R.I.P. Jacob

This past week we had a kid in our youth group passed away. Jacob Blair was on the roof of an abonded building with some friends Thursday night making a video for a class project. Jake went to go set up the camera, and the roof gave in. He fell around 25 feet hitting his head. He was pronounced dead upon arriving at the hospital.

This really hit our youth group hard. We have once again lost another member, but we are not totally morning. Jacob was a Christian, he had accepted Christ. We all take comfort in the fact that he is now in Heaven, rejoicing with God. This has also served as a reminder about just how short life it. We don't know when our life, or anyone else's for that matter, will end. For me, it has really reminded me on just how important it is to witness to others and be an example of Christ's love. After all, we never know when our time will be up.

Rest in Peace Jake. You had a BIG influence on a TON of people. I know you're in Heaven right now rejoicing with God, but we still miss you. I can't wait for the day when I will get to see you, once again, face to face.

God's Plan

Dear Diary,
I'm sorry I haven't written in a while. It's been a hard few months, especially emotionally. The last time I wrote to you was when the angel Gabriel visited me and told me I was pregnant with God's son. I know this is a great blessing and honor, but lately it seems to be more of a curse.

A few weeks after Gabriel came to me I told my parents about the whole thing, but they didn't believe me. That was three months ago. My stomach is starting to show more and more each day. Everywhere I go I'm no longer met with a smiling face. Those have now be replaced with a judgemental glance. The ones who used to call me friend won't even look at me. My reputation has been ruined. I used to be remembered as the one with a loving heart, a sweet smile, and someone with a servant's attitude, but not anymore. I'm not thought of as the family embarrassment.

Right now I'm at a loss. I don't even know if Joseph will still marry me. The last time I saw him I could barley look into his eyes. When I finally managed to, all I saw was anger, shame and disappointment. I pray Yahweh he does not divorce me. I don't know if I can bare all of that. If he divorces me I'll be stoned, or worse, I'll go on living a life of isolation because my family will disown me.

I had always hoped God would use me to do something great, but being deemed as an adulator is not what I had in mind. I'm sure this will be worth is the moment I hold this baby growing inside of me in my arms. Until then though, I pray I can simply make it through another day.
Sincerely Yours,
Mary.

The next few weeks

Over the next few weeks I'm going to be doing a "Dear Diary" series over some famous biblical characters. So often we think of biblical people as some type of supermen. It's almost as if they couldn't possibly be real. A little Shepard boy wins a war with a stone? or A peasant girl becomes queen and saves thousands of Jews? So often it's look over with a huge "Wow" factor, then quickly forgotten or rationalized out of the notation it would ever happen again. We think "God doesn't do stuff like that anymore", or "I'm just little old me, I don't even know anyone to make a difference on". We rule out God using us to lead a revolution in the 21st century. The truth is though, if we allow God to take control of our lives He can use us for great things. Join me as we step back into time and take a look at real people who allowed themselves to be used by God.

Time Sure does fly by fast.....l

Dear Blogging Friends,
It's been ages since I've written. The past few weeks have so so busy. Here are a few of the things that have gone on:

*Turned 16

*Helped run and plan our school's See You At the Pole which was a huge success, we had 42 people. God really showed up!

*Starting teaching swim lesions

*Started to be a T.A. at the middle school and tutor some of the kids for A+

*and my personal favorite, got my license!!!

Things should settle down here in the few few weeks, and I will be posting more. I have all of these "mini" blog post on random scraps of paper around my room. I'm praying for you all!
In His Love,
Kaytlynn

Low cut standards

I was listening to a podcast a few minutes ago, and it got me thinking.
We live in a world with pretty low standards, especially when it comes to relationships. It's not uncommon to find a middle schooler who has had at least ten different boyfriends, a teenage girl who is pregnant, or a young women who has been married several times. However, this isn't just common among non-Christians anymore, it's pretty common among believers too. But what if we, as Christians raised the standards again.
What if, instead of dating a ton of guys in high school for "fun" or "just because", we waited and prepared ourselves for "the one" we want to spend the rest of our lives with. What if, instead of flirting with all of the guys at church, we prayed for them and challenged them in our walk with God. Ladies, it's up to us if there will ever be a change. So let's raise our standards....and our neck lines.

Dancing with My Dad

I stepped into the ballroom. I was as nervous as ever. My hands were shaking, my stomach was in knots, and my heart was pounding so hard and so fast, I thought it was going to explode. This was to be the night I was going to get to dance with my future husband. My eyes widened as I scanned the ballroom. I felt like a little kid in a candy store. There were so many men, and the mirrors on the walls seemed to make the number multiply.

I looked down at the bottom of the staircase, and a smile spread across my face. My father was standing at the bottom waiting for me. My nerves slowly faded as I made my way towards him. His eyes shined as bright as the stars, and his smile was as calming as still waters. All my fears had vanished by the time I had reached him. For what did I have to fear? My hands slid from the smooth wooden railing into his strong rough hands. “Shall we dance?” My Father asked. “Indeed” I replied as I pulled the edges of my ball gown to curtsy. My father took me by the arm and led the way out onto the dance floor.

I glanced around the enormous room. There were so many different types of men. Some of them had already found their true love, and they were dancing with them. They held each other close, and whispered their unconditional love for one another. There were also some men waiting eagerly on the edge of the dance floor with their fathers. They were waiting for the perfect girl to come along to have their first dance with. They were not going to dance with just anybody. As I continued to look about the room I noticed another type of man. Now these men, by worldly standards, would have been the best group by far. They were the most graceful and experienced dancers of all, but they kind of came with a catch. They kept constantly switching dancing partners. It seemed as if they couldn’t make it through a whole song without leaving someone with a broken heart, a shattered dream and a crushed hope. My father must have seen the look of hurt in my eyes as I watched another girl be left. He reached up and gently touched my soft cheek with his hand. Looking me straight in the eyes he said, “Keep dancing with me, and I’ll let the right guy cut in at the right time.”

Hours passed as I continued to dance with my daddy. I knew I didn’t need to venture off on my own, for here I was safe, and here I was happy. Every once in a while a young bachelor would come along and ask for a dance, but I quickly turned them down. Many just wanted to mark me off their list as one danced with, while others were attracted to my personality or style. However, those reasons were not why I wanted a guy to ask me to dance, even if they were really cute.

After what seemed like days of dancing a fine young man came along. He liked me for me, and how much I loved my dad. My heart jittered, and my eyes lit up. “Can I dance with him Daddy, please?” “No” my father replied. My face immediately filled with disappointment, and a tear began to roll down my cheek. I couldn’t understand why I shouldn’t dance with someone like this. I reached up and wiped the tears. “Why?” I dared to ask. My Father simply smiled and replied, “Keep dancing with me and I will let the perfect guy cut in at the perfect time.”

Time seemed to pass slowly as I waited for the right one to come and ask me to dance. As I waltzed with my dad I couldn’t help but overhear the snarls and snickers of girls dancing with their “bachelor of the song.” Even to this day I can still hear their comments, “You aren’t going to be experienced enough when it comes time for you to really start dancing”, “You won’t have any idea what type of dancer you want if you don’t try several out now.” And the one that stuck with me the most, “It’s so much fun, you have no idea what you are missing out on.” At times, I wondered if they could be right. After all, there were only a few girls left still dancing with their dad’s, and there were even fewer guys waiting on the side of the dance floor. Most of the girls had danced with at least ten other guys by now. Was I really so crazy to think that I could really only dance with just one other guy besides my Dad? Or, was that only something that happened in the movies? As I began to ponder all of these things my father leaned in and whispered in my ear, “Keep dancing with me, and I’ll let the right guy cut in at the right time.”

I tried as best as I could to forget what the other girls had said. I knew that they perfect guy was out there, and he would come… sooner or later. So until then, I decided I would put all of my energy and focus into dancing with my dad. Besides, I knew my dad was right and he would let the perfect guy cut in at the perfect time.

My Father led me over to a different part of the dance floor. It was there in the middle of a twirl our eyes met. I knew instantly he was “the one.” My face began to glow as I started to tell my dad about the one I had just seen. The smile that was quickly growing on my face spread to my Father’s face as I started to describe this fine young man. Then my dream actually started to come true. The young, inexperienced, bachelor made his way over to my Father and me. “May I have the honor of this dance with your daughter?”, he asked. His voice was deep and strong, but yet a little shaky. I think it had something to do with the fact that he was so nervous. I really didn’t think anything of it because I was just as nervous as him. Then, my Father finally said what I had been waiting so long to hear, “Yes, you can dance with my daughter.” I could hardly believe it, my father was letting a guy cut in.

My Daddy kissed me on the cheek and he loosened his grip. My hands slid from my father’s hands and into my new loves brawny hands where our fingers interlocked. Our bodies seemed to move as one as we danced together song after song. “Will you be my partner forever and always?” he finally asked “I do”, I replied, grinning from ear to ear. My dad came by, and whispered into my ear for the last time. “You kept dancing with me, and now I’ve let the right guy at the right time cut in.”

Oh Where art thou my beloved?

Ever since I was little I’ve always loved the Disney Princess movies, them falling hopeless in and love, and then living happily ever after. The very thought of that makes me smile from ear to ear. (Did I mention I’m a hopeless romantic?).

Over the past few months I’ve had several friends who have started dating, and over the past few weeks I’ve been wondering if maybe I should start to date too? After all, it’s considered weird not to date in high school now. All of my friends are doing it, and it’s a lot fun. The long walks, holding hands, and having someone to call your own sounds so exuberant. But there is more to dating then that. You’re setting yourself up for your heart to be broken. Most relationships fail, since you may date ten guys, but you only marry one. You are also putting yourself into a place where temptation increases immensely. If he’s a total hottie, he “loves” you, and he wants to kiss, it’s going to pretty hard to say no. Finally, you are also giving a little part of yourself away. When you give yourself away, that’s a little less your future spouse will have. When you date someone you give a part of your heart away to that person, and that’s something you can never get back.

So often I get caught up in the romantic side of it all I don’t take the time to step back and look at what else goes on. The past few weeks I’ve been bounced back and forth on the matter, freaked a few friends out, and have been lost in total uncertainty, but I’ve come to a conclusion. Right now, I’m not at a place in my life where I need to be dating. I’m only 15 (almost 16), and I still have plenty of time. So until it becomes my time to be a girlfriend I’ll keep praying and waiting for my knight in shining armor.

I'm From

This is a poem I did for my English Class.

I'm from a family where friends live far and wide
From within the great walls of China
To the small orphanage in Haiti

I come from a people who do not have a permanent house
And so, learn to constantly readjust
Adjusting to the food, random marriage proposals, and driving too
Oh, and the least favorite of all, learning a language that is new

I'm from the way of life where a voice replaces a face
And a hand written note is kept for months
Just to remind you of the smells of home

I'm from the place where the simple pleasures
Are treated as great treasures
A case of coke becomes like silver
And a cup of fresh steaming Starbucks has more value than gold

I'm from days where nothing goes right
and you don't know how God could have ever use the talk you gave
the witness you were, or the play you preformed to draw someone to Him
to seeing pictures of the hundreds who came forward after experiencing
a taste of His great love, and the good news they could be free from sin, no longer a slave

I'm from the mission field
Where my heart will forever be
Through tornadoes, earthquakes, and in the midst of wars
We serve with a smile and a heart over flowing with love
To harvest the crop, and do the work of our Father Above

Just a man on a corner

A few weeks ago I was in Wisconsin visiting my aunt and uncle. On the Saturday morning we went to the city market, which was quite a sight to see. As far as the eye could see there were booths filled with home grown fruit, hand made baked goods, and fresh cheese curds. As my family and I made our way around the square we came upon several street performers. One in particular caught my eye. This man was singing "This is the day that the Lord has made". After living for a few days where Christianity was not supposed to be discussed, I found this really refreshing.

This also got me thinking. This man was being a witness for Christ, even though it may not have been the "popular" thing to do that day. Some people in the market may have laughed at this man, some may have thought he was crazy, and maybe even some thought he shouldn't be allowed to sing a Christian song like he was, but the man kept singing.

Some times in life when we witness for Christ it isn't going to be easy. We will constantly face opposition, but we must keep pressing forward. Luke 21:12-13 says "But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and will persecute you, delivering you to the synagogues and prisons, bringing you before kings" My advice today is to keep pressing forward, no matter where your witnessing leads you. You never know whom you may end up leading to the Lord.

The war in my own land

It’s true, it’s real, and I’m scared out of my mind. I hear and read stories of martyrs all of the time, but I never thought I would have to worry about a friend in the states being killed. You see, I have a friend who was involved in a gang, but now he has accepted Christ. He left the gang, and started truly living for Christ, and sharing Christ with his friends. Well, this didn’t fly to well, and now the members of the gang are out to get him. This morning he was riding his bike to school when they hit him in their car, intentionally. They drove off leaving him there, but not before warning there is more still to come.
For the past couple years I’ve been reading about the Underground and Persecuted Church, and how so many risk their lives for the Gospel. These people are my brothers and sisters in Christ, but they live in other countries. Well now, my brother in Christ is in trouble, but it’s not in a foreign land. It’s in my own back yard. I admire Alex* for the risk he is taking, but I’m asking you to please join me in prayer for his safety and the souls of his friends.

*Name has been changed for protection

Well, I assumed....

School has once again started. We were some of the "Lucky" few to get to start on Monday. This week has been crazy, but it's great getting to see everyone again. I was fortunate to get to start the year in amazing way though. This past weekend I went to the Big Dig, which is an apologetics conference for teens through Focus on the Family. It was nice to start my year two days after something like that. The conference was more than just learning ways to defend Creation, God taught me something. He taught me about assuming. When people assume things, rumors get started, friendships get broken, and hearts are torn in two. This weekend I learned assuming can cost someone more than loosing a friendship. Here's what happened:

My youth group got to the church where it was held at a few minutes before the doors opened. After all, we did want to get good seats. We were all stoked and ready to go, and came running in when the doors opened. Well, our excitement quickly dwindled when we realized we still had an hour and a half before it started. In order to kill time, some friends and I walked around then sat people watching. Several kids passed by chatting and talking to their friends. I didn't give even the slightest thought about that they might not be a Christian. After all, this was a Christian conference about defending our faith. Well, later that night they had an invitation for anyone who wanted to accept Christ. Several of the kids who I had saw walked down the aisle who I had seen earlier. I just assumed that they knew. This hit me really hard, because I'm sure it happens all of the time. We think, "Well they go to Christian school, they must be a Christian", or "She's in my bible study, so I know she's a Christian", or maybe even, "I read my bible everyday, pray before my meals, and even go to church twice a week, so I'm a Christian". My friends, going to church, attending a bible study or reading your bible doesn't make you a Christian anymore than standing in a garage makes you a car. The only way to become a Christian is to accept Christ into your heart. I was lucky that this time these kids were given another opportunity to accept Christ. However, next time, the people I come into contact with may never be told the gospel again. Who are you sharing the good news with?

This little light of mine

St. Francis of Assisi once said, "Preach the gospel always, If necessary use words". Over the past week I got to experience what he meant. I drove up to see my aunt and uncle in WI this past weekend. I had a great time with them, and enjoyed the trip. However, there was just one little problem. We had totally different worldviews. I am a Christian and a creationist and they are both atheists and evolutionist. For those of you who know me probably know that I am very outspoken, but this weekend I was told not to say anything, concerning "religion or worldview". This for me, listening to my faith and values being attacked and not "fighting back" was really hard. I was talking to a good friend of mine about the whole thing and he reminded me that we need to be a light by things other than just our speech. You may not have the chance to give your boss the gospel, but you can witness to him by not joining the office gossip. You may have a close friend who may not come to church, but you can show her Jesus by being a friend to her when everyone else turns their backs. You may not always be able to vocally share you faith, but I pray you will continue to let you light shine for Him.

To live or not to live, that isn't the question

We read about Christians heroically giving up their lives for Christ and receiving the crown of martyrdom. They deiced God was worth more than their life, so they gave it up. You may have already deiced if the time came and you had to choose between you life or God, have to pick between life or God, but there is another choice we have to make. The choice is, Will you give up your way of life for Christ? I'm not trying to take away from what the martyrs have done in any way. Many of them are great heroes, but like I said earlier, most of the people in America won't have to make that choice. Giving up your way of life is something you have to do daily, and you will give up a lot. You will have to give up your wills; desires; certain sins in your life, which you might enjoy keeping around; friends; a new job; or maybe what seems to be a chance of a lifetime. Please don't look over the past few lines and completely throw away the idea of giving up your way of life for Christ. Yes, you will loose some things, but you will gain even more than you could fathom. Don't believe me? Try it.

And the winner is...

My grandma drew the winner from our lovely tea pitcher today. The name she drew? (drum roll)

Renee G

Congratulations. You are now the proud owner of a five dollar gift card to Starbucks! Please contact asap so I can mail it to you.

Also I'd like to say "Thanks" to everyone else who entered. I hope you continue to read my blog.
In His Love,
Kaytlynn

Give Away!!! (Through Aug. 1st)

This year I've spent a ton of time in the coffee shop next to our school. I love going there because it's a great place to just sit and talk with your friends (and God), or read the new book you got. Since I love doing this so much, I thought I'd give you all a chance to enjoy it to. I'm giving away a $5 gift card to Starbucks. To enter, please leave a comment on this post. If you don't have a blog, leave your email so you can be contacted if you when.
Best Wishes,
Kaytlynn

P.S. Please pass this along to your friends and/or mention this in your blog. Thanks!

Want more giveaways? Check out http://www.donttryit.com/bloggy_giveaways/2008/07/the-bloggy-give.html

Now that your back to reality

You go to camp, get little sleep, have loads of fun, and get so close to God.
You come home, you are constantly witnessing to all of your friends, read your bible everyday, and even get up early to pray.
A month later, school starts.
The demand to look a certain way increases. The extra time in the morning you spent praying is now spent doing your hair.
The homework starts pouring in, and you slowly stop reading you bible every day.
Homecoming comes along and your invited to a party by the one who you have a crush on.
You go, after all, He's so hot, and end up drinking with the very same people you were witnessing to less than a month ago.

We've all been through times like this. We go on a mission trip, to camp, or attended a conference and get on fire for God. Then as time goes on, we slip further and further away. How can we keep this from happening? Well here are a few tips:

Write it down- Write down any new goals or convictions you had. By writing it down it will help you remember and you can't talk your way out of it.

Get an accountability partner- This will give you someone who you "report" to. This is also a great way to keep in contact with the people you met at camp.

Display it proudly- Write down the goals you have made for yourself. Then put it somewhere you will see it often. The bathroom or your closet door is a good place.

Pray- Pray that God will help you keep your goals.

As the school year approaches, and the stresses that come with it, hold fast to your faith and keep striving to grow closer to God.

My Trip to Hollister

My trip to Hollister was amazing!!! I learned to do many things and also got to see Branson. Here are some pictures:

In front of the old church. It was burned to the ground two years ago.

Drilling holes
Driving the Duck. We got free passes
My grandma
Me on the lift. In Front of the new church.

It's my first time!!!

Nicole (http://wwwvictoriousheart.blogspot.com/) tagged me, so here goes: (it's my first time)

The tag rules:

1. Link to the person who tagged you.

2. Post the rules on your blog.

3. Write six random things about yourself.

4. Tag six people at the end of your post and link to them.

5. Let ech person know they've been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

6. Let the tagger know when your entry is up.



6 Random Things:

1) I love to travel, and if I could would spend my whole summer away from home

2) know how to run conduit, mc cable, and make boxes as well as run wire

3) learned to tile last year on a mission trip. My friend and I were told to tile parts of the floor and were given a 30 how to, the rest was on our own.

4) the only color I paint my toenails is red

5) I'm a huge KU face (Rock Chalk Jayhawks!)

6) I got to drive the "Duck" today. It'a a boat/bus. It goes on land and sea. (or lake in my case)



Okay, so for 6 people to tag....

Emily Cummins http://emilybcummins.blogspot.com/

Emily Rhoades http://www.littlefishinabigsea.blogspot.com/

Nancy Douglas http://oliveleafministries.blogspot.com/

Bev Brandon http://beverly-brandon.blogspot.com/

Tracy http://blessingsoverflow.blogspot.com/

Kevin Slater www.kbslater.com

Where is the open door?

Sitting in my bedroom, I heard the phone ring. "I'll get it" I holler as I dart down the stairs. "Hello" I said, unsure of who it was. "Hey Kaytlynn, this is Mallory. I was wondering if....". Ever sense this moment four years ago I have been constantly working with the bible clubs at school. Through FCA and Club 121 I've spent hundreds of hours preparing lessons and growing closer to God. It has also landed me several trips to the principals office (crazy times). But now, for some reason or another the Lord has closed the door. I prayed really hard about doing FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) this year, and the answer was No. This has been a big part of my life all of my middle school and high school years. I know Christ has a plan for me, and He will revile it in His own time. And until He does, I'll keep living for Him, day by day.


Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the LORD with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight."

Hollister Bound

Hello Follow Bloggers,
Tomorrow after church I leave to spend a whole week in Hollister! (No, not the store for those of you who were wondering :), the town in MO). Their church burned down, so I'm going to help "rough-in" as they call it. I won't be able to get Internet so this will be my last post for a week or so. I also want to apologize to those of you who I haven't gotten back with. I've been so busy this week and the Internet has been acting really funny. Once I get back, things should calm down and I can go back to spending more time blogging.
Have a blessed week.
In Him,
Kaytlynn
'

A lesson from the slaves

This weekend I was reading in Titus about what to teach to different members of the church. I got to the part where it talks about they slaves, and was shocked (it was a light-bulb moment). It says in Titus 2:9-10: "Teach slaves to be subject to their masters in everything, to try to please them, not to talk back to them, and not to steal from them, but to show that they can be fully trusted, so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive."
In other words, by how the slaves would act, it would create appeal to being a Christian. This is something that I think we all need to do better on. As Christians, we haven't been acting like our Father, this is causing so many people to run away from God. This really hit me hard when I began to think about it. It's because of my actions that someone may or may not want to look into become a Christian. Mohandas Gandhi once said, "I like your Christ, I do not like your Christians." If I look just like the world, and I'm a "Christian", then why would someone want to become a Christian? It doesn't make sense, it has no appeal. However, if I'm full of joy, honest, and I'm trustworthy, people are going to want that. They will (hopefully) notice something different. We need to take a lesson from the slaves and start being more like Christ. People's souls are at stake!

It's what we all do

Today on the way to my grandpa's house I was listening to the Radio. It was some talk show about Nascar and people were calling in. I am personally not a Nascar fan, so I wasn't paying too much attention, but that quickly changed. A caller made this statement, "He's just doing what we all do in the end do What's best for us." I sat there, somewhat stunned at this statement. As Christians we shouldn't be looking out for ourselves, but look to what the Heavenly Father wants us to do. Unfortunately, that's not what most of us do. The caller was right, we mostly do look out for ourselves. We are constantly thinking about "me". As a nation we are constantly demanding rights, demanding more freedom, and have shaped our media to send out one message, "It's all about me". Galatians 5:13 says "For you were called to freedom, brethren; only {do} not {turn} your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another." We live in a "Christian" nation, but we're acting just the opposite.

See you Later

I remember the day like it was yesterday. It was hot and sticky, just like any other summer day in New Orleans, but I was okay with that. I was so excited to finally be here and get to meet the people I had heard so much about. Melissa and I stepped out of the plane to meet my grandparents and head to the church. At the church we settled into the kitchen behind a trap, the place we would call home for the next week. After we had gotten enough unpacked to satisfy my grandparents we got to go start meeting the people. First stop was Potche's house. We arrived, and started walking towards the FEMA trailer. My excitement grew as we neared the door. My grandma opened it up, and BOOM there he was, tank top and all. Smiling as bright as even because we were there to help.

The first time I got to meet Potche was last summer on a missions trip to New Orleans, and unfortunately it's the last time I will have seen him here on this earth. I found out today he died. As sad as this is, I know there is reason to rejoice. He is now celebrating in Heaven with our Heavenly Father.

That's the good news when a believer dies. It's not really a goodbye, more a "until we meet again". I know I will get to see Potche again one day, and it will be quite the reunion. He will no longer walk with a limp, but rather be able to jump for joy because of the love of our Lord. See you soon Potche.

Dear Diary,

Note: This is not my own personal diary. I had a good friend that got pregnant this year. I wrote this from what I experienced through that, and from what I had read from other teen girls.

January 23
Dear Diary,
I'm 15 years old, this isn't supposed to happen, at least not to people like me. It's not like I'm sleeping around, it was a one time thing. After all, he said he loved me. That was then, but now I'm pregnant with his child, he doesn't want to see me anymore. This isn't the type of love he spoke about. All he loved was my body and what I could do for him.

April 28
Dear Diary,
My belly is staring to show more and more each day. People are starting to talk, and where is the baby's dad? He's out partying with his friends. He's probably getting drunk and romancing another girl with persuasive words telling her how much he loves her. If only she knew what he meant, if only I would have known.

June 1
Dear Diary,
Summer is finally here. I made it through the end of the school year. I could only take so many days of walking down the hall knowing everyone is talking about you, but no one is talking to you. I went to the doctor yesterday. He said the baby is healthy. I can feel it kicking, especially at night. It's a wild thing. Now, I keep saying "it" because I want to wait to find out if it's a girl or a boy. Thought it would be a good birthday surprise. Oh, I didn't mention that, did I? I'm due on my birthday. A baby shower isn't exactly what I would have imagined for my sweet 16, but then I never imagined I'd ever go so far with a guy either.

August 14
Dear Diary,
I couldn't take it anymore, I had to know. I'm going to have a boy! I asked when I went to the doctor this week. I'm kind of glad it's a boy. I always wanted to have a boy first. I've been trying to come up with a good name. I thought maybe Solomon, since he was so wise, at least that's what my mom says. I don't read the bible much, but I do want my baby to be wiser than I was.
I got a call from the baby's dad yesterday. He said he was moving to Oregon. I get so mad at him. He help make a baby, and now he's ditching him...and me.

September 16
Dear Dairy,
Stephan Solomon Slater was born today at 9:17am. He is as cute as can be, and healthy too. My whole family is here, and they even brought cake to celebrate our birthdays. As exciting as all of it was though, I couldn't help but be sad too. I know the next few years are going to be some of the hardest years of my life. Last week I had coffee with my friend and there at the coffee shop, while drinking Chi Tea, I accepted Christ. Even though Dave has ditched me, many of my friends won't speak to me, and half of my family hates me, I know I won't be going through this alone.

Will you wait for me?

I don't want to be just a mother to your boy,
I want to be your friend, lover, and the one you enjoy

I don't just want to be a passing someone,
I want to be the one

I don' want to be a one night stand,
I want to be the one you can't stand to go a night without

I don't want to walk down the aisle knowing I'm the second or third,
I want to be the only one you say your vows to, knowing I'm the first

I don't want to celebrate a anniversary with a gift of gold,
I want to still be celebrating on our golden anniversary

I want our relationship to be special and unique,
so I'm asking you to wait for me, week by week.

How Much?

Helen braced herself as she was about ready to go into the court room. She knew what lie ahead wasn't going to be easy, but she was ready to face it. With a deep breath she stepped into the room filled with cameras, reporters, and a crowd of people, all cheering for her defeat. This was the price Helen had to pay for following Christ.*

Cassie woke up and got dressed, just like any other morning. She entered into Columbine High School and went through out the day as usual. During lunch shift A, she headed to the Library and opened up her bible. This was her time to spend with her Heavenly Father, a nice break from the stresses of going to public school. What she didn't know was that she would soon see the one she was reading about. A few moments later two of her fellow classmates walked in with guns. She was ask one question, "Do you believe in the Big Bossman?" This was her moment of truth, would she follow God, or deny Him? Her answer came in two words "YES BOY!" The trigger was pulled, and that was the price she paid to follow Christ.

Meimei** stood behind the closed doors with her father by her side. This was the day she had been waiting for. She was finally getting married. As the doors opened she saw her handsome groom standing at the end of the aisle. Only a few yards separated them from a life of happiness. As her and her father began to walk closer to her fairy tale, they were interrupted. The cops stormed in and grabbed her. Someone had told, they knew she was a Christian. They dragged her off to the torture chamber they called prison. This was the price she paid to follow Christ.

These are just a few example of the price some people paid to follow Christ. What will you be willing to pay?

*This story is based off of a fiction story set during the tribulation, all other accounts are true.
**Name has been changed to protect witness

True Love

It was a normal Sunday night. All of the board members of the church were gathered for a meeting. Everything thing was fine, that was till the "workers" arrived with their guns. The church was now being held up at gun point for all of the money they had raised that morning in service. This is the set up for the movie "First Sunday". After hours of integration and intimidation, the church convinces the men to let them get a bit to eat in the kitchen. As the body is enjoying their dinner, Sister Doris McPherson does thing stunning and unexpected. She walks up to LeeJohn (one of the guys who is holding them hostage) offers him some food and starts talking to him. After a while she finds out he's never had a birthday party before. Instead of mocking him for this she throws her possible killer a mini party right then and there. When I saw this I utterly amazed. This lady, even while being held hostage was showing Christ's love. If only this love was more present in our world today. Whom can you show Christ love to?

Love Luv <3

Love. To some it reminds them of their favorite pizza, others their bff and some it brings to mind long walks on the beach with their boyfriend. Webster defines love as attraction based on sexual desire, admiration, benevolence, or common interests. These are several definitions of love from many different people, but what truly is love? 1 John 4:16 answers this question for us. God is Love!
I was talking about this at Worldview Academy, and it struck me. I have a personal relationship with love. I get to talk to "love" everyday. After I got over the fact of how neat that was, I began to think. If I'm spending time with "love" everyday and have a relationship with "love" than why am I not more like love?
As I reflect on my life there are so many times where I choose hate or meanness over love. You know the people I'm talking about, the driver that cuts you off when you're running late, the old lady that is paying in all change in front of you, or maybe it's a buddy who is spreading lies about you. Usually we choose to hate this person verses showing them Christ love. When I was in 7th grade there was a kid, will just call him J for now. We did not get along at all. Everyday when I got to class he would try to find some new name to call me. It ranged from everything from to faith to my body. I wasn't mean to him, but I wasn't exactly nice either. Well I was talking to a friend about this and she told me I need to love him like Christ loves him. I thought she was crazy, but I tried it anyways. In less than two weeks he completely stopped teasing and harassing me. I was so shocked that because of ME loving HIM the problem stopped. I wish I would have chosen to love him sooner. I know I need to love more, what does your love life look like?

Merry Christmas

Ever since I can remember I have been fantasied with the Christmas story, and I think I know a reason why. When you think of changing the world, what type of people come to mind? Political leaders, millionaires, and Celebrates are what came to my mind, at least at first. In the Christmas story, God used a teenager to bring forth His son who changed the world. God used a small baby born in a stable from a poor mother to radically change the world forever. How amazing is that? You know what's even more amazing, is He also wants to use us! Take this blog for example. It started almost 7 months ago from someone who had never written much before. So I told no one about it for two or three months. Now, God is using it to impact other peoples' lives all over the states, and even in other countries. God wants to use you for His kingdom. The catch? Just like Mary, we have to be willing to be used. Are you willing?

My Prince Charming, don't know who he is but...

This weekend my mom and I head off for the lake again. We are going with my parents newly-wed Sunday school class. I'm stoked about it, the water, tubing, hide and seek, star-trippin, all of it, but what's more neat than they "stuff" we do, is the people. These are people who have been together for over twenty years. Unfortunately that doesn't happen much in the world today. It makes me want a marriage like that, one that is true and last. I know that if I want a marriage like that, than I have to start preparing for it now. So a while back a wrote a little reminder on my mirror. It goes something like this:
I'm waiting and praying
for my husband
where ever he may be
whom ever he may be with
and
whatever life throws at him
I'm praying
That he can hold strong
and lean on God
Can't wait to meet him!
I love you already honey.

I know it's kinda goofy, but it's a daily reminder to pray and prepare for my husband. Even though I have no clue who he is, what he looks like, or how old he is, I'm preparing myself now for my knight in shinning armor.

Shhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh....

This weekend my family and me went to the lake. Not only was it nice to spend the weekend with my family, but it was nice to get away from all of the noise. Saturday morning I went out on the dock to do my devotion. It was amazing. The only noises were the birds proclaiming the truth of their Marker.

We live in a world where there is constantly noise. It seems like we can never get away from it, and for the few moments we sometimes do, it freaks us out. For example, ever been home alone and can't stand the silence and have to go turn on the T.V.? or, when driving do you HAVE to keep music playing from going insane? Now I'm not saying noise is bad, but sometimes it's nice to get away. Take some time today and go someplace quiet and worship the Creator.

Not again.....

I opened my email and check my inbox. Scanning though, a word caught my eye, Funeral. Not again I thought, not another one. I clicked open the email and my fear became true. A kid in our youth group took his life. I "Click" again. The next email awaiting me in my inbox is about the devastation of the cyclone and the lives it took. I quickly skimmed over the details and "clicked" over to the next one, which wasn't much better.

Our world is filled with death. Don't believe me? Take a look around. On the yahoo home page 3 of the 4 top stories have to do with death and disaster. Take a little drive and you won't have to go far till you pass a cemetery. 1.78 people are dieing every second. For me, this is a wake up call. It's not just the fact people our dieing, but it's the destination of their souls. I think of all of the people I know, and most of them if they were to die today would not go to Heaven. Some many times I just go though my day. Rushing here or trying to quickly finish this, or speedily type an email. I don't take near enough time to stop and think of all those around me who are going to Hell. So my challenge today for you and me is to take that extra moment and show Christ love to someone. For you may be the only Christ they will ever see.

I'm an American, shouldn't that count for something?

Last night I flew from my hometown to Nashville, Tennessee. I've taken this flight hundreds of times in my life before. It's a quick 1:25 min flight and usually leaves out of gate 34. This time however it was a little different. Actually it wasn't the flight number or route that was different, it was me. Usually on the flight I sit and listen to my Ipod or read, but not this time. After spending a week at Worldview Academy I was convicted of not giving the gospel enough, so I set out to change that. Waiting to get on the plane, I started talking to this guy (actually it was more of him talking to me, but you get the point). I tried to share the gospel, but didn't quite get to it. I told him about Worldview and some things like that, but just didn't make it all of the way there. So I took a deep breathe and boarded the plane, determined to do better the next time. I found a seat by a little girl who was flying by herself. We started talking about Worldview Academy and she asked what the lectures were about. I then had a perfect chance to share the Gospel with her, and I did. Although I was proud of myself that I overcame my nerves, I was sad at the same time. This ten year old thought she was going to Heaven because she was Irish. To me this seemed crazy, but to her it was real. So even though I might have given myself a pat on the back because I told someone about Christ, my heart is still broken. It breaks for the people in this world and the destination of their souls. A constant reminder of the importance to share the truth of the Good News.

Sirens, Wind, and Worship...?

This past week I was at Worldview Academy, and had an amazing time. I learned more this week than a whole semester at school. But learning doesn't do a whole lot of good if you don't apply it. That's why Thursday night sticks out so much. We had finished the campfire and had headed to our rooms for T-time. Our small group was talking about what we had learned. A lot of what we had learned involved being a leader. We were all talking enjoying our last T-time when suddenly we hear an ERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR. If your from the mid-west, you know what that means, but for those of you who don't, it's a tornado siren. Immediately our small group leader and the female director hit panic mode. A tornado was coming!! Well, we grabbed our cameras and headed towards the basement. Some kids were crying and scared because this was the 1st tornado they had ever been in, then some kids were fine with it, we've done this a hundred times at home. They counted us up and we all lined the halls. As we were sitting there, all 200 of us, we started singing. We sang everything from Jesus loves me to Amazing Grace to Awesome God. It was such a cool experience. Tornadoes usually produce fear and worry, not worship. We were sitting not know what would happen. For all we know, we could be in Heaven in a few minutes, yet we still cried "Our God is an Awesome God", and "Blessed be your name". It was amazing to see these kids being leaders. Some helped director traffic, others started worship, and some even read scripture. We knew we could be leaders, and we proved it Thursday night during the tornado.

Please Excuse the Break

My dear Bloggers,
For the next week you will see no new post on my blog. There are two reasons for this. One I'm participating in Brio's 30 day Challenge. Part of the challenge is going 7 days without being on the computer. So from Sun (June 1) till Saturday (June 7) I will not be on the computer. Brio's 30 day challenge is a once a year event that challenges teens to get closer to God. It's divided into four weeks. Each week focus on a different area. If this is something you are interested in doing you can check it out at www.briomag.com. The 2nd reason I'll be at Worldview Academy. However, if you need to get a hold of me (or just want to say hey) you may write to
Kaytlynn Clemons
Worldview Academy
C/O University of Central Missouri
Meeting & Conference Services
Eliot Union 301
Warrensburg, MO 64093
or email me at studentmaileast@worldview.org and put my name in the subject line.Thanks for understanding my short leave.

Let's Celebrate!!!

So I usually don't due post like this, but I thought I'd make an exception for today because...

SCHOOL'S OUT FOR THE SUMMER!!!!!
I survived my freshmen year of High School, and can't wait for the next three (okay, maybe I could wait, but I'm excited to see what they will bring)

What's next???

We all have all traveled through the valley of uncertainty. Some have passed through many times while others maybe just once or twice. Every year as school comes to an end I feel like I step into this valley. The new year is usually up in the air, and once again I have to deiced what I'm going to be involved in. While many times this can be a scary experience, it doesn't have to be. It's like going on an exotic adventure, and as believers, we have everything we need. We have our destination (Heaven), a map (the bible), and caravan for safety (Church). We also have something else, the most important thing of all, a guide. With Jesus as our guide we do not have to worry about the things to come. Matthew 6 talks a lot about this. Verse 34 says: "So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Think about that, the Creator of the Universe is telling us not to worry, He's got in under control. I was thinking about this tonight. No matter what I end up doing this next year I don't have to worry, because Christ has it under control. I just have to keep trusting in God and testifying to His' love. My prayer for you is that even though you may be in the dark valley of uncertainty, you will follow the light and keep proclaiming His' truths.

My bff is in elementary school

There she was, walking down the church hallway. I was so excited, Katie was coming. A smile spread across my face as she walked into the room and said "hey". This happened many Sunday mornings when I was little. In elementary school I always thought it was so cool when a high-schooler took an interest in me. Now fast forward nine years. It's Sunday morning and I have a few minutes before youth starts, so I head to the children's wing. I step into the 2nd grade class room and immediately 3 girls get up from their seats and run towards me. As we embrace, I look at their faces, a smile is plastered across each one of them. It's the same smile I had when Katie would enter the room almost a decade ago.

There are several women in my life who are older than me who have helped me though many rough times, and that's part of the reason why I love spending time with the little girls at church. Just like the ladies older than me made a difference in my life, I can now make it in someone elses life. Titus 2: 3-5 says "Older women likewise are to be reverent their behavior, not malicious gossips nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good, so that they may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, {to be} sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be dishonored." And even though I may not be teaching a 2nd grader how to lover her husband, I can still teach her kindness and be a godly example for her. When I was little I wanted to be like Katie when I got older, and now I have the chance to. I'm now the high-school kid who can reach out to the little girls. Who are the ones you can reach out to?

Invisible

Walking through the halls,
Sitting at the lunch table
She's surrounded by hundreds of people,
Yet feels all alone. She will do anything
If someone will just see her,
and she will no longer be
Invisible

One day, it finally happens
A guy comes, he says he loves her
He makes her feel special,
But this attention comes at a high price
And she is willing to pay it.
So she gives all of herself away
Just to be seen
and not thought as
Invisible

She hates herself, but cherishes every moment
Someone finally sees her, but he moves on
And she falls back to being, once again
Invisible

Days turn into weeks and weeks into months as
She walks through the busy halls,
And sits in the crowded lunch room
Yet still feels all alone
She is willing to do anything,
If someone will just see her
and she will no longer be
Invisible

A group of kids come over
"Could this be it?" she wonders
"Will they actually see me?"
They do, but their attention comes at a price too
They demand her loyalty, a vow of commitment to the group
She gives her vow all for the sake of not being
Invisible

The drugs, the cutting, and the stealing
All make her hate herself even more
"But they care for her, right?"
"They saw here, didn't they?"
But now, they demand too much
She refuses, and once again becomes
Invisible.

She is worse than when she started
With a whole in her heart
From sleeping with the one who said he loved her
And the scars that cover her arms from the blades
She still walks through the halls, and sits at the lunch table completly
Invisible

She has finally mustered up the courage to do it
She wishes she would have done it along time ago
Now, her plans are made,
The notes are written explaining the "why"
All she has to do is jump
She double checks the rope
Takes a breathe, and is ready to end her suffering from being
Invisible

Before her feet leave the ground
The phone rings, she wonders
"Does someone really care?"
Loosening the ropes, she answers it
"What will one last good-bye hurt?"
The person on the other line didn't want a good-bye
They wanted a hello, maybe she wasn't completely
Invisible

They said they saw her
She looked at the scars on her arm
A reminder of the price paid to be seen
The voice on the other line told her of a love
A true love that doesn't cost
"Could this be so?"
"A love that's free and true?"
This is what she wanted
She listened as the voice told her of a man
A man known by the name of Jesus
The voice told her of how
He died for her and loved her
All she had to do was accept Him
And she did
She hung up the phone
And looked at the rope
Should wouldn't be needing it anymore
For she was no longer
Invisible

Who are the invisible people around you?

Good Morning!!!!

At camp we used to have this song we would sing in the mornings to get everyone up and at'em. It went something like this:

The birdies in the morning go tweet tweet tweet tweet

The birdies in the morning go tweet tweet tweet tweet

I wake up happy not sad, and when I wake up in the morning I say

"Jesus, your the bomb!"



This morning was one of those mornings where I just wanted to wake up and say "Jesus, your the bomb!" When my alarm went off, the birds where chirping out the window, there was a nice breeze blowing in my room, and the sunlight shown promising a day full of cheers. There is just something about starting your day with God in the mornings. For me, I think it's because I know the day ahead is full of the scars of this world, and I like being able to spend time with the one who is in control. So, I encouraging you to enter the throne room of God in the mornings and tell Him that is truly is "The Bomb".

It's supposed to be the best years of my life.....isn't it?

Almost nine months ago I stepped foot into this place we call high school. But what I didn't know stepping though the doorway, was that I was also stepping into a land filled with so much drama, doubt, and death. Things happened this year, that I never would have thought would. I was blown away. I couldn't believe the change a summer could make. My class went from having sleep-overs with a group of girls, to sleeping with one whom they claim to love. We went from thinking not being able to see someone for a day was as bad as them dieing, to actually not being able to see our friends because they died. We went from thinking our life was so rough we would just stay in our rooms all night to thinking our life is so bad we should end our lives. What happened?

So many have forgotten the faith of their childhood. They left it at the door as they entered High School. They say they're too cool, or it's just for the weak. They don't remember what it felt like. To just be held by the Heavenly Father. My friends, He hasn't forgotten you. I know it's been such a hard year for so many people. And even though so many things have been torn away from you, there is one thing that can never be taken away. It's God. He wants to help you. Actually, He wants to help you carry your burdens. Matthew 11:28-30 says: "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart. You will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and my burden is light". I don't know what is going on in your life right now, but God does. Just like when you were a child, and your daddy pick you up in his arms and all of your worries melted in his hands, your Heavenly Father wants to do the same. Run to Him, His arms are open.

Who will tell them???

So many people, so many faces, so many souls. They are all searching, they want something more, and I have that something. I think of all of the people who will never hear God's name. They will never be told about Christ's love, and still where do they go? Hell. My heart absolutely breaks at the news of this. My friend, I want you to hear something. Christ loves you, and He died for you. Because we all have sinned, we deserve Hell. Romans 6:23 says "For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Although we deserve Hell, God has shown His amazing grace. He sent His son Jesus, to take the punishment for our sins. Even though He lived on earth, and didn't sin, He took our sins upon Him, and died. Then, three days later, He rose again!!! In doing this, He paid the price for your sins. He's offering you a free gift, His hand is out-stretched, and the box is there. All you have to do is take it. He's paid for it in full, it's up to you. My friend, God wants to come and be with you. To live inside your heart. If you want to accept Christ into you life, you can. It's simple. All you have to do is ask Him. If you don't know what to say, you could say something like this:

God, thank you for sending you Son to die for me. Lord, I know I am a sinner, and I can't get to Heaven on my own. Lord, I want you to come into my life and forgive me of my sins. You've paid the price, and I'm accepting you gift. In your name, Amen.

Now, this prayer isn't magic. All of you life's problems won't go away, but you will have someone to help you. If you asked the Lord into you heart, let me or someone else know. You can email me at kaclemons@sbcglobal.net

So.....now what?

So you're a Christian huh? First, I'd like to personally welcome you into the family! But I'm sure you're wondering, now what? Where do I go from here. Or maybe you've been a Christian for a long time and still don't know what to do. I would encourage you to read Matthew 10:5-11:1. It gives instructions for God's disciples and what they should do. There are a few things that really stuck out to me. I am going to highlight one of them today. In verse seventeen it says "But beware of men, for they will hand you over to the courts and scourge you in their synagogues, and you will even be brought before governors and kings for My sake." I have read the stories of many martyrs who have been brought before kings, and the courts (there are even some examples in the bible too!). However, for many of us, we will never have to be brought before a king or the President for the Crime of following God. However, it might be a principal, a teacher, or maybe even your boss.
I have gotten the experience of standing before the Principal (a few times actually) about the Christian club at school. Let me tell you, I was pretty terrified at the time. I couldn't imagine what I had done when I was called out of class, my mind was racing, palms began to sweat, and I didn't know what to say. But that's okay because I didn't have to know what to say. A peace came over me as I prayed for guidance and wisdom from the Lord. In verse 19 and 20 Christ says, "But when they hand you over, do not worry about how or what you are to say, for it will be given you in the hour what you are to say. For it is not you who speak, but it is the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you." How awesome is that? God will give us the words to say! The next time you find yourself being called before your boss, your teacher, or maybe even the principal, remember you are not going alone. God will give you the words to say.

Wanna Talk about ME!

I'm sure most of you have heard the song "Wanna talk about me" by Toby Keith. For those of you who haven't the chorus goes a little something like this:

wanna talk about me
Wanna talk about I
wanna talk about number one
Oh my me my
What I think, what I like, what I know, what I want, what I see
I like talking about you you you you, usually, but occasionally
I wanna talk about meeeeee
I wanna talk about me

The phrase that stinks out the most to me is "I like talking about you, but occasionally I wanna talk about me." Occasionally the song says, however that isn't the case for most of us (myself included). So many times we become focused on "ME", my needs, my wants, my comforts, and completely forget those around us. Some blame it on society, and the Me focused world we live in. Yes, it is everywhere from Myspace to tee-shirts claiming the world revolves around us, but those things our not to blame. It's not a matter of the media, but of the heart. The bible constantly tells us not to put ourselves first. Romans 12:10 is an example. [Be] kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another.


I was thinking today about about lying down your life for someone, and what a self-less act that is. John 15:13 says "Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends." I was listening to the news the other day and they were talking about the war. A hand grenade was thrown into a room where a group of American soldiers were gathered. One of the soldiers, without hesitation, jumped on top of it, absorbing the blast and saving many of his comrades lives. He gave up his life, so others may live. Would you have the guts to do that? My challenge to you today is to stop focusing on the "me" and start focusing on Him.

not so often experience

Today I had a chance to see part of the harvest of some seeds sown long ago. About two years ago I went to Mount Zion Baptist Church to help build their community center, and today was the dedication. It was amazing to see the looks on peoples' faces, and how happy they were. They were all so excited about the new facility. It was all very encouraging. One day, we will get to Heaven, and get to know the outcome of the seeds we have sown. However, it is nice sometimes to get a glimpse of the plant we planted long ago.

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



Okay, I kind of have a side note to go along with this (what became) a really short post. I was thinking when I started it on Saturday, ok I'll say some positive and encouraging and something like it will all be okay, God will provide a way to see your fruits on earth, or something like that. However, when I went to look in my bible for the "perfect verse" it wasn't there. So I asked some of my good friends and family what they thought (thank you very much guys for your input). I soon began to realize that we don't always get to see the results here. That is not why we should witness. Some times it is hard when you feel like you're not making a difference, but you don't know that. You do not know the condition of someone's heart. I pray that we will continue to be a shinning city on a hill to those around us, even when we fill that we are not making a difference.



It's not about the results, but the call: Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. (Mathew 28:19-20)

Hello? Does anyone care???

Sometimes it just takes a few words to hope to help clear the fog. This year at school, the Club 121 and FCA didn't do so well. Actually, they have never done well. Whenever the subject of God comes up, it seems as if most could care less. It's like there is a void at school. The attitude is whatever works for you, just don't bring me into it. But beneath the crust of a hardened heart is one that is searching and wanting more. They are not satisfied. They want something more than they have. They want something more, they know there is something bigger out there, and they want it. Although right now it seems that we are not making any progress, and people just don't care, God is still working in their hearts. There is a light at the end of this tunnel. Bigger things are yet to come, big things are still yet to happen in this city. God's work is not finished here.

Day of Truth

Today was the day of Truth. The Day of Truth is about talking with people about homosexuality and sharing the Truth of Christ with them in love. To say the least, it's been very interesting. Some, as expected, hated it, and hated us for doing it. However, there were some that were glad, and excited about it. Today I want to talk about opposition.

When you do something for Christ, you will face opposition. It's just a fact. 2 Timothy 3:12 says, "Anyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. Take today for example, the hate filled words still echo in my head, "How could you do that, my best friend is gay", "Don't ever do something like this again", "Your just being judgemental", "Stop preaching Jesus Freak". Now, I used to be completely discouraged and brought down my comments like these, but not anymore. I was talking to my dad about it a few years ago on the Day of Truth, and he said 6 words. "Your are known by your enemies". I began to think about that, and my thoughts on being made fun of for being a Christian and standing for truth changed. You see, if you are being made fun of, then people are taking a notice, and that's a good thing. So, next time you're teased or made fun of, I encourage you to remember, You are known my your enemies.

Shhhh....

Yesterday was the Day of Silence. For those of you who don't know the Day of Silence which is sponsored by GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian, Straight Education Network) encourages students take a vale of silence for a day to support homosexuality. Well, Monday is the Day of Truth, sponsored by ADF (Alliance Defence Fund) to counter act the Day of Silence. It's all about speaking Christ truth in love.



With all of these things going on, I've been thinking about lot about homosexuality. The bible clearly says it is wrong (for more information check out Lev. 18:22, and Romans 1:26-27). As Christians we shouldn't support it, but how often do we act like we do? It's become such a cultural norm, that somethings I think we don't even know that we are support it. Let me explain. One way it is supported is by joking about it. There are always those few little jokes about a "homo" that are going around. We've all heard them, but do we laugh and go along? Another way we support it is by pretending to be homosexual. It doesn't take long to hop on facebook and find two girls who in their status are married. Most of the time, they are not lesbians, but just messing around. These are just two of the many ways it has become a part of our culture. If you still aren't convinced look at all of the homosexual support clubs in schools, turn on the T.V. (bet you can find at least one example of someone who is a homosexual during prim time), or the Internet.

As Christians we need to take a stand and avoid the appearance of evil. My challenge to you is to keep your eyes pealed and just see how socially acceptable it has become, then strive to speak Christ truth.

A Perfect Example

When I think of people in my life who “Do Hard Things”, the first person that comes to my mind is my grandpa My grandpa, even though he is going on 70, is constantly doing and coordinating mission activates.
Several years ago my grandpa retired from being an electoral worker. Instead of relaxing after years of being a dad, husband, and having a full time job, he accepted a job with Missouri Baptist Builders as Missouri Coordinator. He, along with my grandma goes out of time almost every week working on a church. If he’s not out of town, then he’s in town working on a church here. My grandpa has sacrificed so much. Once you retire, at least according to the world, you’re supposed to sit back and relax. However, my grandpa has chosen not just to sit back, he’s a man on a mission. He knows that there are still people who don’t know the love of our Lord, and he wants to change that. So, I just want to say thanks Grandpa, for everything. Not only have you taken me with you on countless trips, introduced me to missions, been a godly role model, but you have also been an example to “Do Hard Things”. I love you!

Do What???

What would you do if I said, "I want to do hard things, will you join me?". I'm sure some of you would think that I was crazy and want to know if I hit my head or something. However, I know two guys who would join me in a heartbeat. Brett and Alex Harris are challenging teens to "Do Hard Things". We live in a culture that says to take the easy way out, let someone else do it, or not even waisting the time to care. Brett and Alex want to change that. In 2005, when the twin brothers were only 17, they started the Rebelution (www.therebelution.com) The Rebelution is a rebellion against society's low expectations for teens. The Rebelution mainly focuses on teens, but the message spreads to every age group. Just like society expects teens to party and blow off important things, society expects senor citizens to sit around and knit or play golf. It doesn't matter if you're young or old, you have the chance to make a difference. So many Christians today just do enough to get by in life, they never try a challenge. What would happen if Christian's all around the world (or even just in the U.S.), united and strived to do hard things? My question to you is, "Will you join us?" It won't be easy, but it will be the most rewarding thing you will ever do! Take a stand, and join the Rebelution!

Could it be better than tour guide Barbie? (oh yeah)

The past few days I have been talking about trials and struggles in our lives, and have compared them to mountains. Well I have good news and bad news. The bad news, you will always have struggles in your life, but the good news is you having someone to lead you through. We have a guide who knows the way forward and backward. God is our guide in life.

The nice thing about having a guide is that you know if you follow them, than you will arrive safely to your destination. But that’s just the thing, you have to follow them. When we follow God, we must surrender our ways, our thoughts, and our dreams fully to Him. If we don’t, then we start to follow our own trail, which is can lead to us getting hurt and lost.

Now, I’m not saying this is going to be easy. In fact, it’s going to be really hard. I can't grantee that He will lead you down the easy road. There will be potholes and branches in the middle of the road along the way will challenge us. It is through these challenges that we grown closer to Him. By surrendering it all, we are taken to a whole new level as we allow Christ to work through us. I leave you will a promise, if you surrender it all and follow the guide, this journey will be the most exciting and amazing journey you ever had.

Halfway up the mountain

As I sit here in 2nd hour my mind is racing. How silly was I last night? Even though I knew today would be ok, it is still hard. Everything I’ve been working for hasn’t been cut down, it has just been challenged. Last night all I saw was a huge mountain before me. I knew that everything would be okay, but all my emotions saw was this huge mountain.
Last night I knew in my mind and in my heart that no matter what my hair looked like, God would still love me, and so would my friends, but my flesh didn’t seem to quite agree. There was a part of me that was completely scared. Now I’m halfway up the mountain. The top is coming into view. I get a glimpse of the promise that the valley is ahead and things will get easier.

I wonder how many times we think like that when faced with a challenge. All we see is the big mountain. We wonder how (or if) we will ever make it. I think that we totally forget that we are just looking at a small part of the picture. When all we see is a mountain, God sees the valley ahead, as well as the next mountain. All we have to do is trust Him. Trust that He will lead us over the mountain.

Being Transparent

The emotions are coming back again. Everything that I have worked so hard for the past year and a half feels like it has been cut down. (literally). Over the past year and a half I have really been working on learning about true beauty. I had bought into the lie that beauty was determined by your waist line, and perfect hair. Well, today the lie came whispering again. I got my hair cut, and they lady cut off more than I would like (let's just say for all of the Brio readers that the 30Th came a few days early).

As I sat talking to my friend, kind of distressed, I began to think (and kind of get mad). I know that I know that I know that beauty is not based on outward appearances, but since part of my outward appearance has been altered, I'm having an issue with it. It's the craziest thing I have ever experienced in my life.

I know that just because my hair had been cut doesn't make me ugly. I know in my heart and in my mind that beauty is not defined by this, but my emotions don't agree. I know Satan is whispering lies into my ear. "How could you do something so dumb", "No one is going to like you because you got your hair cut", "The next six weeks are going to be the worst of your life because of your hair". As I hear those things being whispered part of me wants to believe him, yet my heart and mind are yelling, "LIAR LIAR LIAR", "THE KING IS ENTHRALLED MY YOUR BEAUTY; HONOR HIM FOR HE IS YOU LORD", AND "I PRAISE YOU BECAUSE I AM FEARFULLY AND WONDERFULLY MADE. YOUR WORKS ARE WONDERFUL, I KNOW THAT FULL WELL".

Now, I even know that this is crazy, getting all upset over a hair cut, but it's something that I struggle with. Tomorrow will be a tough day, but I know that God is going to be right there beside me, holding my hand and leading the way, all of the time being enthralled by my beauty.

You get up at what time?!?!?

All my life I've been told, "Do your devotion Kaytlynn", "Read the bible Kaytlynn", "You need to pray Kaytlynn", and if you've grown up in church I'm sure you have heard the same thing. They always use the same arguments: You need to know God's word or how can you live by it?; It will strengthen you relationship with Him; It will give wisdom and help with your issues in life. Now, all of those are true, and good reasons to do your devos, read the bible, and pray, but over the past year or so I learned that spending time with God is not something that just kind of comes along with being a Christian.

I spend time with God for several reasons. One, is I love it. I look forward to each morning knowing I am going to spend time with the one who created that very day. It's like seeing your best friend. Even though you just saw them yesterday, and talked to them the night before, you can't wait to see them again. Not only do I get to talk to the maker of the universe, He talks to me too! (Prayer is a two way convo)

Another reason is that it helps me out. This morning I slept through my alarm (I'm not sure how I did it), but I slept for an extra hour! So I woke up, and was supposed to leave in 15mins! That barely left me enough time to get dressed and ready for school. As I was rushing around this morning I was thinking, man I'm not going to get to do my devo this morning. It was the second thing I thought of (the first was, what, it can't be 6:45!).

Now, I'll do my devotion later on tonight, but it's just not the same for me. I love getting up every morning and entering into the throne room of Christ, knowing the day ahead is filled with test, teachers, and boat loads of drama.

I encourage you to spend time with God everyday. It is one of the most rewarding things you will ever do. It's defiantly worth the time in your day.

If I just....

If I just had a new car, I’d be happy; If I just lost a few more pounds, I’d be happy; If I just didn’t have to do so much work, I’d be happy. Any of those phrases sound familiar? So often, we always want more. To loose MORE weight; to make MORE money; to have MORE friends. Why do we always want more? We’re not content.

We live in a world, were it’s so easy not to be content, it’s almost hard to be content. You go home at night and turn on the T.V., what do you see? “You need this Ipod”; “You need this type of makeup”. So, you turn off the T.V., and go upstairs to the computer. What you do find then? Your favorite website bombarded with ads saying the same thing. “You need this” I searched Google for “I need”. I got 123,000,000 results! It said I needed everything from professional liability insurance to computers.

It’s obvious there is a problem, but how do we solve it? We can’t just pass the blame on the fact that we live in a society where we are taught that we always need more. So, let’s starts by taking a look at exactly what contentment is. Webster defines contentment as the state of feeling or showing satisfaction with one's possessions, status, or situation. That means being satisfied with what you have, where you are in life, and how you look. Paul takes about being content. In Philippians 4:11-12 he says, “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.”

I had always thought about contentment in terms of possessions and the stuff you had, but it goes much further than that. One area I sometimes deal with is being content on how I look. Many of you may know I once really struggled with self-esteem and self-image. I’ve gotten so much better about it, but there are still those days when I struggle. I’m not always content about how I look. (Which I complete foolishness). After all, the King of Kings created me. The same one who paints Hawaiian sunsets, made me. By not being content with my body is an insult to God. I’m saying what He made is ugly, and doesn’t measure up. When thoughts like this flood my mind, I simply quote Psalm 49:11 “The King is enthralled by your beauty; honor Him for He is your Lord”. Another good verse is Psalm 139:14 “I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”

What is it that you struggle being content with? Mine is my body, what’s yours? Is it the number or quality of your possessions? Your social status? The number of friends you have? Or maybe is it your place in life that God had called you? Whatever it is, I encourage you to talk to God about it. Enter into the throne room of the King and ask Him to help you be content. I know without the Lord’s help, I never would have been able to get over the whole image thing.

Do you have the guts?

I've been reading this book called "Tattooed Rats" by Jerry B. Jenkins. It's set in 2012 in America, and Christianity has just be outlawed. It's about this kid named Patch, as he struggles to survive, being an outlaw in his own land. This book really hit home. 2012 will be the year my brother graduates, I'll be a freshmen in College. It's really making me think. Would people turn me in? Am I living the kind of lifestyle that people would be giving the gov. my name saying "She's a Christian". So often, I think it's easy to get up, do our devo, then just get on with our day, acting like normal human beings. But the thing is, were not called to be normal human beings. Were sons' and daughters' of Christ, and we need to live for Him. Christianity in America today has become a water down religion that you just need. It has no real purpose, it's just there, oh and it maybe gets you out of Hell or something like that. In reality, that's not what Christianity is at all. It's about serving the King of Kings, and telling others about Him too. Christ died for me, and I'm willing to die for Him. And if it's worth dieing for, it's worth living for. Would you give it all up for Him?

One of those Convos

Do you ever have talks with God? You know, the kind where you guys just talk, like best friends. A two way conversation? Well, I had a really good one of those the other day. I got convicted (don't you just hate that when that happens). I absolutely love missions, and I felt God telling me that that's not my place not right now. Right now, I feel as if I'm called to witness and minister to teens and younger girls. Sometimes I get kinda discouraged because most of my close friends already know what they want to do in life. I however, have no earthly idea. I don't know where God has called me in the future. So, for now, I'm happily waiting and praying for my future, and looking and waiting to see where God will use me!

How I got to Heaven

"NO DADDY NO!" I yelled as tears rolled down my checks. "NO DADDY NO, PLEASE NO!", but it useless. He couldn't hear me, for I was surrounded by thousands of people in the Colosseum cheering for the death of my father. The doors opened, lions rushed out, and I watched in horror as my father died that day.
A few days later, they came for me too. They told me I would receive the same treatment as my father, BUT if I rejected Christ, I could go free. How could I do that? He was my reason for living, He was my EVERYTHING! No, I just couldn't.
The paraded my around the Colosseum like I was a trophy to be shown off. I have never been so terrified in my life as the people cheered for my death. The guards left the arena, leaving me alone, except I wasn't alone. Jesus was standing there right beside me. As the gates opened, and the same lions that devoured my father rushed towards me, I felt an overwhelming peace come upon me. I went home that day, not only to my daddy, but my Heavenly Father as well.

What's your story?

Enough?

There is a song called "Enough" and part of it goes "All of you is more than enough for all of me". I've sang it a hundred times in church, but I have never really thought about the words. Saying All of you (God), is more than enough for all of me, means He could take ANYTHING, and He would still be enough. I could lose everything, yet I would still have Him, and that would be enough. That is a very powerful line. Today, two of my friends lost their dads. This really makes me think, what if I lost a parent? Best friend? House? Everything? would God still be enough for me? Would I be ok with that? I think back to Job. He lost pretty much everything, his family, valuables, and health, yet God was still enough for Him. He didn't give up, He didn't turn away, but instead He let God be enough. I once heard a guy say "I want the kind of faith that if Christianity was ever proved wrong (which it never will be he added, but lets just say it all turned out to be a lie), that He would lose everything. He wants everything to be at stake for Christ. That is the kind of faith I strive to have, one where God is all I need, and He is enough.

Could it happen again?

As I sit here in my room contemplating the events of today, I wonder if once again, someone in our theatre circle will loose a parent? I know God is in control, but my heart is still morns for my friend. If God chooses, He can heal her dad, but then He may chose not to. As tears flows from my eyes, every drop full of uncertainty and sadness, my heart crys "Blessed be Your name, you give and take away". As hard as it is for us here on earth to understand why God does the things he does, I know that I know that I know, the God has a plan and a reason for all of this. So even though today the world seems to be coming to an end, I find hope for tomorrow knowing my Dad knows what's best and He does answer prayers.

Job 1:21 the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.

Worship

Worship, Webster defines it as "a form of religious practice with its creed and ritual", but I think it's so much for than that. It's not just a ritual of singing songs and maybe lifting up a hand or two, it's your heart crying out praises to your Heavenly Father. It's not about the actions, it's about the heart. You can sing songs and raise your hands and in reality not be worshiping at all, but merely having the appearance that you are doing so. On the other hand, you can not utter a word, yet your heart can still be screaming words of worship.
How many times have you walked out of church and said, "Worship wasn't that great today"? I know I've been guilty of that before, but my reasons behind that were pretty lousy. Some of the things were:
-they didn't play they right songs
-the band didn't do that great
-the choir didn't harmonize very well
-they didn't have the words on the screen, so I lost interest

Pretty lame excuses huh? You see, I was so focused on the physical things, and all of the faults instead of God. Some of the times I have felt like I was worshiping God the most is not when I'm in a big youth room, with cool lights, a sound system and a really good lead singer, but in my shower. Me with the C.D. player singing at the top of my lungs to God. Just praising him and loving him. My question to you is when you worship, what do you think about, the seen or unseen?

Love for Strangers

It was a feeling like no other, one that I've never really felt before. It happened at the market on Friday in Mexico looking at all of the people. My heart breaks for them and my mind can't help but wonder if they know Christ? Questions flooded my mind as I pushed away any signs that I wanted to cry. I was surrounded by people who were lost, and many of them if they were to die today, wouldn't go to heaven, but spend forever in Hell. As I walked through the narrow streets of Market 28 I wondered how many of them have ever heard the gospel or knew of Christ love? Going to the market it something I will never forget. My heart was filled with love for them even though that was the first time my eyes had laid sight on them. It was a love and burden that could only come from God. Maybe, just maybe that experience is a seed being planted for something that is yet to come.

Dear God,
I come before you in awe of you. You are great and mighty and I know you can do amazing things. Lord, you have shown me your everlasting love, and I thank you for it, but God I pray right now for the Latins, especially the ones in Market 28. God, I pray that you will send someone to show them your mighty love. I know your love can completely change a person, and I pray you will transform the hearts of the people in Market 28. Thank you for your love God. Amen.