Just an FYI:
If you recieve a letter from me that smells like coffee, its because I was drinking coffee while licking the envelopes. Sorry :)
22 October 2007
One of the students at our house group, a sophomore boy, is a pretty tough kid to work with. Hes just not the type of guy that is realy incredibly sociable, or that opens up much at house group. One of his leaders from last year told me that the way to connect with him was just to play games with him. He said that last year, during their small group time, the two of them would walk around on a golf course near by and see who could find the most golf balls.
The way I;ve been spending time with him is playing fooseball before and after our house group time in the basement where we meet. Every week we wind up playing multiple games, making up different rules, and ways to play each time. Its a great time. I think Chicagoans really like their fooseball because, no joke, I think I have played more since I have been here than in my entire life prior to coming here.
Anyway, this student still doesnt talk too too much, but I have noticed during our games that he will ask me more questions about myself and about Texas and such. Yesterday during our small group time he said that his "high" for the week is that he has now been drug-free for about two and a half weeks, and, even though his friends still party and smoke pot, they have been suppoting him in his efforts to quit. I thought this was great that he revealed this to the group, and that he was open and vulnerable with it. It caught me off guard because I didnt even know that he was even doing drugs.
How ironic that his "high" for the week has been not getting high? Its so amazing that he is letting God guide him through all of this.
The way I;ve been spending time with him is playing fooseball before and after our house group time in the basement where we meet. Every week we wind up playing multiple games, making up different rules, and ways to play each time. Its a great time. I think Chicagoans really like their fooseball because, no joke, I think I have played more since I have been here than in my entire life prior to coming here.
Anyway, this student still doesnt talk too too much, but I have noticed during our games that he will ask me more questions about myself and about Texas and such. Yesterday during our small group time he said that his "high" for the week is that he has now been drug-free for about two and a half weeks, and, even though his friends still party and smoke pot, they have been suppoting him in his efforts to quit. I thought this was great that he revealed this to the group, and that he was open and vulnerable with it. It caught me off guard because I didnt even know that he was even doing drugs.
How ironic that his "high" for the week has been not getting high? Its so amazing that he is letting God guide him through all of this.
20 October 2007
BIcycles.
Since I have been in Chicago, seeing all the people riding their bikes in the city, I have become, once again, infatuated with bikes. I feel like a little kid again, in a sense, because as I walk around downtown, or when I am driving and I see people on their bikes, I slow down and take a look at the different styles and colors and, to an extent, want to say, "hey, can I ride with you?"
I have little to now experience riding road bikes; you know, the kind with the thin tires and the curved handle bars that you have to hunch over. But Dick Towner, the man I am living with (that sounds akward, so for those that don't know, I am living with a family here in the Chicago Suburbs) has an old Schwinn road bike that I have been cruising around on. I love riding this in the city because of the feeling of being able to ride in the streets alongside the cars, and for the most part, keep up with traffic.
When I worked in downtown San Antonio, there was something about bike cops that caught my attention. I think it was that they were gtting paid to ride around the streets of the city on bikes rather than in cars, which allowed them to enjoy, at least a little bit, the environment that they were in. They got to see the sights and sounds, and we free to go as fast or as slow as they wanted. Thing is, they were still cops. Nothing against cops (I love you josh dean), but I just don't want to be one. Then, while riding downtown Chicago one day, I discovered a profession that I never even thought about, that doesn't necessarily take away my passion for ministry, but gives it a bit of a run for it's money: a Bike Messenger!
Bike messengers are a unique type of people. I don't know if I could fit in exactly with their lifestyle, and their lack of fear when flying through red lights and around corners, but there is stll something really cool about the types of bikes they ride, and their style of clothing.
The bikes: much like bmx bikes, they offer a freedom in building and creating the bike yourself. You don't just buy a complete messenger bike (though, you can if you want), you build one out of parts of other bikes, can paint it however you like. Thats one thing I like about my bmx: if i want to paint is solid black, I can. If I want to paint it neon yellow, I can, and it's not out of the ordinary. I like the freedom there.
The style: Messenger bags, which are so popular now. You may have seen college students, or even John Hinkebein with one. Its the one-strap bag thats popular these days. And short pants, or, "shants" as some people call them. They are 3/4 pants, either made that way, or you can take regular pants and cut them at the calf. (Now, I'm sure some of you are thinking, "capris? like girl pants?" but no, these are guy pants, VERY different...) This style if so you don't get your pants caught in the chain on the bike.
This may all seem a bit confusing. But I will take a picture next time I am in the city and post it for you all. Longong story short, I decided that with some of my free time, I am going to start building bikes. I love working on bikes, and tinkering with gears, and parts and such. My first project: a messenger bike. So, if you have bike parts laying around, or if you had an old bike that you wanted to throw away, or sell at a garage sale, let me know, and I'll see if I can help you clean out your garage for the winter.
You may not have read all the way through this. Maybe you just skpped to the bottom. But thanks for checking out the blog anyway. Good days!
Since I have been in Chicago, seeing all the people riding their bikes in the city, I have become, once again, infatuated with bikes. I feel like a little kid again, in a sense, because as I walk around downtown, or when I am driving and I see people on their bikes, I slow down and take a look at the different styles and colors and, to an extent, want to say, "hey, can I ride with you?"
I have little to now experience riding road bikes; you know, the kind with the thin tires and the curved handle bars that you have to hunch over. But Dick Towner, the man I am living with (that sounds akward, so for those that don't know, I am living with a family here in the Chicago Suburbs) has an old Schwinn road bike that I have been cruising around on. I love riding this in the city because of the feeling of being able to ride in the streets alongside the cars, and for the most part, keep up with traffic.
When I worked in downtown San Antonio, there was something about bike cops that caught my attention. I think it was that they were gtting paid to ride around the streets of the city on bikes rather than in cars, which allowed them to enjoy, at least a little bit, the environment that they were in. They got to see the sights and sounds, and we free to go as fast or as slow as they wanted. Thing is, they were still cops. Nothing against cops (I love you josh dean), but I just don't want to be one. Then, while riding downtown Chicago one day, I discovered a profession that I never even thought about, that doesn't necessarily take away my passion for ministry, but gives it a bit of a run for it's money: a Bike Messenger!
Bike messengers are a unique type of people. I don't know if I could fit in exactly with their lifestyle, and their lack of fear when flying through red lights and around corners, but there is stll something really cool about the types of bikes they ride, and their style of clothing.
The bikes: much like bmx bikes, they offer a freedom in building and creating the bike yourself. You don't just buy a complete messenger bike (though, you can if you want), you build one out of parts of other bikes, can paint it however you like. Thats one thing I like about my bmx: if i want to paint is solid black, I can. If I want to paint it neon yellow, I can, and it's not out of the ordinary. I like the freedom there.
The style: Messenger bags, which are so popular now. You may have seen college students, or even John Hinkebein with one. Its the one-strap bag thats popular these days. And short pants, or, "shants" as some people call them. They are 3/4 pants, either made that way, or you can take regular pants and cut them at the calf. (Now, I'm sure some of you are thinking, "capris? like girl pants?" but no, these are guy pants, VERY different...) This style if so you don't get your pants caught in the chain on the bike.
This may all seem a bit confusing. But I will take a picture next time I am in the city and post it for you all. Longong story short, I decided that with some of my free time, I am going to start building bikes. I love working on bikes, and tinkering with gears, and parts and such. My first project: a messenger bike. So, if you have bike parts laying around, or if you had an old bike that you wanted to throw away, or sell at a garage sale, let me know, and I'll see if I can help you clean out your garage for the winter.
You may not have read all the way through this. Maybe you just skpped to the bottom. But thanks for checking out the blog anyway. Good days!
18 October 2007
And now that I know that I can post pictures, and have demonstrated such on my last post, here are some of the pictures I have been wanting to share with you all.
Here is an example of my Sunday Morning Sunrise routine that I have done most Sunday mornings before Impact. This is at North Avenue Beach, just north of downtown Chicago.
This is a picture I took while reflecting on a few scriptures while on the beach.
This is Corner Bakery, some sort of magical, delicious place that I like to eat/ sip coffee at downtown. Its pretty cool, there are many of them downtown, but this is the one I frequent the most. Just blocks off of Michigan Avenue.
This is the Illinois Prairie Path- a 60-something mile long bike/jogging path that goes from the northwest suburbs to the southwest suburbs. No, I didnt take the whole 60 miles, but I attempted to ride from Elgin to Wheaton, until I realized I didnt eat breakfast. So, after about 10 miles, I decided to head back and eat.
No explanation needed here. My dad and I were lucky enough to make it to a game on my first full day in the area. It was a great time, and, even though the Cubs lost this day, it was a bit of a dream come true to be there.
That's all I've got for now. Check back though. Now that I am picture-posting savvy I should have more up on occasion.
Here is an example of my Sunday Morning Sunrise routine that I have done most Sunday mornings before Impact. This is at North Avenue Beach, just north of downtown Chicago.
This is a picture I took while reflecting on a few scriptures while on the beach.
This is Corner Bakery, some sort of magical, delicious place that I like to eat/ sip coffee at downtown. Its pretty cool, there are many of them downtown, but this is the one I frequent the most. Just blocks off of Michigan Avenue.
This is the Illinois Prairie Path- a 60-something mile long bike/jogging path that goes from the northwest suburbs to the southwest suburbs. No, I didnt take the whole 60 miles, but I attempted to ride from Elgin to Wheaton, until I realized I didnt eat breakfast. So, after about 10 miles, I decided to head back and eat.
No explanation needed here. My dad and I were lucky enough to make it to a game on my first full day in the area. It was a great time, and, even though the Cubs lost this day, it was a bit of a dream come true to be there.
That's all I've got for now. Check back though. Now that I am picture-posting savvy I should have more up on occasion.
Some mornings are better than others. Today, for example, I met with a few of the students on the Conant campus (the high school I am working with), and talked about our student-led ministry, Uprising, and what we would be doing for the remainder of the semester. That went well. Then I stopped to get a cup of coffee before work. More specifically, a Mint Condition, from Caribou Coffee. This is just your standard mint-mocha drink, but with Andes Mints crushed up on top. That went well. Then I decided to drive with the windows down, blasing some of my old rockabilly tunes, more specifically, The Stray Cats- Brian Setzer in the pre-orchestra days. That went well.
Rockabilly used to be my jams. For those of you who didn't know me back in the day, I am going to post my first picture on this blog, just as an FYI to show you. Don't laugh at me.
Here it goes....
Rockabilly used to be my jams. For those of you who didn't know me back in the day, I am going to post my first picture on this blog, just as an FYI to show you. Don't laugh at me.
Here it goes....
16 October 2007
w-w-w-w-w-w-wipeout....
My insurance policy that I have has a very low deductable. I think that is because I seem to be particularly prone to injury. This past Saturday night my small group leader Jeremiah (a 3 year intern), and I went longboarding at a golf course near where he lives. The thing is, 1) it was night time, and 2) some of the cart paths were a little steeper than others, being that this is also where they have snowboarding and skiing when there is snow on the ground.
Well, I'm no Tony Hawk or anything, but I usually feel pretty comfortable on a board. Not that I can do anything fancy, but I can atleast balance, and thats the biggest part. So, we find one hill that, no lie, intimidated me a slight bit. I wasn't trembling in fear or anything, but from the beginning I thought, "this may not go well".
Jeremiah goes down ahead of me, and I watch the route he takes, thinking, "pshh, I can do this..." So I tried, and about midway down the hill I start wobbling like crazy. And, while trying to straighten myself out, I overcompensated, the board flew out from under me, and I went tumbling down the hill. Not too far or hard, mind you, but when I finally stopped, laying on my stomach, I couldn't help but think, "there is no way that just happened."
There are certain reflexes your body does when you wipeout like that: run the tongue on the backs of your teeth- good, they're all there; wiggle your fingers- good, they're not broken, or missing; bend your knees, good- no torn acl (the most important one for me to check).
There is no moral of the story, but times like this, honestly, I really enjoy them. They make for good stories, and good laughs. Ahh. The life of an intern.
My insurance policy that I have has a very low deductable. I think that is because I seem to be particularly prone to injury. This past Saturday night my small group leader Jeremiah (a 3 year intern), and I went longboarding at a golf course near where he lives. The thing is, 1) it was night time, and 2) some of the cart paths were a little steeper than others, being that this is also where they have snowboarding and skiing when there is snow on the ground.
Well, I'm no Tony Hawk or anything, but I usually feel pretty comfortable on a board. Not that I can do anything fancy, but I can atleast balance, and thats the biggest part. So, we find one hill that, no lie, intimidated me a slight bit. I wasn't trembling in fear or anything, but from the beginning I thought, "this may not go well".
Jeremiah goes down ahead of me, and I watch the route he takes, thinking, "pshh, I can do this..." So I tried, and about midway down the hill I start wobbling like crazy. And, while trying to straighten myself out, I overcompensated, the board flew out from under me, and I went tumbling down the hill. Not too far or hard, mind you, but when I finally stopped, laying on my stomach, I couldn't help but think, "there is no way that just happened."
There are certain reflexes your body does when you wipeout like that: run the tongue on the backs of your teeth- good, they're all there; wiggle your fingers- good, they're not broken, or missing; bend your knees, good- no torn acl (the most important one for me to check).
There is no moral of the story, but times like this, honestly, I really enjoy them. They make for good stories, and good laughs. Ahh. The life of an intern.
13 October 2007
Cool Things I have going on:
At the beginning of the month I signed up for a gym membership at a place called God's Gym (www.ercgg.org), in Elgin, the suburb I am living in. The membership is fairly inexpensive, $20/month, and is only a few miles from where I live. I did this for two or so particular reasons: 1. As some of you know, Caleb Schmidt and I are having a workout-off until he turns 18, which is in about 1 year and a half. He punched me in the face once at YL and left a bruise, so I told him when he turns 18, its going down. He seems to think he has me, but I don't think he has any idea what he has coming. 2. God's Gym is directly across the street from Elgin High School, and is an outreach organization to keep kids (and even adults for that matter) off the streets, and out of gangs. It a rough crowd that works out in there, which is good because it motivates me to really "pump iron" (yeah, I know that sounds lame), so that I fit in. God's Gym also provides after school mentoring and tutoring for students, and is run on a primarily volunteer basis. Upon signing up they ask if you would like to volunteer with them, and I said "Yes. Yes I would like to.' So, beginning this next week I will meet with one of the volunteer coordinators there to find out how I may serve them.
Next, I talked to one of the students in my house group that I have been getting to know some, and he and I are going to start meeting on Wednesday's before church every other week ad just start going through the bible some and talking and getting to know eachother more. I am very excited about this. He is a cool guy, and I know he's got some great potential in him after he graduates this year to continue to grow into the man God's created him to be. And, he throws a decent frisbee, which, might I add, is the sport that every Christian male needs to know how to play.
Last, Elevate, which is Willow's junior high ministry, has been looking for volunteers to lead small groups for their students. Unlike Impact, since the students aren't able t drive on their own, Elevate has services during each of the 3 main Willow Services, so they are in need of a good amount of leaders. So, I decided that with some of my free time I am going to check out one of their services, which I am doing tonight, and possibly start leading a small group. I hear Elevate has a good time in their services, and a few of the leaders have become some of my good friends up here, so I figure I may as well help out.
And while I am posting I'll take the opportunity to plug their blogs for them, which you will see on the right side of the page.
Thats all I've got for now. I hope everyone is doing great, and I look foward to hearing from you sometime soon. Until next time, good days.
At the beginning of the month I signed up for a gym membership at a place called God's Gym (www.ercgg.org), in Elgin, the suburb I am living in. The membership is fairly inexpensive, $20/month, and is only a few miles from where I live. I did this for two or so particular reasons: 1. As some of you know, Caleb Schmidt and I are having a workout-off until he turns 18, which is in about 1 year and a half. He punched me in the face once at YL and left a bruise, so I told him when he turns 18, its going down. He seems to think he has me, but I don't think he has any idea what he has coming. 2. God's Gym is directly across the street from Elgin High School, and is an outreach organization to keep kids (and even adults for that matter) off the streets, and out of gangs. It a rough crowd that works out in there, which is good because it motivates me to really "pump iron" (yeah, I know that sounds lame), so that I fit in. God's Gym also provides after school mentoring and tutoring for students, and is run on a primarily volunteer basis. Upon signing up they ask if you would like to volunteer with them, and I said "Yes. Yes I would like to.' So, beginning this next week I will meet with one of the volunteer coordinators there to find out how I may serve them.
Next, I talked to one of the students in my house group that I have been getting to know some, and he and I are going to start meeting on Wednesday's before church every other week ad just start going through the bible some and talking and getting to know eachother more. I am very excited about this. He is a cool guy, and I know he's got some great potential in him after he graduates this year to continue to grow into the man God's created him to be. And, he throws a decent frisbee, which, might I add, is the sport that every Christian male needs to know how to play.
Last, Elevate, which is Willow's junior high ministry, has been looking for volunteers to lead small groups for their students. Unlike Impact, since the students aren't able t drive on their own, Elevate has services during each of the 3 main Willow Services, so they are in need of a good amount of leaders. So, I decided that with some of my free time I am going to check out one of their services, which I am doing tonight, and possibly start leading a small group. I hear Elevate has a good time in their services, and a few of the leaders have become some of my good friends up here, so I figure I may as well help out.
And while I am posting I'll take the opportunity to plug their blogs for them, which you will see on the right side of the page.
Thats all I've got for now. I hope everyone is doing great, and I look foward to hearing from you sometime soon. Until next time, good days.
03 October 2007
Today the Cubs play their first playoff game. Yeah...this doesn't happen every year. I have been wanting to go down to Wrigleyville, which is the neighborhood that the Cubs play in to hang out during a game, but since I leave for Texas tomorrow I wont be able to make it tonight. I'm a bit worried that I won't be able to make it out today. My fear: that by the time I get back to Chicago next week the Cubs will be the Cubs and have been knocked out of the play-offs.
Now, supposing that all goes well in the playoffs this year and the Cubs, by the grace of God, win the World Series, it will have ended a 99-year drought (1908 was their last World Series Win). If they even MAKE it to the world series, it will be the first time in 62 years (1945).
Just a heads up on whats big in Chicago this week. I, as well as another intern in Student Impact, are rocking the Cubs shirts today. And, just to toss it out there, I will probably be wearing it on Friday, as well as possibly church on Sunday.
In unrelated news...Evans and Esther are getting married Saturday!
Now, supposing that all goes well in the playoffs this year and the Cubs, by the grace of God, win the World Series, it will have ended a 99-year drought (1908 was their last World Series Win). If they even MAKE it to the world series, it will be the first time in 62 years (1945).
Just a heads up on whats big in Chicago this week. I, as well as another intern in Student Impact, are rocking the Cubs shirts today. And, just to toss it out there, I will probably be wearing it on Friday, as well as possibly church on Sunday.
In unrelated news...Evans and Esther are getting married Saturday!
02 October 2007
24 September 2007
2 Things.
1. I emailed Mike Breaux, one of the teaching pastors at Willow to try to set up a meeting with him and chat a bit. I want tof ully utilize the power of the willowcreek.org email address. Nothing major, just thought I'd mention it.
2. I am currently writing something on Luke 18:9-14, and would like to hear any input, insight, or stories you may have that that scripture brings to mind.
Good days.
1. I emailed Mike Breaux, one of the teaching pastors at Willow to try to set up a meeting with him and chat a bit. I want tof ully utilize the power of the willowcreek.org email address. Nothing major, just thought I'd mention it.
2. I am currently writing something on Luke 18:9-14, and would like to hear any input, insight, or stories you may have that that scripture brings to mind.
Good days.
23 September 2007
Regular Joes.
I like coffee. A lot. And its all because Jenny Rudd had the heart to give me a job at the Loft Coffee House (see links). Well, I used to always say that I believed everyone needed atleast one addiction in their life. I know this sounds ridiculous, and I wasn't necessarily serious, but maybe just an extent. Anyway, I'm one of those coffee addict people. The kind that will sit somewhere forever, read books, check emails, even skip meals on occasion because of the "free refill". I love that.
Well, Elgin doesn't have much in the way of coffee shops. Nor do either of the surrounding areas for that matter. Sure, we have Starbucks, and, even though I am a former employee, I prefer not to frequent them. We also have Carribou Coffee, which is entirely new to me, being that they don't have these in San Antonio. But I have yet to be completely satisfied with these options. Willow Creek has a coffee shop on their campus; I know I know, its crazy, but its also tasty, and I spend a fair amount of time hanging out there. Additionally, I found out that there is a coffee shop, called Regular Joe's, about 1/4 mile away from Willow that is owned by a Willow Creek person, and staffed by a few Willow Creek people. I was pretty excited about this, so Aaron Van Fleet (an intern from Kentucky) and I decided to check it out before church yesterday.
I think I like it. I say I think, because I haven't been able to fully soak in the environment, but I do like what I saw.
So, this is just an fyi for all of my friends and family out there who know about my coffee habits. I just wanted to give you an update and say, "hey, don't worry, I am being taken care of."
But don't worry, the Loft is still my number one.
I like coffee. A lot. And its all because Jenny Rudd had the heart to give me a job at the Loft Coffee House (see links). Well, I used to always say that I believed everyone needed atleast one addiction in their life. I know this sounds ridiculous, and I wasn't necessarily serious, but maybe just an extent. Anyway, I'm one of those coffee addict people. The kind that will sit somewhere forever, read books, check emails, even skip meals on occasion because of the "free refill". I love that.
Well, Elgin doesn't have much in the way of coffee shops. Nor do either of the surrounding areas for that matter. Sure, we have Starbucks, and, even though I am a former employee, I prefer not to frequent them. We also have Carribou Coffee, which is entirely new to me, being that they don't have these in San Antonio. But I have yet to be completely satisfied with these options. Willow Creek has a coffee shop on their campus; I know I know, its crazy, but its also tasty, and I spend a fair amount of time hanging out there. Additionally, I found out that there is a coffee shop, called Regular Joe's, about 1/4 mile away from Willow that is owned by a Willow Creek person, and staffed by a few Willow Creek people. I was pretty excited about this, so Aaron Van Fleet (an intern from Kentucky) and I decided to check it out before church yesterday.
I think I like it. I say I think, because I haven't been able to fully soak in the environment, but I do like what I saw.
So, this is just an fyi for all of my friends and family out there who know about my coffee habits. I just wanted to give you an update and say, "hey, don't worry, I am being taken care of."
But don't worry, the Loft is still my number one.
19 September 2007
I am intrigued by the honesty of some people. They say exactly what is on their heart, and they do not hold back, or put on a front to try to impress people. I read this quote in a book recently and wanted to share it with you all. Maybe you can relate. For some of you it may just sound kind of neat, but you can't relate to it, but to many of us (yes, me included), it may so close to what we feel that we may as well call it our own.
"Now- here is my secret: I tell it to you with an openness of heart that I doubt I shall ever achieve again, so I pray that you are in a quiet room as your hear these words. My secret is that I need God- that I am sick and can no longer make it alone. I need God to help me give, because I no longer seem capable of giving; to help me be kind, as I no longer seem capable of kindness; to help me love, as I seem beyond being able to love."
If any of you have any good quotes you would like to share from books you have read recently, or, ever, please post them as a comment. I would love to hear some.
"Now- here is my secret: I tell it to you with an openness of heart that I doubt I shall ever achieve again, so I pray that you are in a quiet room as your hear these words. My secret is that I need God- that I am sick and can no longer make it alone. I need God to help me give, because I no longer seem capable of giving; to help me be kind, as I no longer seem capable of kindness; to help me love, as I seem beyond being able to love."
If any of you have any good quotes you would like to share from books you have read recently, or, ever, please post them as a comment. I would love to hear some.
News in the Ministry!
I know many of you may be thinking, "the city is cool and all, but where is the news on the ministry front?" Well, I am very sorry for that lack of updates there. The beginning of the ministry season, for me atleast, has been somewhat difficult. Most of my days have been spent in a cubicle on the phone with different parents of the students I am working with trying to find us a house to hold our house group time following the service in. See, after the Student Impact service on Sunday mornings the students go to a house in their particular high school area. The area that I am co-leading is Conant and Lake Park high schools. This year is the first year that these two schools are on their own. In previous years they were teamed up with a few other area high schools, forming a larger house group. (Sorry if this is confusing to peice together). So it is almost as though we are starting from scratch with our house group.
The hardest things for me, ministry wise, is that since my days are spent calling and emailing different parents, I haven't had much time or opportunity to connect with students. Additionally, it has been very difficult trying to cast the vision of our house group over the phone with parents who I have never met and have no relationship with. This past weekend, however, was our best week so far. We had 20 students with our group, which is the most we have had this year, and on Monday we finally found a house to meet in for the remainder of the year. I am very excited about this because now, rather than spending the majority of my time trying to find us a place to meet, I will have time to start devloping a game plan for reaching students who disinterested, or are seeking God but don't know exactly what steps to take.
Sunday after our house groups I had to run to Target with one of our students to pick up a few things for some auction baskets we were putting together, and this provided us with a good amount of 1 on 1 time to just hang out and talk. Do you ever have those conversations that are really great and open, and halfway into it you think, "I don't know how we got on to this subject, but I am so glad we did,"? Well, thats how this one went. Before I knew it he was opening up and teling me about his family, and his journey to move to Chicago from Florida. I am finally being able to connect with a few of the students on a more personal lever, AND we finally have a permanent location to meet in- it seems that things are finally coming together, and I couldn't be happier, or more relieved.
One of the ideas that I have been wrestling with through all of this is the idea of "ministry". I think that many people, myself included, have the idea that the person who is "doing" ministry is the person on the front line: the person giving a message, or the person leading worship, or the person praying for people. However, "ministry" is not just the event that we work towards, but that it is the entire process that makes the "event" possible. (does that make sense?)
Let me take a day or two to sit on this, and think about how I want to, or better yet, should word this. Check back soon if you are looking for more clarity on what I am trying to say, and hopefully it makes at least a bit of sense though.
I am eager, and at the same time scared, to see what all God has in store for me while I am up here. A good amount of our time each week is spent on our own personal development. Some of this is through one on one meetings with mentors, and some of this is through our weekly intern small group meeting. Every intern here says that, without a doubt, being here has been a life changing event for them. Doesn't that sound even a bit scary? "Life-Changing." What does that mean, and what in the world is it going to look like?
I know many of you may be thinking, "the city is cool and all, but where is the news on the ministry front?" Well, I am very sorry for that lack of updates there. The beginning of the ministry season, for me atleast, has been somewhat difficult. Most of my days have been spent in a cubicle on the phone with different parents of the students I am working with trying to find us a house to hold our house group time following the service in. See, after the Student Impact service on Sunday mornings the students go to a house in their particular high school area. The area that I am co-leading is Conant and Lake Park high schools. This year is the first year that these two schools are on their own. In previous years they were teamed up with a few other area high schools, forming a larger house group. (Sorry if this is confusing to peice together). So it is almost as though we are starting from scratch with our house group.
The hardest things for me, ministry wise, is that since my days are spent calling and emailing different parents, I haven't had much time or opportunity to connect with students. Additionally, it has been very difficult trying to cast the vision of our house group over the phone with parents who I have never met and have no relationship with. This past weekend, however, was our best week so far. We had 20 students with our group, which is the most we have had this year, and on Monday we finally found a house to meet in for the remainder of the year. I am very excited about this because now, rather than spending the majority of my time trying to find us a place to meet, I will have time to start devloping a game plan for reaching students who disinterested, or are seeking God but don't know exactly what steps to take.
Sunday after our house groups I had to run to Target with one of our students to pick up a few things for some auction baskets we were putting together, and this provided us with a good amount of 1 on 1 time to just hang out and talk. Do you ever have those conversations that are really great and open, and halfway into it you think, "I don't know how we got on to this subject, but I am so glad we did,"? Well, thats how this one went. Before I knew it he was opening up and teling me about his family, and his journey to move to Chicago from Florida. I am finally being able to connect with a few of the students on a more personal lever, AND we finally have a permanent location to meet in- it seems that things are finally coming together, and I couldn't be happier, or more relieved.
One of the ideas that I have been wrestling with through all of this is the idea of "ministry". I think that many people, myself included, have the idea that the person who is "doing" ministry is the person on the front line: the person giving a message, or the person leading worship, or the person praying for people. However, "ministry" is not just the event that we work towards, but that it is the entire process that makes the "event" possible. (does that make sense?)
Let me take a day or two to sit on this, and think about how I want to, or better yet, should word this. Check back soon if you are looking for more clarity on what I am trying to say, and hopefully it makes at least a bit of sense though.
I am eager, and at the same time scared, to see what all God has in store for me while I am up here. A good amount of our time each week is spent on our own personal development. Some of this is through one on one meetings with mentors, and some of this is through our weekly intern small group meeting. Every intern here says that, without a doubt, being here has been a life changing event for them. Doesn't that sound even a bit scary? "Life-Changing." What does that mean, and what in the world is it going to look like?
13 September 2007
I used to always look at people's blogs and think, "why the heck do they not update more often? it has been a month since their last post!" Well, now I know why, and its because its hard to blog. A little bit atleast. so many great things (and sometimes not-so-great) happen, and its just not easy to put them in words and to publish them on the internet. Luckily though I caught mine before it hit the one-month-since-the-last-update point, and am posting this.
Today is my birthday. the big 2-2. Its weird because its my first birthday away from home. But I did get cards and calls from my family, so that was still good. My sister got me the book Ragamuffin Gospel, and the movie Hotel Rwanda. Both of which I am super excited about. What are people's thoughts on those two pieces (leave comments if you like).
This is only going to be a short post for now. But be aware, a much longer one is coming.
"How long?" You may ask. Well. You will see it and say, "dang, thats a lot to read!" That's how long.
Until then, I leave you with two fun facts:
1. Cincinatti was originally called, "Porkopolis"
2.Todays weather forecast. Sorry, but it's a bit nicer weather here it seems...
San Antonio: Low 71, High 89
Chicago: Low 59, High 78
Good day everyone!
p.s.
Mad props (i.e. special thanks) to Rick and Judy Chalk!
Today is my birthday. the big 2-2. Its weird because its my first birthday away from home. But I did get cards and calls from my family, so that was still good. My sister got me the book Ragamuffin Gospel, and the movie Hotel Rwanda. Both of which I am super excited about. What are people's thoughts on those two pieces (leave comments if you like).
This is only going to be a short post for now. But be aware, a much longer one is coming.
"How long?" You may ask. Well. You will see it and say, "dang, thats a lot to read!" That's how long.
Until then, I leave you with two fun facts:
1. Cincinatti was originally called, "Porkopolis"
2.Todays weather forecast. Sorry, but it's a bit nicer weather here it seems...
San Antonio: Low 71, High 89
Chicago: Low 59, High 78
Good day everyone!
p.s.
Mad props (i.e. special thanks) to Rick and Judy Chalk!
27 August 2007
Apologies on the lack of posts. Turns out I am still stealing internet from the neighbors. They have no idea. its great.
Anwyay, yesterday we had our official launch for the 2007-2008 season of Student Impact. It went well. Many many high schoolers showed up, probably near 1000, no lie, and then following the service we all went to our seperate area for our house/small group time.
I will be co-leading the Lake Park/Conant house group this year, and I'm hoping, and sure, it is going to be pretty awesome. I really dont know what else to write about the house group, other than the fact that I will be co-leading it. So if you have any questions to promt me on what to write on the next post, let me know.
In related news, this past Saturday night, I decided to call it an early night (10pm...way early for a saturday) so that I could wake up super early on Sunday (430am...super early), to get a little quiet time in with God to prepare myself for our Impact Launch. The Plan: drive to downtown Chicago and catch sunrise on one of the beaches in the city. It was AMAZING. no lie.
I don't even know what else to say. I have done a lot of stuff since the last post, and I don't really want to give you the play by play of every day. But I will tell you, if you are ever in the city, eat at the Pasta Bowl, off of Clark and Fullerton, in Lincoln Park. Get the tortelini, and tell them I sent you. Not that they know who I am, but, they will eventually. Also, Chicago beaches. Go to one. They are cool, number one, because thaey are beaches, and number two, because they are right side=by-side to many a skyscraper.
Additionallty, here is an opportunity for any of you who are reading this, or if you have stumbled upon my blog, to help me out with something, if you so chose. I am planning on flying home to San Antonio in early October for a wedding for two of my good friends, Esther Class and Evans George. However, plane tickets aren't too cheap, so I am hoping I can find atleast a decent priced one to make it down to attend the wedding, as well as spend time with family and friends. If you, or someone you know, would like to help me make it home, post a comment, or email me at chughes@willowcreek.org.
Until next time, good days. And, I promise, I will try my best to stay on top of things from here on out.
Anwyay, yesterday we had our official launch for the 2007-2008 season of Student Impact. It went well. Many many high schoolers showed up, probably near 1000, no lie, and then following the service we all went to our seperate area for our house/small group time.
I will be co-leading the Lake Park/Conant house group this year, and I'm hoping, and sure, it is going to be pretty awesome. I really dont know what else to write about the house group, other than the fact that I will be co-leading it. So if you have any questions to promt me on what to write on the next post, let me know.
In related news, this past Saturday night, I decided to call it an early night (10pm...way early for a saturday) so that I could wake up super early on Sunday (430am...super early), to get a little quiet time in with God to prepare myself for our Impact Launch. The Plan: drive to downtown Chicago and catch sunrise on one of the beaches in the city. It was AMAZING. no lie.
I don't even know what else to say. I have done a lot of stuff since the last post, and I don't really want to give you the play by play of every day. But I will tell you, if you are ever in the city, eat at the Pasta Bowl, off of Clark and Fullerton, in Lincoln Park. Get the tortelini, and tell them I sent you. Not that they know who I am, but, they will eventually. Also, Chicago beaches. Go to one. They are cool, number one, because thaey are beaches, and number two, because they are right side=by-side to many a skyscraper.
Additionallty, here is an opportunity for any of you who are reading this, or if you have stumbled upon my blog, to help me out with something, if you so chose. I am planning on flying home to San Antonio in early October for a wedding for two of my good friends, Esther Class and Evans George. However, plane tickets aren't too cheap, so I am hoping I can find atleast a decent priced one to make it down to attend the wedding, as well as spend time with family and friends. If you, or someone you know, would like to help me make it home, post a comment, or email me at chughes@willowcreek.org.
Until next time, good days. And, I promise, I will try my best to stay on top of things from here on out.
08 August 2007
Playtime is over, Work Begins (Leadership Summit 07)
Tomorrow, August 9, I officially have my first day to report somewhere for my internship. The Willow Creek Association Leadership Summit will be from Thursday through Saturday, and is one of the many amazing conferences that I will get to attend for free as an intern. Speaking this year are Bill Hybels (WCCC founder), Colin Powell, Michael E. Porter, John Ortberg, Floyd H. Flake, Carly Fiorina, Marcus Buckingham, Richard Curtis, Jimmy Carter, and music by Kirk Franklin.
Quite a lineup huh? Or, maybe you are more like me and have only heard of about 4 of the people speaking. Either way, I believe this conference will be a great way to officially begin my work up here. And, if you would like any of the notes I take so that you may have a few insights to the leadership of any of these folks, let me know, and I'll maybe post them on here.
In unrelated news, Sunday a few of my friends from summer staff at windy gap last year came out to church on sunday and then showed me a round a bit of the north side of Chicago, We wandered around the Lincoln Park area, and checked out a free zoo that was about a block away from lake michican. Now I know what you're thinking..."another free zoo, eh?" But I'm telling you, this one is much better than the free zoo that is a few blocks away from where I am living. They have lions, tigers, and bears (yeah, I had to do it, but its true), giraffes, hippos, rhinos, basically everything a standard zoo has, only on a smaller scale, and, free.
Last night I had another friend from windy gap stay the night at my place, and we went downtown to explore a bit. It was fun. I only wish to give you the highlights at the moment.
1. Right around the wrigley field area there was a southern looking man with a nasty mullet riding a hot pink womans bike. So of course we had to document through photos, and slowed down with the windows down, snapped a shot, and right as he saw us we sped off.
2. Walking onto some of the docks full of sailboats, looking at the city across the water, and daydreaming about being a pirate, or just owning a real nice boat.
3. A woman with an australian accent pushing a baby in a stroller. "How is this a highlight?" You may be thinking. Well, if you heard how awesome her voice was, you'd understand.
4. A drunk guy on a bike rolling past us, stopping to talk to the Australian accented beauty, then riding off only to run into, and knock over a newspaper stand
Still no solid internet connection, so I haven't been too too able to post still. But I will update following the Leadership Summit. Until then, good days.
Tomorrow, August 9, I officially have my first day to report somewhere for my internship. The Willow Creek Association Leadership Summit will be from Thursday through Saturday, and is one of the many amazing conferences that I will get to attend for free as an intern. Speaking this year are Bill Hybels (WCCC founder), Colin Powell, Michael E. Porter, John Ortberg, Floyd H. Flake, Carly Fiorina, Marcus Buckingham, Richard Curtis, Jimmy Carter, and music by Kirk Franklin.
Quite a lineup huh? Or, maybe you are more like me and have only heard of about 4 of the people speaking. Either way, I believe this conference will be a great way to officially begin my work up here. And, if you would like any of the notes I take so that you may have a few insights to the leadership of any of these folks, let me know, and I'll maybe post them on here.
In unrelated news, Sunday a few of my friends from summer staff at windy gap last year came out to church on sunday and then showed me a round a bit of the north side of Chicago, We wandered around the Lincoln Park area, and checked out a free zoo that was about a block away from lake michican. Now I know what you're thinking..."another free zoo, eh?" But I'm telling you, this one is much better than the free zoo that is a few blocks away from where I am living. They have lions, tigers, and bears (yeah, I had to do it, but its true), giraffes, hippos, rhinos, basically everything a standard zoo has, only on a smaller scale, and, free.
Last night I had another friend from windy gap stay the night at my place, and we went downtown to explore a bit. It was fun. I only wish to give you the highlights at the moment.
1. Right around the wrigley field area there was a southern looking man with a nasty mullet riding a hot pink womans bike. So of course we had to document through photos, and slowed down with the windows down, snapped a shot, and right as he saw us we sped off.
2. Walking onto some of the docks full of sailboats, looking at the city across the water, and daydreaming about being a pirate, or just owning a real nice boat.
3. A woman with an australian accent pushing a baby in a stroller. "How is this a highlight?" You may be thinking. Well, if you heard how awesome her voice was, you'd understand.
4. A drunk guy on a bike rolling past us, stopping to talk to the Australian accented beauty, then riding off only to run into, and knock over a newspaper stand
Still no solid internet connection, so I haven't been too too able to post still. But I will update following the Leadership Summit. Until then, good days.
06 August 2007
03 August 2007
Finally. A Post.
I have had limited access to the internet the last few days, maybe even the last week. However, I did find that I am able to, I don't want to say steal, but, maybe borrow wireless internet from a neighbor. I dont know who is it, and they don't know who I am, so its a secret between you and me. Anyway, there hasn't been too too much going on, but there has been a few noteworthy moments. I would like to say I don't want to bore you with all of the boring details, but honestly, I am going to try my best to do just that. Here we go:
Monday night my dad and I were able to check out the Chicago Cubs game at Wrigley Field. I have been waiting so long to be able to go to a game there. Now, some people may say that I am only a Cubs fan because I live in the Chicago area now, however, I have been fan since I was a young'n. My dad used to wake me up to watch Harry Carray sing "Take me out to the ball game", and we would always look for the players with the black bats, because, as we all know, people with black bats are all round better hitters. Anyway, it was awesome finally making it out to the stadium. We even made a stop (or two) accross the street to go to the Cubby Bear, which is a place to purchase your pre-game refreshments... It was a great time to spend with my dad and we both had fun there.
Tuesday was move-in day at the Towner House. Dick and Sibyl towner are the two I am living with, and it a huge blessing to be able to stay with them. Over the span of their marriage Dick said they have had about 80-90 different people stay with them for various amounts of time. I feel incredibly lucky to be one of those people, and I truly hope that I am not the last (I don't think it would be a good sign if they said "after you, we're done"). The area we are living in is a suburb that has a feel similiar to a Boerne, or a New Braunfels. Its nice. There is a park down the street called Lord's Park, and it even has a little zoo in it.
"A zoo?"
Yes, a zoo, but I have only seen and smelled the small buffalo they have so far.
Wednesday I dropped my dad off at the airport, but not without a stop for lunch at Jimmy John's (our second stop in two days acually). I dropped him off at noon, and then decided, since I was already halfway to downtown, I may as well cruise my bike through the city. I say cruise, but it was more of a game that resembled Frogger.
"You rode your bike downtown by yourself?!"
Yes mom. Sorry, but you know how I am. I had to see the city and that was the only reasonable way to do it.
I rode around for a little while, and though to myself, "where's all the cool stuff? All I'm finding is traffic." But then while riding through Grant Park, I found, down by the waterside, where all of the museums are. That was a nice area to ride through, and had very little traffic, was I was able to get my cruise on. I hope to be able to check out all of these museums sometime soon, so if you would like to visit and go with me, I say let's.
I decided at about 230 that I should probably head back to miss the rush houe driving home on I-90, and after about a 30 minute search for my truck in the parking garage I was in, I finally hit the road at 300, to experience none other than my first Chicago rush hour. Lame. It took me two hours to get home. But it was a life lesson definately learned.
That night I went to church at Willow. Wednesdays are called "New Community," which would give the impression that maybe it was a small service, but there were still hundreds of people there. It was a great night. 35 people were baptized, which was incredible, and I was able to meet many people from the Axis community, which is the 20somethings group at Willow. I hung out with them afterwards at Applebees, and made some new friends. So, maybe now I will have something to do in the week before I start work.
Computer is about to die. There are more stories, including my hour long search for Chicago food, but they will have to wait until later, or tomorrow, or Sunday, or whenever I post again. Until then, good days.
Love You Family.
I have had limited access to the internet the last few days, maybe even the last week. However, I did find that I am able to, I don't want to say steal, but, maybe borrow wireless internet from a neighbor. I dont know who is it, and they don't know who I am, so its a secret between you and me. Anyway, there hasn't been too too much going on, but there has been a few noteworthy moments. I would like to say I don't want to bore you with all of the boring details, but honestly, I am going to try my best to do just that. Here we go:
Monday night my dad and I were able to check out the Chicago Cubs game at Wrigley Field. I have been waiting so long to be able to go to a game there. Now, some people may say that I am only a Cubs fan because I live in the Chicago area now, however, I have been fan since I was a young'n. My dad used to wake me up to watch Harry Carray sing "Take me out to the ball game", and we would always look for the players with the black bats, because, as we all know, people with black bats are all round better hitters. Anyway, it was awesome finally making it out to the stadium. We even made a stop (or two) accross the street to go to the Cubby Bear, which is a place to purchase your pre-game refreshments... It was a great time to spend with my dad and we both had fun there.
Tuesday was move-in day at the Towner House. Dick and Sibyl towner are the two I am living with, and it a huge blessing to be able to stay with them. Over the span of their marriage Dick said they have had about 80-90 different people stay with them for various amounts of time. I feel incredibly lucky to be one of those people, and I truly hope that I am not the last (I don't think it would be a good sign if they said "after you, we're done"). The area we are living in is a suburb that has a feel similiar to a Boerne, or a New Braunfels. Its nice. There is a park down the street called Lord's Park, and it even has a little zoo in it.
"A zoo?"
Yes, a zoo, but I have only seen and smelled the small buffalo they have so far.
Wednesday I dropped my dad off at the airport, but not without a stop for lunch at Jimmy John's (our second stop in two days acually). I dropped him off at noon, and then decided, since I was already halfway to downtown, I may as well cruise my bike through the city. I say cruise, but it was more of a game that resembled Frogger.
"You rode your bike downtown by yourself?!"
Yes mom. Sorry, but you know how I am. I had to see the city and that was the only reasonable way to do it.
I rode around for a little while, and though to myself, "where's all the cool stuff? All I'm finding is traffic." But then while riding through Grant Park, I found, down by the waterside, where all of the museums are. That was a nice area to ride through, and had very little traffic, was I was able to get my cruise on. I hope to be able to check out all of these museums sometime soon, so if you would like to visit and go with me, I say let's.
I decided at about 230 that I should probably head back to miss the rush houe driving home on I-90, and after about a 30 minute search for my truck in the parking garage I was in, I finally hit the road at 300, to experience none other than my first Chicago rush hour. Lame. It took me two hours to get home. But it was a life lesson definately learned.
That night I went to church at Willow. Wednesdays are called "New Community," which would give the impression that maybe it was a small service, but there were still hundreds of people there. It was a great night. 35 people were baptized, which was incredible, and I was able to meet many people from the Axis community, which is the 20somethings group at Willow. I hung out with them afterwards at Applebees, and made some new friends. So, maybe now I will have something to do in the week before I start work.
Computer is about to die. There are more stories, including my hour long search for Chicago food, but they will have to wait until later, or tomorrow, or Sunday, or whenever I post again. Until then, good days.
Love You Family.
02 August 2007
28 July 2007
Another Springfield, MO Post:
This quote, via a text message from a friend, made me laugh today:
I ask: "Hows the weather?"
He Says: "Sunny for once, but the clouds are coming in. Pretty much like my life"
I laugh
You see, I know the clouds really aren't "coming in" to his life (atleast I hope not, please let me know if they really are...), so we were able to each get a good laugh out of it.
This quote, via a text message from a friend, made me laugh today:
I ask: "Hows the weather?"
He Says: "Sunny for once, but the clouds are coming in. Pretty much like my life"
I laugh
You see, I know the clouds really aren't "coming in" to his life (atleast I hope not, please let me know if they really are...), so we were able to each get a good laugh out of it.
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