Quiet Moments

This week my husband and I have had the privilege of spending the week with some great teens. But let me tell ya...never say never. I said I would never marry a pastor and yet here I am on a mission trip with my pastor hubby and 16 teenagers! The job of a pastor is tough but for all of you who think the job of a youth pastor is all games and playing around on Facebook have clearly never been on a mission trip with teenagers. 

We are in the tenses of raising a toddler and sometimes I feel like being with teenagers is like being with a toddler. It amazes me that people think youth ministry is all fun and games. 

There are so many things fighting for the attention of our teenagers and between Facebook, Instagram and twitter not to mention the temptations of a media world saturated with images of violence, sex,  and pornography it is a battle. Yet I have seen teenagers this week who want more than that. They are seeking the Kingdom and love to serve. Now don't get me wrong I have also seen teenagers whining, annoying each other and pushing my limits of patience. But what sticks out the most is their heart for serving others. It is also the love and camaraderie they have for each other that reflects the Kingdom. I see God in them web I see them interact with my toddler Addyson. They get down on her level and pay attention to her. They laugh with her and play with her and love her! This blesses my heart so much. I know that they are showing her Christ's   example of love. 

My job this week has been to shop for and cook all he meals for the team. It has been a tough job yet a joy at the same time. I underestimated the amount of food teenagers eat...especially teen boys!   

But  my favorite time this week has been in the quiet moments before everyone wakes up and I'm cooking and setting out breakfast. It's as if I'm right there with Jesus and he is speaking to me in that kitchen. I pray for the day and the teens and the people they will encounter. In those quiet moments I pray for my husband and that The Lord will guide him as he has he responsibility to lead this group. I pray for chris, the youth pastor here that is bringing us a message very night. And I pray for tasks that I would reflect Christ.

 Sometimes I feel like I'm failing...like when I thought 5 lbs of meat would feed everyone the first night. Or when I lack patience. But each morning God brings me back it the kitchen and speaks to me. Challenges my heart in such a loving way that I want to reflect Him.

Today I am so thankful for the quiet mornings  I get to spend with Him fully present in the moment.