Community......

There's something about this time of year that just seems to draw people together in spite of differences. I know that's kind of typical, 'tis the season kind of statement, but it's true. Cultural differences, political differences, economic, racial, all seem to take a back seat during this time of year. It's very cool to see people just being nice to each other. In the hectic rush to get the things we "need" to get for the people on our lists, we all seem to look at everyone in a little different light.

Last Friday I was in downtown Ft. Worth shooting video for our Christmas services, and saw tons of people. After two hours of talking to families, kids, moms, dads, grandparents, and people from all walks of life, the coolest thing happened at the very end of the night. As we were getting ready to pack up our cameras, the parade had just finished, and people were packing up their things to go home, I walked up to a street corner where there was about 25 people. These people were all with seperate groups, and did not know each other outside of their own family. I simply asked if they would sing "Jingle Bells" for our camera. Without hesitation, they put their arms around each other, starting with the kids and working through the parents, and just started singing. I've got it on camera.

You know, one of the things that I've seen a lot of youth ministries is the need for connectedness among their students. It's easy to flock to the people that think, act, dress, and believe the same way we do. It's much harder to connect with those who are different. Christ certainly made a habit of hanging with those who experienced life on the flip side of His own.

Our students start a six week study on connecting this week. Our church is a great community, and I'm looking forward to the things that God teaches me, and our students in this study. Pray that God gives us the strength and discernment to take the opportunities He provides to reach out to those a little different than ourselves. They say it takes 21 days for something to become a habit. There are 24 shopping days left 'til Christmas.

I'm out.......

as promised...here are pics from our junior high hoe down last night....yee stinkin' haw...