Feel the burn!

Life can be hectic. It used to be that I would take each day as it came and not put any thought into the future. Those days are fading as I become more and more involved with ministry. Now don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining OR saying that I am worrying about the future, just that I am learning the value in time management. I'm also learning (slowly, but surely) the importance of saying no. It seems like, as Christians, we want to do all we can and more to serve God. It's the more part that hurts us. How true that as we spread ourselves thinner we end up doing more things but doing them all with a subpar performance. I believe God wants us to focus our energy and talents on fewer things...but to do those things exceptionally well.

With that said, I need to focus my energies. I have many passions, but what can I cut out? I can't see myself NOT doing youth ministry. I want to have time for my family, my girlfriend, and myself. I need to be dilligent in my devotions. Small group is vital for my growth...so is Elevate. That leaves vocal ministry and missions. Of the two, I place missions higher. However, both are causing my plate to overflow. Now, I made a commitment to lead this team to Nicaragua, which I will do. After that I will keep missions work confined to the realm of the youth ministry....taking them on trips, etc. So the conclusion leaves me saying what I already knew: I will be leaving the vocal team at church. Funny to say that when just today they called me to do a solo next weekend. I agreed BUT I was already singing next weekend (my excuse...). After this vocal schedule, I'm stepping down for a season (or more!).

With the help of Kerri and her dad I have emailed the senior pastor at church regarding being hired as a part time youth leader. I have been so excited about this! It's testing my patience...in God's time. Ok, God, can I just pray that it is soon?!?! :)

Well, I'm off to email the masses. Youth updates, missions updates...ahhhh. I will say this - there was a time not too long ago when a Friday night meant going out and drinking myself cross-eyed only to sleep my Saturday away, waking up with a hangover. So in light of it all having to cut out ministries is a blessing in itself.

Cheers,
~jim