Wednesday, February 8, 2012

A Franciscan Blessing

It has been some time ago, but I heard this blessing prayed and never forgot it.  May you find strength in it.

May God bless you with discomfort at easy answers, half truths, and superficial relationships, so that you may live deep within your heart.

May God bless you with anger at injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people, so that you may work for justice, freedom and peace.


May God bless you with tears to shed for those who suffer from pain, rejection, starvation, and war, so that you may reach out your hand to comfort them and to turn their pain in to joy.


And may God bless you with enough foolishness to believe that you can make a difference in this world, so that you can do what others claim cannot be done.

Thursday, February 2, 2012

Well, I'm official!

I just received my confirmation that I have been accepted and added as a Professional Speaker with The Source for Youth Ministry.  This, in a way, is a long time coming.
The Source for Youth Ministry Speaker Page.

It has been a thought of mine for quite some time to travel and speak.  That thought has been confirmed through people numerous times over the last 6-8 years.  I have dreamed with friends, thought the "what if", and played out numerous scenarios of what it could end up being.  And as with most things, I shoved it to the side and did "practical" ministry that had a salary and left no time for anything else besides family.

About 4 months ago I was made aware I would be getting a new position over multiple ministries.  My evenings would be more free and time freed up to pursue other adventures (I am actually MORE busy now..;-)  But with this window I felt I needed to seize the opportunity.  I applied and sent in my DVD.  A month ago I received a call from the Founder and CEO of The Source 4YM and we talked.  He dug, I answered.  He asked for more info, references and such.  I obliged.

Then, my phone call came:  "I would love to add you to our team."

It was a bit of a surreal moment.  Not that I am going to get many opportunities at the beginning.  But who knows?  I didn't plan on moving across the country 4 years ago either.  ;-)  In reality, my heart and passion lie at Van Dyke Church.

Now, for the first time since moving to Tampa, I am excited AND confident I am exactly where I am supposed to be.  There is so much more in store for this church and the Student Ministry as well.

God kept saying, "Hang on.  I didn't leave you hanging."  More is coming.  You were obedient and I am going to reward that."

I have a promotion.  I have a wonderful staff.  I have an opportunity to travel and speak. I have an amazing church.

My family is blessed.

And it has just begun.