What marvelous love the Father has extended to us! Just look at it—we’re called children of God! That’s who we really are. But that’s also why the world doesn’t recognize us or take us seriously, because it has no idea who he is or what he’s up to. (1 John 3:1 MSG)

I love being a teacher. I get to see, first hand, some really great kids. I'm not their father, but I am just as proud. It is common, and has been for decades, to look at our youth in negative terms. Old people compare the youth of today to their past. It's easy to look back 30 or more years and only remember the great things. One of the things I enjoy most about young people is their idealism. They truly believe they can solve the worlds problems. As adults, we just don't take them seriously. I get to see first hand what goes through their minds and I am optimistic about what they can accomplish.

Christians are very similar to the youth of today. A lot of people just don't take us seriously. They don't believe in the power of the Love of Jesus Christ. They scoff at our idealism. They are skeptical of our service attitude. They can't believe people would actually extend a helping hand without reward.

We need to continue to share that childlike love with the lost. We need to hold on to that teenage idealism of saving the world. Our Father is proud of us and loves us even when we fail. We need to do the same with our youth. We need to encourage them, laugh with them, and give them every opportunity to get the most out of life. The example of our own lives can be the life that leads them to Christ. If we can get enough of our youth to come to that saving relationship with Christ, they truly will save the world.

You're an Overcomer!

You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. (1 John 4:4 NIV)

It seems like life is full of obstacles. We spend our lives overcoming those obstacles any way we can. I have battled with my own obstacles including issues at school, finances, and family issues. But, I have to admit, my obstacles are so small compared to most people. I praise God he has blessed me beyond all I could ask for. When obstacles have been placed in my path, I have overcome them. Not by my own strength, but I have overcome them through the power of Christ. 

As a child of God, I am so fortunate to be defended by the creator of the universe. I feel his presence through good times and bad. I have seen his protection in my life. Anyone can witness that same protection by turning their life to him. Open your heart to Jesus and see the wonderful changes before you. 

"We are....."

But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, (Ephesians 2:13, 14 NIV)

Before every assembly at GHS  for at least the past 5 years, the principal raises his pointer finger high in the air, he say, "We are...." And we all respond.. "Garrett!" It is used to bring us together as a school. The former Principal started the tradition by saying We are One! Unity is so critical in a school, a family, a business, or any organization. You can not survive with a house divided. You can not be effective with barriers and walls of hostility.

The best way to bring a group together is through Jesus Christ. Our world is so divided. Our communities, our government, our families all follow the same pattern. Jesus is the answer. The more we draw near to him, the more we have true peace. Pray for unity. Pray for oneness in your lives. Pray that your enemies or adversaries will draw near to Christ. As we all draw closer to him our lives will be filled with love and peace.