CBCGB 2012 Winter Retreat: Recap

The Anticipation: One of my friends from seminary (Jen Lin) asked if I would be interested in speaking at her 2012 Winter Retreat. I received an email from her on September 14, 2011 titled, “Doing anything Feb. 24-26? Smiley face smiley face”. It took me 2 hours to check my calendar and replied, “consider it done!” More smiley faces.  This would be her first retreat since becoming the Jr. high pastor there and this would be my first jr. high only retreat to speak at. Needless to say…we were both a bit nervous and excited about the retreat. There were a couple of things that I wanted to do right away: 1) start my homework. I wanted to figure out the theme as soon as possible just so I could begin to pray over the topics and begin studying the passage. 2) I wanted to do my research of the church, the youth, and the leaders. Let me clue you in on how I did this:

1. Once Jen told me that theme was “Ready to Lose” and the verse came out of Philippians 3 I began to pray through the sessions. She told me that I had 4 talks to mold around the vision of “losing everything to follow Christ.” I think I spent the next month praying through the topic and asking God what in the world he would want me to speak to the students about. Then I started to dig through Philippians 3. Starting in verse 7 all the way to verse 14 the text broke down fairly well. Note: I wanted to let the text determine my points and my messages. So as I continued to study the passage, I broke down (as I saw it) into 4 parts – 7-8a; 8b-11; 12; and 13-14. Then with the theme in mind I kept asking, “what is Paul trying to communicate here?” Is there a process of losing? And I saw 4 things: 1) Paul counting all things as lost (even his achievements); 2) Paul suffering for the sake of Christ; 3) Paul striving to know Jesus; and 4) Paul forgetting and straining. From there I spent the next several months really digging into the verses exegetically.  I wanted to make sure I knew the text – each word, main idea, context, commentaries, etc. When it got closer to the retreat…I started asking, “What does this mean for the youth at CBCGB?” Which leads me to #2

2. I think if you’re going to speak to a group of people, you gotta know your audience. At first, my only frame of reference to jr. high kids were the ones at CBC. Now I know those kids because I work with them and I’ve been with them for over 7 months now. They know me and how we do things here…but I had no clue who the students in Boston were like. So I started to research the best way I knew how – facebook. I tried to get as much info on them as possible so I went to Jen’s and Stan’s facebooks and just tried to get an idea of what these kids were like. I also asked Jen through gchat about the students. Questions like: “what kind of students are they? How big is the group? What are some of the challenges that they’re going through?  Where are they at spiritually? How involved are their parents? What is the structure of the church? How about the staff structure? How old is the church and where do they land theologically?” I browsed through facebook pictures of events they went to. Unfortunately, their CBCGB facebook page was a bit lacking so I didn’t get much info from there. Their link though helped a little bit more. I looked through last year’s winter retreat blogs and pictures and registration forms. That helped a bit but there wasn’t much about the theme, what to expect, etc. So after all of this…I had an OK view of my audience…at least enough to feel confident in my messages.

5am Houston to Boston: I remember the week before leaving, the nerves overtook me and part of me was deathly afraid of going to speak. I was scared about everything and the what ifs started to creep up. “What if the kids don’t listen to me? What if the messages don’t make no sense much good? What if the plane crashes and I have to defend myself against a pack of angry wolves without the help of Liam Neeson?” My selfishness told me to stay here where it’s more comfortable. Houston is where everyone listens to me and my youth always pay attention to everything I have to say. But God continued to remind me, “Hey stupid…this is about me, not you, your job is to be faithful to your call and teach and preach to my people…not yours.” And yet again, He won.

5am and Aunt Trudy (one of my admin moms) takes me to the airport. Thanks Aunt Trudy! The plan was to refine the messages a bit more…but I can’t stay awake on planes so I just sleep. Jen picks me up and we just chill out for awhile until we get to church to work on more camp stuff. By the way, if you’re a CBCGB student/leader reading this…just know that Jen doesn’t stop working. She does her best so that you can experience the best possible retreat. Be gracious. That night we do pizza and we crash fairly early.
Retreat 2012: It would take me 209401 pages to write a full report on all that I’ve experience (and you’ll probably won’t read it) so I’ll just do this in bullets…go!

1. Weather: So apparently, 20 degrees is cold. I mean, “I think my blood is frozen” cold. I actually made a last minute decision thanks to Tina to bring my “big” jacket. Again, she saved my life. The day I left Houston, it was 80 degrees. The first night at the retreat it was like 20. And then there was this one kid who wore shorts. Crazy kid.

2. Camp Site: The camp was held in New Hampshire (I think) at a family-owned site  called “Maranatha”. I had several chances to actually meet the family and they’re wonderful people with a tremendous amount of patience and love for youth. So I’m used to retreat sites where it takes 1.7 minutes to get from my cabin to anything else. From the main worship center to the dining room was a 10 minute walk – up a mountain. I think my calves are twice its original size now. Highlights though: beautiful scenery, a blazing fire during meals, and a beverage buffet that was stellar. Oh, and one of the meals we actually ate outside in the snow. Parents, you’re going to love this – so they give pointy sticks to each kid and hot dogs and they get to roast them over these open fire pits. My first thought was “hmmm….shorts kids with sharp sticks running around...i’m going to get stabbed in the eyeball or somewhere worse.”

3. Sessions: I was pretty nervous about speaking…and I think it was more so because I really didn’t know the students all too well. But I kept on remembering the words of encouragement from the youth back at CBC, my discipleship, and my youth leaders. I think I could have refined the messages a lot more…there were times when I felt like I was a bit too dependent on my notes or the powerpoint. I also felt like it could have been a lot more clear and direct. And I guess this is why I continue to love the sovereignty of God, because if he moved in the hearts of the students…it had to be all him. The goal was to be as transparent and honest about the Christian faith as possible. I wanted to communicate that there was a difference between religion and actually following after Jesus. I wanted to challenge them to actually chase Jesus for the sake of joy instead of a duty-driven mentality of begrudging submission. All in all, I believe God used whatever we did there to glorify himself. *if you want to download a copy of the manuscripts, please go to www.cbc-youth.com and under resources and messages will be a copy.

4. Evaluation: I’m hopeful for the youth at CBCGB. I pray that the Lord convicted some of them of their pride, comfort them in the midst of trials and suffering, refocus their priorities on Him and Him alone, and finally helping them understand that the Cross of Christ covers all sins and nobody is out of the love and grace of his love. I pray that the guys there finally take their place and begin developing into godly men and stop acting like little boys. I pray that the youth understand the steps to gospel-centered growth. I think for the ones who really wanted to grow…they got something out of it. I believe there were multiple salvations and many more commitments. One student came up to me and in tears just said, “I think I want to do this.” At first I wasn’t sure what he meant and realized it was about following Jesus. And so I asked him, “You sure? You know what this means right? It’s a total sacrifice and commitment.” And sobbing he nodded yes. “Then you ask him to be your salvation. Ask him to save and grow you.” And as he silently and with great passion asked the Lord to save him…I was just in awe of how great and awesome our Lord is. Understanding theologically everything there is to know about salvation…but seeing it happen right in front of your face. That was a blessing.

5. Counselors: I continue to believe that the backbone of youth ministry is held together by its leaders & counselors. These are the ones who give up everything and demand nothing in return. They are spend everything and are not paid. They sleep little, work lots, and give it their all. These counselors here are no different. I observed them before, during, and after the retreat and my heart was again humbled by these servants. They were asked to drive to camp and back, to shuttle the students up and down the mountain, and stand outside in the freezing cold. Not only did they counsel, they led workshops, discipled, played with, and trained these students. I never heard them complain. In fact, they took the initiative to serve whenever they saw the need. Students, these counselors love you yes…but that love is motivated by the love of Christ. They value the gospel more than anything and because of that it transforms their action. Thank you counselors for serving your guts out this weekend and being a part of the transformative process of these youth. I thank you as a guest for allowing me to partner with you in ministry. If you ever need resources about anything…please let me know. A lot of our leadership training could also be found on our youth website.

I’m extremely gracious for this opportunity. For my youth back at CBC for allowing me to minister to other youth for a weekend and teaching them the things we learn at home. Thank you to my church for giving me these opportunities to be challenged and exercise my gifts. Thank you to Tina for always encouraging me to be better and reminding me that it is about Jesus. Thank you Jen for trusting me to speak to your youth and giving me the chance to minister to them. Thank you CBCGB and Metro West Church for allowing me to pastor you for a bit. Thanks for not throwing anything at me or pranking me. Thanks for being so warm and welcoming to a new person from Texas…and I hope one day soon we get to do this again.

Lastly, youth of CBCGB…do not slow down, do not give up…continue to pursue Christ with all your heart…because he’s so worth it. We at CBC Youth will continue to pray for you – that you play your part well and that one day we get to meet and share stories of how God moved in Boston and in Houston.

The Church Game

The Church Game

We've seen this game played out many times in the youth group. It's this warped sense of Christianity that is not true but because we never corrected it or because of straight up rebellion, it has become an unfortunate virus spreading through our churches. We like to call ourselves "Christians" but have we just deceived ourselves? Have we just turned this Christianity thing into a game? There are 7 elements to the church game...and if you're not paying attention, chances are you're already playing it.

John 10:10a "the thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy..."

Here are some tips if you want to play the church game:

1.                   Stay Shallow: Make sure to stay as shallow as possible in your faith. The less effort you put forth in growing the better. Why? Because growing takes too much work and besides, you have better things to do (like beating your friends in games). If you stay shallow, you don't need to have any responsibilities. You can just settle for how things are. And it's not that bad is it? Don't challenge yourself...it's too hard. Plus sometimes it's just awkward right? And surely if you try to grow you'll make things awkward for yourself and others. But make sure you do some things so that you can seem like you have it all together. Just so people won't judge you. The biggest thing is that you make sure you're happy. Just do whatever you want. Things will work themselves out one day. I'm pretty sure you'll get into heaven if you just attend church. Actually...i bet you'll become healthy and wealthy at the same time.

DON’T CHALLENGE YOURSELF…IT’S TOO HARD!

 

2.                   Be an Island: Whatever you do, don't trust other people. Yes, they may seem like they care...but once you open up to them, they might betray you. Always assume the worst of people. That's why you should only be friends with a small group of people and not open yourself to others. Distance yourself from people. Or at least make sure they talk to you first. There's no need for you to go talk with them. Find people who are exactly like you so that they can always tell you that you're doing well. If anyone says anything negative about you drop 'em like its hot. You don't need that in your life. Besides, they probably have issues themselves too and who are they to judge you. Try not to share your soul with anyone. They might judge you and think you're a sinner. Do your own thing whenever you want to. What matters is that you do what you want to do when you want to do it. I'm sure everyone does that too right? Only be involved in things when it concerns you. But when it doesn't...you can do whatever you want. So make sure your cell phone is ready because when you get bored, you can play.
 

3.                   You're smarter: Always remember that you have all the answers. You don't need to study or learn after Elementary school because not only have you learned all the Sunday school lessons but because you already know how the world works. People should follow you on facebook and twitter because your opinions are golden. Make sure that you never apologize for whatever you say because you don't need to. You're always right and even if people think you're wrong...chances are that they are wrong or are jealous. Yeah...you don't need to study scripture or theology or doctrine...it's too hard. I mean, you have all these classes that you're taking and plus, it's boring. You don't get any school credit for it nor does it help your GPA. Don't worry about it. Leave it up to other people to deal with it. Ah...but when people try to teach you, make sure you give them your opinion on the matter. They are probably out of date and they probably don't have the same opinions that you have. Oooh, and make sure you don't ask questions - people will think you're dumb. Don't ask for help, you probably don't need it...i mean, i'm sure whatever you think is right.

4.                   Serve Yourself: Remember that you're the center of the universe. I mean the Bible does say that God loves you more than anything right? And his goal in life is to make you happy so he gives you everything so that you can be happy on earth. For God so loved you right? So make sure that whatever money you have...spend it on yourself. I mean, you earned it and why would you give up something you earned. Hold on to that and continue to get as much as you can. When it comes to time, again...you need to do whatever fits your schedule. God created other people for you so make sure they're on your schedule. The most important thing is that you enjoy your life now and worry about the consequences later. Oh yeah, those talents you have...those are your talents. Make sure you use them well so that you can get ahead in life. All those other people are jealous of your talent so make sure you tell them about it. Being a leader means telling people what to do…it really doesn’t apply to you. Just make sure you command people to do what you don’t do. But also make sure you complain about serving if you do it. They need you and in reality, you sacrifice so much to give…why shouldn’t people honor you? You deserve it!

YOU ARE THE CENTER 

OF THE UNIVERSE

5.                   Submit to No One: Whatever you do, don't submit to anyone. You are your own person and you don't answer to anyone. Everyone is equal so nobody can tell you what to do or how to act. Even when people use the bible to talk to you about stuff...don't listen to them because they're probably using it to judge you and nobody should judge you. Accountability is over-rated. You probably know what's best for your own life so just do whatever you feel like. Everyone is always up in people's business anyway...they don't need to be up in yours. Besides, you don't need more people like your parents in your life telling you what to do and what not to do. They're too old to understand what your life is really about anyway. Don't trust them. They probably just tell you stuff because they don't want you to be happy. Also, you're not held accountable to anyone anyways. Those kids younger than you need to learn the hard way - on their own. That's how you learned. You didn't listen to nobody and look how you turned out. So make sure you don't teach them anything...don't mentor them. It's probably too hard anyways. I mean, they probably won't appreciate you like they should. Plus, it's always too hard to get a hold of them. And i mean, you have too much stuff to do anyways. You don't need that added stress in your life.

6.                   Keep it Secret: Hey...you got saved, that's all that matters. Now that you're saved you're pretty much off the hook and you can do whatever you'd like to do. Don't worry about everyone else out there...the important thing is that you're saved. Those people out there are probably too messed up to be a Christian...so don't worry about them. Besides, i'm sure you don't have the time to go talk to them about it, or i'm pretty sure it'll be crazy awkward. They might think you're a stalker or something. I mean, someone will do it right? It doesn't have to be you. You're too young anyway to make a difference. They probably wouldn't want to talk to you about it even if we went up to them. What would you even say? What if you get the facts wrong? What if you can't answer a question and they think Christianity is stupid? Yeah, you're right...the best thing is probably not to go tell people. I mean, it's not that important anyways. It's not like a requirement or anything. What matters is that you're in...now you can do whatever you want.

YOU GOT SAVED…

THAT’S ALL THAT MATTERS

7.                   Pray Occasionally: The only time you need to pray is really for meals or when you need God to do something for you. Outside of those things, you can probably handle it on your own. But make sure you know how to pray because when you are forced to pray...you can say some pretty big words to impress people of how spiritual you are. You don't need to pray all the time...just when you feel like it or remember. And if you do pray, make sure to pray only for yourself. Pray that God gives you good grades and makes you happy. Isn't it true that God is waiting to hear from you? Probably because He's lonely or bored. 

Unfortunately, this is the game we've played, are playing, or will play if we don't pay attention. The problem isn't that we're doing this or even think this way...the real problem is that we're missing out on something bigger and better. We sacrifice ultimate joy for what we believe is a better plan. In essence, we say "forget God's way...i know what's best." We play this game because we're prideful and selfish and in the end, we think we know better. And instead of humbly submitting our lives at the feet of Christ and asking him to lead us, we proudly stand on top of the cross and say, "Yeah...don't worry I got this." Is this you? Do you fall into this mentality or this kind of life?

Why do you settle for this Christian? Yes following Jesus is not as easy as we thought…but he’s worth it. But do you believe him? Do you trust him? May your eyes be opened and your hearts be transformed to see that this is nothing near what Christ has called us to. 

John 10:10b “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

Status Check

James 2:16 and one of you says to them, "Go in peace, be warmed and filled," without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?

Someone walks into your assembly (a member of the family no less) and there's something that stands out about them. Before you pick up your head to see who came in, you can kind of smell that there's a bit of funkiness that's wafting towards you. You're right - they're dirty. And by the looks of it, the dude doesn't look all that safe...probably hungry too. But that's not your problem. You don't owe him nothing. I mean, who knows...he could have deserved what happened to him. What if he made a series of bad choices...that's on him, not your fault. But wait...he's coming towards you. 

You think, "Man, i didn't want this to happen. Why is there an empty spot next to me? I knew i should have sat somewhere else." But he comes any ways and he slouches down right next to you. He smiles and says, "Hi, you having a good day?" What do you say? You're really trying to hold your breathe from gagging. But you answer, "Yeah. i'm good." You exhale as you look away. But he doesn't stop talking. Doesn't he know that it's service? I'm pretty sure he's distracting everyone around us. I bet people are looking at the two of you now and thinks you're part of the problem too. You're nice though and you politely nod your head while looking down at your hands hoping that he'd shut up and let you worship. 

Last song. Service ends. You made it. The goal is now to leave as fast as possible so the guy doesn't talk to you again. But before you can make your exit, he uncomfortably grabs your arm. Calloused hands. Probably dirty. You cringe. "Hey...can i borrow some cash for a cab ride home? or maybe some money for food?" You look concerned and you tap your pockets, "Sorry. Don't have anything for you." You lied. It's ok though...you probably saved him from buying booze or enabling him to do something sinful. "Sorry...buy i'll be praying for you though." As you leave you feel guilty for a second. But then, you said you'd pray for them and right then and there..."God, please be with that man." All is done...

...or is it? 

Feb. 2012 Youth Praise: Recap

Philippians 1:27  Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel 


1. Is your life consistent? Following Jesus doesn't restrict itself to only Sundays but it's everywhere you go and whatever you think. Notice something: our lives are already found in the Gospel of Christ...so we want to live a manner of life worthy of it. The heart changes the actions...not the other way around. We want to encourage you to really think through this one...does what i say, how i act, and what i do really reflect what i believe about Jesus?

• If yes, then how can you continue to grow and challenge yourself to grow even more? 
• If no, where do you need to confess and repent? What are some areas that are inconsistent? If you feel like you're always struggling with this or if you need to talk with someone please click here:  http://www.cbc-youth.com/contact.html

2. Are you striving side by side? This journey of faith that we've been put on isn't meant to be traveled on alone. Yes, i know some of you are tough and awesome. Yes, i know that some of you have trust issues because someone has burnt you before. But...our faith is symbolized as a "family" and we are to live this out together. What does that mean? Well...it means that we think the best of each other instead of putting each other down. It means we actually do life with each other and we open ourselves up to each other as well. We talk with one another about how things are really going. It also means we look out for one another...1) to help them grow and 2) when they look like they're hurting themselves. What are some ways you can do this here?

• Attend our weekly gatherings: ACCESS on Fridays, Church Service & Sunday School on Sundays. 
• Come to DNOW, Java Jam, World Changers, and New York with us. To sign up or get more info click here:  http://www.cbc-youth.com/events.html
• Call each other up often and check up on them. Text someone you typically don't talk to. Pray with people when you see them. And be patient in doing this because this striving side-by-side takes a long time.

3. What the point? In the end, we want to live the best possible life there is. We learn from Scripture that this life is done best by first and foremost...following after Jesus for all things. Second, we see that it is done with others that have the same goal. Lastly, we do all of this because we believe the Gospel to be real and for us who have experienced its beauty and power...there's nothing else that will do.