Mpacting

I call our Wednesday night crowd time MPact. I know it's a ripoff of everybody else's, but I always have liked the seriousness of the word. My prayer has always been that this world will be impacted by what takes place here at Mt. Carmel.

Last night, it was. For the first time in a long time, we felt like a Student Ministry, and not just a Student Group. There was the opening volleyball game. Lots and lots of laughter. Unusual for this time of year. But refreshing.
Then there was our Crowdbreaker. I admit I borrowed it from Group Magazine. I had them design their own icons on an index card, like on a computer screen. Then on the back I had them write what happens when you right click on their icon. "Opens With": What gets you going? "Scan" What's the first thing people notice about you at first? "Create Shortcut" What one word describes you best? "Rename" If you could change your name or location, what or where would it be? Why? "Copy" Who is your idol or role model? Why? "Properties" Write 3 things about your past or family heritage that have helped shape who you are.
They grumbled and fussed. They hate doing work, but it turned out great. We shared our icons and what they meant, then we shared our "Create Shortcut" answers. Over the next few weeks, we'll share all our "Right Clicks."

Then the Junior High went to their class, and Senior High stayed with me. I explained that we were trying something different. I introduced the topic, about how we are not of this world. How this world is only temporary, and how we need to keep our eyes focused on the future glory Christ has prepared for us. After this, we watched a film clip from the movie, Aeon Flux, then we began a discussion. We read passages from I John and I Peter. The discussion was incredible. I heard kids say the most mature things to come out of their mouths in months. Even after the lesson, I had a student come and call me out on something I said, and he was 100% correct. I flippantly responded to something someone had said, and it was rude. I apologized and was forgiven. Maturity is showing up.
At least it did last night. The constant battle to keep my cynicism from overtaking my faith is a struggle, but nights like last night reinforce how Christ works, whether I allow Him to or not.

Feeling better about the next 2 weekends. Still lots to do and take care of, but shouldn't be a problem.
Kim's well. We heard the Butterbean again. Well, the doctor heard the Butterbean, and said he/she sounded great. We didn't actually make it out, but I trust the doctor. This is the third of 5 doctors that might deliver our baby. I liked her. Kim liked her, too, but she still likes Doc #2 better. I could care less. I just want my wife healthy and happy, and our baby healthy and happy too.
Woot! 8 weeks til Fuge. 23 weeks 'til Butterbean!
And oh yeah, as long as the Bean is cooperative, we'll find out boy vs. girl on June 1. Woo hoo!
Better actually get some work done! Today is Steak Day/Pay Day! Double Woot!