Fasting

Today marked the start of our 3 Day Annual XLR8 Prayer & Fast.

I am so excited about the students who are participating with Amanda and me.

The following challenge options were issued . . . (1)Give up food and drink except for water and juice starting when you wake up on Monday until after the XLR8 youth service Wed. night. (2)Give up food and drink for one meal a day for 3 days (3) Give up something you love for 3 days (i.e. TV, Video Games, Texting, Facebook, Cell Phone, Music, etc.)

We are praying for (1) God to guide XLR8 in 2008 (2) A specific personal request (i.e. salvation of a friend or loved one, freedom from an addiction, guidance about a decision, the birthing of a new dream from God) (3)God to instill this spiritual discipline in the lives of the students and leaders of XLR8

So many of you are sacrificing this week and I am so proud!

I can't wait to hear the results and to see what God is going to do Wednesday night in XLR8 service!

Retreat

Amanda and I have been in Columbus, Ohio for the last 3 days for a minister's rereat. We have been able to relax and connect with friends that we only get to see a few times a year.

We love being pastors in Ohio because the Ohio District is all about relationships and resourcing. Building friendships is crucial in life. You never know when you will need to lean on a friend from the past for encouragement or prayer.

Amanda started a Facebook on Saturday. She already has over 60 friends! She has been able to reconnect with some friends from college and from our time living in Missouri.

I am thinking about starting a Facebook myself. What do you think?

Tonight in XLR8, we are talking about setting God-Made goals as a youth ministry for 2008. I've got a pretty cool illustration in store for the students that I don't think they will forget.

See you back in BG later today!