I feel inspired to write a short blog today. I've been absent the past couple months and possibly because life has been a whirlwind and consisted of the usual youth pastor lifestyle....non-stop retreats, company, events, and trips! :)
But today I wanted to reflect.
I was at the gym today and I was meditating on God's goodness. And then it became a huge adrenaline rush! ( I am thinking this is my new secret to running :)
I was reflecting on one of the most impactful and inspiring weeks in youth ministry.
A week where I look back and think you can't deny the work and presence of Jesus Christ.
He who redeems, heals, restores, comforts.
And I can't help but worship and praise Him for what He has and IS doing!
Truly, this week has been a "high"..."I'm on mountain-top" kinda week.
But I don't think I'm just praising Jesus for what he has done this week.
In my meditation and prayer at the gym, praise flooded my soul.
I am praising God for taking me on a journey
Just back in February I felt life was difficult road and full of heavy emotions. We were told my Dad probably had cancer, my dog had to be put down, and life was just plain crazy.
And a few months later...
My Dad is healthy and healed, my soul is at peace, and God is moving in lives that are undeniably the work of the Holy Spirit.
I am praising Jesus not for last week, but also for the joy and comfort in the dark times.
Which truly leads to a sweeter, richer joy in these high moments of life!
Today I just wanted to climb to the highest mountain in Portland and shout, "Praise God!!"
I wanted to share with the world that Jesus is ALIVE and working!
I SEE IT!
It isn't an old Bible story, a myth, or legend.
It's true.
You cannot deny stories of redemption and restoration.
I'm telling you, to sit and listen to a precious high school student share their story of how only Jesus Christ has freed them from an eating disorder with another student, moves your soul.
It has moved my soul to rejoicing, praising, and worshiping!
And so I guess this is my "shout-out" :)
I'm in awe of Jesus. I love Him.
My life is nothing without Him.
And today my soul is filled with praise and adoration for what he has and is doing.
Thank you Jesus,
All the glory to you...
I'm nothing without you.
I wanted to share some lyrics that sum up my heart right now :)
Hillsong United
You hold me now
VERSE 1:
On that day when I see
All that You have for me
When I see You face to face
There surrounded by Your grace
All my fears swept away
In the light of Your embrace
Where Your love is all I need
And forever I am free
PRE CHORUS 1:
Where the streets are made of gold
In Your presence healed and whole
Let the songs of heaven
Rise to You alone
CHORUS:
No weeping no hurt or pain
No suffering You hold me now
You hold me now
No darkness no sick or lame
No hiding You hold me now
You hold me now
VERSE 2:
In this life I will stand
Through my joy and my pain
Knowing there's a greater day
There's a hope that never fails
Where Your Name is lifted high
And forever praises rise
For the glory of Your Name
I'm believing for the day
PRE CHORUS 2:
Where the wars and violence cease
All creation lives in peace
Let the songs of heaven
Rise to You alone
BRIDGE:
For eternity
All my heart will give
All the glory to Your Name
