Young Adults

Come & Gather

2011-09-23T01:03:00.000-07:00

You don't want to miss the next Come & Gather!
It's on Saturday September 24. Meet at Denny's on the Carlisle Pike in Mechanicsburg directly after the Saturday night service. This is a great way to connect!

2011-08-28T18:18:00.000-07:00

September 11 @ 6 pm

Join us in the cafe for a Patriotic Movie followed by a time of prayer for our nation. Popcorn provided. Bring a drink or snack!

August 14 Potluck after church

2011-08-11T10:00:00.000-07:00

It's a potluck! Bring something to share like:
Wings
Pasta salad
Rolls
Grapes
Chunks of cheese
Pretzels

Walt & Debra Benedict
Memphord Estates (off Siddonsburg Road)
40 Summer Drive
Dillsburg 17019

Phone 432-9106

Pool party at the Kindall's

2011-06-05T04:35:00.000-07:00

Sunday June 12 from noon - 5 pm.

Bring your swimsuit, towel, lawn chair, pool toys, sun block AND a side dish/drink to share! There will be burgers & dogs provided by the LAUNCH Young Adult ministry.

Jay & Melissa Kindall
8937 Jonestown Road
Grantville, PA 17028
469.0035

Men's Paintball Outing

2011-05-22T19:08:00.000-07:00

Saturday June 25
10:00 am - 1:00 pm
in Dillsburg

Cost is $35 per person. That includes lunch (2 slices of pizza & drink) and equipment (gun, mask & 500 rounds of ammunition).

Deadline to sign up (with payment) is June 5. Contact Duaine with any questions: Duaine@projectdragonfly.net

Cindy is back to talk about dating!

2011-05-02T03:43:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendars for Sunday May 22 in the cafe with Cindy J!

Cindy's seminar in February on intimacy and sex was such a hit that she is coming back for round two! This time she'll be talking about dating and answering your questions. If YOU have a topic or question about dating that you'd like for her to address, please submit it by May 6. No question is too silly or personal!

(And whether you're currently in a relationship or not you are still encouraged to attend!)

Come & Gather directions

2011-04-27T06:36:00.000-07:00

Join us after church for a pot luck lunch! Bring your favorite dish that mom used to make. Then on Mother's day, tell her what a hit it was!

Lance & Jan Borden

Easter Poem

2011-04-17T02:52:00.000-07:00

Beautiful Man
author unknown

In the burning heat of the day
You hang before the eyes of mankind;
naked, abused, and alone,
Oh, so painfully alone!

Your beautiful brow
bleeding from the crown of thorns,
promises that I, too, shall wear a glorious crown.

Your eternal eyes,
blackened from the repeated blows,
promise that my eyes shall behold my beautiful King.

Your magnificent mouth,
bleeding and parched from lack of water,
promises that I shall drink and never again know thirst.

Your broad back,
mutilated from the lashes of a whip,
promises comfort and healing from all my diseases.

Your splendid side,
pierced through by a cruel spear,
promises me entrance into the very heart of God.

Your battered, beautiful body
racked with pain and bearing my sins,
promises me forgiveness and eternal,
unspeakable joy!
Three nails held you to the cross:
Faith, Hope, and Love.

Faith that I might see,
Hope that I might believe,
and Love that I might live!

People say that love can be felt,
but cannot be seen.
But I beg to differ, just look at the cross
and tell me what you see.
Is this not true Love that you see hanging there?

Thoughts about our Lord

2011-03-11T13:00:00.000-08:00

We stand in the close of the season of Epiphany, where we celebrate the revelation of the LORD God through the person of Jesus Christ.

Before we step into Lent and remember the life and acts of Christ, let us reflect: How has God revealed Himself to you through the past two months?

For we were not making up clever stories when we told you about the powerful coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. We saw his majestic splendor with our own eyes when he received honor and glory from God the Father. The voice from the majestic glory of God said to him, “This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy.” We ourselves heard that voice from heaven when we were with him on the holy mountain.
Because of that experience, we have even greater confidence in the message proclaimed by the prophets. You must pay close attention to what they wrote, for their words are like a lamp shining in a dark place—until the Day dawns, and Christ the Morning Star shines in your hearts. Above all, you must realize that no prophecy in Scripture ever came from the prophet’s own understanding, or from human initiative. No, those prophets were moved by the Holy Spirit, and they spoke from God.
[2 Peter 1:16-21, NLT]

O God of the covenant,
the cloud of your splendor and the fire of your love
revealed your Son on the mountain heights.
Transform our lives in his image,
write your law of love on our hearts,
and make us prophets of your glory,
that we may lead others into your presence. Amen.

God's trying to say something to you...

2011-03-01T01:35:00.000-08:00

Can you hear His message to you? It's everywhere!

"Radical" by David Platt

2011-02-28T02:40:00.000-08:00

Jesus reminded his disciples that their safety was not found in the comforts of this world but in the control of a sovereign God over this world. Jesus asked his disciples, "Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father." We can rest confident in the fact that nothing will happen to us in this world apart from the gracious will of a sovereign God. Nothing.

That is what I love about Stephen in the book of Acts. According to Scripture, he was the first Christian martyr. As we learn in Acts 7, he was stoned by the Sanhedrin religiou council - a remarkable picture of what it means to share in the sufferings of Christ. But what is even more remarkable in this story is what happened as a result of Stephen's death. Luke wrote, "On that day a great persecution broke out against the church at Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria." Then Luke wrote three verses later, "Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went." In other words, as a result of Stephen's suffereing and death, the church multiplied throughout Judea and Samaria.

Do you see what was happening here? Satan's strategy to stop God's people through the stoning of Stephen only served to accomplish God's purpose through the scattering of the church.

This is the testimony of all Scripture. From the story of Job to Paul's description of Satan's attack in his life in 2 Corinthians 12, we see how Satan not only acts within the sovereign permission of God but also ends up accomplishing the sovereign purposes of God. Indeed, this is what the Cross is all about. Satan's strategy to defeat the Son of God only served to provide salvation for sinners.

We have nothing to fear, because God is sovereign.

Come & Gather Directions

2011-02-20T04:00:00.000-08:00

Join us after church for a pot luck lunch!

Guys: bring bread / drinks
Girls: bring dessert / bags of salad
Everyone: bring a friend! They have wii and other games to play!

MARIE AND HARRY HAUPTMAN

Titus Bible Study

2011-02-14T15:05:00.000-08:00

Have you ever come across a passage of scripture and wonder "what on earth does that mean"? Or maybe you've read an Old Testament verse and thought "OK, God...how does THIS apply to me...TODAY?"

I've definitely had those questions and more, and have even felt bored with reading the word because there were things I simply didn't understand. But, about two and a half years ago I was introduced to the Inductive Study Method, which taught me how to discover meaning in God's word on my own.

With the Inductive Study Method, we are forced to read through scriptures slowly, looking at the context in which it was written. This OBSERVATION of the text will help us to clearly see and understand what is going on within the scriptures (who is speaking, to whom he is speaking, the reason for this particular word, etc).The study will later take us to an INTERPRETATION of the scriptures and eventually we'll discover that APPLICATION of what we've read is indeed possible!

It's great to sit under a pastor or teacher and soak in the knowledge that God has given them. But we, too, having the mind of Christ and the same Spirit working in and through us, can sit at Papa's feet and learn and hear from Him ourselves.

So, from February 25, 2011, to April 8, 2011, we will study the New Testament book of Titus using the Inductive Study Method. We will observe, interpret and apply what God's word says about living with character and integrity in the midst of an immoral society. The absolute joy and excitement you'll get from personal revelation of the word will be life changing!

Defining Intimacy: Answering The Questions No One Wants To

2011-01-20T15:30:00.000-08:00

God has an earnest desire to help us better understand what love is and how it works. Based on the 2 greatest commandments, "Defining Intimacy" seminar explains how to connect with the love of God personally, and it also addresses specific areas of interest for establishing human intimacy. "Gray area" topics on sexuality will be addressed with sensitivity. This seminar is ideal for singles, couples and parents of teens (must be over 18 to attend).

What is intimacy?
How does living in a culture of conditions impact my perception of God?
How do I enter the experience of being loved by God?
How do I wait for marriage?
How do I handle my thoughts?
Is God ashamed of me?

February 11 & 12, 2011
Friday 7-9 pm, Saturday 8 am - 3 pm
Cost: $10 (includes lunch on Saturday)

To register:
Christ Community Church
1201 Slate Hill Road
Camp Hill PA 17011
761.2933 x133

Merry Christmas video by Mark Den Bleyker

2010-12-20T12:12:00.000-08:00

Missions Trip

2010-11-08T11:25:00.000-08:00

It was a short trip to New York City, just six others and me on a two-night mission to New York School of Urban Ministry.

NYSUM’s purpose is to train and equip Christian workers to reclaim our cities for Christ. One of the ways they do this is by ministering to people on the streets with the love of Jesus in practical ways such as giving out blankets, food, drink, reading materials and prayer plus spending time talking with them.

On Friday, our first night out we went to the streets late so we could find people as they settled down in the place where they would sleep for the night. We spoke kindly to them, gave them a sandwich, bottled water and reading material while showing respect for each one we would meet. It was our joy to impart hope, giving words of love and encouragement while speaking destiny into their lives.

Saturday (day two), we helped at the mission base in the kitchen (which we did the night before also). We went to serve at the soup and bread bus where we were able to talk with people and offer prayer. Some people were standing around and others were on their way somewhere. Some appeared to be on drugs. It was an eye-opening afternoon in the midst of so many interesting people we had contact with.

After dinner, we went to a women’s shelter where we played a board game with the women (Apples to Apples) and shared together in word and song. One of the women told some of us about spiritual warfare in that place. It is so important to cover work like this in prayer – thank you to all who prayed for this mission and our team!

Homeless are in many places. I have seen them in Nashville, Tennessee, in London, England, in Asheville, North Carolina and Durres, Albania. One does not have to look far to encounter someone who has no place to call home. If we look around and befriend more strangers, some of them will have a roof over their heads but they still need the love, prayer, discipleship and hope we can offer. People need what we have—they need Jesus.

My encouragement to those reading this short report is for you to make yourself available to go to people and places of this world to see things you’ve never experienced before. Go. Pray and ask others to cover you with prayer. Be ready to serve God and let Him wreck your world (in a good way!).

---------------------------------

“Is this not the fast that I choose, to loosen the bonds of wickedness, to undo the bands of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free and break every yoke? Is it not to divide your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into the house, when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh? Then your light will break out like the dawn, your recovery will speedily spring forth, and your righteousness will go before you. The glory of the LORD will be your rear guard.” Isaiah 58:6-8

Shawna Gessler moved to PA about a year ago. She attends CCC and has a passion to see unborn children treated with respect & dignity.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-20T12:02:00.001-07:00

Young Adult Video

2010-10-12T08:14:00.000-07:00

Bonfire - October 15

2010-10-11T10:24:00.000-07:00

Guys bring a drink, girls bring a snack. Everyone bring a chair & invite a friend to attend!
There will be worship & fire, plus a group activity to discuss "living sacrifices"... makes you curious, doesn't it?

Directions from CCC:
Turn left out of parking lot. Left at stop sign (Hartzdale Dr). Right at red light (Slate Hill Rd). At the top of the hill, turn right (Lisburn Rd). Go 3 miles to a stop sign. Turn left at the stop (Main St/Lisburn). Go .8 mile. Turn right (Moores Mtn Rd). Go 1.9 miles to stop sign. Continue straight, go 1.3 miles to stop sign. Continue straight on Mt Airy Rd. Go 3 miles. Road will change names to Pinetown. Driveway on the left, turn in at "Signs by Dave" sign.

Address:
Dave & Diann Kilgore
1585 Pinetown Road
Wellsville PA 17365
432.3434

A poem by Missy B

2010-10-05T01:35:00.000-07:00

"He's Waiting"

He’s waiting…
for those of you who are lost
to realize how great the cost.
He’s waiting…
for those who want this awesome life
to give up their pain and strife.
He’ s waiting…
for those who want to forget the past
to have it into the fire cast.
He’s waiting…
for all those who have gone astray
to have their sin be passed away.
He’s waiting…
for all who want to leave their sin
to find his embrace and enter in.
He’s waiting…
for those who struggle and suffer
to call on him for his everlasting peace and comfort.
He’s waiting…
for little ones who know the truth
to show his love to those who want proof.

Missy attends Pinchot Park Assembly of God church and got her inspiration for this poem from a Zoe Girl song.

Pray for the NYSUM team: October 1-3

2010-09-30T01:22:00.000-07:00

(Not pictured: Christy Mayeski)

Anywhere you go, God is speaking...

2010-09-27T02:56:00.000-07:00

A little over a year ago I was in Sudan, fumbling at caring for patients in a small, mud-hut clinic with no running water or electricity.

Now, I'm in a very well-appointed office with a myriad of resources at my fingertips. Tests, specialist referrals, calling on incredibly knowledgeable colleagues with questions - I have every advantage. In Sudan, I struggled to make even a simple diagnosis of intestinal parasites. Here if I want I can order a battery of tests for all kinds of intestinal infections or an ultrasound or a CT or an MRI.

God has brought me on a great journey over the past year - stripping me of everything I thought I wanted or needed - but where I end up is the same exact place I was in Sudan: I desperately need God's assistance every moment of every day. The same desperation that I felt when I looked at a little malnourished child applies when I look at an overnourished patient whose blood sugars are out of control. Only God can make the difference in this patient's life.

I saw a patient today who was very frustrated with the medical profession. I looked at her and saw in her the same longing for wholeness that I saw in my patients in Sudan - that I see all around the world. The creation is groaning, wanting redemption to be made complete. Even the patient most resistant to God knows that something is wrong in our world today. We know what wholeness is oftentimes because we feel the lack of it and the longing for it. Oh, that I might point the way for each patient to the Only One Who can bring that wholeness they long for!!

One of the biggest things I discovered about myself while in the Sudan is that when I swing on the pendulum from fear to pride and back again, the mooring of that pendulum is self. Fear and pride have this in common: they exist because I think things depend on me, or because I misunderstand the goodness and greatness of God -or both!

I believe that God brought me to the Didinga Hills of Southern Sudan because He needed to do something drastic to get my attention.

Whether I succeed or fail, His voice remains constant, whispering the same thing: "I love you." I say the right thing - "I love you." I make a ridiculous fool of myself - "I love you." I do what's right - "I love you." I do what's wrong - "I love you." The message of the Cross to me is the measure of how much He was willing to give for my redemption. He valued my - our - redemption so much that He gave His very Son, His very Self. The sacrament of communion has become to me a way of accepting His valuation of me, of accepting His great sacrifice that forever proved the worth He placed on my restoration. What extravagant, unearned, amazing love! What peace there is in resting on His estimation of my worth, rather than working to be worthy or trying to beg for His approval!

It is my prayer that you too might learn this dual lesson: that you have nothing to offer, but that He loves you lavishly anyway. May He deal with you as graciously and ruthlessly as you can bear, and in the end, may you learn the joy of hearing the Father's voice constantly whispering - in success or failure - "I love you."

Deborah Moss is currently serving at Esperanza and enjoys care packages with pop corn and tea.

Leadership retreat

2010-09-20T20:26:00.000-07:00

Please pray for us this weekend:
* Fun & rest
* Unity & love
* Holy Spirit wisdom for planning

Introducing Craig Kuehn

2010-09-05T03:14:00.000-07:00

We are both from small town, rural Indiana. I was a pretty average kid all the way around. Went to work for McDonalds as a teenager and ended up managing a store for a while. Both of us spent about 10 years in the marketplace until we hit a point of divine dissatisfaction. We were faithful in our local church, had two young children and were active spiritually but we felt deep in our hearts that God had more for us to do. With a lot of counsel, prayer, and divine intervention we quit our jobs and moved to Texas to attend Bible schools at 30 years of age. 3 years later we moved to Manila Philippines as missionaries, kids and all. In a few years we went from teachers to team leaders to Asia Pacific Directors. All before we were 40 years old. We treated our team like family and as a result we went from a team of 6 to over 30 in the next few years. And at one point, HALF of our team had NOT YET reached their 30th Birthday! Our missions field is 3 Billion people - HALF of them not yet 18 years of age! We love to challenge, encourage, stir and strengthen this generation to find their place in God and their part in the family!!

Craig Kuehn
Asia Pacific Director
Go To Nations

Come hear Craig share on Friday, September 17 at 7 pm in the Youth Building. Worship beforehand & fellowship afterwards. Invite your friends to come too!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-01T02:40:00.000-07:00

7 Wonders of the Everyday World

2010-08-21T01:50:00.000-07:00

Neil Pasricha catalogs the really little pleasures at his website 1000awesomethings.com Here are a few to make your day. Leave a comment adding your own!

1. Wearing underwear just out of the dryer
2. When cashiers open up new checkout lanes at the grocery store
3. Intergenerational dancing
4. Paying with exact change
5. Fixing electronics by smacking them
6. High-fiving babies
7. The other side of the pillow

Introducing Randy Douglass

2010-08-02T14:00:00.000-07:00

On Friday August 20 we'll meet in the Youth Building at 7 pm for worship and a powerful message from Randy Douglass. Jesus saved Randy at age 21 from a life of parties and drugs and prison. Randy's heart was changed from stone (hate, racism, anger, alcoholism and much more) to a heart of flesh (intimate love with Jesus and transformation revelation). Recently he graduated from Global School or Supernatural Ministry.

This is a service you'll want to invite your friends to. Bring someone who is distant from God and needs to get connected with God's love, God's power, and God's forgiveness.

"My desire is to see many come to know Jesus and His perfect love for them. The pure message of the Gospel is in my heart." ~Randy Douglass

Pool Party & volleyball

2010-07-26T14:06:00.000-07:00

On August 1st at 1:00 pm at Joe & Sherry Regal's home is cancelled due to rain.

Outdoor Movie Night

2010-07-18T01:35:00.000-07:00

Join us on Saturday July 24th at the DiNatale's home for a movie under the stars!

Rain location: the CCC Youth Building!

Bring a lawn chair or a blanket to sit on and a drink. Popcorn will be provided. We'll have a discussion after the film; feel free to invite friends! Bug spray is also a good idea, so douse yourself in some!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-14T01:55:00.000-07:00

lame pick up lines (for laughs)

2010-07-13T11:00:00.000-07:00

"Every Thursday I get together with HOT witty girls who are interesting and funny. I know they want me and would do anything I ask. But here I am. Thinking of you."

"Is your name Summer? Cause you're hot."

"Are your legs tired? Cause you've been running through my mind all day."

"Can I borrow a quarter? I want to call your mom and thank her."

"If I said you had a nice body, would you hold it against me?"

"Gee, I didn't know angels could fly so low."

"I hope you know CPR, cause you take my breath away!"

"If I could rearrange the alphabet, I'd put "u" and "I" together."

Have you heard any good ones lately? Post them here...

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

Young Adult Worship Service

2010-05-22T13:22:00.000-07:00

With Pastor Dave Hess on Sunday June 27 at 5:00 pm in the Christ Community Church Youth building. Join us for worship, a message by Pastor Dave, followed by prayer & fellowship.

Pastor Dave's message will be an encouragement to our generation. Know someone who could use a little encouragement? Invite them to come!

Truth Project (2)

2010-04-20T02:29:00.000-07:00

Focus on the Family's The Truth Project is a DVD-based small group study that practically and personally introduces viewers to the truth claims of God.

Join leaders Dan & Emily Fuller for a 13 week study on Wednesday nights beginning April 28. Location: Mark & Jen Ditmer's home in Mechanicsburg. Need directions? Call CCC church office (761.2933).

If you have questions about world views, philosophy, truth, evil, heaven and hell this is an excellent study. Or if you've ever wondered how to answer questions that others may have on these topics, you will want to attend this! This is a great study for those who want to be able to share and discuss their faith with others.

For more information, visit Focus On The Family website: www.thetruthproject.org/

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-14T02:38:00.000-07:00

He Disciplines Those He Loves

2010-04-06T16:45:00.000-07:00

Since graduation from college in May 2009, my life has felt like a whirlwind. In the midst of moving out of my parent's house, finding an apartment, and getting a job, I realized that I had no idea of my true identity. Many decisions, and a stressful job started to wear on me emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Soon I started making decisions in my life that put everything I held dear at risk. At first it started with a guy from work, we were not at all compatible in our beliefs, but I allowed myself to crush on him. When it all fell through, a guy from my college was interested in me, so I jumped at the hope of a possible relationship. But I never asked God if these were opportunities from Him. I just jumped in and out. As a result, my entire system shook. I had huge emotional breakdowns often. My thought patterns were jumbled and impure. Soon, my job performance was affected and my supervisor had to confront me. I continued to get deeper in depression fueled by feelings of worthlessness and loss. I did not want to talk to God, I hated getting out of bed, and I walked around with weight surrounding me.

I got to a place where I wanted things to change, so I began to look for a new job. At the same time, I began to surround myself with young adults from the church. At first, it felt so risky to let them in; would they hurt me like the boyfriends had? But God's grace and goodness met me instead. These new friends were invested in me; deep roots were formed and the love that they placed on me was overwhelming. On 11/11 (the number of new beginnings) I walked into a second job interview and got hired. I walked out ecstatic and confident that God was doing things, which was something I had not believed in a long time.

My life continues to be full of growth. Almost as though I am catching up for lost time!

Recently I sensed that God wanted me to get rid of things that were things in my house. These things reminded me of the guys I had let into my life in the recent months. He began to reveal that those items needed to be burned. I went home & bagged them up. My landlord helped me burn them all.

I realized that those items had been given to me for free. It's funny how "free things" can keep so much baggage tied onto you. When I committed to rid my life of them, God provided and extra day's pay and told me that the old self was gone. As soon as they were out of my house, I had peace! "Goodbye, things -- welcome, God!"

The ashes that came from the burning of that bag of stuff are a testimony of how God can change things. He gives us His beauty in exchange for our ashes. Joy is bubbling over in my heart! My prayer is that anything that needs to be discarded or cleansed would be revealed to me in that gentle, peaceful quiet that God brings. I love the way Papa asks you to do things EXACTLY when they are supposed to be done.

"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." Isaiah 43:18-19

Allison is 23 and lives in Dillsburg with her dog, Bella. When she is not in CCC School of Ministry, she is probably watching "Pride and Prejudice".

Easter Resurrection Poem

2010-03-30T06:01:00.000-07:00

What He Left Behind
by Rebecca Ebersole Kasparek

A boulder, cast aside
like an olive pit.
An earthquake. Divine
lightning that blinds
before illuminating.
Guards who tremble
at the earth's gaping scar.
A dropped flask
of the aloe and myrrh
that slow decay.
A reeking cavern
strewn with crimson linen.
Wine vinegar stains
on the burial cloth
that cradled his head.
The piercing nails
of his absence.
A solitary mourner,
fearing the worst
kind of theft. The clutch
of unease before death
or delivery. An angel's
message too stunning
to believe. The conviction
that something was
awakening that had never
risen among us before.
Shrouds of fog burning
in morning's lit air.

wordless Wednesday

2010-03-24T12:07:00.000-07:00

"Letters To God" movie

2010-03-15T04:49:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, March 23 join us for a movie & dessert/discussion afterwards. Here's a little synopsis to whet your whistle:

Inspired by a true story, Letters to God is an intimate, moving and often funny story about the galvanizing effect one child’s belief can have on his family, friends and community.

Jesse and I got to see the premiere for this movie a while back. It is excellent & you'll want to bring some tissues along!

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2010-02-25T04:33:00.000-08:00

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Wordless Wednesday

2010-02-17T09:59:00.000-08:00

To prompt some discussion...

2010-02-08T04:36:00.000-08:00

This was the ending to the movie "Smoke Signals":

How do we forgive our fathers? Maybe in a dream.
Do we forgive our fathers for leavin' us too often...or forever when we were little?

Maybe for scarin' us with unexpected rage? or makin' us nervous because there never seemed
to be any rage there at all?

Do we forgive our fathers for marryin'...or not marryin' our mothers?
Or divorcin' or not divorcin' our mothers?

And shall we forgive them for their excesses of warmth...or coldness?

Shall we forgive them for pushin' or leanin'? For shuttin' doors?
For speakin' through walls...or never speakin'? Or never bein' silent?

Do we forgive our fathers in our age...or in theirs? Or in their deaths, saying it to them?
Or not sayin' it?

If we forgive our fathers, what is left?

-"Forgiving Our Fathers" by by Dick Lourie

Wordless Wednesday

2010-02-03T04:30:00.000-08:00

Super Bowl Party

2010-01-29T04:03:00.000-08:00

Brian and Rhonda Carver invite the Young Adults to come over for a Super Bowl party on Sunday February 7 at 6:00 pm. If you don't care for sports, join us for the commercials & for board games. Jesse and I will be picking up the first 12 people from the CCC parking lot and riding over in the church van (as a way to save driveway space).

Friends are welcome to join us, so please invite someone to come.

Guys, bring sodas. Girls bring snacks!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-01-20T04:47:00.000-08:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-01-13T04:45:00.000-08:00

Joy's Testimony

2010-01-05T14:35:00.000-08:00

My name is SRA Joy Warner. I am in the Air National Guard and currently deployed to Iraq. I have been here for over 3 months and this time has been a great adjustment to me in many ways: adjusting to the heat, the living conditions, and the basic daily routine. One of things that I struggled with in the beginning was making time to spend with God, in prayer and reading His word. We work 12 hour days 6 days a week and also have to hit the gym 6 days a week. I have struggled with feeling there is not much time for anything else but to eat, sleep, and try to call my family. But something struck me when I was observing some locals that work on our base. I have enjoyed learning some of the cultural differences that the Iraqi's have, and love to watch them, how they speak, how they interact with one another, and most importantly, how they practice their religion. There is a group of about 20 Iraqi men that work in the compound that I live and work in, and lately they have caught my attention. They are basically here to do manual labor, like moving cinder blocks, sand bags, etc... They have to be escorted all the time by 2 Army guys while they are working. They are considered to be "low on the food chain". Lately, I have started to notice that when they allow them to break for lunch, instead of eating or resting, they pray. When I first observed them I thought it was a very strange ritual because, before they begin, they must find a piece of cardboard. I am told they are not allowed to touch the bare ground when they pray. So they rummage through our trash, find a box and break it down so they can kneel on it. They use a new one every day; they never use the same one twice. After finding cardboard, they wash their hands and feet; shoes are always off during their prayers! They rotate standing, kneeling and then laying on the ground. Every few seconds they rotate from one position to the next all while chanting something, praying I guess.

It occurred to me: How wonderful it is that I can talk to God whenever I want! I don't have to have clean feet, or cardboard, or be in a certain position... I just talk to him. I can't help but admire their diligence. I admire that they probably give up their lunch to pray. So, I have been spending more time lately talking to God in random places and random times as a result of this. And how awesome it is that I can talk to my God wherever, whenever, and He listens, whether I am eating, clean, dirty, kneeling, standing, or lying in my bed. So what I have learned from them is that you don't necessarily have to make time, just use the time you already have. It doesn't have to be a spectacular ritual each time you pray, just talk to him and He will listen.

When Joy is not overseas on assignment, she attends Christ Community Church and works for a foster care agency in Harrisburg.

New Years Eve Party

2009-12-21T07:24:00.000-08:00

Gather at the Gills to ring in the New Year. We'll have music, games & a midnight sparkling cider toast! Drop by for a while, or plan to stay and play. Bring a snack or drink to share. Friends are welcome!

2009-10-31T04:01:00.000-07:00

Have you ever tried pumpkin bowling? You really should--it is the next Olympic sport! It's challenging & takes a lot of skill. Bring your friends and meet some new ones at Dave & Ellen Dyer's home on Saturday November 21 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm. Guys bring a drink, girls bring snacks; bring lawn chairs & cameras too. If it rains, bring a board game; we'll hang out in the Dyer's basement.

"Becoming You: Discovering & Living Your God-ordained Destiny" part 3

2009-10-12T05:41:00.000-07:00

"I plan on speaking about the role our relationships play in
discovering our destinies. I feel it is good to teach how we can help each other since we are so relational." John Shuey

Join us Friday, October 23 at 7:00 pm in the Christ Community Church auditorium for this FREE seminar. Worship & fellowship, too. Invite a friend to come with you.

Directions to Martins

2009-09-30T07:12:00.000-07:00

Dave & Trudy Martin
70 Keswick Drive
Mechanicsburg PA 17050
695.2021

Click HERE for a google map

Truth Project

2009-09-26T01:35:00.000-07:00

Focus on the Family's The Truth Project is a DVD-based small group study that practically and personally introduces viewers to the truth claims of God.

Join Brad & Cheryl Rider, leaders and hosts, for a 12 week study on Wednesday nights.

If you have questions about world views, philosophy, truth, evil, heaven and hell. Or if you've ever wondered how to answer questions that others may have on these topics, you will want to attend this! This is a great study for those who want to be able to share and discuss their faith with others.

For more information, visit Focus On The Family website: www.thetruthproject.org/

Introducing Jim Gallagher

2009-09-17T13:00:00.000-07:00

Jim was born and raised in Philadelphia (the city of brotherly love), and moved to Harrisburg in 1983, with his wife, Eileen. They have been married for 31 years and have 4 children. He has been a member of CCC since 1986, owns a small business, enjoys any beach anywhere, and watching most sporting events.

Friday, September 25 at 7:00 pm in the auditorium at Christ Community Church, Jim will speak to the Young Adults. His topic is "Live an Engaged Life"

Ever feel you just can’t seem to get to all that the Lord has invited you to accomplish? Did you know that the challenge of optimum effectiveness is to manage your energy in all dimensions of your life? We’ll take a brief look at how your physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual sources of energy all operate together. Consider life as a series of sprints where you are fully engaged for periods of time and then fully disengaged, being renewed before jumping back into the track meet.

God is my provider

2009-09-14T10:41:00.000-07:00

I got a job at a small organization in Harrisburg, PA. As the months went by, I found that this office was not a healthy environment for me to be working in. I also struggled to accept my boss’s management style. I became extremely depressed and my self-esteem plummeted. I felt the less work I did, the less I would have to deal with my boss, and soon my initial “give 125%” attitude was nothing but a memory.
I was ashamed of my new work ethic, which only added to my self-loathing, and after about 10 months, I finally admitted to myself that this wasn’t the place for me. Unfortunately, by this time, my confidence in my abilities was at a low point, and I began to doubt that I could succeed anywhere. One night, as I was praying, I poured myself out to the Lord and admitted that I was becoming someone I wasn’t proud of, and I wasn’t sure I was on the right career path any longer. However, I didn’t think I had the strength or courage to switch jobs, and in this economy I certainly wasn’t going to give up my steady salary. I ended my prayer with a simple, but bold plea, “I can’t move Lord, so please, if this isn’t the right path, move me.”
Not long after, I lost my job.
I was furious, broken and depressed. Being a person who always liked to be in control, the fear of the unknown soon saturated every part of my being and I found myself paralyzed with anxiety. I felt completely vulnerable and helpless, yet in the back of my mind, I began to wonder if perhaps this was His answer to my prayers. Little did I know, that this was going to be one of the greatest blessings of my life and the Lord was going to reveal himself to me in ways I could have never imagined.
After investigating my immediate options, I learned that due to unusual circumstances, my unemployment was not going to start for at least six weeks (if at all). As soon as the panic began to set in, the Lord provided: I received a check from my old job for my saved vacation and sick time, quickly followed by a $1,500 tax refund! That paid all my bills for two months.
Right around the time that money was drying up, I was approved for unemployment. The amount I was told I would receive each month was obviously God’s design because it was enough to pay all my bills and stay in my apartment.
Over the next four months, I started to heal. I prayed, expressed myself artistically, and began working through some deeper issues. I even found my adventurous side again.
During this time, I also found a new church home. Christ Community Church became a life-line for me, and sharing my story was a very important step in my healing process. Slowly but surely, I began to value myself again, and I learned to rebuke the feelings of failure that had possessed me for far too long.
In June, I hit another hurdle. My car took a turn for the worst and I racked up a bill of $1,100. Once again the Lord intervened and money that I thought I owed my health insurance company became available. I fixed my car without going into any debt.
Then, I got a call from the YWCA of Greater Harrisburg and was asked to come in for an interview for a secretarial position. Having studied public relations and graphic design, this wasn’t the career I was hoping for but I certainly wasn’t going to turn down an interview. I got a call from the VP at the YWCA and was offered a job, however, it wasn’t the position I had applied for, and this job had not even been advertised yet. The position offered to me was directly under the VP and focused on two major areas: public relations and graphic design!
The compensation package initially offered to me included just enough for me to pay my bills but was less than my old salary. I prayed about it and then, nervously, I countered their offer. I knew it was a risky move, but believed that if this was the job for me, it would all work out. The next day the YWCA offered me more than I asked for in my counter!
Tears come to my eyes every time I think about my journey. It wasn’t easy, but I learned that when I truly give control over to the Lord, He always provides. I still have a lot to learn, but I am stronger now than I ever was before. I knew He would provide for me and that everything was in His control, but it was still hard to imagine how this situation would ever work out. Now that I know what He had planned all along, I am in awe of His infinite wisdom and amazed by His kindness. Today, I am proud of the person I am becoming and the peace that comes from knowing I am walking on the right path, by His grace, is indescribable.

Devan Drabik is an artist & expert Trivia player. She is 23 and lives in Harrisburg.

Swimming

2009-09-08T15:50:00.000-07:00

Have you ever thought that you were missing something when you left church? Check out this article. Leave a comment... let's get a dialogue going!

To ponder

2009-08-29T14:35:00.000-07:00

My buddy Aaron has this thought-provoking blog that I enjoy. Hope you visit him and get inspired like I did!

"Unpacking Your Backpack" Part 1

2009-08-24T08:18:00.000-07:00

Pastor Thom Gardner will facilitate a 1 day healing seminar on Saturday, August 29 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. This seminar focuses on healing our wounded past in the presence of God. You and I were created to live in the presence of God. Many obstacles have come between our face and our Father's. This separation prevents us from finding intimacy for which we were born. Everyone will receive healing truth from the personal presence of God while uncovering seven basic influences that can control our hearts to rob us of abundant life in Christ.

The seven influences we will address are: fear, rejection, worthlessness, shame, insecurity, defilement, hopelessness.

There is no fee; a love offering will be received. Please register by calling Regina at 761.2933 x316

Pool Party - Sunday August 23

2009-08-17T10:21:00.000-07:00

Meet up at John & Nancy March's home for some fun in the sun: water volleyball & other water games, or stay dry with ping pong, bocce ball & frisbee. John will grill some hot dogs: ladies, please bring a snack to share. Fellas, please bring a drink to share. Everyone bring a lawn chair & invite a friend, neighbor, co-worker or sibling to come along.

Ladies Bible Study

2009-07-31T04:31:00.000-07:00

Hope to see you sisters on Tuesday at 6:30 pm for the Bible study! Bethany and Candace have some great things planned, so mark your calendars: September 1 and 15. Watch the above video and join us as we discuss beauty, worth and God's heart. If you need directions, leave a comment or send me an email.

God's Faithfulness in Life's Doorways

2009-07-27T12:26:00.000-07:00

“What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open” (Revelation 3:7). When doors of opportunity seem to be closing all around me, it is easy to wonder where God is. When I have spent hours of thought and energy attempting to make progress and see little results, it is tempting to become discouraged. Although many doors have recently been shut in my life, I now see God’s hand on the process I went through and the purpose for it.

At the end of March 2009, I came back to Pennsylvania after a trip to India and some other travels. By the end of April, I had quite a list of places where I had submitted job applications. I hadn’t heard a word back from many of them, but a few contacted me to set up interviews. Before one of my first interviews, I prayed that I would have favor and receive the job. Following the interview, I had decided it wasn’t the right place for me. After this experience, I began to pray, “God, I want this job, but I want your will.” My interviewing marathon continued, and so did my prayers: “Not my will, but yours, Lord.” I laughed with a childlike trust that God had something in store as I prayed this for the third, fourth, and fifth time: “Here I am again, praying for this job. I want this job! But, I want Your will more. Have Your way.”

By the sixth interview, I was worn out and tempted to become discouraged. I figured God must have had something specific in store, but I wasn’t sure how much longer I could handle the lack of response, my bills, and interviews that didn’t seem quite right. Thankfully, God provided a great place for me to live, many delicious home cooked meals, and many other blessings through a family that helped me out immensely. It seemed as though God placed His faithfulness in their hands, and they carried it to me.

In May, God opened a door and provided a part-time job that helped pay some bills. This was a relief, but only skimmed the surface of my financial needs. Shortly after beginning this job, I received a phone call from another place that I had applied to in April. The interview was very positive and encouraging. The position seemed like a great fit! Before I left, the interviewer said, “I look forward to working with you” but told me she had one more interview and would call back on Monday. Monday came without a ringtone. Tuesday and Wednesday passed and I still hadn’t heard. By Wednesday evening I was praying and thinking that if there was one more “rejection” I might not be able to keep from becoming depressed! Thursday I received the call and the job offer!

During the interview I was told, “The position actually opened in January, but they held it for some reason . . . I don’t know why.” In January I was still in India . . . as I think about that and give God a wink, I wonder if He was saving it for me! The position I received is one that I am very excited about and could not have imagined, thought of, or expected! During my three months of searching and “waiting”, God reminded me that the most important part of our prayers is not the answers we receive, but our relationship with Him. God was also stretching me and my faith while at the same time keeping me within the bounds of what I could handle. While my faith was being stretched, God was faithful to express His intimate involvement in my life, was faithful to draw me closer to Himself, and was faithful to provide. If doors are shutting all around you, please be encouraged that God knows where you are and He is there with you. His hand may be the one that is closing the doors. If it is, He will surely lead you to an open door that may just be something you could never imagine or ask for!

To read a blog post by Katie C that was written before her journey to India, check out "Down the Road" by clicking HERE.

Bonfire

2009-07-14T13:30:00.000-07:00

Friday July 24 at 7 pm we'll descend on the home of Phil and Esther Mayeski for games, smores, bonfire & worship. Please bring a lawn chair & a drink. Smores will be provided. We're going a play a few team building games (fun stuff, trust me) and then we're going to make smores & talk around the campfire about the games we played. After some discussion about taking risks, learning to trust and living in community, we'll have some worship time to listen to what Jesus has to say about our lives, our community & stuff.

Remembering my first love

2009-06-22T07:10:00.000-07:00

By nature I am a curious person. I think it is a child like attribute that I’ve always had. Being curious always leads me to question things, not to disprove, but to learn. Curiosity could be a bad thing when you get curious about things you shouldn’t be looking into. However, when used right it is a great gift of God. It is what lead me to re-evaluate my faith and what I pursue.

My testimony begins about a year ago when I was talking with someone at church who had lost everything: job, wife, child, and so on. As he spoke I sat there watching him holding his Bible to his chest and listened to him speak about Jesus with pure delight and great peace. He wasn’t hurt or bitter or angry, he was satisfied with Jesus. He explained that once he found Jesus, his wife actually called him after two years of silence. As I was talking with him, I began to wonder “What have I been pursing? This guy is blessed because he pursued after Jesus and only Jesus. I wonder what would happen if I sought to love the Lord as much as this guy does? How could I put my passions & distractions aside and make God my main attraction?”

I saw results in this guy’s life that I wasn’t seeing in my own. I love Jesus too, so what was different? I decided to humble myself like a child; be willing to be corrected and willing to learn. I asked myself questions, “What if I have been seeking other things like prophecy & power & destiny? What if I have forgotten my first love? How do I repent and return to God?”

Although I read the scripture and prayed often, I some how let my first love slip through my fingers. I knew that the first thing I had to do was humble myself and go back to first principals and read the scriptures like it was the first time. This would give me a fresh look, and make me like a new wine skin. The second thing I had to do was pray for repentance and asked God give me heart to love Him and to seek Him for Him. I began to not care about the other things I was pursuing as much as I wanted to pursue Him.

During the time of pursuit, I found myself reunited to my first love, and then in the midst of it I saw tremendous breakthrough in circumstances that would never have changed if not for God stepping in. I received three major promotions in less than a year at work, and all three were given to me without my even asking for them. This all was very necessary, because I really needed a better job desperately. God’s goodness is a constant wonder to me.

I returned to my First Love, not for a blessing, but because in my heart I truly wanted Jesus. He was all I wanted. And I got blessed greatly along the way. The Bible says He is good and faithful, we are blessed when we seek Him first. “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you (Matthew 6:33).” I am living proof of this scripture. He is worth the humbling, repenting, praying, fasting, and whatever it takes to get to Him. He is worth it!

Michelle Dorris is 30 years old, and lives in Mechanicsburg. She is an active member of Christ Community Church.

Got a story to share? Email youngadults@christcc.org

Movie Night on Friday June 19

2009-06-10T08:39:00.000-07:00

Extra treat: they are going to make root beer floats for us... wow!
Come at 8:00 pm; bring a lawn chair.
Free popcorn. Bring a snack to share.
After the film, plan to stay and have your brain stretched as we discuss the main themes.
Rain location is the CCC Youth Building!

Overcoming Life's Disappointments

2009-05-28T16:00:00.000-07:00

In light of the incredible message that Brian shared on Sunday May 17, it seemed appropriate to share about a book I read by Rabbi Harold S Kushner “Overcoming Life’s Disappointments”. Rabbi Kushner’s humorous examination of the life of Moses (and ultimately, our own lives) has a real insightfulness; the author is formally trained and also has much warmth and understanding. Many illustrations come from members of his own congregation whom he has walked along side of during various traumas. And though Rabbi Kushner is Jewish, his truthful message benefits a broad audience. In fact, I recommend it as a graduation gift. Had I read this book on the heels of my school completion, I would have been better set up to dream big & not be afraid of failure or set backs; it would have helped me interpret those set backs as stepping stones instead of badges of shame. Rabbi Kushner encourages us to dream great dreams and when those dreams are not realized, we can go through life with a foundation of understanding that sometimes we are naïve, sometimes we fail, but always it is sweet to dream.

Introducing Brian Pontius

2009-05-11T11:55:00.000-07:00

Some of you may know Brian & Susan Pontius... a very cool couple! Brian will be sharing on Sunday, May 17th at the Young Adult worship service, and for those of you who don't know him, I thought you might enjoy an introduction to his topic for that evening.

"Over the last ten years, as I have endeavored to know Jesus more, He has made gray what I once thought was black and white. The complex has become simple. The absolutes have become negotiable. Yet in the midst of it all is where we find God and He finds us." ~Brian

Heaven coming to Earth... what does it look like?

2009-04-06T12:12:00.000-07:00

Two years ago, I accepted the position as a Speech Therapist in a nearby school district. It was my first professional work experience and I was supposed to be the expert in speech and language; an expectation I feared I would not live up to. It was very difficult for me to feel confident to show these people Jesus because I was insecure about my abilities as a professional and since I was the new person on staff I was extra shy. But the desire to see Heaven invade my workplace burned deeply in my heart. I wanted the entire school district to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior. I wanted my caseload to become non-existent because all my students would be healed from ADHD, Autism, Reactive Attachment Disorder, and Speech Disorders. I wanted to pray with all of my co-workers; however, there was also a natural desire bubbling up from within me to fit in and be accepted by my co-workers and my students. So, how do I live for God in this situation? What does that look like each day? How do I make that my goal when I have natural work duties that need to be accomplished each day?
I often struggled with feeling that I was failing. I felt that there was so much on my plate and I wasn’t seeing major transformation in my school. I cried out to God and asked Him, “How do I do this? How do I live in a secular world for you? What does it look like to re-present Jesus here?”
In Africa this summer I learned some amazing lessons that I drew on for direction. Missionary Heidi Baker’s main teachings were “What is good news to the poor?” and “Stop for the one.” Now that I am back in America, working in a school, I find it is very easy to get caught up in “life.” Sometimes I get lost trying to get through my to-do list. I have to constantly remind myself to ask that question, “What is good news to this person today?” Though I’m not surrounded by those living in financial poverty every day, I am overwhelmingly surrounded by those who are poor in many other ways. At times these are more difficult to see because their poverty is covered up by success, material items, and things of this world. But don’t let that blind you to the cry that is inside of their hearts. We may be the only Jesus some people will ever encounter. They need to know His love and feel His compassion.
God began to open my eyes to the individual. He taught me the lesson of seeing the one person that He placed in my path in that very moment. What does this person need today, Nicole? Maybe it means I need to stop working on my paperwork and instead spend an hour listening to her story about her family situation. My paperwork will get done, though I may have to sacrifice my own time later. Or, maybe, I should follow up on that idea, the one I have been avoiding, to go pray with the gym teacher who is really sick. I could come in early each day and ask her if she would like to pray with me today. It could mean listening to the needy student who always stops by my office instead of telling her she needs to get back to class. She’s neglected at home, don’t neglect her at school.
When I narrow my focus down from saving this entire school district in a year, to meeting the needs of this one hurting person that God has placed before me today, I no longer feel overwhelmed. I feel excited because God is moving through me, changing me as he touches lives right in front of my eyes. Staying filled up with the Lord makes it much easier to be sensitive to His voice and feel His gentle nudges to smile at someone, or maybe today is a day I am to speak truth into their lives. Only God knows what needs lie deep in their hearts. He has given us the mind of Christ and Holy Spirit to reveal His thoughts to us. What a relief! We just need to tap into Him and He is the one who will transform our workplaces.

Nicole is a young adult who is in passionate pursuit of Father God's heart. She seeks the compassion and love of Jesus to share it with the world.

Got a story to share? Email youngadults@christcc.org

Fashion Exchange

2009-02-02T16:15:00.000-08:00

Ladies, we're going to celebrate our identity in Christ and we're going to celebrate in style! The Fashion Exchange will feature free fashion (supplied by your friends & sisters), giveaways to great local stores, chocolate and inspiration.

Here's how it works:

Each article that you borrow will have a tag attached with the owners name, phone number and prayer request. While on loan, you can be praying for the owner. Also, if the article happens to get lost or damaged, you can call the owner prior to the return night & ask how much the item cost. At the return night, instead of returning the article to the owner, you will give payment (and an apology is very respectful too).

The fashion exchange is a chance to get something "new" for a while. It goes without saying that you should not bring anything that is an irreplaceable family heirloom.

You will not want to miss the return night on April 19 because that is when we will award the prizes (merchandise prizes from local stores) as well as return the fabulous items you enjoyed for FREE!

Hope you can come & invite a friend... after all, the more folks who come, the better the selection of styles!

Super Bowl Party

2009-01-19T07:56:00.000-08:00

Guys: bring chips or soda. Girls: bring dip or sweets.
Everyone bring some money towards ordering a pizza.
Invite your friends to join us! Join us at 5:30 pm.

MARIE AND HARRY LIVE IN CARLISLE

The Power of The Spoken Word

2008-12-15T09:00:00.000-08:00

You may not know Benjamin Smith, who will be our featured speaker at the Young Adult coffee house on Sunday, January 18. So here, in his own words, is a little bit about him:

In general I love watching over-comer movies like "The Pursuit of Happiness", "Remember the Giants", and "Bravehart." What I like about Bravehart is how one man made such a different in the lives of so many people through his passion and determination.

I enjoy wrestling and football. I used to wrestle in high school. I also enjoy lifting weights and exercise at the gym.

A teaser for January's coffee house discussion: The words we speak will put us under or put us over in life and will either prevent us or help us in receiving God's best in our life. Proverbs 18:21 says "Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof." Do you need a break through in your life? Victory over a situation? Learn how to apply faith filled words to every circumstance in your life.

If you are interested in more information about the topic, check out the 2 titles in the right margin on my "book shelf".

Window or mirror?

2008-12-08T11:05:00.001-08:00

Please head over to Cindy Janzyck's blog to read a very interesting article on Paul's thoughts recorded in the Bible in 1 Corinthians.

Cindy will be the featured speaker at the Young Adult Winter Retreat January 9 - 11, 2009.

Country Music's Finest

2008-11-24T12:50:00.000-08:00

For the longest time I was not a country music fan; everything I heard sounded the same: twangy. But recently, I got sick of hearing about politics & the economy on the news station I typically tune into. So I flipped the dial. I'm so glad I did.

I heard this song by Toby Keith (lyrics below) and it caused me to stop and think. Now, by posting the lyrics to this song, I want to be very clear: I am not suggesting that your new hangout should be in a bar. What I am trying to illustrate, is that the lyrics should reflect the church. Church can be a place where everyone is welcome, where everyone feels known & feels connected. A place where there is diversity and there is unity. I love this church!

We got winners, we got losers, chain smokers and boozers
And we got yuppies, we got bikers, we got thirsty hitchhikers
And the girls next door dress up like movie stars
Mmm-mm, I love this bar

We got cowboys, we got truckers, broken-hearted fools and suckers
We got hustlers, we got fighters, early-birds and all-nighters
And the Veterans talk about their battle scars
Mmm-mm, I love this bar

I love this bar, its my kind of place
Just walkin' through the front door
Puts a big smile on my face
It ain't too far, come as you are
Mmm-mm, I love this bar

I've seen short skirts, we got high-techs, blue collar boys and rednecks
We got lovers, lotsa lookers, I've even seen dancing girls & hookers
And we like to drink our beer from a mason jar
Mmm-mm, I love this bar

I like my truck, I like my girlfriend
I like to take her out to dinner
I like a movie now and then
But... I love this bar!
It's my kind of place
Just twirlin' around the dance floor
Puts a big smile on my face
No cover charge, come as you are
Mmm-mm, I love this bar

God has created us with a longing for community (instead of isolation), we long for a place to belong, a place to be known, a place of comfort, a place of acceptance, a place of diversity. This song is describing what Jesus wants His church (His bride) to be! I enjoy the tune & when I sing along in the car, I change the words from "I love this bar" to "I love this church".

If you were to write a song about church, what aspect(s) would you highlight?

Mark Krieg's Top 5

2008-11-11T13:19:00.000-08:00

1. Planet of the Apes Movies (all of them)
2. Sea Monkeys
3. Macintosh Computers
4. iPhone
5. Home Theater (in general)

early mid-life crisis

2008-09-30T07:36:00.000-07:00

There is this 13 year old girl who does amazing paintings. Her name is Akiane and you can view her artwork from age 6 to age 13 on her website. Truly amazing.

Sometimes I listen to National Public Radio's broadcast "From the Top" which features talented kids playing classical music. Not only can they play the music on their violin, but when interviewed, they can properly pronounce the name of the piece of music & the composer.

Do you ever feel like you should be doing more with your life? Like somehow, you have already missed your peak?

Occasionally I find myself searching for a little significance for my life. What are my pursuits? My goals? What impact am I having on those goals? Every New Year's Day I take stock of the past year.

What about you? Do you have a 5 or 10 year plan? Do you have an ultimate destination? Are there sacrifices you find yourself having to make along the way? Or is it helpful in eliminating some of the good stuff for the best stuff?

And Can It Be?

2008-09-29T11:37:00.000-07:00

Can men have friendships with women? Can women have friendships with men? Oprah Winfrey invited a Rabbi to comment on this. You can read the article here.

Another great article (this one is from Boundless, a Christian Young Adult resource) here

But frankly, I'm more interested in what you think. So, leave a comment & tell me.

And if you're not sure where you weigh in on the topic, we're having 2 great events in October that you won't want to miss:

Cindy Jancyzk is teaching a class on Wednesdays called "Adam Meets Eve".

Also, Jesse and myself will host a discussion on dating Friday, October 17 in the Youth Building at 7:00 pm. Leave a comment/question on dating that we can discuss that night. Hope to see you there.

Down The Road by Katie C

2008-09-24T10:45:00.000-07:00

I love the story about Philip and the Ethiopian in Acts 8:26-40! After Philip is led to go to the Desert Road, he notices an Ethiopian in his chariot, traveling home from Jerusalem.

“The Spirit told Philip, ‘Go to that chariot and stay near it.’ Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet” (v.29,30).

Philip asked if he understood what he was reading, which led to an opportunity to share the Gospel with the Ethiopian. The man was even baptized before the Spirit of the Lord took Philip away!

Before Philip had the opportunity to share the Gospel, his heart had to be in a position where he could hear from the Lord. The first two steps Philip took in this passage were to 1) hear and 2) obey. Thirdly, he expressed a passion and fervency for obeying the will of God. When the Spirit instructed him to approach the chariot, he ran! He appears eager to see what the Lord is up to. Next, he is quick to become involved with what the Ethiopian is doing, shares the Gospel with him, and baptizes him.

Learning to hear and obey God’s call on my life has been an exciting, and at times, challenging journey. In 2007 He led me to Romania where I had the amazing, heart-breaking, and life-changing opportunity to spend time with babies in a pediatric hospital, children in a gypsy village, prisoners, and street kids. The experience of sharing His love with people in need and seeing His beauty expressed through those kids was an experience I will always treasure. It was amazing, but also very difficult at times; witnessing abandonment and poverty, feeling the attack of the enemy, and some smaller challenges such as jet lag made it difficult but also caused me to grow spiritually and see God’s power revealed as I cried out to Him in the midst of my weaknesses. Soon I will be joining Youth With a Mission to gain further training and experience in missions. I am excited for all that God has in store!

How has God called you to missions? You can be a missionary to your co-workers, family members, neighbors next door, or neighbors across the country or overseas. Draw near to God. Incline your ear to hear Him. Consider the opportunities and adventures that could be waiting down the road for you! Whenever you feel God calling you down the road to your neighbor’s house or out of your comfort zone to another nation, remember the story of Philip and the Ethiopian. Be inspired by Philip’s obedience and the impact it had on the Ethiopian. God has amazing plans in store for those who are willing to join Him in what He is doing!

Katie C is a member of Christ Community and is joining Youth With A Mission for the next 7 months. To read more about her adventures & discoveries, check out her blog: Learning to Climb Moriah

Movies at Messiah College

2008-09-10T07:18:00.000-07:00

The great thing about not being a student is that you can go on campus and enjoy being there! I love going to Messiah's campus to walk on the fitness trail, hear a band, or watch movies in their pristine theater for just one dollar.

That's right! For mere change you can see great movies. Visit their website at the beginning of each semester to see what's coming up.

September 26 & 27: Wall-E
October 3 & 4: The Visitor

Where do you get your inspiration?

2008-09-09T06:44:00.000-07:00

I have a wonderful story about my brother in Christ, Mark. Sometime, you can ask me and I'll share it with you in person.

I've known Mark for about 5 years now, and I can honestly say that the more I know him the more I love him. I love him when he's sloshed in the spirit. I love him when he's busy. I love it when he is worshiping and I love it when he prays. It goes without saying that I also enjoy talking with him. He's a remarkable person.

When I read this excerpt on his blog (listed under "Rabbit Trails"), I was inspired and challenged:

When I was cleaning up the kitchen yesterday, I thought to ask the Lord to teach me and speak to me. Immediately, this lesson on the Holy Spirit came to me.

My task of the moment was to apply some oil to our new wooden cutting board. As I applied the oil to the board, the lessons were revealed. First, the oil brought forth the beauty in the wood that was hidden only moments before. The light brown surface was transformed into swirls of different rich browns and reds. Second, what was unseen and only hinted at was now completely revealed with surprising clarity. Instead of the dull, flat tan of the wood there was vivid swirls and grain patterns. Thirdly, there was an easy to see difference between what wood was light and which was dark - discernment. The lines between light and dark were clear and there was no halfway. Lastly, the Lord showed me that the oil made the wood impervious to water, stains, and any oils coming from items cut up on the board.

To read the interpretation of this lesson, click here. So my question is, what types of things inspire you? What moves you? Where do you look when you want to raise your thoughts above the daily shuffle?