I am feeling weighed down by things within me and around me this week, thankful that no matter how I'm feeling I know that I have hope because God has a plan for me. I'm thankful for the people in my life who continue to show me this is true, no matter what. I can't help but smile when I think about certain folks and how they brighten my day. Lucky to have such amazing friends and family to cheer me and remind me what really matters! This post is just a few things I need to get off my chest.
Puzzled:Something has been on my mind lately with all the media buzz about certain issues in our society. What's right or wrong is not what's important here or what puzzles me. What bothers me is the tremendous misuse of an opportunity to show God's love to others. Think about it, shouldn't we as Christians be recognizable by our love, joy, and compassion not by characteristics of judgment and hatred? Jesus gave us the command love your neighbor as yourself. When he said neighbor, he meant EVERYONE. Jesus came to save all people. There are no exceptions to his grace. Don't get me wrong, I'm not asking anyone to condone or encourage things you don't agree with. It's just my hope that Christians will love people better no matter the circumstances, because that's being Christlike.
Painful Memories:
I stayed awake early Tuesday, recalling the events of just one year ago. During those early morning hours on August 21, 2011 my twin nieces were born still. I said hello and goodbye to the precious babies in the matter of only a few minutes but it's a memory I will hold onto for a lifetime. I'd never truly known such heartbreak until that moment. I'll never forget seeing their perfect little hands and feet. Although we still grieve for the loss of our girls Zoe Catherine and Lily Grace, it's been a year of healing. God has been working in the lives of each of my family members.
Personally, for me it's been a year of ups and downs. It's been a year of letting go of anger towards God. I had to not only learn to trust him again but to follow where he was leading me. For the longest time it felt like my heart wouldn't begin to heal but God continued to hold me and bless me. Whenever I feel disappointed or fearful because I have no clue where I'm going, I can look back on this year and see examples of God's work within me and through me and trust that my future is in his hands.
Direction:
I'm not lost but I'm not certain where I'm going. Can you relate? All I know is the the heaviness of the load is bound to change. It will get lighter then heavier then maybe even heavier before lightening. All I know is I'm not alone in carrying it and I'm so thankful for that.
I promise a lighter fluffier post in the near future :)
-KP
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Friday, August 10, 2012
Feels like college.
Well, school has begun again and I wish my youth the best of luck! I hope it's a fantastic year for each and every one of them. I know they will make little moments count and find opportunities to show God's love this year. Summer faded quickly but we went out with one last, "hoorah!"
Youth Week.
What a blast! From bowling to laser tag to being locked-in; we did it all. We even hot glued a sheet to the church and projected a movie: instant outdoor movie. Why had I not heard of this before? Brilliant. The crowd favorite seemed to be our Paint War. As The Doctor would put it, somewhere along the "wibby wobbly, timey wimey" line I got the idea that it might be fun to throw paint on each other. Let's be honest, the inspiration is probably Pinterest related. The important thing is, I was right! Throwing paint on people is the best! You can't help but smile and laugh as you are splattered with vibrant colors. The end result is pretty cool too. Each person is covered with different patterns and color combinations, so artsy. I'm glad I asked my good friend to come photograph the war. She captured the moments we won't want to forget.
Funny story time. I asked one of my good guy friends to help me drive my youth to Lazer Blaze. He works with youth too and likes laser tag, so why not? I knew this might stir up some silliness from the boys in our group and I was right. After all, they've taught me a two week relationship is super serious and guys and girls are never just friends. As we were about to go into our game, one of the boys decided to be funny and point at us and say "You two should date." My response complete with serious face, "We are." My friend nodded in agreement. The look on the boy's face was priceless. I let his jaw stay dropped for five good seconds then said, "Just kidding, but that'd be cool right?" Don't mess. I can take your awkward and make it more awkward.
I love a good game of Ultimate Frisbee. It seems like I hardly ever play anymore so it felt incredible to get two games in during a week. As I ran down the field I yelled, "Feels like college!" In fact, the only time I enjoy running is during Frisbee games. I'm so happy my youth group has found a love for the game.
At our lock-in we focused for a few minutes on taking steps in the direction God wants us to go this year. Looking for opportunities to show his love to others. I had everyone write a letter to their future selves to hold themselves accountable and check in sometime this year. I was surprised at their reaction, no whining or sighs. They seemed happy to write. I'll never know what they said to themselves but I can't wait to mail those letters out in a few days, weeks, months. They'll never know when it'll arrive. I love surprise snail mail.
As I crashed into my bed Saturday morning after the lock-in, I reflected on the week. I happily planned a whole week of lively activities for teenagers. Yes, last minute changes were made and there were even misunderstandings about the rules of "Romans and Christians," but I think I can safely say that everyone learned something. Maybe it was simply a new game, or maybe it was about themselves, each other, or their relationship with God. We had a great time and bonded as a group, that's really all I could have hoped for. This group continues to impress me twice over.
I'm so lucky, 'cause my job totally rules.
-KP
Youth Week.
What a blast! From bowling to laser tag to being locked-in; we did it all. We even hot glued a sheet to the church and projected a movie: instant outdoor movie. Why had I not heard of this before? Brilliant. The crowd favorite seemed to be our Paint War. As The Doctor would put it, somewhere along the "wibby wobbly, timey wimey" line I got the idea that it might be fun to throw paint on each other. Let's be honest, the inspiration is probably Pinterest related. The important thing is, I was right! Throwing paint on people is the best! You can't help but smile and laugh as you are splattered with vibrant colors. The end result is pretty cool too. Each person is covered with different patterns and color combinations, so artsy. I'm glad I asked my good friend to come photograph the war. She captured the moments we won't want to forget.
Funny story time. I asked one of my good guy friends to help me drive my youth to Lazer Blaze. He works with youth too and likes laser tag, so why not? I knew this might stir up some silliness from the boys in our group and I was right. After all, they've taught me a two week relationship is super serious and guys and girls are never just friends. As we were about to go into our game, one of the boys decided to be funny and point at us and say "You two should date." My response complete with serious face, "We are." My friend nodded in agreement. The look on the boy's face was priceless. I let his jaw stay dropped for five good seconds then said, "Just kidding, but that'd be cool right?" Don't mess. I can take your awkward and make it more awkward.
I love a good game of Ultimate Frisbee. It seems like I hardly ever play anymore so it felt incredible to get two games in during a week. As I ran down the field I yelled, "Feels like college!" In fact, the only time I enjoy running is during Frisbee games. I'm so happy my youth group has found a love for the game.
At our lock-in we focused for a few minutes on taking steps in the direction God wants us to go this year. Looking for opportunities to show his love to others. I had everyone write a letter to their future selves to hold themselves accountable and check in sometime this year. I was surprised at their reaction, no whining or sighs. They seemed happy to write. I'll never know what they said to themselves but I can't wait to mail those letters out in a few days, weeks, months. They'll never know when it'll arrive. I love surprise snail mail.
As I crashed into my bed Saturday morning after the lock-in, I reflected on the week. I happily planned a whole week of lively activities for teenagers. Yes, last minute changes were made and there were even misunderstandings about the rules of "Romans and Christians," but I think I can safely say that everyone learned something. Maybe it was simply a new game, or maybe it was about themselves, each other, or their relationship with God. We had a great time and bonded as a group, that's really all I could have hoped for. This group continues to impress me twice over.
I'm so lucky, 'cause my job totally rules.
-KP
Monday, July 30, 2012
Y-E-S to V-B-S!!!
Kids are incredible. I was reminded just how incredible the week of our Vacation Bible School. Now that I've had some time to recover, I'm ready to share. It was an exhausting but extremely rewarding week. From what I can tell, the consensus was that it was a success. I felt so much love and support from all the gracious volunteers that dedicated their week to teaching our kids about God's AMAZING power.
First of all, VBS is not as easy as my mentor, Pam, has always made it seem. I never realized how much preparation and coordination goes into planning a Bible school. Thank goodness I had a wonderful team of experienced VBS ladies to help guide this rookie along. Still, the stress built up and I was an emotional wreck after the first day. There was really for no reason for my emotional outburst other than exhaustion, paranoia, and a bit of unrelated drama. The day had gone well. I guess the thought of doing it four more times just seemed a little daunting.
As nervous as I was to be the "go to" person, somewhere along the line it became no longer a burden but a blessing. By the end of the week the stress was completely gone and I was flying down a water slide yelling, "For VBS!!!!!" Seriously, there was an actual water slide. As cheesy as it sounds, I had the time of my life (cue Dirty Dancing theme song).
I'll admit I was nervous on the following Sunday. It was time to show the rest of our church family what we learned at VBS. Never in my life have I seen such a turnout on a VBS Sunday. So many kids showed up to sing their little hearts out. It was terrific. As I led the congregation through our daily lessons the kids were right there with me engaged and shining as we read our verses and talked about God's POWER! A little guy, Malachi, said it best as the kids exited the stage after their final song, "I DID GREAT!" He did do great; they all did. That little voice is something I'll hold in my heart for a long time. When I see big smiles or get running start hugs from the kids at church it makes my day brighter and everything seems that much more worth it!
One of the reasons I enjoy my job so much is because it teaches me new things about myself with each new experience or task which I am delegated. During VBS I learned three important things:
1. I am most certainly a bit crazy.
2. This allows me to talk to kids in a way that gives them the impression that I'm awesome.
3. When they are fooled into thinking I'm awesome, it's easier to get them to listen while I teach them about God's LOVE.First of all, VBS is not as easy as my mentor, Pam, has always made it seem. I never realized how much preparation and coordination goes into planning a Bible school. Thank goodness I had a wonderful team of experienced VBS ladies to help guide this rookie along. Still, the stress built up and I was an emotional wreck after the first day. There was really for no reason for my emotional outburst other than exhaustion, paranoia, and a bit of unrelated drama. The day had gone well. I guess the thought of doing it four more times just seemed a little daunting.
As nervous as I was to be the "go to" person, somewhere along the line it became no longer a burden but a blessing. By the end of the week the stress was completely gone and I was flying down a water slide yelling, "For VBS!!!!!" Seriously, there was an actual water slide. As cheesy as it sounds, I had the time of my life (cue Dirty Dancing theme song).
I'll admit I was nervous on the following Sunday. It was time to show the rest of our church family what we learned at VBS. Never in my life have I seen such a turnout on a VBS Sunday. So many kids showed up to sing their little hearts out. It was terrific. As I led the congregation through our daily lessons the kids were right there with me engaged and shining as we read our verses and talked about God's POWER! A little guy, Malachi, said it best as the kids exited the stage after their final song, "I DID GREAT!" He did do great; they all did. That little voice is something I'll hold in my heart for a long time. When I see big smiles or get running start hugs from the kids at church it makes my day brighter and everything seems that much more worth it!
Sometimes it feels like all I do is worry or anticipate. Looking back now, I feel silly for stressing. God answered my prayers and blessed me greatly in so many ways during a single week. I guess it's just another reminder that I'd be nothing without his direction and presence in my life.
This week is Youth Week at church. Stay tuned for related post!
-KP
Friday, July 6, 2012
I'll just blame the heat.
It's been quite eventful in the life of this rookie youth leader. Here's a few updates. Sorry, it's a lengthy one.
Vacation Bible School
I had the unique opportunity to serve with my home church as they brought Vacation Bible School to Henryville UMC who suffered tornado damage like most of the town of Henryville and the surrounding areas in early March. The theme for VBS, "Construction Junction," was appropriate as many of the homes right next to the church were being rebuilt. It was such a blessing to spend time with about sixteen first graders and a few kindergarteners. It was heartwarming to see their delightful smiles and hear their infectious laughter. These children have been through so much, some more than others, and still have marvelous joy in their hearts. Praise God for that! I'll cherish the memories of that week and miss those kiddos like crazy! Looking forward (and a bit terrified) to be the leader at our VBS coming up in just a few short weeks. Prayers please!
ICHTHUS
It's hard to count, but think I've been to Ichthus Music Festival around seven or eight times. Somewhere along the line I've lost my eagerness to camp out for the entire weekend. (Probably because the festival is now in summer; therefore, totally hot.) Luckily, my small group decided we would just truck down to Wilmore for one evening since Switchfoot was playing. After a near death experience in the church van and applying a healthy amount of sunscreen; my buddy Jordan and I staked out our spot while the rest of the group explored. I was not gonna miss the opportunity to see Jon Foreman sound check.
I guess I'm a true youth leader now because the speaker of the night angered me. I didn't appreciate his topic for the young audience at Ichthus. He was focusing more on not going to hell rather than a relationship with Christ before he gave an altar call. The audience was a bunch of teenagers who are going through "teenager-y" things. I think the speaker should have used this opportunity to focus on the love and comfort that comes with a relationship with a Savior. I was thoroughly disappointed.
Fortunately, the lead singer of Kutless gave a better message in five minutes than the speaker in thirty. I am always impressed with Kutless because they are a band that takes the time to play worship music instead of trying to sell their own songs. Switchfoot completely killed it. I had an incredible time. I was bouncing around and dancing like nobody's business. I love that band. Did I mention that I got to shake their hands? I had to sweet talk my way into the closed Artist Tent. Still got it. I acted like a real dork when I met them though. "Sorry my hands are so sweaty, sir."
SPIRIT SONG
Well, I did it! I survived my first overnight trip. I, with the help of three other amazing adults, pulled off an fun-filled weekend trip to Kings Island. Three days at a theme park including some rockin' Christian concerts can really wear you out. It was over 100 degrees each day and there was a crazy storm but my group was still full of positive energy. I was so proud of them. They made my job a whole lot easier. I was able to see Switchfoot again and rocked out. As Jon Foreman came within five rows of me and sang to little kids and gave out high fives I turned to another leader, Derrick, and said, "Those kids don't know they are living my dream. They are living MY dream." Owl City, Red, NEEDTOBREATH, and tobyMac brought the party. It was really special to get to sing, dance, and jump around with the kiddos in my group. It was an honor to take them to some of their first concerts.
Nothing like going to a theme park to help you discover that you're getting old. Spending time in line surrounded by junior and senior highers is just enough. What really takes the cake: the rides. THEY HURT NOW. When did this happen? Don't get me wrong, I still love roller coasters but I could not keep up like I used to. Oh, what a difference five years can make. I think I'll just blame the heat.
Until something fun happens,
KP
Vacation Bible School
I had the unique opportunity to serve with my home church as they brought Vacation Bible School to Henryville UMC who suffered tornado damage like most of the town of Henryville and the surrounding areas in early March. The theme for VBS, "Construction Junction," was appropriate as many of the homes right next to the church were being rebuilt. It was such a blessing to spend time with about sixteen first graders and a few kindergarteners. It was heartwarming to see their delightful smiles and hear their infectious laughter. These children have been through so much, some more than others, and still have marvelous joy in their hearts. Praise God for that! I'll cherish the memories of that week and miss those kiddos like crazy! Looking forward (and a bit terrified) to be the leader at our VBS coming up in just a few short weeks. Prayers please!
ICHTHUS
It's hard to count, but think I've been to Ichthus Music Festival around seven or eight times. Somewhere along the line I've lost my eagerness to camp out for the entire weekend. (Probably because the festival is now in summer; therefore, totally hot.) Luckily, my small group decided we would just truck down to Wilmore for one evening since Switchfoot was playing. After a near death experience in the church van and applying a healthy amount of sunscreen; my buddy Jordan and I staked out our spot while the rest of the group explored. I was not gonna miss the opportunity to see Jon Foreman sound check.
I guess I'm a true youth leader now because the speaker of the night angered me. I didn't appreciate his topic for the young audience at Ichthus. He was focusing more on not going to hell rather than a relationship with Christ before he gave an altar call. The audience was a bunch of teenagers who are going through "teenager-y" things. I think the speaker should have used this opportunity to focus on the love and comfort that comes with a relationship with a Savior. I was thoroughly disappointed.
Fortunately, the lead singer of Kutless gave a better message in five minutes than the speaker in thirty. I am always impressed with Kutless because they are a band that takes the time to play worship music instead of trying to sell their own songs. Switchfoot completely killed it. I had an incredible time. I was bouncing around and dancing like nobody's business. I love that band. Did I mention that I got to shake their hands? I had to sweet talk my way into the closed Artist Tent. Still got it. I acted like a real dork when I met them though. "Sorry my hands are so sweaty, sir."
SPIRIT SONG
Well, I did it! I survived my first overnight trip. I, with the help of three other amazing adults, pulled off an fun-filled weekend trip to Kings Island. Three days at a theme park including some rockin' Christian concerts can really wear you out. It was over 100 degrees each day and there was a crazy storm but my group was still full of positive energy. I was so proud of them. They made my job a whole lot easier. I was able to see Switchfoot again and rocked out. As Jon Foreman came within five rows of me and sang to little kids and gave out high fives I turned to another leader, Derrick, and said, "Those kids don't know they are living my dream. They are living MY dream." Owl City, Red, NEEDTOBREATH, and tobyMac brought the party. It was really special to get to sing, dance, and jump around with the kiddos in my group. It was an honor to take them to some of their first concerts.
Nothing like going to a theme park to help you discover that you're getting old. Spending time in line surrounded by junior and senior highers is just enough. What really takes the cake: the rides. THEY HURT NOW. When did this happen? Don't get me wrong, I still love roller coasters but I could not keep up like I used to. Oh, what a difference five years can make. I think I'll just blame the heat.
Until something fun happens,
KP
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
A Better Me. It's possible.
Summer has greeted us with a smile.
I don't know about you, but I find myself hopeful at the beginning of the summer. Even though I'm no longer a student with the summer off, I still find myself imagining all the good things the season can bring. There's time for staying up late, sleeping in, and catching up with friends. There's swimming, grass to mow, barbecuing, vacations, weddings, fireworks, blockbusters, concerts, and maybe even a little romance if we're lucky. There's so much to look forward to!
This year I decided to write out some "Summer Goals" which quickly became "Summer Guidelines", and then more just like "Suggestions for Summer". My main purpose was to find things to improve me as a person. I won't bore you with the entire list but some of these suggestions are practical, like "Learn to Cook" while some are educational, "Read each week" and "Study the Bible more" and some are more personal challenges like, "Let it go." and "Talk to God more."
It doesn't really matter what I call them; writing down these challenges is a way to keep myself accountable. As I look up at my list each day, I'm reminded to strive to be a better me. After all, it's always possible to be a better version of yourself. I have twenty-three years experience in trying to become a better version of KP and I've found I just can't do it on my own. I must trust in the Lord with all my heart and let him lead me. Most importantly, my focus and purpose for improving must be centered in his truth. That's why strengthening my relationship with God has made the list in more than one way. I hope I can hold up my end of the bargain this summer and beyond.
Do you want to be a better you? Center yourself in truth.
Let's see what we can become,
KP
I don't know about you, but I find myself hopeful at the beginning of the summer. Even though I'm no longer a student with the summer off, I still find myself imagining all the good things the season can bring. There's time for staying up late, sleeping in, and catching up with friends. There's swimming, grass to mow, barbecuing, vacations, weddings, fireworks, blockbusters, concerts, and maybe even a little romance if we're lucky. There's so much to look forward to!
This year I decided to write out some "Summer Goals" which quickly became "Summer Guidelines", and then more just like "Suggestions for Summer". My main purpose was to find things to improve me as a person. I won't bore you with the entire list but some of these suggestions are practical, like "Learn to Cook" while some are educational, "Read each week" and "Study the Bible more" and some are more personal challenges like, "Let it go." and "Talk to God more."
It doesn't really matter what I call them; writing down these challenges is a way to keep myself accountable. As I look up at my list each day, I'm reminded to strive to be a better me. After all, it's always possible to be a better version of yourself. I have twenty-three years experience in trying to become a better version of KP and I've found I just can't do it on my own. I must trust in the Lord with all my heart and let him lead me. Most importantly, my focus and purpose for improving must be centered in his truth. That's why strengthening my relationship with God has made the list in more than one way. I hope I can hold up my end of the bargain this summer and beyond.
Do you want to be a better you? Center yourself in truth.
Let's see what we can become,
KP
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| I haz a stick. Summer Pup. |
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
I want to see Miracles
Below is a link to a recording of the message I gave last Sunday. Wow, it's really weird listening to myself. I apologize for the sniffles. That is what happens when you are super nervous and talk about emotional things.
I never thought I could stand up in front of a congregation and give a message. It felt really good. I'm so thankful for all the support I received from family, friends, and from my congregation. Thanks for believing in me.
-KP
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Where would we be without Forgiveness?
Answer: Alone and Bitter
I'm thoroughly embarrassed as I look back at the date of my last post. My, my, how time has flown by. To be honest, I've started several blog posts in the mean time that never fully came together. There was either a lack of inspiration or my writing began to get too personal. The past few months have been a roller coaster ride for this lady. Thankfully, there was lots of growth in the process. Mostly when I look back at the past few weeks there is one thing that comes to mind: Forgiveness.
People disappoint. People make mistakes. People hurt you. But, there is power in repaying these people with love and mercy. Are we not shown mercy each and every day by God? My sins are forgotten, the same sins I can't forgive myself for, simply because I asked. When I make mistakes, the last thing I need is someone to tell me about the mess I've made. So why? Why is it so hard to forgive the people who sin against us? Yes, there is always the risk of being hurt again, but forgiveness doesn't come in one form. Sometimes it creates a stronger relationship and sometimes it makes a clean break. In any form, letting go of the bitterness will set you free. Wouldn't you rather go out loving, rather than hating. Just something to think and pray about.
In other news:
Now that tax season has come and gone, it's time to make decisions about what to do with myself. I'm considering taking some classes in the fall to start work on a Masters degree. Prayers for guidance (and funds) would be much appreciated.
Oh, and I think that you should know that the entire time I wrote this post, the song from Just Friends was in my head. "Forgiveness....is more than saying sorry..."
Until next time,
KP
I'm thoroughly embarrassed as I look back at the date of my last post. My, my, how time has flown by. To be honest, I've started several blog posts in the mean time that never fully came together. There was either a lack of inspiration or my writing began to get too personal. The past few months have been a roller coaster ride for this lady. Thankfully, there was lots of growth in the process. Mostly when I look back at the past few weeks there is one thing that comes to mind: Forgiveness.
People disappoint. People make mistakes. People hurt you. But, there is power in repaying these people with love and mercy. Are we not shown mercy each and every day by God? My sins are forgotten, the same sins I can't forgive myself for, simply because I asked. When I make mistakes, the last thing I need is someone to tell me about the mess I've made. So why? Why is it so hard to forgive the people who sin against us? Yes, there is always the risk of being hurt again, but forgiveness doesn't come in one form. Sometimes it creates a stronger relationship and sometimes it makes a clean break. In any form, letting go of the bitterness will set you free. Wouldn't you rather go out loving, rather than hating. Just something to think and pray about.
In other news:
Now that tax season has come and gone, it's time to make decisions about what to do with myself. I'm considering taking some classes in the fall to start work on a Masters degree. Prayers for guidance (and funds) would be much appreciated.
Oh, and I think that you should know that the entire time I wrote this post, the song from Just Friends was in my head. "Forgiveness....is more than saying sorry..."
 |
| This also happened since I've been gone. |
Until next time,
KP
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