on my back for the Devil, because my life was now devoted to promote Jesus, and demote the Devil. This battle is ongoing and it is against the flesh, the Devil, and the world.

The Bible states that "the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak" in Matthew 26:41. Every morning that I wake up, I immediately tell God, "May my life give glory to you, and not to myself". The flesh is a battle that contains a war waging against pride, lust, and laziness. Being human, I fail often and many times throughout my journey with Christ. There are times when I play sports and take the credit, or I begin to want someone else's things, or instead of reading my Bible I watch TV. These things may seem little to a non-believer, but to me they are an inexcusable battle that should never be lost. The reason I triumph is my savior Jesus. Jesus bled and died for me, so that I may be forgiven and have an opportunity to be clean from my wrongdoing.

The Devil is my worst enemy since I became a divine child of God. The reason I am divine is because the Bible states that I am truly royal, and belong to the Father: "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light" (1 Peter 2:9). I understand that the Devil exploits all my weaknesses to make me fail. But with God I have victory! The greatest part is that all I do is let Jesus win it through me. "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me" (Galatians 2:20).

My life is also a battle against the world and its desires. As a Christian I am no longer of this world, but just merely living in it. "Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul" (1 Peter 2:11). My duty is to battle against the love of money, cars, partying, and to just focus on letting Christ give me that victorious life. I also battle the world because of my faith in Jesus. I am often persecuted by many, but I keep my head high and just return their hatred with love. This battle is daily, but has so much rewards when I prevail.

My daily life consists of fighting the flesh, the Devil, and the world, but so does my life ahead. As I continue to fight, I know that the battle has just begun. I believe my life has been given to me for a set purpose of leading thousands of thousands of people to Christ. The goal is to tell people that we are all sinners and live defeated lives every day. But through accepting Jesus as their savior, they have a way to Heaven for eternity. "I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 3:14). I believe a true hero will lay down his life for the cause he is fighting for. As for me, I would die for my Lord Jesus Christ in a heart beat. Jesus is the reason I wake up, He is my purpose in living this life with a valiant heart to win and gain souls for the kingdom.

Virgin Islands Mission Trip

The Virgin Islands mission trip was absolutely amazing. Words cannot describe how life changing it was. It really has shown me that with God all things are possible. This is just to show and inform what we did day by day and what was going through my mind. If you have time please read, and pray about the people of the islands.

Monday:

A day of flying. We woke up and left to the airport at 4:30 am. Not much trouble at the airport, got in and left Phoenix at 7 am. When we landed in Atlanta we had time to spare. Our group decided to eat at TGI Fridays. Did some card games after and finally the time to leave for Virgin Islands came. The thing to do on the plane was the trivia on the screens we were given. It was a competition against all on the plane. It was fun and yet educational. haha. After being in the air for 4 hours we arrived in St. Thomas at 9 pm. It was dark so we couldn't see the Islands full beauty. But the lights were still an amazing sight to see. The first words spoken to me was "Welcome to the VI". It was very welcoming indeed. The people were nice and generous, and we all got our luggage right away. We were picked up by the pastor and were shocked to see they rode on the left side of the road. haha. It was pretty scary. But we arrived safely to St. Paul Baptist Church (our home for a week). We were all wiped out and went to sleep after we figured out our bed arrangements.

Tuesday:

A day of getting prepared. The morning came and we were all filled with excitement. God was going to use us to change this Island in so many ways, and we all had faith in our hearts that God would do so. We began the day by playing guitar and singing praises to our God. We even sang to the children at the daycare at our "house". Then the two pastors of the churches we were helping that week came to our "house" and spoke with us about what we were going to do. After speaking to the pastor's we realized that they were starving for revival. This Island has been filled with gang violence, and a lot of hurt families that have been broken up. Jesus would be the center of that revival, and our group was going to bring Him to them. So then it was time to get all the supplies to reach out to the community, and to fill our stomachs. Q and Sandy went to the grocery store and picked up all the food we needed to cook for that week. Once they came back, Stacey Nic and I went to K-mart to pick up basketballs and other equipment to use for the community. It was very fun to go and see the island when it was light out. It was amazing, and it rained that whole day.... Something I am not used to! So we got everything we needed and went back "home". The rest of the day we spent getting settled in and praying for the people that we would come in contact with.

Wednesday:

A day of serving! We were sent to a health facility. We were expecting it to be a nursing home of elders, but it was a home for people with disabilities. Their hearts were amazing. We were privileged to sing about 10 songs for them. Lord I Lift Your Name on High and Tyler's song were the hit. They asked for us to do those songs again for them. The second time we did Lord I Lift Your Name on High, they stood and did the hand motions with us. At the end the worker of the home sang a song of being thankful for us. And then our great friend Harrison sang a solo for us. He sang his heart out and it really touched my heart. I know it touched the others. None of us understood the words he spoke, but we were all inspired by it. His smile spoke more than words could say. We left feeling pretty good about what God did for us. Then our next challenge was the Bovoni housing where we had our sports evangelism for a period of 4 days every day starting around 3 pm. We were warned that it was the scary parts of the island and it was "ghetto". But like Stacey said, "They need Jesus' love too!". A little apprehensive at first, I got the courage to start shooting around with them. They were very nice and added me on a team to play a game. That day began a lot of good friendships. The ones that I thought were "scary", were very nice and welcomed me as a friend. They even gave me the ball more than anyone, so it was a very encouraging day for me. Some kids asked where I was from, and I explained how God changed my life and I wanted to tell people about it. They did not quite accept the words I spoke, but it was a good seed to plant. We got rained out after an hour and a half of basketball. ( and an hour and a half of the others playing with the kids and just loving on them). When we got "home" we had a good meal that Sandy prepared for us, and got re-energized. It was now time for Nic to preach at Bovoni, and I was to preach at Trinity Church. God spoke through me and it was a great feeling. The church attendance was 20, but 4 of them claimed to accept Jesus in their heart that night in Trinity Baptist. It was awesome!!! God did it all!!! AMEN!

Then it was time just to hang out with people from St. Paul Baptist. We played games and enjoyed the fellowship. After, we had our nightly share time with our group to let the others in our group know what God did for us that day. For me it was just how God can use all of our talents for the Gospel. I was amazed to see how I had a voice ever since they saw me play ball. Walking up to them at first, they looked at me as if I was an alien. But after using the talent God has given me, I immediately gained respect. It just shows how you can truly follow 1 Corinthians 10:31. "Whether you eat drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." Then we each all prayed out loud and just gave our hearts to God and prayed for all the people. Such as the 4 decisions to become disciples for Jesus! Then sleep!

Thursday:

A day of serving and sharing the Gospel! We started out our day by being dropped off at the local mall with tracts to give out. The front said in Big bold letters "God Loves You". We broke up in pairs and began to give them to everyone we saw. We even got the idea to place them in the restrooms and on the bench's outside of stores. I really saw a lot of courage from all of the members of our group. We put our pride and selfishness aside and just gave everyone the gospel. With the bold letters in the front, it was obvious what the tracts were all about. So we got a lot of trouble from some, stating we were wrong and got a lot of dirty looks. Q and I even ran into a Satanist, which was interesting. But instead of condemning and fighting with her, we just calmly stated we would pray for her. We reached the point where everyone said "I already got one". So we realized it was time to stop, plus we ran out of tracts. So we had lunch at McDonalds. Then we tried to get a little rest and went to the Bovoni housing for another day of Sports evangelism. This day was more successful than the day before, more showed up to hear what we had to say. The kids largely increased and 11 accepted Christ. As for the bigger kids, it was another step closer. I had a lot of fun with them and began to realize more and more that they were just like us, just in a different culture. I spoke to a few and was rejected but I remained hopeful that God had a plan for each of them. That night we had fellowship with the teenagers of St. Paul again. They were a blast and we all enjoyed their company. Share time was a great time just to share our vision with each other. We spoke about how God had changed those kids lives today and how it changed the lives of us as well. We ended again in just great prayer, proclaiming that God would change this community. That he would use us in any way possible, and that we wouldn't shy away from any opportunity to tell others about God.

Friday:

A day of serving and sharing... again!! Being warned the night before, we were expecting visitors from the boys and girls ranch to come to our "house" and just fellowship with one another. When they got out of the van my first thought was "They are huge!" They were mostly guys and they were very tall. So we figured the best way to get them to open up to us was to play a little basketball. It was our guys vs. some of their guys... We had a good comeback but lost 32 to 28. It was very fun and it really got them to talk to us. Then Stacey decided for us to play a fun interactive game that got everybody rolling in laughter. Afterwards, Stacey asked me to share my testimony. My thoughts were "My testimony can't relate to theirs. They have had lives full of violence and hurt while I have lived in a home that's been blessed and I have a dad that's a pastor." But I was just real with them. I told them how I have so many imperfections, but God takes care of me. And he gives me new life. I asked them then to pray if they felt they needed this Good News of Jesus. 11 of them prayed outloud with me and it was very encouraging. The numbers don't matter, I give them to show you who did do it. After I spoke many of the guys showed their emotions. They were hurt and had hurt lives. I was pulled aside and was asked to talk to Maliko Bruce (a now great friend). I looked at him and he was full of hurt, this was the same guy who earlier dominated the game. It looked like he had it all together, and was a leader of the group. But he proceeded to tell me how his mother past away just last month of cancer. And he just needed hope. So i showed him how Jesus would satisfy everything he needs and would give him peace that passes understanding. This guy truly had faith that Jesus would pull through with him. It was good for him because he never had the chance to share his feelings to anyone. It was good for me because I was truly humbled and made me realize how blessed we are and how great our God is. Then they had to leave, but we will remain friends because we have each others phone numbers. Then it was time for the Bovoni housing evangelism. Stacey decided for us to show up at 3 (a hour early) and walk around the housing and just pray for them. Prayer walking was a great experience for all of us. I felt the Devil's presence there, his oppression was present but I knew God is more powerful. I was assured that God could and would change the community. I am honored that He used us as his tools to do so. After walking and praying, it was time to play ball with them. Being convicted the night before to share with them the Gospel no matter what. The Holy Spirit told me to speak to them one on one throughout that day. I did so and simply asked them questions about Jesus. After rejection, two of them accepted Jesus Christ in their hearts! Their names are Ashley and Kobe (both are guys) please pray for them daily. They are in a very rough community but are determined to serve the Lord. I was also told that 4 more kids accepted Jesus as their Savior! Amen! After that we were invited to go to the Bovoni Baptist Church for a Father's day celebration. It was unique to say the least. We sang a lot of fun and interactive songs. We also had the Bible Drill, to see who looked up verses the fastest. I won and people were cracking up to see me jump up every time. Then we were blessed to see their rich culture. They performed a lot of skits and their native dances of the land. It was a long celebration, but very rich in culture. And we had their food that was cultural as well... Most of us could not eat all of what was on the plate, but we were thankful. We got home late and still found time to hang out with the people from St. Paul. Then we had our share time. It was very encouraging and I just felt God among us during the prayer time. Our hearts were truly tuned into Him.

Saturday:

One again a day of serving and sharing the Gospel. We were taken to the downtown mall, and the people from Bovoni Baptist escorted us around the place. We saw the water and it was soooo clear. All of us wanted to jump in, but we knew we had a mission. We were able to shop a little, but it was mostly to share more tracts to people of all cultures. It was a great opportunity because it was where the cruises docked. So you saw people of all kinds, and we talked to them about Jesus! They took us to the oldest Jewish Synagogue in the Western Hemisphere, and it was interesting and fascinating to see it. Their ground was made of sand, and their was a lot of rich history. But my heart hurt, knowing that they needed to accept Jesus!!! Not just God from the Old testament, but the New testament. After that, we once again ate at a McDonald's. We were very tired at that point, but had to go to the Bovoni housing for one last day. We had a very great time, you could see God a lot more than you could in the beginning. The guys were a lot of fun to play with for the last time. But sadly no one accepted the words of Jesus that day. But it was still a great day for the kids. The girls led 4 more to Christ and Jordan led her first little girl to Christ. Her name was Sashia, and it was such a blessing to see how much of a change Jesus had on Sashia's life. She really was a new creature and you could tell. It was a huge blessing for me to see a girl I led to Christ, lead someone else to Christ. It was AWESOME!!! When we left we all were sad and wished we had more time in that community. Please keep in prayer for them.. The pastor from Trinity cooked dinner for us and brought it to Bovoni Baptist to eat. So we walked from the housing project to the Church. It was tiring, but worth the work. The food was very good and was a huge blessing. We then came home to see even more teenagers from St. Paul to hang out with. It was a lot of fun as always. We played with them til 11 something. So our share time ended way past midnight but it was worth it. I enjoyed hearing the hearts of the others and was blessed to realize how much God did through us. But I thirsted for more, and we all did. We gave our hearts to God in prayer and they prayed that Sunday's service would go amazing and that God would speak through me. I could not wait to share the Good News.

Sunday:

A day of serving and sharing the Good News.The group that went to Bovoni (Me, Jordan, Tyler and Stacey) had to leave at 8:15. The other group that went to Trinity (Nic, Q, Moe, Carly and Sandy) left at 9:15. Not having much sleep, I was tired and only ate a pop tart for breakfast. I lifted my heart to God to give me the strength to deliver the good news. We first had sunday school, and it was definitely different than the way we do it. But it was still effective and educational. Then we began the service at 10 am. They sang a lot of hymns and songs that I have heard before. We then were able to sing "Wonderful Cross" and "Praise God" (Tylers song). They loved it, but then there was more music after that. There was multiple special music, and it was just about time for me to get up and preach and a man stood up and asked to share his testimony. The preacher was surprised but said he'd let him say a few words. So he began to tell a lot of his life story. But then I was able to preach. I got on the pulpit at 11:55. Yes, that is a lot of music before a sermon, something I am not used to. But the Lord gave me strength and spoke through me. I even said things that I did not plan to say at all. But it was all from the Holy Spirit. 17 claimed to accept Jesus during the invitation and 4 declared to rededicate their lives to serve Him in every way possible. It was an awesome moment that I will never forget and a man came up and just wanted me to pray for him. It was unforgettable. After the service we were given lunch there. It was a lot of good food where I went for thirds! It definitely gave my stomach satisfaction. After that I was able to get a much needed nap. But then we were invited to go to a graduation ceremony at St. Pauls. It was a lot of fun and neat to see how they did things. We spent all kinds of time with them during the week, but it was our first chance to see how they conducted things in a service. Afterwards we had a big party (like every night) they were a blast. Then we had share time and a lot of good heart to heart conversations. It was a very productive night for our group. One of my most favorite nights of the week. Stacey really spoke to me and what God was saying through him changed my life. With that, my heart was re-energized and now it was time for some sleep.

Monday:

Time to enjoy the beach! But still show God's love!!!! We first went to Coral World and saw a lot of neat fish and sharks.. oh! And some really cool Sea lions! We all had a blast, but then it was time for Magens bay. A top 10 beach in the whole world. We were there from noon to 5. I was in the water non-stop. The water was very warm and very clear. We all enjoyed snorkeling and saw sooooooo many fish. I have never enjoyed the beach as much as then. We then went to downtown again because we realized we did not have gifts to bring home to our families!! Most stores were closed, but I managed to get a cheesy shirt for my father. haha. Then another party, the biggest of them all. We played a lot of music and a lot of ball. It was a great last day for the mission trip and said goodbye to all of our great friends we made. We had to get some sleep for the 4:30 wake up and quick clean before leaving to the airport. The airport was smooth again, no problems. I got a gift for my mom at the store there, and then time to leave. I was verrry sad to leave. We had so much more to do, but I pray that the groups that come after us will pick up where we left off. We had a fun flight to Atlanta. All the movies were free to watch, so we used that up! Then we ate at On The Border in the ATL airport. It was the "Last Supper". And it was very good. Then came our flight to go home. We had a good flight with no problems. We all noticed how there was no more humidity when we reached Phoenix. That was a blessing. We all got our luggage quickly. But I sure wished I was still in Virgin Islands.

Please keep them in your prayers! Thank you so much for all the people who supported us in prayer and financial aid. Your givings were definitely not wasted! God used us and the mission is still alive! People here need the Lord too!!!