As I look forward to the summer plans with youth and the family, I can't help but recall some of the summer highlights from the past years. After all, this is my 11th summer as Minister of Students at FBCKM - so my wisdom, experience, and AGE do afford me a few memories to share!
In no particular order:
One... our first World Changers in Youngstown, Ohio. I'm sure glad Shane came with us b/c Erin and I didn't know anyone or have a clue what was going on. I remember some of the youth boys doing the some WWF wrestler's "sexy boy" song - very funny! And on the way back, I had to keep Shane awake ALL night since he liked to drive home in the middle of the night.
Two... Beach trips with the youth! Garden City, Springmaid, and now Epworth by the Sea - all great places for us to hang out, play, worship, and more. My morning tradition was to get up for the sunrise. Great times!
Three... Hilton Head with the Welmaker family. It seems Erin's family has been going there off and on for a long time. We all started to go maybe about 6-7 years ago. It's one of my favorite weeks of the year. So much fun with all the kids on the beach, in the pool, the Lighthouse, playing golf, eating overpriced Seafood, riding bikes, playing tennis on clay courts, lawn bowling, sand castles, having birthdays, and on an on.
Four... working in our garden! yes, even a pseudo-southern boy from Florida can put some seed and tomato plants in the ground... timer, water, fertilizer, and a little TLC later - and we've got awesome homegrown fruits & veggies!
Five... my life will forever be changed because of my experiences at M-Fuge (every summer) and especially my three trips to Honduras! These are places and events that have shaped my present and changed my future. God has used each of these to open my eyes and spirit to His heart for this world and the call for my life as His follower.
I could go on forever, but I won't. May this summer be filled with life-changing experiences that leave me in awe of the Lord and grateful to him for every second with my wife and children!
