Hey guys! It is the night before I fly out but I just wanted to give you a brief synopsis of the project briefing! It has been AWESOME! I've only been here two days but the 3oish of us going to Buenos Aires are family. Already. Love how that kind of stuff works!!
Meetings:
These have been long at times, but awesome as well! Lots of great things from different staff members going to Argentina (B.A. and La Plata) and East Asia. It is cool getting perspectives such as conflict resolution from Todd Smith, evangelism advice from the likes of Mark and Michelle, and from other staff!!
Small Groups!
The project is already small at about 30 members, but 6 of us guys are in a Bible Study. We have shared where we have come from in life already and have built such a great relationship even in the limited time we've spent together, over pizza as well! I look forward tremendously to this bond growing much like Santa Cruz with room 3...you know who you are!
Commissioning:
Tonight, we commissioned each others' projects; we prayed for each other, laying hands on one another! To hear 80ish prayers through the room was truly awesome! I love how the Lord moves in numbers of His people coming together, even though we are going to spread ourselves throughout the world!
Cultural Understanding:
The Argentinian culture, as with any culture, is unique. The "beso", a "kiss" but not really on the cheek, has been taken up by the project as you are supposed to do it anytime you enter a room with EVERYONE. Very European, as Buenos Aires is. Anyway, they also have this bitter tea that you drink and share the straw. Fortunately I am not a germophob.
To sum up, I can't believe the fellowship. I am continually amazed at how the Lord moves, brings His people together, sends them out, provides for them, draws us toward Him. These two days have been characterized by that for me! I have been encircled by this maturity level that causes me to say "Lord, I WANT You to have my all for Your glory!" Pray for me guys. Pray for travel, the BA, La Plata and East Asia teams. Pray for glorification of the Lord in all things. Pray for BOW- boldness, opportunities, and wisdom. Pray continually (1 Thess. 5:17) Back in 6 weeks!
In Christ,
Johnathan
Isaiah 55:10-11!
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Argentina Pre-Briefing!
Wow. I am sitting in my living room, alone, walloped with the realization that the 2010 Argentina Summer Project briefing is about 24 hours away!!! What?! There is so much to do, and not that much time left! I cannot wait to be in Buenos Aires! Leaving Raleigh yesterday was one of the toughest 45 minute drives ever, though. I would compare it with leaving the Santa Cruz Summer Project last August, driving alone to San Fransisco to pick up my mom and sister. I think the nerves are beginning to set it now. Six weeks in neither another zip code nor a different area code but an entirely new place altogether!
There is SO MUCH going through my head right now. A few things I know, most from the Santa Cruz experience:
1) Our God is an awesome God! He has shown it to me in support raising, twice now, in the Word, and through two incredible years at NC State with Campus Crusade!
2) The fellowship of this trip will be unparalled! Nothing against NC State; like I said I absolutely love it! But, anyone who has been on a summer project I think will tell you the connections with your project people are just different. I chalk it up to being called by the Lord for the same purpose of making His name great in that specific place.
3) This next six weeks is going to FLY BY ultimately. Maybe not initially, but at the end of June I'm sure I will say "where did that period of my life go?" I know it did in California. I know looking back I can't believe it has been 9 months plus since I left that awesome place. But it has been and soon 9 months will become a year, two....
4) It is going to be an INTENSE experience! Simply put, there is nothing like a summer project. There is nothing like a U.S. project. Soon I will see there is nothing like an International one either!
A few things I am hoping for, praying for, looking forward to are:
1) I would love the Lord more each and every day! More when I leave than when I go! Deuteronomy 6:5; Matthew 22:37-39
2) My faith in Christ would be action-oriented and that this would be characteristic of my time in Buenos Aires!
James 1:22-25
3) I would not expect that my eloquence or intellect changes hearts. The Lord changes hearts!
Romans 9:15-16, Ephesians 6:19-20
4) My time in the Word and with the Lord in prayer remains solid, encouraging, and challenging and that the Lord will sustain me!
Deuteronomy 8:3, Matthew 4:4, Ephesians 6:18
5) That I am 100 percent sent, honored to be a vessel through which Christ shows himself to others, and that His Word doesn't return void!
Isaiah 55:10-11
6) That I hold dear and close the beauty of the gospel which has brought me to Christ. Furthermore, that I realize the things I do in themselves are outward expressions of a new heart rather than an acceptable offering to appease the Lord!
Galatians 2:20, Ephesians 2:8-10, Isaiah 64:6
Can't wait to see the Lord work within and throughout!
Johnathan
1 Corinthians 10:31
There is SO MUCH going through my head right now. A few things I know, most from the Santa Cruz experience:
1) Our God is an awesome God! He has shown it to me in support raising, twice now, in the Word, and through two incredible years at NC State with Campus Crusade!
2) The fellowship of this trip will be unparalled! Nothing against NC State; like I said I absolutely love it! But, anyone who has been on a summer project I think will tell you the connections with your project people are just different. I chalk it up to being called by the Lord for the same purpose of making His name great in that specific place.
3) This next six weeks is going to FLY BY ultimately. Maybe not initially, but at the end of June I'm sure I will say "where did that period of my life go?" I know it did in California. I know looking back I can't believe it has been 9 months plus since I left that awesome place. But it has been and soon 9 months will become a year, two....
4) It is going to be an INTENSE experience! Simply put, there is nothing like a summer project. There is nothing like a U.S. project. Soon I will see there is nothing like an International one either!
A few things I am hoping for, praying for, looking forward to are:
1) I would love the Lord more each and every day! More when I leave than when I go! Deuteronomy 6:5; Matthew 22:37-39
2) My faith in Christ would be action-oriented and that this would be characteristic of my time in Buenos Aires!
James 1:22-25
3) I would not expect that my eloquence or intellect changes hearts. The Lord changes hearts!
Romans 9:15-16, Ephesians 6:19-20
4) My time in the Word and with the Lord in prayer remains solid, encouraging, and challenging and that the Lord will sustain me!
Deuteronomy 8:3, Matthew 4:4, Ephesians 6:18
5) That I am 100 percent sent, honored to be a vessel through which Christ shows himself to others, and that His Word doesn't return void!
Isaiah 55:10-11
6) That I hold dear and close the beauty of the gospel which has brought me to Christ. Furthermore, that I realize the things I do in themselves are outward expressions of a new heart rather than an acceptable offering to appease the Lord!
Galatians 2:20, Ephesians 2:8-10, Isaiah 64:6
Can't wait to see the Lord work within and throughout!
Johnathan
1 Corinthians 10:31
Sunday, July 26, 2009
So, this is my best effort to condense a month of Santa Cruz!
Hey guys,
I realize it has been OVER a month since I posted last; it is very unusual, but I have truly been busy. That said, today I have some time, so I am going to do a recap...
Project is winding down; with only 2 weeks left, there are still SO MANY THINGS I would like to do here but yet there are so many awesome things that I have done...a few things that stand out though over the last month are:
SAN FRANCISCO TRIP, July 9
This has been, to date, the most fun day I've had while in Santa Cruz! A huge group went to San Fran, but four of us went in my car: Leslie, Lauren, Patrick, and myself. It was AMAZING! We saw the golden gate (on a clear day!), walked on the golden gate, and took some amazing pictures! We saw Alcatraz and the wharf, and drove down the curviest road in America: Lombard Street! We also saw the "Full House" house...although it did not have the signature red door on it anymore...I have a couple of pics on facebook but it was actually kind of disappointing...anyway, we also went to the Coit Tower for some great views, and drove through much of the city and into Chinatown, which was CRAZY CROWDED...we didn't stop. We also had a GREAT meal at this place near the wharf before arriving at a San Francisco Giants baseball game, which was a lot of fun and a good chance to meet back up w/the whole group that left...I REALLY ENJOYED just chilling in San Fran. We didn't have too many conflicts of interest over our head, and we just simply chilled and did things on the fly, which is so unlike me but went so well. Check out my pictures on facebook for a visual recap!
Coffee Shop Outreach, July 11
So, as we do every week, we had our outreach. This particular one was a "coffee shop" theme, with free coffee and other such drinks, and an coffeehouse ambience. The setup looked AWESOME, the conversations were GREAT as well, and we had a SWEET band here called My Jeremiah! I talked with one guy in particular, Greg, while doing Soularium outreach...I was sort of skeptical of Soularium but I am starting to like it...he gave the MOST LEGIT answers I have ever heard...and he was interested in knowing God personally...anyway, I didn't get to talk with him all that long, but it was super encouraging...some others from project, Kelly and Adam, talked with him for a couple of hours though...that was the theme of the night--everything went well!
90's Themed JARDY (Jean Party), July 16
This was the outreach following the coffee shop, but instead of an outreach, it really turned into an inreach, which was bad...but we still have to rest on the fact that we are 100% successful. We learned a lot looking back on it...everyone wore their 90's jean attire...but there was little to no outreach. Firstly, it was on a Thursday night, which didn't bring that many people. The organization was lacking at best. I certainly saw it as a party instead of outreach, but it is something to learn from I guess.
Other Stuff
MNL
Monday Night Live has been awesome! When the staff left on July 6, we turned the leadership over to the "foursome" and they served us by washing our feet...it was an awesome display of servanthood and was a moving message...also we had our staff appreciation (THANKS ANDREW!!!) and for ours, we dressed up as WISEmen (since our staff was Andrew WISE!) and had a poem about Him...and GIFTS!!! It was awesome, and it went really well! The last few MNLs have gone well...we had a time of sharing once, and then we had the pastor from a local church (Twin Lakes) come with a great message about not being discouraged....
Vintage
So, we just wrapped up our time at Vintage Faith Church (where we have been serving for the summer)...Vintage was definitely different than my experience with church but I tried my best to take the good out (unfortunately I don't do that very well)...anyway they just wrapped up a series titled, "God in the movies" which was disturbing at first and after the first week I thought it was going to be AWFUL! But, it did not end up being that bad...the last couple of weeks had some fairly strong material...I just wish that they would center their stuff around God, the Word of God, and the gospel...but, the music is really good there and gives great glory to God! So, it does bring people where they have a chance in one way or another to hear the gospel, and there seems to be a great family feel there...I just need to remember that since the church, or body of Christ, is made up of US, then there are going to be inherent flaws with it...NO CHURCH IS PERFECT! That said, it will be nice to go to church back home and in Raleigh...
Work
So, I have only ONE week left at the Boardwalk...I am really going to miss the job and the people there...they are great people that I wish the best...I really want to talk with them about everything Christ is to me and what He has done for them as well....but I haven't had a lot of time, frankly...there is still some time left, though...Also, I won a paid hour lunch with anyone I want...so that is a chance right there! I like the nature of my job, although some rides are a lot better than others...I will definitely miss the perks, like free rides and other discounts, but I enjoyed them while they lasted!
Fellowship
So, the fellowship here over the last month has been AWESOME! I am hard-pressed to find any like it, even at NC State....it is the same as with my really close friends there! I see what Avis meant when she said you would remember project friends for a lifetime, and I am already planning ways to get to them (one word--ENCOUNTER!!!) Anyway, I am truly sad to be leaving them but I won't forget them and in all likelihood will see them A LOT! It is great to see so many people here for the same reason, that is, to share the love of Christ and glorify Him by giving Him their summers! It's not perfect...there are some frustrating times...but we get through them in a way most people can't or don't through Christ!
As you can see, I'm SUPER BUSY but it is totally worth it...I gotta peace out but here are some things on my heart to be praying for...
-continued motivation to invest in peoples' lives and glorify God with my two weeks here
-battle with pride, perfection and inadequacy--this has hit me HARD today for some reason...it has always been something I've had to ward off, but I feel like it has gotten the better of me recently...that said, I am MADE PERFECT in Christ, and made in GOD'S IMAGE! So, the battle is over already; I just have to not allow it to recur in my heart!
-consistency and fullness of my quiet times--I have been going through both a N.T. plan and Romans...by the way, Romans is CRAZY when you study it in detail!
In Christ,
Johnathan
Romans 12:9-21
I realize it has been OVER a month since I posted last; it is very unusual, but I have truly been busy. That said, today I have some time, so I am going to do a recap...
Project is winding down; with only 2 weeks left, there are still SO MANY THINGS I would like to do here but yet there are so many awesome things that I have done...a few things that stand out though over the last month are:
SAN FRANCISCO TRIP, July 9
This has been, to date, the most fun day I've had while in Santa Cruz! A huge group went to San Fran, but four of us went in my car: Leslie, Lauren, Patrick, and myself. It was AMAZING! We saw the golden gate (on a clear day!), walked on the golden gate, and took some amazing pictures! We saw Alcatraz and the wharf, and drove down the curviest road in America: Lombard Street! We also saw the "Full House" house...although it did not have the signature red door on it anymore...I have a couple of pics on facebook but it was actually kind of disappointing...anyway, we also went to the Coit Tower for some great views, and drove through much of the city and into Chinatown, which was CRAZY CROWDED...we didn't stop. We also had a GREAT meal at this place near the wharf before arriving at a San Francisco Giants baseball game, which was a lot of fun and a good chance to meet back up w/the whole group that left...I REALLY ENJOYED just chilling in San Fran. We didn't have too many conflicts of interest over our head, and we just simply chilled and did things on the fly, which is so unlike me but went so well. Check out my pictures on facebook for a visual recap!
Coffee Shop Outreach, July 11
So, as we do every week, we had our outreach. This particular one was a "coffee shop" theme, with free coffee and other such drinks, and an coffeehouse ambience. The setup looked AWESOME, the conversations were GREAT as well, and we had a SWEET band here called My Jeremiah! I talked with one guy in particular, Greg, while doing Soularium outreach...I was sort of skeptical of Soularium but I am starting to like it...he gave the MOST LEGIT answers I have ever heard...and he was interested in knowing God personally...anyway, I didn't get to talk with him all that long, but it was super encouraging...some others from project, Kelly and Adam, talked with him for a couple of hours though...that was the theme of the night--everything went well!
90's Themed JARDY (Jean Party), July 16
This was the outreach following the coffee shop, but instead of an outreach, it really turned into an inreach, which was bad...but we still have to rest on the fact that we are 100% successful. We learned a lot looking back on it...everyone wore their 90's jean attire...but there was little to no outreach. Firstly, it was on a Thursday night, which didn't bring that many people. The organization was lacking at best. I certainly saw it as a party instead of outreach, but it is something to learn from I guess.
Other Stuff
MNL
Monday Night Live has been awesome! When the staff left on July 6, we turned the leadership over to the "foursome" and they served us by washing our feet...it was an awesome display of servanthood and was a moving message...also we had our staff appreciation (THANKS ANDREW!!!) and for ours, we dressed up as WISEmen (since our staff was Andrew WISE!) and had a poem about Him...and GIFTS!!! It was awesome, and it went really well! The last few MNLs have gone well...we had a time of sharing once, and then we had the pastor from a local church (Twin Lakes) come with a great message about not being discouraged....
Vintage
So, we just wrapped up our time at Vintage Faith Church (where we have been serving for the summer)...Vintage was definitely different than my experience with church but I tried my best to take the good out (unfortunately I don't do that very well)...anyway they just wrapped up a series titled, "God in the movies" which was disturbing at first and after the first week I thought it was going to be AWFUL! But, it did not end up being that bad...the last couple of weeks had some fairly strong material...I just wish that they would center their stuff around God, the Word of God, and the gospel...but, the music is really good there and gives great glory to God! So, it does bring people where they have a chance in one way or another to hear the gospel, and there seems to be a great family feel there...I just need to remember that since the church, or body of Christ, is made up of US, then there are going to be inherent flaws with it...NO CHURCH IS PERFECT! That said, it will be nice to go to church back home and in Raleigh...
Work
So, I have only ONE week left at the Boardwalk...I am really going to miss the job and the people there...they are great people that I wish the best...I really want to talk with them about everything Christ is to me and what He has done for them as well....but I haven't had a lot of time, frankly...there is still some time left, though...Also, I won a paid hour lunch with anyone I want...so that is a chance right there! I like the nature of my job, although some rides are a lot better than others...I will definitely miss the perks, like free rides and other discounts, but I enjoyed them while they lasted!
Fellowship
So, the fellowship here over the last month has been AWESOME! I am hard-pressed to find any like it, even at NC State....it is the same as with my really close friends there! I see what Avis meant when she said you would remember project friends for a lifetime, and I am already planning ways to get to them (one word--ENCOUNTER!!!) Anyway, I am truly sad to be leaving them but I won't forget them and in all likelihood will see them A LOT! It is great to see so many people here for the same reason, that is, to share the love of Christ and glorify Him by giving Him their summers! It's not perfect...there are some frustrating times...but we get through them in a way most people can't or don't through Christ!
As you can see, I'm SUPER BUSY but it is totally worth it...I gotta peace out but here are some things on my heart to be praying for...
-continued motivation to invest in peoples' lives and glorify God with my two weeks here
-battle with pride, perfection and inadequacy--this has hit me HARD today for some reason...it has always been something I've had to ward off, but I feel like it has gotten the better of me recently...that said, I am MADE PERFECT in Christ, and made in GOD'S IMAGE! So, the battle is over already; I just have to not allow it to recur in my heart!
-consistency and fullness of my quiet times--I have been going through both a N.T. plan and Romans...by the way, Romans is CRAZY when you study it in detail!
In Christ,
Johnathan
Romans 12:9-21
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Luau to Monterey to Ferris Wheel...there's never a dull moment here!
Hey guys...there once again has been so much going on that I felt compelled to write once again! Things are still amazing here in Cali...I have had quite a few interesting days recently, so here we go with the list once again:
-SATURDAY NIGHT LUAU PARTAY!!--Basically, our weekly Saturday night outreach was a fun one this week: a Hawaiian-themed Luau party geared toward our coworkers...sadly none of them from my area of rides was able to come, but we did have 39 guests!! We just wanted to be loving and kind to them, showing a genuine interest and investment into their lives, and I think we did that...and we had SO MUCH FUN!!! We first had great chicken, veggie kabobs, and fruit...then it was time for S'MORES!! Afterwards, we had several great games such as foursquare (our favorite game at the Pan) and cornhole...then time for a group LIMBO contest...I am not flexible AT ALL so I bowed out early...then, my favorite part...DANCING to stuff like the electric slide, cupid shuffle, and also other popular songs...I used to hate dancing out of embarrassment or whatever...but for some reason ever since I became involved with Crusade, that wall is being broken down...it reminds me a lot of how Christ in his death has freed me up to not have to depend on what people think of me or adhering to a code well...anyway it was FUN!!! and hopefully more importantly those in the community could see Christ in us.
Trip to Monterey!!!-So, I had Monday off this week and we went to Monterey...I was the only guy in the group...there was another guy going but he decided not to...but anyway it was a LOT of fun as well!! We went on what is called the 17-mile drive, which is--you guessed it--17 miles of driving near Monterey and the Monterey Bay...it is famous for Pebble Beach, which is a really, really nice community with an amazing golf course...but there are also beautiful beaches there on the bay and other great sights....pictures are coming I promise (I still have not uploaded from LA lol) but afterwards we went to Carmel, which is a really pretty town close by, and we did a little (emphasis on little) shopping...got some funny pictures from there--and then ate in a park in Carmel...it was a really nice day to get away from the scheduled time here in Santa Cruz...I mean I love to be active and busy...but I think we all need a little time to take a step back and I was able to do that...the pictures can describe the day better than I can...God is amazing in His creation....if we are awestruck at the beauty and majesty of the CREATION, how much more will we be taken aback at the CREATOR?? We simply have an INCREDIBLE God!!!
Tuesday Work Fiasco--Today was literally a rollercoaster day at work....first I worked on the log ride, which is one of my favorites...we don't really do much there...my favorite part is being on top and getting the view of the park from about 50-60 feet up...it is so serene...but anyway I worked there for like 3 1/2 hours and then after supper was rotated to the ferris wheel...not my favorite, but I was like "okay, I've done it before, so it will be ok....NOT TRUE!!" Right after I rotated there, something happened and the ferris wheel became stuck...well, I know what happened...the ferris wheel overloaded, meaning that there was too much difference in weight across the wheel...the person before me loaded it differently than I do, so I had the fortune of receiving all the angry comments and expletives when the guests were stuck...I mean, I was basically handed a mess...anyway, after that mess calmed down it was actually a really good night...first, I got an extra 15 minute break and then after I returned everyone was so nice to me...I had one person commend me for being "happier than all the other ride operators..." I wanted to break straight into the gospel; but, considering I had about 15 seconds, I just explained that I try to make the best out of situations...anyway tonight will be another memorable night in the Santa Cruz database of my brain!!!
Other thoughts/prayer requests:
Our coworkers are starting to open up to us...it is awesome to see! I am getting a little discouraged, though, that none of them are making it to our dinners and activities...so I need to rest on God's plan and my place in that!
Pray for:
-our coworkers-I'm going to a party in the arcade tomorrow night and I know a couple of my leads from the area are going to be there...and just in general for their hearts to be receptive and such
-our morale regarding the coworkers-it's not about numbers; it's about glorifying God through our lives...so that we will rest on that
-my quiet time/time in general-so, one of the things I struggle with is having a routine quiet time...it's been going fairly well but there are times that I just don't feel up to it...may it be a JOY to have them, and also may I not be burned out here; we don't have too much free time and understandably so...just don't want to do so much that I start to get numbed so to speak to the project itenerary
Now, time to go...I'm REALLY TIRED
With Love in Christ,
Johnathan
Phillipians 3:7-12
-SATURDAY NIGHT LUAU PARTAY!!--Basically, our weekly Saturday night outreach was a fun one this week: a Hawaiian-themed Luau party geared toward our coworkers...sadly none of them from my area of rides was able to come, but we did have 39 guests!! We just wanted to be loving and kind to them, showing a genuine interest and investment into their lives, and I think we did that...and we had SO MUCH FUN!!! We first had great chicken, veggie kabobs, and fruit...then it was time for S'MORES!! Afterwards, we had several great games such as foursquare (our favorite game at the Pan) and cornhole...then time for a group LIMBO contest...I am not flexible AT ALL so I bowed out early...then, my favorite part...DANCING to stuff like the electric slide, cupid shuffle, and also other popular songs...I used to hate dancing out of embarrassment or whatever...but for some reason ever since I became involved with Crusade, that wall is being broken down...it reminds me a lot of how Christ in his death has freed me up to not have to depend on what people think of me or adhering to a code well...anyway it was FUN!!! and hopefully more importantly those in the community could see Christ in us.
Trip to Monterey!!!-So, I had Monday off this week and we went to Monterey...I was the only guy in the group...there was another guy going but he decided not to...but anyway it was a LOT of fun as well!! We went on what is called the 17-mile drive, which is--you guessed it--17 miles of driving near Monterey and the Monterey Bay...it is famous for Pebble Beach, which is a really, really nice community with an amazing golf course...but there are also beautiful beaches there on the bay and other great sights....pictures are coming I promise (I still have not uploaded from LA lol) but afterwards we went to Carmel, which is a really pretty town close by, and we did a little (emphasis on little) shopping...got some funny pictures from there--and then ate in a park in Carmel...it was a really nice day to get away from the scheduled time here in Santa Cruz...I mean I love to be active and busy...but I think we all need a little time to take a step back and I was able to do that...the pictures can describe the day better than I can...God is amazing in His creation....if we are awestruck at the beauty and majesty of the CREATION, how much more will we be taken aback at the CREATOR?? We simply have an INCREDIBLE God!!!
Tuesday Work Fiasco--Today was literally a rollercoaster day at work....first I worked on the log ride, which is one of my favorites...we don't really do much there...my favorite part is being on top and getting the view of the park from about 50-60 feet up...it is so serene...but anyway I worked there for like 3 1/2 hours and then after supper was rotated to the ferris wheel...not my favorite, but I was like "okay, I've done it before, so it will be ok....NOT TRUE!!" Right after I rotated there, something happened and the ferris wheel became stuck...well, I know what happened...the ferris wheel overloaded, meaning that there was too much difference in weight across the wheel...the person before me loaded it differently than I do, so I had the fortune of receiving all the angry comments and expletives when the guests were stuck...I mean, I was basically handed a mess...anyway, after that mess calmed down it was actually a really good night...first, I got an extra 15 minute break and then after I returned everyone was so nice to me...I had one person commend me for being "happier than all the other ride operators..." I wanted to break straight into the gospel; but, considering I had about 15 seconds, I just explained that I try to make the best out of situations...anyway tonight will be another memorable night in the Santa Cruz database of my brain!!!
Other thoughts/prayer requests:
Our coworkers are starting to open up to us...it is awesome to see! I am getting a little discouraged, though, that none of them are making it to our dinners and activities...so I need to rest on God's plan and my place in that!
Pray for:
-our coworkers-I'm going to a party in the arcade tomorrow night and I know a couple of my leads from the area are going to be there...and just in general for their hearts to be receptive and such
-our morale regarding the coworkers-it's not about numbers; it's about glorifying God through our lives...so that we will rest on that
-my quiet time/time in general-so, one of the things I struggle with is having a routine quiet time...it's been going fairly well but there are times that I just don't feel up to it...may it be a JOY to have them, and also may I not be burned out here; we don't have too much free time and understandably so...just don't want to do so much that I start to get numbed so to speak to the project itenerary
Now, time to go...I'm REALLY TIRED
With Love in Christ,
Johnathan
Phillipians 3:7-12
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Super Update!!!
So, I haven't written in eight days...it is time once again to update you guys! I have had many more awesome experiences! I'm going to try and condense each one but it will be hard lol! Anyway, here are some things that have been going on recently:
-Friday Night Training: We have this every Friday until staff leaves (it is now on Friday mornings because we work Friday nights)....anyway I'm in the leadership track, mostly because I've been able to hear the basic lessons through stuff at NC State and through my Bible study...but it has been REALLY HELPFUL because of leading a study next year! We have been going over Discipleship and Bible Study Leadership over the last two weeks and it is great to see and be with a group of leaders! Not that the basic training isn't good either, but I'm just really excited to bring what God has shown me and the staff back to Raleigh!
-Saturday Night Outreach (Soularium): So, Saturday night we had another outreach time, and this time we set up Soularium booths in downtown Santa Cruz, the wharf, the beach, and the Pan...coming into it I was not a big fan of Soularium but we prayed about it a lot and trusted in God to provide...and it was really disorganized but the Lord helped to break down the barriers I had set up regarding Soularium. Out here, it works really well! We got into several good conversations with it; this community is really receptive to tools such as Soularium...so that was awesome! Anyway, this coming Saturday we have a BIG outreach: a Hawaiian-themed party with outreach in mind...we have all been inviting our co-workers and I really think there will be a big crowd there...just want to rest on God, know we are 100% successful, and see what He does!
-Sunday Afternoon (also known as MAN TIME!!): Sunday afternoon brought one of the most awesome times of the project: men's and women's time...going into it I knew three things would happen: 1) we would tackle each other in some form 2) we would throw something at each other really hard 3) we would get in the water (which, by the way, is 55 DEGREES!!!)....and all of those things happened! We played volleyball, a game called ring of death which is sorta like flag football except it's head to head and you can tackle and stuff...really more a quickness game though...we also played dodgeball and fetch (just like a golden retriever) in the Monterey Bay! Afterwards, we had the BEST meal ever...STEAK, CHICKEN, corn on the cob, and watermelon...with NO UTENSILS!!! and after that were haagen-dazs ice cream bars! It was simply awesome...then we had time to see what it looked like to be a man of God, which was uplifting
-Monday Night Live: We had another great MNL; Mike spoke (how could it not be great with Mike Mehaffie speaking?) He spoke about how to walk with God for a lifetime, which was incredible...and great worship as well...reminds me a lot of NC State's Cru meetings....except with maybe 1/10 of the people! It makes for a good feel though....we are all friends here, and we all see each other every day which is awesome!
-Action Groups: Wednesday night brought the second week of action groups; this week we looked at how God values glorifying Him more than anything else, and what it looks like to live that way...it was AWESOME! Many of you may know 1 Corinthians 10:31 is my favorite verse; I think it sums up what our lives should be: in everything, give God the glory, and that's exactly what the chapter stressed, through many Biblical examples...I really felt engaged into the conversation this week; a lot of times I take a more relaxed role but for some reason I had a lot of input...God really showed me many things about glorifying Him! I pray that He is my "pure and holy passion" and that I continue to look to the cross in all things
-Thursday Night AKA FREE NIGHT: Thursday night was a free one for us. First, I went with several friends to Kianti's, which is a really good Italian place downtown...I got lasagna, being the basic person I am, and it was good (although IMO second to Amedeo's) and then I came back to the Pan to watch UNC get STOMPED in the College World Series!!! After that, we went to play Laser Tag and Bowling, both of which were really fun! The bowling alley is better than Rainbow Lanes...so it was nice
-Friday (PAYDAY!!): So, we got our first check....YAY!! We also met to get things ready for the HAWAIIAN party tomorrow! We also had our first night shift...which meant for me 3:30 to 10:30...not bad, actually a lot of fun! I got to work at the log flume ride, which was busy initially, but later thinned out really well...by 9:30 there was hardly anyone left...I enjoyed being able to interact with coworkers and just kid around...had a chance to talk with several coworkers today, which is a great thing....probably the most far-reaching ministry we have! Also, I got to ride the Giant Dipper (roller coaster) at night, just before we closed for the night...it is a great ride, especially at night! Then, we went to Pizza My Heart downtown for a midnight meal...another sweet day!
Other thoughts:
-I was really frustrated today with the Hawaiian party preparations: everybody was freaking out about it and there was no need for it...fortunately I have calmed down since then and everything seems to be ok. I still cannot get over how INCREDIBLE the fellowship is here! We are always doing something together, and we just bond so well! I can see myself doing something within Crusade for a living...the level of bonding within Cru is amazing because everyone loves the Lord and then others! I'm not saying for sure but I'd love to make a career w/in it!
Prayer Requests:
-The party tomorrow, that it would be glorifying to God and outreach-oriented
-Our hearts, that they are Christ-centered and that everything is with pure motives
-Diligence in talking with coworkers and investing in their lives
-The Santa Cruz community in general
I know this is super super super long but it spans about 10 days so sorta had to be! Anyway, until I type again...
In Christ's Love,
Johnathan
Philippians 3:7-8
-Friday Night Training: We have this every Friday until staff leaves (it is now on Friday mornings because we work Friday nights)....anyway I'm in the leadership track, mostly because I've been able to hear the basic lessons through stuff at NC State and through my Bible study...but it has been REALLY HELPFUL because of leading a study next year! We have been going over Discipleship and Bible Study Leadership over the last two weeks and it is great to see and be with a group of leaders! Not that the basic training isn't good either, but I'm just really excited to bring what God has shown me and the staff back to Raleigh!
-Saturday Night Outreach (Soularium): So, Saturday night we had another outreach time, and this time we set up Soularium booths in downtown Santa Cruz, the wharf, the beach, and the Pan...coming into it I was not a big fan of Soularium but we prayed about it a lot and trusted in God to provide...and it was really disorganized but the Lord helped to break down the barriers I had set up regarding Soularium. Out here, it works really well! We got into several good conversations with it; this community is really receptive to tools such as Soularium...so that was awesome! Anyway, this coming Saturday we have a BIG outreach: a Hawaiian-themed party with outreach in mind...we have all been inviting our co-workers and I really think there will be a big crowd there...just want to rest on God, know we are 100% successful, and see what He does!
-Sunday Afternoon (also known as MAN TIME!!): Sunday afternoon brought one of the most awesome times of the project: men's and women's time...going into it I knew three things would happen: 1) we would tackle each other in some form 2) we would throw something at each other really hard 3) we would get in the water (which, by the way, is 55 DEGREES!!!)....and all of those things happened! We played volleyball, a game called ring of death which is sorta like flag football except it's head to head and you can tackle and stuff...really more a quickness game though...we also played dodgeball and fetch (just like a golden retriever) in the Monterey Bay! Afterwards, we had the BEST meal ever...STEAK, CHICKEN, corn on the cob, and watermelon...with NO UTENSILS!!! and after that were haagen-dazs ice cream bars! It was simply awesome...then we had time to see what it looked like to be a man of God, which was uplifting
-Monday Night Live: We had another great MNL; Mike spoke (how could it not be great with Mike Mehaffie speaking?) He spoke about how to walk with God for a lifetime, which was incredible...and great worship as well...reminds me a lot of NC State's Cru meetings....except with maybe 1/10 of the people! It makes for a good feel though....we are all friends here, and we all see each other every day which is awesome!
-Action Groups: Wednesday night brought the second week of action groups; this week we looked at how God values glorifying Him more than anything else, and what it looks like to live that way...it was AWESOME! Many of you may know 1 Corinthians 10:31 is my favorite verse; I think it sums up what our lives should be: in everything, give God the glory, and that's exactly what the chapter stressed, through many Biblical examples...I really felt engaged into the conversation this week; a lot of times I take a more relaxed role but for some reason I had a lot of input...God really showed me many things about glorifying Him! I pray that He is my "pure and holy passion" and that I continue to look to the cross in all things
-Thursday Night AKA FREE NIGHT: Thursday night was a free one for us. First, I went with several friends to Kianti's, which is a really good Italian place downtown...I got lasagna, being the basic person I am, and it was good (although IMO second to Amedeo's) and then I came back to the Pan to watch UNC get STOMPED in the College World Series!!! After that, we went to play Laser Tag and Bowling, both of which were really fun! The bowling alley is better than Rainbow Lanes...so it was nice
-Friday (PAYDAY!!): So, we got our first check....YAY!! We also met to get things ready for the HAWAIIAN party tomorrow! We also had our first night shift...which meant for me 3:30 to 10:30...not bad, actually a lot of fun! I got to work at the log flume ride, which was busy initially, but later thinned out really well...by 9:30 there was hardly anyone left...I enjoyed being able to interact with coworkers and just kid around...had a chance to talk with several coworkers today, which is a great thing....probably the most far-reaching ministry we have! Also, I got to ride the Giant Dipper (roller coaster) at night, just before we closed for the night...it is a great ride, especially at night! Then, we went to Pizza My Heart downtown for a midnight meal...another sweet day!
Other thoughts:
-I was really frustrated today with the Hawaiian party preparations: everybody was freaking out about it and there was no need for it...fortunately I have calmed down since then and everything seems to be ok. I still cannot get over how INCREDIBLE the fellowship is here! We are always doing something together, and we just bond so well! I can see myself doing something within Crusade for a living...the level of bonding within Cru is amazing because everyone loves the Lord and then others! I'm not saying for sure but I'd love to make a career w/in it!
Prayer Requests:
-The party tomorrow, that it would be glorifying to God and outreach-oriented
-Our hearts, that they are Christ-centered and that everything is with pure motives
-Diligence in talking with coworkers and investing in their lives
-The Santa Cruz community in general
I know this is super super super long but it spans about 10 days so sorta had to be! Anyway, until I type again...
In Christ's Love,
Johnathan
Philippians 3:7-8
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Week 2, Part 1!
Hey guys! I haven't written in a week so there is a lot to talk about...I hope I don't get too carried away! This is one of two posts on the week, for two reasons.... 1) it will be a book if I don't! 2) I have work in 45 minutes LOL! Now to the week...First, we actually started on our jobs...in my case that meant operating rides. Most of the time, I worked at Wipe Out, which is a scrambler type ride; basically there are three arms that rotate and cars on each arm that rotate as well...gets you a little dizzy lol! but anyway I was sort of nervous because there is a lot of power in those rides and it is all up to me to keep it controlled, but it is actually really easy and if I ever doubted the safety of theme park rides, I don't anymore, because only a huge mechanical failure would actually injure someone...I have also operated a kiddie whale ride called Bulgy, where the whales go around in a circle like 6 times per minute and there are several HUGE 18 INCH DROPS! LOL but anyway that one is actually the most fun just because of the interactions with kids...I also worked a ride called cyclone, which is the one that spins you really fast so that centrifugal forces take over and pin you to the seat....this is where I rant a little...because I don't like working it at all...the riders first of all DON'T LISTEN! they insist on putting their feet up or sticking their hands out...it gets SO FRUSTRATING! and you can't see how many people are on the ride from the entrance, so you have to count in your head, which sounds easy but is not when you have to check heights and take tickets...thus I go back and forth to fill the ride up...and then when you exit you have to line the ride up perfectly or the door won't open! Enough of the complaints though! Santa Cruz has been AMAZING! But anyway here are a couple of the other highlights of the first part of the week:
-Monday Night Live--this is like our weekly Crusade meetings...we have one every Monday night (kind of obvious) with emcees, P & W, and a speaker...we have two great bands; many of the NC State Crusaders are in them...but they are a lot of fun...and after every MNL meeting, we go to an ice cream shop just down the road, just like going to Bojangles! They have really good ice cream there; my personal favorite is oreo!
-Action Groups—this is our Bible study which we do each Wednesday night…I have 5 roommates: Andrew (our staff member and leader), from the University of Arkansas, Caleb (from UNCW), Ricky (from the University of Tennessee), Gordon (from NC State woot woot!), and Zach (from Western Kentucky)…it has been awesome getting to know them and building friendships with them! We are reading an awesome book called Experiencing God Within…great book based on solid Biblical truth!
Anyway I gotta blast off…always busy here but really enjoy it!
In Christ’s Love,
Johnathan
Galatians 5:16
-Monday Night Live--this is like our weekly Crusade meetings...we have one every Monday night (kind of obvious) with emcees, P & W, and a speaker...we have two great bands; many of the NC State Crusaders are in them...but they are a lot of fun...and after every MNL meeting, we go to an ice cream shop just down the road, just like going to Bojangles! They have really good ice cream there; my personal favorite is oreo!
-Action Groups—this is our Bible study which we do each Wednesday night…I have 5 roommates: Andrew (our staff member and leader), from the University of Arkansas, Caleb (from UNCW), Ricky (from the University of Tennessee), Gordon (from NC State woot woot!), and Zach (from Western Kentucky)…it has been awesome getting to know them and building friendships with them! We are reading an awesome book called Experiencing God Within…great book based on solid Biblical truth!
Anyway I gotta blast off…always busy here but really enjoy it!
In Christ’s Love,
Johnathan
Galatians 5:16
Monday, June 8, 2009
Weekend Numero Uno at the Pan!
Hey guys! Week one has passed in Santa Cruz, and week two brings us to our actual jobs...I am operating rides...Saturday was a day of training for the whole Seaside Company....it lasted FOREVER!!! But eventually we finished that and hung out some before our first outreach...which was CRAZY!!! I went with Ricky, a guy in my Action Group, and Annie; both are from Tennessee...Anyway, we talked to a few people and tried to get the general feel for spiritual things, and I soon found out just how wacky the views are here! I talked to one guy named Tommy, and soon after starting to converse with him I knew it was going to be interesting...he mentioned something about the lost city of Atlantis and how today's technology and civilization exists because of the people there...that they reincarnated here or something...he also said that the Bible is in the stars and that UFOs are prevalent in old Biblical paintings and that they had something to do with Jesus and His resurrection?!?! It's easy to see the need for Christ in this community...just can't forget that no matter the stats or numbers, we are 100% successful because we are going out and spreading the love of Christ! It is such a relief to look upon it in that way...anyway, on Sunday we go to a local church and help with them...I think it is awesome to become involved with a church body...we are working at Vintage Faith Church. Vintage is very, very contemporary, which is not a bad thing in itself...the big thing is that they didn't really base their service on Biblical text; the pastor simply supported his points with verses (there wasn't a central passage). Also, he didn't mention ANY verses until about halfway through the sermon...wouldn't be my choice of a church but I have to trust that God has me there for a reason...it is quite unlike my home church and different from Providence as well...I hope to view it with a fresh perspective next week...Anyway, after church a bunch of the NC State crowd hung out with Todd Smith and David Dagenhart, who came on a national park trip and stayed at the Pan! We got free ride passes for them and rode rides together...riding rides is going to happen many times while here but they are a lot of fun! Especially with project friends! Anyway, on to week two!! I will update soon but for now, keep it real! Continue to pray for unity within the project as well as the coworkers we will interact with and the town as a whole...as you can see, there are some interesting views out there unlike anything I've seen in NC
With Love in Christ,
Johnathan
2 Corinthians 5:21
With Love in Christ,
Johnathan
2 Corinthians 5:21
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