Jonathan and Amanda

A New Blog

2011-10-19T07:27:00.000-07:00

Come see our new family and ministry blog at fcm121.blogspot.com !!!

This will be my primary blog. So I will no longer be updating this one.

Thanks for checking on us!

An absence in newsletters and blogging

2011-06-14T13:19:00.000-07:00

It has been a long absence from this blog. I don't want to simply give excuses, but I apologize for neglecting to pass on news and prayer requests. In the next couple weeks I will be transitioning to a new rhythm of weekly blogging and quarterly newsletter writing. I'm hoping this new rhythm will fit my current position better.

I am still at Youthfront, working as the Manager of Operations at Youthfront Camp West, a role which is daily sharpening my management skills, expanding my mind, increasing my ability to shepherd people, and FILLING my schedule. It has completely demolished my old rhythm. Though, I'm praying that soon a new and better rhythm will be in place..... Thankfully I serve a sovereign God in whom I am confident that he will, after demolition, set in place something better fit for his plan during this season.

Please continue to pray for us,

Jonathan and Amanda

Logos Bible Software

2010-09-02T06:01:00.001-07:00

Logos Bible Software is giving away thousands of dollars of prizes to celebrate the launch of Logos Bible Software 4 Mac on October 1. Prizes include an iMac, a MacBook Pro, an iPad, an iPod Touch, and more than 100 other prizes!

They’re also having a special limited-time sale on their Mac and PC base packages and upgrades. Check it out!

Cabin Leader Stories

2010-08-27T14:49:00.001-07:00

A little More Information

2010-08-27T14:39:00.001-07:00

This past month, I officially accepted an offer to be the Camp Manager at Youthfront Camp West. As Camp Manager, I have some big responsibilities. The main ones are maintenance of camp facilities year round, shepherding and supervising the on-site community and volunteers, building relationships with neighbors and guests, and hosting retreats.

There are several reasons why we believe this to be God’s provision for us. First, due to the housing and job situation in Louisville it became apparent that in addition to full-time seminary courses, Amanda and I would both have to work in order to survive financially. This situation would also create a huge strain on us as a family. I would not be the father and husband I hope to be due to the amount of stress and lack of time.

Second, something many people do not know is my love for working with my hands. This position provides the unique opportunity to work with my hands in a way that creates ministry-enabling space, plus getting some of the direct person-to-person discipleship ministry I love so much.

Third, this position will give our family some stability for the next several years living at Youthfront Camp West. (We’ve never lived in the same place more than 9 months since being married)

Lastly, this position sets us up for more effective ministry in the future by allowing me to finish seminary in a holistically healthy way. Over the next four years, I will be completing my Masters of Divinity at the pace of 3-4 classes per year through online and modular courses, all the while able to work in ministry full-time, and spend a reasonable amount of time with my family.

In reality, our goals have stayed the same, but the road and timeline have changed. Please pray for us as I get started over the next couple weeks.

Also, I want to say a heartfelt thank you for your prayer and support as we follow God’s leading. We are so grateful for your faithfulness. Feel free to call or email us if you have questions.

The End of a Summer

2010-08-27T14:30:00.000-07:00

Every weekday this summer, I spent time in the morning after breakfast with the cabin leaders on summer staff. My role this summer was to lead and shepherd this group in a way that allowed them to pour their lives out on campers.

In some of the final meetings, we spent some time sharing stories from the summer. I will post some video of these stories soon, but I wanted to give you a taste (camper names are modified).

Noah. Noah, one of our cabin leaders, sat and told the story of a boy name Eric. On Wednesday in the cabins, they talked about the good samaritan.

Noah asked the group, “Do any of you have someone who is just really hard to love?” Several of the students listed off different people they thought of. Eric mentioned that his little sister (who happened to be a camper that week) is one of the hardest people he has to love.

On Friday toward the end of camp at the pool party, Noah looked over and saw
Eric holding his little sister who was crying. Walking up to Noah, Eric said, “do you care if I walk her back to her cabin, she’s a little homesick?”

At that moment, Noah’s heart melted as he saw Eric genuinely loving the sister he found so difficult to love.

Britany. Britany shared the story of a couple of girls named Mary and Anne, who were going to be freshmen in high school this year. When she met with them individually, they talked about doubts and the cost of following Jesus.

A couple nights later at the evening gathering, Mary came up to Britany and said, “I’m glad God can help me and stuff. I just don’t know if I want lose all my friends. I don’t want to commit to God if it means losing them”

Britany kindly turned toward her and said, “there will come a time in our lives when our friends aren’t enough. You have to come to the point where you can say, “I need you Jesus.”

In a surprising non-chalant way she said, “Okay, I’ll do it” and walked off.

A little shocked, Britany wondered what just happened. Later on that night at the very beginning of their evening cabin time, Mary excitedly raised her hand and said, “okay, I’ve got something to tell everyone. I’ve decided to give my life to Jesus, and I really want to tell all my friends. I’m so excited, and I just love Him, I really just love Jesus.”

One of Brittany’s favorite parts about this story is that Mary and Anne live in Liberty, Mo where Brittany goes to school, and they’ve agreed to continue to meet over the school year.

The Girl Corner

2010-08-27T14:15:00.000-07:00

We made a lot of really good friends this summer. Anna Grace’s favorite friend was one of our cabin leaders Stefani. Abi’s favorites were Mason and Brody(bottom). Abi loved making imaginary food and drinks for her friends. In the middle picture Ben’s drinking Abi’s tea.

The Girl Corner

2010-07-20T12:51:00.000-07:00

I (Abi) have had so much fun this summer! I get to play in the pool and on the swing-set. I even went down the water-slide with Daddy! My favorite part of camp are my new friends Mason and Brody. I’m also trying to teach Anna sign language.

July Prayer

2010-07-20T12:45:00.000-07:00

Camp. Camp seems to being going really well. Pray that the cabin leaders with be spiritually nourished as we spend time in Scripture and prayer together, and that their personal ministries would be effective. Pray God would pour out grace and kindness upon them which would then transmit itself to their campers.

Seminary. Though we’re not moving to Louisville, I am still planning to finish seminary. Pray that I will be diligent in my classwork, and in my interaction with fellow students. Pray that God would faithfully shape my perception and understanding of him. Pray that I would be formed into the people-shepherd which I feel God has called me to become.

Anna Grace. Anna is so happy and engaged when we talk to her! Her eyes get big, and she “talks” back to us with smiles, squeals, and coos. Pray God continues to keep her healthy, happy, and growing.

Plans for the fall. Pray that the puzzle pieces of our fall would come together smoothly and quickly. Pray that God would be honored in it all.

Another Change!

2010-07-20T12:43:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much for your prayer for us during the last several months. We have some important news to share with you.

Over the last year and a half, Amanda and I have been planning on our move to Louisville, where I would finish my seminary education. We had hoped to go in the fall of last year, but when our house did not sell, we found ourselves pushing seminary to this fall.

So, in the last six months, I’ve made a trip to Louisville, called apartment complexes, looked for a job, and made plans as to how to survive financially without taking out loans. I visited churches, and met with friends of ours in the area.

However, there remained a certain amount of unrest and lack of peace with our planned move.

Then in the last couple weeks, through a series of events, God seemed to be communicating that while I should finish seminary, we should not move to Louisville.

With hesitation and prayer, we began to re-investigate what we believed to be God’s plan for us during the next few years. After much discussion, prayer, thinking, and getting advice, we came to the decision that we will be staying in the Kansas City area, while I finish seminary through distance education and modular courses.

The decision on our part as been very difficult, especially since we had been building up to make the opposite decision for the last year or so. But we are confident that this will be the best thing for our family, for our ministry, and the health of our souls. Amanda and I both believe that what God is planning for us here will be very important for our future ministry.

I look forward to sharing with you more in the coming months. For now, if you support us financially, please continue to do what you’ve done. And please be in prayer for us, as God’s plan for us crystalizes, and gains clarity.

Tastes of Camp

2010-07-20T12:41:00.000-07:00

The Early Morning. “I’ll take a fat-free carmel latte please.” These are some of the more common words I hear first thing in the morning. Because youth pastors and volunteers are so important to our ministry, every day before the campers wake up, I’m in the snack shop making specialty coffee drinks for them. These youth pastors, for many of the kids coming to camp, are the key to creating lifelong followers of Christ. If I can make it easier for them to love on kids, that’s what I want to be about.

The Day. For most people on this property, action and noise are standard fare. The voice of a camp speaker, the music of the worship band, lighthearted shouting from inside the water-slide tunnels, cheers next to the volleyball court, a ping pong ball, a pool ball, and an air hockey puck. However, the day is not filled only with noise and action. Mid-morning there is silence, solitude, Scripture reflection, and prayer, as campers learn to spend time alone with God. During the afternoon free time, you’ll also see cabin leaders sitting at picnic benches with a camper having a conversation about Jesus.

Midday. At noon everyday, Youthfront embraces a spiritual habit called “Midday Prayer.” It’s the discipline of choosing to cease from all our extraneous noise and action for the sake of re-orienting our hearts and remembering that “unless the Lord builds the house the builders labor in vain.” We all gather in Youthfront Camp West’s chapel building where, for about 20 minutes, we reflect on Scripture and pray together: full-time staff, summer staff, teen staff, volunteers, and campers.

Staff Quarters. The days are hot typically, but behind the dining hall, where the staff apartments may be found, the shade slowly overtakes the grassy lawn starting at about 1:00. By about 3:00 , the area becomes perfect for playful children and good conversations with fellow staff members. While Abi plays with her friends Brody and Mason, Ali (the boys’ mom) sits and talks with Amanda as they sit in the outdoor furniture.

The Night. The night time roar of insects, bull frogs, and rustling leaves can be almost deafening. Yet in it, lies also a peaceful silence under the beautiful backdrop of the star filled skies. At this point most of the campers are asleep in their beds, but we staff are still awake. Around a small outdoor fire pit, we will sit for hours talking about the day and brainstorming how to do camp better... how to better reach students with Christ, assist youth pastors, and create an environment that fosters spiritual growth.

Abi Update

2010-05-13T12:50:00.000-07:00

I have a new sister! I love her so much! I play with her every day. Sometimes I make her co

okies with my play kitchen, and give her a bear to cuddle with. My friends and I are ready for the summer!

May Prayer

2010-05-13T12:46:00.000-07:00

Camp. Camp is starting soon. Pray that all the final details for prep week would be completed. Pray I would have wisdom about the things for which the cabin leaders need training during orientation week (after prep week). Pray they would be attentive and connect with one-another easily. Also, pray my assistant will acclimate quickly and be able to help me. Finally, pray for us as a family, as we begin living in a new location. Pray we will all enjoy our new environment.

Seminary. We are still trying to line things up for our transition to Louisville at the end of July. We are a little anxious about housing and job. Pray that all the right opportunities would land in our laps. Pray we would be patient and trusting of God’s plan. Please pray for extraordinary grace. Also, pray for us as we attempt to pack this summer.

Anna Grace. What a happy baby! Anna is doing so well. She is healthy and growing quickly. Within a week she was back at her birth-weight (which is really good). Pray she would continue to grow healthy and happy. Pray for us as we take care of two!

Camp!

2010-05-13T12:40:00.000-07:00

Tonight, we begin our move to camp! As I type this letter, the packing process has already begun. We’ve got clothes, books, baby stuff, and all kinds of miscellaneous things packed in rubber tubs, ready to go in the van.

Though campers don’t come until the beginning of June, there is a lot of preparation to do on location at Youthfront Camp West.

Next week is ‘Work Week’. The full-time Youthfront Camp West staff will be at camp doing work projects and getting ready to train the summer staff.

After work week is over, approximately 50 college age men and women will arrive ready for our nine-day orientation and training. The first few hours will be spent getting to know one-another. Then there are some basic practical things to talk about like how to handle emergencies, and the the specifics of each person’s job responsibilities.

The majority of their orientation and training time, however, will be spent learning the best ways to help middle school students come to know and love Jesus. We want our summer staff to be able to assess a teenager’s walk with Christ and move them to the next step, whatever that may be.

After Summer staff training week, its time for the students to arrive.

This summer I will function as the Cabin Leader Supervisor. Every cabin will have two cabin leaders in it, a full-time person and a volunteer. My role is to supervise, train, and spiritually guide this group of leaders. I also act as the funnel for any camper issues that need someone in authority (abuse at home, bullying, eating disorders, direct disobedience, etc.). Its a lot of responsibility, but also carries a lot of reward.

I am mostly looking forward to the spiritual input I get to pour into the summer-staff. I’ll share some of this with you in future newsletters.

Pray for us over the next couple weeks there is a lot to do.

Anna Grace!

2010-05-13T12:39:00.000-07:00

About 2:15am on Sunday morning, April 10th, I woke up to Amanda’s voice in the other room, “honey, I think my water just broke!”

There are very few words in the English vocabulary that will get a husband out of bed faster than those. After a few semi-frantic delirious paces around the room, Amanda told me to call our parents, the doctor, and the hospital to let them know we were coming.

I dialed the hospital’s number and spoke into the phone, “My water broke! We’re coming in to have a baby!”

The nurse obviously thought this was quite funny and said, “your water broke sir?”

Realizing that I had just made myself the laughing stock of the maternity ward, I corrected myself and asked what we should do next.

After a few minutes of packing up the car, we were gone. As we walked the hallway from our van to the maternity section of the hospital, we stopped every few minutes as Amanda’s contractions were strong enough to keep her from being able to walk. Finally, about 3:15am Amanda laid down on a bed in the maternity ward and waited for the doctor.

When the doctor arrived and found how far along Amanda was, nurse chaos ensued (9 cm!). All of a sudden, there were four nurses in the room and Amanda’s bed was being moved. They pushed her to the delivery room, transferred her over to a new delivery bed, and about 45 minutes later.... we had a baby.

Little Anna Grace, was born at 4:30am on Sunday April 11th. She weighed 7lbs. 10oz., was healthy, beautiful, and had more hair than I do. We are so grateful for the new addition to our family.

Abi Update

2010-03-29T12:49:00.000-07:00

I love my Daddy and Mommy. Daddy took me down the slide at the play-place, and we matched on Saint Patrick’s Day. I love it when Mommy lets me cook with her. In the picture, I’m making cookies for Daddy.

April Prayer

2010-03-29T12:48:00.000-07:00

Camp. We are still in need of two more guy cabin leaders. Please pray for guys who will be a good fit for the program, who love Jesus and are excited about working with junior high students. Also, pray I will have wisdom as I design curriculum for the Cabin Leaders.

Seminary. Pray that things will fall into place with regard to housing and job while we are in Louisville. Also, since we will be at camp this summer, a lot of our packing and getting ready to move will take place before the middle of May. Pray we will be patient and wise.

Anna Grace. Only two more weeks till her due date. The reality is that Anna Grace could come tomorrow, and she will undoubtedly be here by the next time you receive a letter from us. Pray that Anna would be a happy and healthy baby. Pray for us as the season of sleeplessness and crying children will be upon us soon. It will no doubt be a big adjustment for us from one child to two. Pray for a patient grace in the midst of stress. Finally, pray that Abigail will learn quickly how to be a big sister. Pray she won’t be too jealous of the attention Anna receives, and that she will learn to nurture from her mom.

Pictures and Words

2010-03-29T12:47:00.000-07:00

A picture is worth a thousand words, goes the not-so-old adage. This month has been quite busy.

A trip to Louisville. At the beginning of the month, I took abrief trip to Louisville where we will be moving in the fall. I had hoped to get some things figured out for jobs, housing, and a church. There is still work to do, but the trip went very well.

South Field burning. Each year, we try to burn the dead grass at Youthfront Camp South in the early spring. Our hope is that burning will help control the tick population, in addition to eliminatingthe possibility of uncontrolled grass fires. It’s always a quite enjoyable, adrenaline producing event. This year Topher (my brother and co-worker) brought my nephew Cameron along for the adventure.

Head-quarters projects. To help resolve my support shortfall, I’ve been taking on about 10 hours/week of Youthfront Headquarters maintenance responsibilities. I wish I could show you the list of projects completed since I started taking on these responsibilities. Everything from replacing furnace filters, to oiling the boiler pump every month, to organizing tool rooms, to re-wiring a kitchen grease pit pump (what a mess!), to setting up phone lines, to clearing unused offices, to finding a lost vehicle...

Summer Staff preparation. This month, I’ve been working on putting together curriculum for the cabin leaders for the summer. Also, we’ve continued to do interviews in our search for summer staff. This past week, we had two guys decide not to come, which means we are in need of a couple guy cabin leaders for this summer. If you know anyone, point them towards the website (youthfront.com).

Engage Parent Event. This past weekend, was the Engage parent event featuring Marv Penner, who is an internationally known speaker for youth ministry. It was a wonderful event. I don’t think we could have been more pleased. We had at least a couple hundred parents come, and many of them stayed long after the event was over asking questions and talking to Dr. Penner.

A seminary course. I’m currently taking a seminary course from Southern Seminary where I will be attending in the fall. The name of the course is “Personal Evangelism.” It has provided a lot of opportunity for me to wrestle with the nature of the gospel and the practical implications for evangelism. I’ve especially enjoyed discussing the topic with some of the people on staff here at Youthfront.

Baby Coming! We are only a couple of weeks (or days) away from our new baby arriving! At a recent sonogram, we discovered that she is in the perfect position for birth; head-down and facing toward the back. We also have discovered that she likes to stick her bottom toward the sky, and curl her knees under her.

In Youthfront News. This month, I was in the Youthfront News to commemorate five years working for Youthfront (actually 6 years).

Cabin 16 painting. Yesterday, I spent most of the day painting the inside of the new Cabin 16 at Youthfront Camp West. The new cabin will be ready for this summer. It looks really good.

Going West and East

2010-03-02T12:09:00.000-08:00

Over the last couple months, there have been some significant changes in our plan for the next year. I would like to tell you about them.

At the end of our first semester with Youthfront Mission Institute in 2008, we discovered some really important things about ourselves and our ministry.

First, I loved working with college students. I found that their intellectual ability, their availability, and their passion were so motivating and enjoyable for me that I could not see myself doing anything else. Not to mention, God seems to grant the most fruit in my ministry when I work with college students.

Second, the 24/7 ministry context we experienced for six months at YMI made us realize that such an all-consuming ministry was not sustainable for us as a family. Too much depended on me as director, and the seclusion kept us from the primary means by which we experience God’s encouragement, namely the local church.

Third, I discovered a desire to help people grow in the context of their everyday lives: doing their jobs, going to school, finding their spouses, raising their kids, reaching out to their friends, caring for their poor and elderly, and so on. There is tremendous value to seasons of rest and recovery. However, my desire is to help them maintain their faith and grow when they’re not at YMI or camp.

In addition to these discoveries, for the last few months it seems God has been transitioning us away from Youthfront. Through a series of events which includes the addition of a couple full-time YMI staff, God has made us willing to leave knowing the ministry we launched is not dependent on our involvement.

For these reasons (and a few others), Amanda and I have begun to transition our ministry.

This fall, we will move to Louisville, KY for about a year where I will complete my Masters of Divinity. Then, I will pursue a position which allows me to do ministry on or near a college campus. A particular city is not yet clear, but the opportunity to be daily equipping college students to reach and disciple people is very exciting to me.

Between now and September, I will be primarily doing three things.

First, I will be helping to pass-on YMI to different leaders. I will be mainly in a service role to help this next year of YMI run smoothly.

Second, because I will have more time in the spring and summer, we have decided to work one more summer at Youthfront Camp. Youthfront Camp West needed a Cabin Leader Supervisor, so I volunteered. As the cabin leader supervisor, I am responsible for hiring roughly 18 college students as cabin leaders, develop and lead the summer curriculum, and shepherd this small group of people for the summer.

Third, I will be trying to close the shortfall in my support account by taking on some Youthfront building maintenance duties and by raising a little more financial support.

If you have questions, I would be happy to talk with you. Feel free to email or call me.

Also, be sure to take a look at our prayer requests, and think about us as you spend time with God. We are, as always, desperately dependent on his care and guidance.

February Prayer Requests

2010-03-02T09:00:00.000-08:00

Camp. This summer, I will be the Cabin Leader Supervisor at Youthfront Camp West. Pray as I begin building relationships with our future summer-staff and plan the summer curriculum. Also, I only have five spots left to fill. Pray for wisdom in the selection process.

Seminary. As we said in our letter, in the fall we will move to Louisville where I will finish my seminary education. We’ve discovered that I can go solid for about a year and be quite close to finished. Pray for us as we put together the details of our move and transition.

Family. The last few months, since Christmas break have been quite refreshing for us. The pace has slowed, and our habits have been healthier. Every year Amanda and I are married, we better understand and love each other. Pray that we will continue to grow as husband/wife, and father/mother.

Anna Grace. Amanda is just a few weeks from her due date (April 15th). Pray that the baby would remain healthy and growing. Pray that she will be a happy baby (this is especially important since we will be at camp this summer).

Abi Update

2010-03-01T12:22:00.000-08:00

The last couple months I’ve done a lot of traveling. I visited some of Daddy and Mommy’s friends in Minneapolis, spent five days at Grandpa and Grandma’s, and was in a wedding in Ames, Iowa. I love to dance! At the wedding, I spent hours on the dance-floor.

A visit to Chicago

2010-02-16T12:58:00.000-08:00

For Valentine's Day, Amanda and I went on the first vacation by ourselves in our married life (excluding our honey moon). We found a great deal for tickets on Mega-Bus (50 cents per ticket!!), and won a $200 American Express gift card in our small group. Since we won the gift card by winning a newly wed game, we thought it would be appropriate to use it to enrich our marriage.

The first couple nights in Chicago we stayed with some friends and relatives, and then the last couple nights we used Price-line to get ourselves a nice hotel for cheap, just off of Michigan avenue.

A restaurant right across from the Chicago Art Institute.

On the steps in front of the Field Museum.

The Pirottes let us sleep at their house, and use their CTA rail passes while we were there.

Finally saw Avatar

The lobby of our hotel, the Palmer House Hilton. It is the oldest, continuously running hotel in the United States.

Spending a little time with Mr. Picasso.

And with good old Grant.

"The Bean"

The Dignity of a Latte [by Amanda]

2010-01-25T10:17:00.000-08:00

A Few weeks ago, our small group visited the Forest Avenue Family Shelter in urban Kansas City. The shelter provides meals for members of the community and a place for women and children to sleep. Though I have been there before and have visited many places like this one, this visit was different than others.

Normally, we provide a meal when we come. This week we decided to have “breakfast for dinner.” A few months ago, Jonathan and I found an espresso machine for $4 at a local thrift store. Since then, Jonathan has been making me a latte a few mornings each week. This is quite the treat for me, and I thought the people at the shelter would enjoy it too. However, I could never have imagined that something so simple would impact me so much.

So we packed up food, our espresso machine, some milk, and a few different kinds of flavored syrups, and headed to to the shelter. As the evening progressed, women came, ordered a latte, sat down, and sipped it with a feeling that was difficult to articulate.

About midway through the evening, I found myself in a long conversation with one of the women and her son. I didn't find out a ton about her or her life, but it felt a lot like a conversation that I would have had with a friend in a coffee shop. We talked and laughed as though we had known each other for long time. As our evening ended, she told me that this was one of the first times she had stayed at a shelter. It wasn't what she had expected. She had been really scared, but she told me that tonight had been a lot of fun for her.

As Jonathan and I were driving home, we talked about our experience. Jonathan made a connection that has really impacted me. He told me that he thought the latte's had made the people feel "normal." They weren't just drinking a cup of Joe from the pot brewing in the back.

They were able to come up to a counter, tell someone what they wanted, wait while it was being specially made just for them, and then, sit and drink it with their friends just like a normal person.

For a few moments, their worries melted away in a warm cup of espresso, steamed milk, and white peppermint mocha syrup. They talked freely and laughed. There was a certain amount of dignity in drinking this latte.

For me, it is easy to look at a person in a shelter or out on the street and get caught up trying to understand how they got there and what I can do to "fix" their problem. I want to say that I care for them, but my "doing" mentality can sometimes keep me from loving them the way they are, or giving the dignity they deserve.

God is at work all the time. Not only is He drawing me to Himself, He is drawing others as well, even those homeless men or women we occasionally see on the street.

He calls us to take time and love people where they are, treating them with the kind of dignity love demands. Though, I can’t say something in my conversation explicitly pointed this woman to Christ, but I believe God was at work in her heart. I know He was at work in mine.

Abi's Update

2010-01-24T10:19:00.000-08:00

I daily amaze Mommy and Daddy. I am starting to communicate in more complete thoughts, and I am learning the art of “going potty in the big girl potty.” One of my favorite activities is sitting in Anna Grace’s car seat reading to my Panda.

January Prayer Guide

2010-01-23T10:23:00.000-08:00

Family. We have less than 11 weeks before Anna Grace is due (and your taxes J ). Pray for Abi as she learns what it means to be a big sister. And pray for us as we prepare to be come parents of a newborn again.

Camp. Jonathan will be Cabin Leader Supervisor at West this year. We are excited to be ministering to college students once again. Pray that the Lord would be preparing the students that are coming to serve on staff this summer. Also, pray that Jonathan would develop relationships with them quickly.

Seminary. Jonathan is taking a class this semester from Southern. Pray for him as he continues on the path toward finishing his Masters. Also, pray for provision as we seek to move to Lousiville, KY in the fall. There are a lot of details (housing, jobs, church, etc.) that we are not sure of at the moment.

Chicago. Jonathan and I will be heading north for a little rest and relaxation over Valentine’s Day. Pray that we would enjoy our time together as we spend some time as a couple.

Feed the hunger

2010-01-22T11:30:00.000-08:00

This past month we had a huge drive for our Feed the Hunger initiative. In all we packaged over 300,000 meals to be sent to Haiti.

Visit from our 2008 YMI crew

2010-01-15T10:25:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T10:14:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving

2009-11-27T10:53:00.000-08:00

This year there is a lot for which our family can be thankful.

House Sale

We finally sold our house!! We are now residing a few blocks away with a much lower cost of living. We know many people have gone much longer than 5 months without selling their houses so we’re thankful God provided buyers for us. We’re also grateful that God gave us someplace to live only a few blocks away.

(Looks pretty good empty)

Abigail.

Every day it seems Abi is learning a couple new words. She is even starting to use short sentences like “I kean (clean) it” as she wipes a cloth in circles on the coffee table.

Her intelligence, which amazes me every day, is not what I’m most grateful for this year however. I’m most grateful for her joy. I love to come home from work, step in the front door, and see her smiling face running toward me to greet me with a hug and a kiss. She truly lives up to her name’s meaning, “my father’s joy.”

(Abi's "Elmo Shoes")

(Decorating the Christmas Tree)

Another Child.
Amanda is now almost halfway through her pregnancy. Yesterday, Amanda’s sonogram told us that our little baby is going to be a girl, which means her name will be Anna Grace. Her due date is April 15th. I’m grateful and excited for the opportunity to create another Daddy’s girl.

(Amanda 14 weeks pregnant... she is now almost 20 weeks pregnant)

Family.
There is nothing like the comfort and connection of family during the holidays. I’m grateful for this gracious gift of God .... for both the earthly family to which we are born and the spiritual family given to us in Christ, the Church.

(Halloween at Chipotle with the family)

You.

Finally I’m thankful to God for you, who pray, give, and encourage. We could not do what we do without you. You are God’s gracious enabling provision for us, our family, and our ministry.

I pray that during this season you also take time to remember and thank God for His good gifts.

Let There Be Silence

2009-11-27T10:51:00.001-08:00

Before Jesus chose the twelve disciples, Luke (6:12) tells us that Jesus spent the entire night in solitude. Right after he fed the five-thousand in Matthew 14, Jesus “went up into the hills by himself; and in Mark 6, Jesus taught his disciples to “come away by yourselves to a lonely place” after doing some very intensive ministry. It is rarely noticed how often Jesus retreated into silence and solitude.

One of my desires is to see the Church love this under-appreciated spiritual discipline. I agree with what Thomas Merton says in The Way of the Heart that solitude is “the furnace of transformation.”

Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote a book called Life Together. Though it is primarily a book about community, he dedicates an entire chapter to what he calls “the day alone.” He writes (read this quote carefully), “Let him who cannot be alone beware of community ... and let him who is not in community beware of being alone ... Each by itself has profound pitfalls and perils. One who wants fellowship without solitude plunges into the void of words and feelings, and one who seeks solitude without fellowship perishes in the abyss of vanity, self-infatuation, and despair.”

This month, our YMI students spent a week at Youthfront Camp South for “Solitude Week.” During most of the semester, our students learn the value of community (the day together). During solitude week, our YMI students learn the value of “the day alone.”

Any time not spent in silence, they spent processing their experience. Our hope is that the taste of silence and solitude will allow them to truly grow in their ability to see and hear Christ; and the taste will create an ever present hunger for communion with the Father. We pray this hunger will then be transmitted into the the larger body of believers to experience its benefit.

Abi's Update

2009-11-27T10:45:00.000-08:00

I LOVE FALL!! This month I visited the Ozarks with Me-ma, Mommy, and some of my friends; I got to play in the leaves; and I helped decorate our Christmas tree! This week, I saw my new little sister, Anna, on TV at the doctor’s office. I can’t wait!!

November Prayer

2009-11-27T10:44:00.000-08:00

Family. We are so excited about having another daughter. Pray for Amanda and her pregnancy. Pray there will not be any complications, and God’s manifest presence will be near to us.

YMI. The end of YMI is only a few weeks away. Pray our students will continue to grow and learn from the things they read, the people with whom they interact, and the time they spend in prayer. Pray they will stay focused and consistent until the end of the program.

Our Move. We have now moved out of our house. Amanda is so efficient at unpacking and organizing that we are already almost finished moving in. However, pray for the last bits of cleaning and organizing. Also, pray that there would be rest in the middle of the work.

Holiday Season. The holiday season is usually a combination of fun and stress. Pray for good reconnection, God-centered rejoicing, and ever-present peace.

Youthfront News

2009-10-20T22:05:00.000-07:00

Youthfront sends out a monthly newsletter highlighting some of the ministry that is happening on an organizational level.

We hope you don’t this month’s edition of Youthfront News. On the inside page, Youthfront Mission Institute (YMI) was highlighted. If you don’t receive Youthfront’s newsletter, please let us know. We would be happy to get you on the mailing list.

Youthfront Mission Institute (YMI) in Mexico

2009-10-20T11:32:00.000-07:00

In Mexico this month, I (Jonathan) spent a lot of time thinking about the nature of poverty. Often times when we think of poverty, we think a lack of material resources is the defining mark of those who are most in need. However, if you were to ask the poor themselves, they will usually define poverty in terms of shame and helplessness, lack of progress, depression, and feelings of inferiority.

From the book Voices of the Poor, here are the words the poor use to describe their own situation: “For a poor person everything is terrible - illness, humiliation, shame. We are cripples; we are afraid of everything; we depend on everyone. No one needs us. We are like garbage that everyone wants to get rid of.”

In the book, When Helping Hurts by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert , the authors explain that what is at the base of poverty is in fact an array of broken relationships. Relationships that are not just, not for life, not harmonious or enjoyable. “Poverty is the absence of shalom [peace] in all its meanings. “

For us, as believers, our task is to be bearers of shalom, ministers of reconciliation. We carry a kingdom of peace with us into areas of brokenness. We proclaim a kingdom whose identifying mark is that the relationship between man and his creator is no longer broken. The message does not stop there however. It preaches right relationship to the creation in which we live, right relationship to each other, and a right understanding of ourselves as bearers of God’s image. Our calling to care for the poor needs to better reflect this message.

Consequently, when we want to help the poor, it will require a lot less money and a lot more time. It will take effort toward recovery and development, not simply financial relief.

October Prayer Guide

2009-10-20T10:17:00.000-07:00

Family. We are so excited to be pregnant again! Pray that the pregnancy will continue to go smoothly and that we will be good partners and parents in the process. Pray for a healthy and happy baby.

YMI. Our trip to Mexico went really well. You can read a little more about it on the front page. This month the students will be traveling to a Christian Community Developers Association (CCDA) conference. Pray for attentiveness and good discussions. Pray God would continue to teach them what it means to follow Jesus and participate in what he is doing in the world.

My Car. My Honda Civic bit the dust this month. We are getting by for now using just Amanda’s van. However, we will eventually need to get another vehicle. Pray that we will find a cheap, reliable vehicle, and that sharing until that time would not be difficult.

Our House. This month we sold our house. Pray God will give us clarity about our future plans and that he would provide someplace for us to live.

Abi Update

2009-10-20T09:41:00.000-07:00

Abi Update: This month, while I was in Mexico, I went to this woman’s house, and she taught Mommy and me how to make flour tortillas. In the bottom picture is my new friend Katie.

YMI 2009

2009-09-20T09:39:00.000-07:00

YMI has begun! Much has happened in the last month. Here is a little update.

The YMI House. As I have mentioned in previous newsletters, one of the changes to YMI this year is that we have chosen to move our students into an urban, lower-income neighborhood called the Argentine. Rather than spending most of the semester at camp, they live every day serving and caring for their neighbors.

One of the question marks for YMI towards the beginning of the summer was a place to live. Kurt and Emily had been living there and knew of several apartments where our students could live. However, one day, Kurt looked out his window and saw the perfect house.... plenty of room for a family and our YMI students.... and for a great price.

Less than a month later, Erik Leafblad and his family, along with our students moved into the house less than a block away from Kurt and Emily. What a blessing!

Kurt and Emily (and Luke). Several years ago, Kurt and his wife Emily, moved to Kansas City after graduating from Iowa State to be part of Youthfront’s Mexico program. One of the great things about Youthfront’s program is that they believe that the best ministry is incarnational. In other words, like Jesus, they came to live with and around the people they were reaching. They sought to bring the message of the kingdom with humility and solidarity. Ministry was not only about a message proclaimed, but a message embodied.

When they moved back to Kansas City, they became involved in YMI. One of the great advantages to having someone like Kurt working with YMI, is that his passion for doing this type of ministry is absolutely contagious, not only to our students, but our staff as well.

Erik and Amy (they also have two kids, but they are not pictured). Erik and Amy have also had a great influence on YMI. Their passion for alternative forms of education fit wonderfully with the vision for YMI. Erik, who earned his Masters of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary, is one of the more intelligent men I’ve ever met, yet he has a great ability to make things that are complex understandable for people like our YMI students.

A day at YMI. So how does YMI look day to day this year? Typically, every Monday through Friday, there is a book discussions in the morning, led by Kurt, Erik, or me. In the afternoons, the students are out building relationships in the community though activities like after school programs, service projects, and other various ministry opportunities.

On Friday’s, we spend a day at Youthfront South. After some discussion in the morning, the students use this day as a retreat from the busyness of the Argentine. They spend time in prayer, study, solitude, and rest.

Mexico. Part of YMI is spending two weeks in Mexico together. On Monday, Amanda, Abi, the YMI students and I will be piling in a van and driving to Monterrey, Mexico. Pray for us as we go.

Abi Update

2009-09-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

Abi Update: This month, I went to the zoo and saw lots of animals. Daddy put me on his shoulders like he was a horse. I kept saying “horse, horse!” This months I also helped mommy in the kitchen a lot.

Septmeber Prayer Guide

2009-09-19T11:23:00.000-07:00

YMI Mexico We leave Monday for two weeks in Mexico. Pray for safety in every sense. Also, pray that we would hear and respond to what God calls us to. Pray that the students will be very attentive to their environment, learning and growing from the things they experience. Also, pray for relationships. Pray that they will be built easily and quickly.

Also, pray for our interactions with Youthfront Staff in Mexico. Pray we will be able to serve them well and step easily into the ministry they are already doing.

Family. There is nothing sweeter than your daughter calling you on the phone to say “wuv woo” (love you). We love being parents. Like all humans, Abi’s will has also developed. We are already to the point of having to stay very on top of discipline. Pray that we will be good parents. Pray we will be consistent, God-centered, and heart-focused as we help Abi know what it means to be a good girl.

Joy and Evangelism

2009-07-31T09:21:00.001-07:00

Mike King, the president of Youthfront recently wrote a really interesting blog entry in response to a popular you tube video. I wanted to pass it on to you. It's a video of a promotion stunt for a Belgian television program in which a large group of people performed a music routine from the Sound of Music in the middle of a busy train station. In the words of Mike, "the response of the commuters is extraordinary as they move from surprise, awkwardness and discomfort to finding themselves caught up in the experience. I think this video is a fitting metaphor for the church and our invitation to those outside our communities of faith to enter into the joyful story of God unfolding in the world." Follow this link to read the blog and see the video. king.typepad.com

BROKEN PHONE

2009-07-17T09:51:00.000-07:00

The screen on my phone cracked in the midst of our service project. Do you have an extra Sprint phone I can use for a few months? I'm hoping to switch carriers in October, so I would prefer not to buy a new one. If so please call me or email me...

A Life that Counts

2009-07-15T07:34:00.000-07:00

I think we all want a life that matters for something. Yet, there are countless people who come to their end and discover that nothing worthwhile or lasting came from their time on earth. So what happened?

There are many reasons why people end up wasting their lives. Some can’t quite muster up the courage, knowing that living a life that counts requires sacrifice of the things they enjoy. Their comfortable situation is just too valuable to them.

Others are just too busy. They are so focused on climbing the corporate ladder (or some other symbolic ladder), that they forget to check if their ladder is leaning on the right house. Still others, know ing what it takes, just decide that its simply too hard. They would rather cover over the emptiness and lack of meaning with fun and toys which they hope will help them cope.

I think that almost all the roadblocks to meaning can be summed up in one word, “desire.” For most people, the daily desire for comfort, recreation, and accolades outweigh the desire for meaning. Yet we all know, that in reality a meaningful life is tremendously more important than the latter.

One of my favorite authors, CS Lewis wrote, “... it would seem that Our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased.”

One of the best ways we can grow in our desire for Christ and his kingdom, is not to suppress our desires, but to cultivate the right kind of desires in our souls.

For me, mobilizing others to love and serve is one of the best cultivators in my spiritual life. This past week, Amanda and I helped facilitate a service project for a church from Ames, IA.

The youth came down and painted a elderly widow’s house in an urban area of Kansas City, KS. Before they arrived there was a lot of peeling paint and bare wood. Two days later, the entire house was a beautiful new brownish-gray color with white trim. It was hard work, but there is something about hard work and service that is a means of grace to the one who serves, (and to the one facilitating that service).

It is easy to say that this project was just as much about my joy and desire as it was about the joy of Grand Avenue Baptist in Ames and the joy of this elderly widow in Kansas City, KS.

I pray that your joy this month will also be full and meaningful as you support and mobilize these types of ministries through your prayers and giving.

Signage

2009-07-15T07:30:00.000-07:00

sign⋅age (sī'nĭj): 
noun  
signs collectively, esp. commercial or public display signs.

One of the exciting events around Youthfront this month was the Youthfront reunion. Hundreds of people came in, from as far away as France, to re connect with old friends from their days at KCYFC/Youthfront.

Unfortunately, Amanda, Abi, and I could not attend (due to an important wedding the day of the event). However, I was able to help get ready for the event. Topher, my brother, and I worked on new signage for Youthfront camp West. We spent a couple days in the heat digging holes, cutting wood, and pouring concrete, so that the new signs would be ready when our guests arrived.

For me there is something really rewarding about hard manual labor in the sun.

Abi Update

2009-07-15T07:22:00.001-07:00

ABI UPDATE: The last two months have been really fun. I saw fireworks for the first time since China, fed goats at Deanna Rose Farmstead, made some new friends at an urban ministry called Freedom Fire, and visited my friends at camp. (along with some rubber duckies)

Family Update

2009-07-15T07:18:00.002-07:00

It’s been interesting living in the Philgreen household this summer. In all my years as a Kansas Citian, this is the first summer in thirteen years, where I have actually been living in the city (rather than camp, Mexico, or Minneapolis). Though I have missed the places of intensive ministry, the benefits for our family have been huge. In addition to ministry around the KC area, we have enjoyed afternoon walks, meeting with church friends, and experiencing the city.

We’ve also been trying to sell our house. About a month ago, we put our house on the market. Within 2 days, we had accepted an offer, and were making plans for our next steps. Along came the inspection. Next thing we knew, the offer was withdrawn, and we were starting over. Sold, then “un-sold.” Please keep praying for us in this process. If you know anyone who wants to live in the Westwood area, point them our direction.

YMI UPDATE

2009-07-15T07:18:00.001-07:00

Recruiting. This month we’ve spent some time recruiting for YMI at our camps. It’s been so much fun to connect with some of the summer staff who worked there last summer.
In general people have been very interested in coming to Youthfront Mission Institute. Most of them, however, talk about it for future years.
For one reason or another, very few students have been able to commit to this fall semester. We are praying about how this is going to effect our fall.

College Credit. This week Kurt will be having lunch in the Argentine with several key people from William Jewel College. They will be continuing our discussions about gaining college credit through YMI courses.

Feed the Hunger Initiative

2009-07-15T06:26:00.000-07:00

According to Bread for the World Institute, six million children under the age of five die every year as a result of hunger.

By comparison, the population of the city of Chicago (which is the third largest in the United States) has a population of almost three million people. So, for the sake of understanding, imagine cities, the size of Chicago, being completely inhabited by kids. Then drop a bomb on the city, and everyone dies.... two cities a year. Perhaps this is a little morbid. Forgive me, if it is overly offensive. But isn’t this similar when we consider that there is ample food to feed these people.

Part of following Jesus, is the choice to live life differently for the sake of those in need. We abandon our own “rights” for the sake of the poor, oppressed, and those with little access to the gospel of Jesus.

At Youthfront camps this summer, students have been packaging meals to send to third-world countries in need. This summer up to 128,000 meals will be packaged at our camps. In addition, groups of students across the city are making plans for packaging food throughout the school year.

More than simply packaging meals, we are hoping to encourage people to not turn a blind eye to someone in need. We want to encourage students to live a life that appropriately reflects Christ in the presence of this extreme reality.

A few weeks ago, FOX 4 came out and took video of some Campers at Youthfront South making the meals. Take a look at the video below.

July Prayer Guide

2009-07-15T06:24:00.000-07:00

Youthfront Mission Institute . We have a lot of questions if we do not get any more students. Pray that students will be able to come. Pray also that we would have wisdom regarding the next steps for Youthfront Mission Institute and our family.

Camp. Though we cannot be at camp this summer, what they are doing is very exciting. Pray for the Feed the Hunger initiative, and for the Camp’s mission to bring youth into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ.

Family. We would really like our house to sell. The stress of getting it ready to sell is for the most part over, but the stress of waiting has begun. Please pray that the right buyer will come along and that our house will sell for a good price.
Support. We’ve continued to have a support deficit. Please continue to pray for unexpected gifts or other means of provision.

Change

2009-05-22T12:46:00.000-07:00

Change happens all the time. It’s something that we must all learn to navigate. Sometimes it is difficult and frustrating, while other times it is invigorating and easy. Sometimes it steals the life and hope out of your dreams, while other times it puts wind in wilted sails.

Over the last couple of months there have been quite a few changes in YMI and our family ... and we’re not expecting it to stop for a while.

Change #1: New YMI team members. The YMI team grew to three people last month. On Youthfront staff are two incredibly gifted and talented leaders who have decided to devote a large amount of time to YMI this fall.

Kurt Rietema has led our Mexico program for the last several years and has recently moved into an ethnically diverse, low-income region known as the Argentine district near I-635 and Metropolitan. Kurt views his life as one big mission, seeking to live out his theology and love for people, even in his home choice.

Erik Leafblad recently came on staff and is in charge of the Cabin leaders at South this summer. He moved here after completing his MDiv at Princeton and has a huge interest in alternative education.

Adding these two guys into the YMI equation has been a change that has definitely added new energy to the mission. Lots of new ideas. Lots of excited conversations.

Change #2: YMI Programatic changes. One of the difficult parts of YMI has been the recruiting process. With the downturn of the economy few people have been able to get past the price tag.
In order for us to clear this hurdle we decided to cut some pieces of the program and bring the semester price to $3950 (includes everything - books, room and board, ministry, Mexico trip, etc.). That is almost half of last year’s tuition.

Some costs were easy to cut. Others were very difficult. The most difficult was our decision to drop/postpone the overseas trip to Asia. It has not necessarily been removed permanently. However, for now, it seems this is the decision to make.

Like most difficult change, once you are through the tunnel you begin to see new possibilities.

Change #3 YMI location. Last year we wanted to expose our students to missional community living. The Asia piece fulfilled that. This year, rather then spending 8 weeks at Youthfront south during the offseason, they will live in the Argentine for 14 weeks. They will build relationships, serve the community, and look to follow Christ in their context.

This will also allow us to create a more natural relationship between engagement and withdrawal. Every week the students will supplement their whole-hearted engagement in the Argentine, with a day or two of withdrawal to one of our camp facilities.

In this transition, we’re already moving. Kurt has especially been busy. He’s been building relationships with community leaders and meeting with area colleges to develop new possibilities for college credit. He’s even found someone to donate living space in the Argentine (free rent in a brand new duplex).

There is more change to come. I can feel it. We’ll keep you posted.

Franklin

2009-05-21T18:21:00.000-07:00

((This is a picture of a vacant elementary school in the Argentine. Perhaps a future YMI facility???))

More Abi Pictures

2009-05-21T08:40:00.000-07:00

Abi's birthday morning

2009-04-14T09:16:00.001-07:00

Another Philgreen family tradition is to get up in the morning and bring breakfast in bed to the girl (or boy) who is having their birthday that day. Abi was so surprised when we walked in singing.

She couldn't quite figure out what was going on, but she was happy from the beginning.

Amanda got up early and made home made doughnuts on our stove.

If you can't tell Abi loved her breakfast. More sugar for Abigail!

After we had finished with breakfast, Abi opened her presents. (Yes, there were a lot of presents. Amanda went to the dollar store and Wal-mart the day before and bought a couple fun toys. The rest were toys and clothes that we've owned for a while, but had not given to Abi yet.)

One of Abi's favorite toys was her new doll and a disappearing-milk bottle. The rest of the morning she kept feeding her little doll. Then she would hug the doll and pat its back.

Abi's First Birthday

2009-04-14T08:49:00.001-07:00

There is a tradition in the Philgreen Family that on the first birthday of each of the children, the baby gets a little chocolate birthday cake to eat all by themselves. Some are cleaner than others. I'm proud to say, my daughter was not clean! She loved that little cake.

We had hoped she would blow out the candle, but we ended up doing it ourselves.

First Bite!

MMMMMMM!!!!

After finishing her cake, we gave her a bath and she received a few gifts from her grandparents and extended family.

Easter Weekend

2009-04-14T07:50:00.000-07:00

One of Abi's favorite words right now is "cooooool"

St. Agnes is a Catholic church down the road from us. They had a big Easter egg hunt for kids in the neighborhood. This was Abi's first Easter egg hunt. Surprisingly, she caught on fairly quickly. She carried her own basket, pointed at the eggs, and would walk toward them to pick them up.

On Sunday we watched the last part of the Masters at my parents house before we celebrated Easter with them. Here is Abi with Angel Cabrera who would be come the next Green Jacket owner.

More Easter Egg Hunting!!

Spelling errors and mistakes Vol. 1

2009-03-27T08:38:00.000-07:00

So, every month when I write our newsletter, Amanda and I, plus one other person (usually my mom) read the letter for suggestions in change of content, and to catch spelling errors and other mistakes. I think it would be kind of fun to include a section each month on this blog of all the mistakes we find AFTER the letter has already been printed and sent. Feel free to contribute your own in the comments section if you want. Don't worry, you won't offend me. As long as you don't take me too seriously I'll try not to take myself too seriously. Mistakes just magnify God's perfections and mercy anyway.

This month we only noticed one. Not bad. Here it is.

"Two days ago, we had Peter, another of our students, and his girlfriend over for desert."

Do you notice what is wrong? Apparently, according to this post, Peter, his girlfriend, Amanda, and I went to a place where you find a lot of dirt, cactus, snakes, and creatures that can survive months on a few drops of water. I was intending to say that Peter and his girlfriend came over for Apple pie. Dessert (Ice cream, apple pie, etc.) is spelled with two of the letter S.

Re-Orientation

2009-03-24T14:26:00.000-07:00

If you were to list the top ten impacting events or experiences in your life, what would they be?

Have you ever tried to explain one of those experiences to someone who had not been through the same thing?

It was probably very difficult. Not simply because they didn’t understand, but because it created all kinds of strange emotions within you. When no one really gets what you’re talking about, you begin to doubt the validity of your experience. You can even begin to feel very lonely. Nevertheless you know that you are different. In time, (depending on the amount of emotional support you received) the experience was tempered and absorbed into your personality and worldview.

When we were shaping YMI, we were concerned what would happen when our students attempted to re-engage in their local context. We wanted them to become more engaged, not less engaged. We decided that it was important to be intentional about helping students assimilate and apply their experiences into their lives at home.

There are multiple ways we have aimed to solve this potential problem. First, while we were overseas, each of the YMI students discussed their plans with us for the following semester. They discussed plans for spiritual involvement, cultural engagement, and any other application to which God had called them. We prayed, listened, and sought God together.

The second way we have aimed to help with the transition is by maintaining our relationships with them so that they can continue to verbally process the strange thoughts and emotions. We wanted to be at least a little of the support they needed to positively assimilate their experiences at YMI.

This month, Amanda, Abi, and I have really enjoyed visiting with some of our former YMI students. We took a trip to visit some of our former summer staff and Yale, one of our students at Southwest Baptist University in Boliver, MO. Two days ago, we had Peter, another of our students, and his girlfriend over for desert.

Though it has not been easy, our former YMI students seem to be doing well. They are participating in ministry, walking in the spiritual disciplines, and trying to be part of a local community of believers. Please pray as we continue to assist and encourage them. Pray they would not forget what God has done.

Thanks again for all your prayers and support which make this type of ministry possible.

March Prayer Requests

2009-03-24T13:00:00.000-07:00

Family. I don’t think I realized how busy this semester would be for us, once we completed YMI in December. Please pray for good time management, patience, and energy. Pray also that our house will sell quickly for a good price, and that we will find a good house to settle in. Pray we will be godly parents to our daughter.

Support. As you probably remember from last month’s prayer guide, we are 20% behind where our regular financial giving should be. Unfortunately, we have had very little time since returning from YMI to work on support. On-going YMI responsibilities and house preparation have consumed our time. Pray for us. Pray that God will supernaturally infuse what we need.

Youthfront Mission Institute. We still need staff people. We are still looking for 2-4 people who would be willing to live on sight at Youthfront South, discipling students, facilitating discussions, and leading the overseas experiences. Also, pray for all our former students as they engage with the world around them, that they would be more engaged, not less engaged. Ask that their hearts would be deeply satisfied in Jesus. Finally, continue to pray for our student recruiting.

St. Patrick's Day

2009-03-22T14:41:00.000-07:00

Abi's playhouse

2009-03-16T15:03:00.000-07:00

Abi has loved playing in this large box left over from a bathroom remodel.

Licorice

2009-03-12T15:00:00.000-07:00

Abi went with Mommy on a road trip to see family in Ames. On the way down they stopped by to see Abi's great grandpa Harold. While she was there he gave her a little gift to enjoy in the car (yes, that is a piece of licorice).

Cousins

2009-02-25T15:08:00.000-08:00

Cousin Chloe and Chelsea came over to our house and spent the night one evening. They dressed up in their Mongolian outfits and took pictures. The next day play, they went to the Wizard of Oz display at Crown Center.

Last month's newsletter

2009-02-24T10:00:00.000-08:00

For those of you who typically get my newsletter via the post office, apparently many of you did not get last month's letter at all. Others of you received a couple mangled pieces of paper and crushed chopsticks. Still others successfully received a letter and a nice set of Chinese chopsticks. I sincerely apologize, if you were one of those who did not get an intact letter (or your chopsticks). I wish I knew how to make it up to you. Though there are no chopsticks left, you can see our newsletter articles here, or I would be glad to send you a fresh one. Please email me if you would like either an electronic copy or a paper copy sent to you.
Jonathan.

Getting Ready for Company

2009-02-24T08:06:00.000-08:00

Finally a break!

Oh wait.... maybe not.

After the busyness of Christmas, our first priority was getting into our home. It had been 6 months since we were in a place of our own, and never in our marriage had we lived someplace with only one family in the house.

Some of you know I lived in a house close to Youthfront with three other men when I was single. For the last couple years it has been rented. When our renter moved out at the end of December, we jumped at the chance to live as a family, while I fix up the house and prepare it to go onto the market. (We will not be staying in the house long term. It’s just a little more than we need or can handle financially.)

Though we are so excited to be living alone for a while, it has been a lot of work and extremely overwhelming since we moved in. In addition to cleaning the house, unpacking, and getting ready for company (the open house and a YMI reunion), we’ve been trying to do multiple time-consuming repairs and upgrades.

A couple weeks ago, something amazing happened. A few days before our open house, Amanda’s father volunteered to bring down a 5 man crew of his workers from Ames to help (he is a builder in the Ames/Des Moines area). In approximately 26 hours, we accomplished what would have taken us weeks of after-hours work.

I don’t know where we would be without people like that. It is such a blessing to have people who support us by praying for us, giving financially, or by using a particular gift or talent to bless us.

Thank you

Daddy's little helper

2009-02-24T07:59:00.000-08:00

Abigail was such a helper as we were trying to move into our house. She wanted to be right there in the middle of everything.

A YMI Update

2009-02-24T07:56:00.000-08:00

We were so pleased with this past semester at Youthfront Mission Institute. This year my responsibilities are widening as we seek for the program to grow and expand. Here is a sampling of my plans and goals for the next few months.

Staff Recruitment. One of the most important pieces necessary for YMI to remain sustainable is the acquiring of a few staff who are dedicated to the program. We are not looking primarily for administrative staff (though that would be wonderful!). We are hoping for some men and women who are willing to live at Youthfront South, help disciple the students, and lead the trips. These staff will either come out of the current Youthfront ranks or from local colleges.

Student Recruitment. Looking forward to the next YMI session to begin in August 09, we’ll be recruiting at local churches and colleges. If you think about students for whom this program would be good, please shoot me an email.

Seeking more credit. Currently, YMI students can receive 3 hours of undergraduate credit for our program. One of my larger goals is to find ways for students to gain closer to 15 hours of credit for their work.

There are multiple steps to seeing this goal come to fruition. I will be creating more formal pieces of information and syllabi to give to administrators. I plan to meet with them at Southwest Baptist, Mid-America Nazarene, and other smaller Christian Colleges. After getting credit here, we will be more able to get it elsewhere.

Finally. In general, the tasks are many and daunting. Sometimes they fill me with excitement, while other times with fear. Pray that I will faithfully live in the grace given to me for today and trust the results to him.

February Prayer Guide

2009-02-24T07:24:00.000-08:00

Support Raising. Over the last year we lost approximately 20% of our regular giving. It’s not uncommon to have support level decreases, but the economy this past year hit some of our largest donors. Pray for us in this process of finding people who have a passion to see students faithfully follow Christ and change the world.
Family. Continue to pray for good time management. It is hard on a family to be so mobile. Pray that our house will sell quickly for a good price, and that we will find a good house to settle in. Pray we will be good parents to our daughter.

Youthfront Mission Institute. As I mentioned in the article above, we are in need of a couple of staff people We are looking for 2-4 people who would be willing to live on sight at Youthfront South, discipling students, facilitating discussions, and leading the overseas experiences. Also, continue to pray for us as we recruit potential students and seek ways for them to receive more credit for their work.

Reorientation. A week ago we had a wonderful get together with all our former students. It was so encouraging to interact with them about how they were re-engaging in the world around them. Continue to pray that they will be active in ministry around them, and that they would be diligent in all their studies. Pray they would be very satisfied in Jesus and that they would continue in the disciplines they have committed themselves to.

Come to our Open House!!

2009-02-05T12:40:00.001-08:00

We've missed you! Plus, we know you may have questions about YMI, our family, and our future plans. We are currently living at 2920 W. 48th Terrace in Westwood, KS. Feel free to stop by during either of the times below:

February 7th 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.

February 9th 2 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Hope to see you there!

A return

2009-01-30T10:19:00.000-08:00

I apologize for such a long absence from writing here. I did not want to post here while we were out of the country. Then, when we returned, I have found myself just trying to catch up from being gone. Below are several updates from the last two months. Feel free to read.

Thanks for your patience.

Jonathan

Christmas break

2009-01-15T11:04:00.000-08:00

How about a recap

2009-01-05T10:29:00.000-08:00

We’re so happy to be back in the US. We thought you might like a little report. I know this is a little long, so go grab a sandwich or something while you read. Enjoy!

Airline travel. We had so many Abi questions. Would she cry the entire way? What if her ears don’t pop going up and down? Would she adjust to the time-zone shift? Thankfully, Abi did much better than we expected. She was happy most of the time and adjusted quickly. During our long hours on the plane, she enjoyed talking about the flyer safety card, chewing on the magazines, and banging on the little video screens. Most of the YMI students either read, slept, watched movies, or played with Abi. With 6 different flights, we only had one delay that pushed our arrival time to Kansas City back 2 hours on the way home. We didn’t lose any luggage which was a first for Jonathan when he has traveled overseas in a group.

Our Destination. As we shaped the overseas portion of YMI months before, we were looking for an opportunity where students would totally emerse themselves in the culture and build relatively deep friendships with local people who do not know Jesus. A local university is where we ended up. The university campus was perfect for several reasons. First, we could have a plausible reason for being there, namely to study the language as students. Second, there is a tremendously high concentration of english speaking people on a college campus. This meant we would actually be able to communicate. Third, these students are highly accessible because they all live in buildings near our students. This would make it much easier to meet and spend time with people.

Lodging. Fitting with our purpose, we thought it would be best if the students lived in the dorms. They were placed in the international dorms, so Ally lived with someone who spoke very little English. Since the administration wouldn’t let our small family live in the dorms, Amanda, Abi and I lived in a sixth floor apartment on campus that was only three buildings down from the others (no elevator, of course). Accommodations for students were actually pretty good. Ours were a little meager. (come to our open house and we’ll show you some pictures J ).

Weather. Cold and dry! Hats, gloves, and coats every day! The girls joined the local trend and added scarves (even Abi). Amanda had fun introducing the team to hot hands and toasty toes (inserts that go in your shoes and gloves that act like little heaters)!

Making Friends. Building relationships was probably the most important part of this overseas experience. We had built that expectation in before we arrived, so our YMI students jumped in with both feet. Within a few days they were hanging out at the basketball courts, walking around campus, catching taxis, and eating strange food. We were so proud of them. During our trip Jeff, the really tall one, was frequently the reason people introduced themselves to us. They all wanted a picture with a “tall American.” Nearly all of our closest friendships began when Jeff was present. It’s funny the way a team works.

The nationals were extremely friendly and many wanted to practice their English with us. Most could read and write a lot better than they could speak, so our conversations involved writing words on paper or using special translation programs on their cell phones.

Our time with the locals also included a lot of meals at different restaurants in the area. David actually had a little allergic reaction from something he tried (thank the Lord we had an available doctor in the States).

College students in the area loved to stay out late at karaoke bars and internet cafes. If you’re not familiar with karaoke. It is where a song is played without words, and a volunteer singer from the group sings to words on a TV screen. Yale spent a lot of time with a friend whom we named Noah. On one particular night, when it was time for Yale to head to the dorms, Noah told him that he couldn’t go back to the dorms because they would be locked (they were locked from 11pm to 7am). So Yale spent the the whole night with Noah at an internet cafe down the street.

As the entire team got to know the nationals, it was exciting to see them branch out of their comfort zones and befriend people with totally different personalities and social norms from whom they would normally spend time. As they saw their friends worshipping things besides God (like entertainment, financial success, education, or even Buddhist statues), they longed for them to know and love a living Savior, Jesus. Several times these experiences led to wonderful God-oriented conversations.

Language and Culture Class. Our visas stated we were traveling as students to our country. Everyone but Amanda and Abi spent a few hours each morning learning the language. We learned over 400 phrases. By the end of our time there, we could order food, introduce our family and friends, bargian with the local merchants, and pick out words in the conversations we heard around us. We also learned a lot about the culture and its music, traditions, and stories.

Holidays. While we were there, Amanda celebrated a birthday and Thanksgiving occurred. Amanda’s birthday was quite the adventure. She made spaghetti for the entire team (yes, she did use a wok), and we had a cake made at a local bakery. Let’s just say the cake tasted nothing like an American cake, but we loved it anyway.

Thanksgiving was probably one of our biggest highlights. Many of us were missing our family and good home-cooked food. We missed all the smells, sights, and sounds that Thanksgiving brought. If you have ever missed a holiday with your family, I’m sure you know what I mean. So, we decided to celebrate the holiday here, with our YMI family. We found the most home-like food we could find…. Pizza Hut and ate Thanksgiving pizza and Coca-cola, instead of turkey and dressing.

Then, we participated in a Philgreen family tradition. Amanda pulled out a bag of Skittles (normally it would be candy corn) and passed out five to each person. Each person was told that, for each skittle, they must share something for which they are thankful this year. We went around the circle five times, just like home. It was wonderful to hear what the students were most thankful this year. The biggest blessing was to hear what YMI had meant to them, and how the Father had changed them forever because of what they had experienced.

Getting around. Our main mode of transportation was walking, but we also rode bikes and caught taxis on a regular basis. Our contacts, had given us a map and a bi-lingual list of restaurants and important locations, which enabled us to communicate with the driver. Towards the end of our time we figured out some of the routes and began to take the bus (cost: approximately 14 cents to ride).

Meeting with YMI students. One of my (Jonathan) favorite times during each day followed our language class in the morning, when I had the opportunity to meet personally with each of our students (a different person each day). Normally, the student and I would eat lunch together, spend some time processing their personal experiences from the week, and then go for a prayer walk around campus. I loved watching the Holy Spirit work in them. I have no doubt I saw heart level change that will literally alter the direction of their lives forever.

Team Times. As a team we met three times during the week (other than our daily language class). The first was on Sunday morning, where we celebrated the Resurrection together (or had a brief church service). Since their rooms were most likely bugged (like most international students), we usually met in our apartment. We usually sat and sang some worship songs together, and I gave a brief devotional thought from the book of Acts. On Monday night, we continued a Bible study which we had begun at the beginning of YMI together. On Thursday, we usually went on a prayer walk through the city. Our contacts had given us some wonderfully helpful booklets for praying for our city. So, we used those most of the time.

Beijing. After five and half weeks, it was time to go home. However, on our way out of East Asia, we took a three day stop in Beijing, China. We enjoyed seeing some of the most famous places in the world together like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Bird’s nest, and Tiananmen Square. It was a great time to recover and get ready to go home.

A Concluding Thought. This trip was life-changing! It was life changing for a few nationals, for all of our YMI students, and for us as a family. The best part is that most of the fruit is still yet to come. Many of our national friends have been introduced to long-term workers in their city, and will be continuing their relationships. For YMI and our family, experiences like this are usually processed for years and years because their impacts are much deeper than you we realize. We look forward to the coming fruit.

A mother's reflection on trusting God [by Amanda]

2008-12-05T10:25:00.000-08:00

A few nights ago, our team spent some time at a local agency hosting an “English corner” for 8-12 year olds. These students come once a week to practice their English with native speakers. Our team played games, taught songs, and told stories about Christmas in America.

While everyone else was crammed into a tiny room having tons of fun, Abi and I made our way to the waiting room full of parents and grandparents. Right away, a mom took Abi in her arms. Smiling, she said, “Tā yănjing piàoliang” (meaning: her eyes are beautiful). She could not get over Abi’s blue eyes or her radiant smile.

After several other adults played with her, one of the fathers in the group picked Abi up and carried her towards the hall. Little did I know that he had spotted a mirror and wanted to see if Abi enjoyed looking at herself as much as the native babies do. In the room, one of our American friends living in this city sat and observed the situation. Later, she took me aside and asked me if it was hard to have so many people wanting to be around Abi and take her places without communicating it to me.

I looked at her and smiled. I told her it was hard, but it is nothing compared what our Father did when He sent His Son to a world that would ultimately kill him. Trusting the Father’s plan for Abi’s life can sometimes be a struggle. The reality is I want Abi to be comfortable and provided for. I don’t ever want to see her suffer or get hurt. As she grows up, I want her to see her family often and be near me all the time. However, these desires of mine are not what should determine the life she will lead because she was born with a purpose greater than physical safety or comfort. The Father created her life to bring Himself glory. For right now, that means she is living on the other side of the world, helping her parents and friends build relationships with people who do not know the Son. I am not sure what it will be like in 20 or 30 years, but I am confident the Lord is preparing us both for the plan He has for her life.

December Prayer Requests

2008-12-05T10:00:00.000-08:00

Family – Since it is very cold, pray Abi will not get sick and that she would not be too stir crazy having to be inside all day. Also, pray that she will be happy as we travel home next weekend through fourteen time-zones. Pray for Amanda as she takes care of Abi and interacts with friends in our apartment complex. Pray for Jonathan, that he will know how to lead and manage the team, in addition to caring for his family and making new friends.

New Friends – Pray for our new friends. Several of them are spending a lot of time with some of our team. Pray that the message and life of Christ would be clear to them. Ask boldly that the Father would give them the light of the knowledge of His glory in the face of Christ. Also, pray they would connect with our “long-term American friends” living in this city.

The Team – Pray for team unity, health, and excitement for what God is doing here. Pray they will not be too homesick as we finish our last week here. Also, pray they will re-enter American culture with a heart oriented around God and his kingdom. Finally, pray they will not suffer “reverse culture shock” as it may be difficult to re-connect with friends, family, church, and school.

Change [by Amanda]

2008-11-03T16:06:00.000-08:00

Abi loves going outdoors. Lately, our walks have been a reminder of changes the Lord is doing. We walk past trees with hundreds of colors revealed in the leaves, while only a few weeks ago, there would have been nothing but green.

Over the past few months, I have had the privilege of seeing a lot of changes in the lives of the students involved in YMI (Youthfront Mission Institute). One of my favorite times happened around the dinner table last week. Someone began, “I know this might not be the best time, but I don’t know what to do.” This student began to share about a sensitive situation in which he was looking for advice from the YMI family.

It was amazing to see how the other students responded. They began to open up about their own experiences and describe how the Lord was transforming them more into His likeness through these difficult trials.

I have also enjoyed watching mental light bulbs turn on in our evening discussions when we discuss topics they are learning about for the first time.

As we enter the last part of the program, I am so excited to observe the changes that will occur when the students immerse themselves in a new culture and live out the things they have been learning for the past several weeks.

I know that the Lord will be faithful to transform their lives to radiate His glory to the watching world.

2008-11-02T16:11:00.000-08:00

Travel– We leave for Asia on the 7th of November. Pray for safety, weather, plane schedules, luggage arriving, and the conversations we will be having with the people God places in our paths.

Time Zones- For the next six weeks, we will be 12 hours ahead of all of you. Pray that jet lag will be minimal, so we can do what the Lord has in store for us (pray specifically that Abi would adjust quickly).

Expectations- Whenever we do different things, our expectations often determine our attitudes. Pray that everyone would be willing to let go of their expectations and trust God for the working He is doing in and through their lives.

Relationships—Pray that relationships would be formed very quickly with the people the students meet. Also, pray for Jonathan and I, that we would build close relationships faster than we anticipate.

To Mexico and Back [by Jonathan]

2008-10-10T13:02:00.000-07:00

Our last night in Mexico, we sat on the roof of Youthfront’s dorms in Croc around a small fire pit (don’t worry, the roof was made of concrete). The fire was blazing and there was some meat cooking in a large skillet. Since we were about 30 feet up and the weather was perfect, we could see all the way to saddle mountain, the landmark of Monterrey.

All this provided a vivid contrast to the town below us, where we saw half built concrete homes, wood pallet fences, and trash laden dirt streets. We could hear dogs barking and people talking in Spanish. It was the perfect place to discuss our experiences in Mexcio.

As we discussed our weeks, what started out as revelations about poverty became very quickly a conversation about living an incarnational life. An incarnational life is one that patterns itself after what Jesus did. Jesus left all his rights and privileges and became like the ones he sought to save.

This is what Youthfront Croc staff are doing. They live next door to the people they are reaching. They are going to great lengths, leaving opportunities for good jobs with high salaries to become like the poor and reach the poor.

Pray for the YMI students as they continue to reflect on what it means for them personally to live an incarnational life; laying down their lives for the sake of God’s glory in all the world.

Grace and peace,

2008-10-09T13:08:00.000-07:00

Illness — Pray that God would keep us healthy. Recently several of us have been sick with cold symptoms. It has made it difficult to be completely engaged in the program and in each other’s lives.

Family — Continue to pray for our family. We want to be good examples to the YMI students of a Godly, loving family. Pray that I (Jonathan) will know how to lovingly serve, lead, and provide for my family. Pray Amanda will demonstrate what it means to be Godly wife willing to daily sacrifice for the sake of her family.

YMI — (Youthfront Mission Institute) We are leaving for East Asia in 4 weeks. Pray that God would walk ahead of us in our traveling, preparing situations in which we enter into continual blessing. Pray we would experience the great love an joy of God so abundantly that it overflows to the people we meet. Pray for soft hearts, patience, and determination.

Croc

2008-09-27T08:18:00.000-07:00

Here at the customs office, we spent several hours working through paperwork, getting visas, etc. Though it was one of the longest amounts of time I've ever spent getting into a country, we made it.44

A view of Croc from the top of one of the main staff buildings.

Abi loves Coca-cola!! Just kidding. We don't really let her have that stuff yet, but she sure liked sucking on the bottle

Peter, one of our YMI students, with a Mexican boy in a nearby park.

Ally loved hanging out with all the little girls. Language barriers were difficult, but sometimes a smile is enough.

We're off [by Amanda]

2008-09-06T00:43:00.000-07:00

“This is going to be the best semester of my life!” David exclaimed on the first day of YMI (YouthFront Mission Institute). Most of you would imagine that this statement took place after Jonathan gave the details of our trip to Central Asia or after he announced that every Wednesday night would be movie night, but it was spoken after Jonathan informed the students of YMI that they were going to be part of our family, and that included helping feed Abi during our meals together throughout the semester.

After just 12 days of YMI, I think David has already fed Abi 3 or 4 times. Not only are the students feeding her, but they, play, change diapers, and carry her. Several of them even carried her in our Baby Bjorn while we were serving at Rock the Light (an area Christian festival that YouthFront helps sponsor). Today, some of the students had a dance party with Abi while I packed all of her things for Mexcio.

It has been so much fun for to see the “family” that has developed through the last few days. One of the main goals of YMI is to create a community where people can discover what their role is in God’s plan for the universe. We believe that creating a welcoming, honest, and committed family atmosphere will help them discover what that is.

Tomorrow, we leave for Mexico. Pray that our YMI family will continue to grow closer to one-another and closer to Christ as we serve in a different culture.

Septmeber Prayer Requests

2008-09-03T15:08:00.000-07:00

Family — Pray that we would be an example in how we respond and love one another. Also, pray that we would find rest in the Lord and not in our circumstances. Pray that I (Amanda) would be able to laugh at the days to come and not be focused on the overwhelming details of each day.

YMI — (Youthfront Mission Institute) we are heading for Mexico tomorrow. Pray the Lord would protect us as we travel. Pray that we would be able to encourage and serve the fulltime YouthFront Staff in Mexico as well as the people the Lord puts in our paths. Continue to pray that the hearts of the students would become fully God’s, and that they would be obedient to the Lord as He directs their path. Finally, pray that the students would continue to be unified

One Week

2008-08-17T20:48:00.000-07:00

The small calendar dial on my watch says “17.”

It’s hard to believe that exactly 7 days from tomorrow the first students of Youthfront Mission Institute will arrive!

The emotions within my soul (our souls) right now are rather tumultuous. On one hand, I am so excited for YMI to be here. There is a thrill in launching something new, and we are confident the experience could potentially be life altering for the students attending.

On the other hand, I am incredibly anxious and fearful. The fear of all the things which could go wrong and the tremendous amount of work that must still happen before the students arrive is very easily overwhelming.

What do I preach to myself in these moments of stressful anxiety and excitement? Philippians 4:6-7, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus;” and Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Ever since I was little, my parents would quote these verses to me and remind me to trust God in everything I do and turn over all my worries to Him. It’s amazing that these same verses still give me so much comfort and confidence today.

This week, as I think about YMI, I am reminded to trust God. Whatever the future holds, we can be confident that it is held by One who is absolutely sovereign. Nothing is without meaning; nothing is without purpose; and it will all be to His glory.

Pray for us, that we will walk confidently, diligently, and without fear towards whatever God has for us this semester. Pray that the glory of God’s grace would be magnificently known among us.

Grace and Peace to you.

On our newsletter I wrote that this was our first self-portrait. I was recently informed by my wife that we had one a while back... oops... This is a picture from our fun at the zoo in Minneapolis.

We set Abi up on the ledge to look at the lions through the glass.

August Prayer Requests

2008-08-17T20:00:00.000-07:00

· Family — Make sure you check out our blog! We recently put up pictures and a short video of Abigail’s first try at eating solid food (more like mushy food), and some pictures of our recent trip to Minneapolis. They are so much fun! As YMI arrives, pray that we will be good parents for Abi while balancing our time with the students around us. Also, pray we would have hearts that find full satisfaction in the love of Christ and are unaffected by temptations to be people pleasing.

· Camp — The summer ended really well with the Cabin Leaders. I was amazed at how many people talked about how life changing their summers were. Pray, as they go back to school, that they’re hearts for ministering to people would remain active during the school year.

· YMI — (Youthfront Mission Institute) The beginning of the fall semester is only 1 week away! Pray for final mission trip details to come together, schedule finalization, a solid list of work projects, and local ministry opportunities. Pray that curriculum material would arrive and that it would be ready. Pray that our team would be unified, cooperative, and loving towards each other. Also, pray that our hearts would be resting firmly in the peace of God, ready and eager to pour our lives into students. Finally, pray that the last amount of support would come in for the students who will be attending.

Abi's first cereal

2008-08-16T08:40:00.001-07:00

Abigail loved her first chance to get some cereal. She had so much fun! She chomped down the whole 1/4 cup we had made and was happy the entire time.

Abigail kept grabbing at our hands and spoon as we were feeding her. It was as if she wanted to do it herself.

We took a little bit of video on my digital camera of Abi's first cereal.

Our Trip to Ames and Minneapolis

2008-08-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

Recently our little family took a trip to visit family, friends, and supporters in Ames and Minneapolis. We have been wanting to go back to Minneapolis for a visit since we left a year ago. Minneapolis has so many things we love.... diversity, a great church, lots of free stuff, and caring close friends.... and Ames is right on the way!(Amanda's home town) We enjoyed ourselves so much! Here are a few pictures from our family adventure.

During our stop in Ames, Abigail went to her first ever Iowa state fair! Here is Abi and Mommy next to the famous "butter cow." (which is apparently made entirely out of butter)

Of course we had to take a picture of Abi next to an Iowa corn stalk. This one is just her size.

One of the great things about Minneapolis is all the things to do. We had a little down time after church on Sunday so we went to the FREE Como Park zoo and conservatory.

Abigail and I are looking at the sea lions in the water below us.

Abigail likes to hang out on my shoulders. Apparently being so high made her feel like a giraffe (notice the tongue).

These are some of the women who work with the women's ministry at Bethlehem. They were so happy to meet the newest girl in the Philgreen family.

Another camp memory for Abi

2008-08-02T17:59:00.001-07:00

Abi loves her jump and go!

2008-08-02T17:45:00.000-07:00

More Baby Pics

2008-07-21T09:31:00.000-07:00

Amanda has a habit of putting the clean diaper on Abi's head while she is getting ready to change her. Some of Abi's happiest times are when she is having her diaper changed. She will often go totally from crying tears to smiling and cooing as we set her down.

Abi hanging out by the pool with mommy.

Abi and her boyfriend Joseph. Abi and Joseph met at church a few days after she was born.

Amanda, Abi, and I went to see our niece Chloe in a play. Abi was being happy, so I snapped a shot with her and her mommy.

This was just prior to the play. Sweet dress, eh?

Cabin Leaders and a Firetruck

2008-07-21T09:02:00.000-07:00

This past year Youthfront was donated an old fire truck after the La Cygne fire station bought a new one. Our grounds guys are trained in using it for any emergencies for which we may need it. Amanda and I have been working with the cabin leaders at YouthFront Camp South and we wanted a group picture.... So, what better place than on a fire truck next to the waterfront activities at camp, eh?

July 4th fun

2008-07-21T07:26:00.000-07:00

Amanda and I spent some time in the Ozarks with her family for fourth of July. I was a little delayed getting these on here. Oh well. Enjoy.

"Papa" with his grandaughter.

While in the Ozarks, we played on a terrific golf course known as Porta Cima. I don't think I've ever played on a course so beautiful.

No, that's not our yacht. =) The lake was packed with boats on fourth of July, so we decided to watch the fireworks from the shore (instead of being run over by these much larger boats).

A Family self portrait.

Watching the sunset.

Building blocks and God's plan [by Amanda]

2008-07-12T15:21:00.000-07:00

“Can I see Abi’s room?” Sophie, an eight year old staff kid, asked me this week. “Abi would love to show you her room,” I replied. This was the start of one of the many spiritual conversations I have been able to have this summer.

After we showed Sophie all of Abi’s toys, Sophie spent some time playing with Abi’s alphabet blocks. As Sophie was playing, we talked about who decided what letters should be in the alphabet and where languages came from. We talked about the tower of Babel and how God chose to mix up the languages of all the people on the earth.

Then, Sophie told me that she had been wondering how God could always exist. I replied that I still can’t comprehend how God always was and always will be, but I am comforted by the fact that God is much bigger than I am. Sometimes I just have to trust what He says. I can leave a lot of the details up to Him. We also talked about how awesome it is going to be in heaven when we will exist forever with God. As we ended our conversation, I was filled with excitement.

I was excited for the plan the Lord has for me this summer and the rest of my life. Originally, I was planning on spending my summer getting ready for YMI. I thought my priority for the next several months would be to the girls in YMI, but the Lord had different plans. He has me spending my summer caring for Abi and being available to have conversations with whomever He sends.

I am grateful for how the Lord directed my time with Sophie. I am sure the conversation would not have occurred if Abi and her building blocks were not around. But, I am even more excited to have a similar conversation with Abi someday. The Lord is continuing to grow a desire in my heart to love and care for my family as my priority. I am confident that as I put my family first, He will provide ways in which I can reach out to others.

Grateful for change,

July Prayer Requests

2008-07-12T15:00:00.000-07:00

· Family — Abigail is changing everyday. As she starts to mimic our faces, we are reminded that she will soon mimic our actions. Pray that we will be godly examples. Pray we will keep family as our main priority in the context of the busy camp life.

· Camp — With two more weeks of camp left, pray our summer staff would not be complacent in their job but would remain energetic and passionate about affecting the lives of teenagers. Also, pray they would transition well back to “normal” life after camp is over, without forgetting the things they learned this summer.

· YMI — (YouthFront Mission Institute) The beginning of the fall semester is only 6 weeks away and there is still quite a bit to do. Pray we would be diligent to complete the preparation necessary. Pray for our planning of the trips, curriculum, local ministry, and work projects. Also, pray Amanda and I would be spiritually ready and eager to pour our lives into the lives of these students. Finally, students are raising financial support. Pray they would be diligent and givers would be generous.

Pictures of our baby girl!

2008-06-20T15:18:00.000-07:00

Spiritual Multiplication

2008-06-13T09:35:00.000-07:00

“How many of you were Teen staff at camp before you went to college?”

Ray, our camp director, asked this question in a recent summer staff meeting. Hands all over the room went up. As we counted, we discovered that 19 of the 50 summer staffers had been under my shepherding and supervision on Teen Staff (our teenager volunteer program) in previous years.

I was so excited to see so many students into whom I had poured my life seeking to now pour their lives into others!! Though I cannot claim all the credit for their spiritual maturity, I love seeing this process of spiritual multiplication: I pour into a few, who pour into a few, who pour into a few more.

June Prayer Requests

2008-06-12T09:42:00.000-07:00

Family — Abigail is now two months old. Pray we would be good parents. Pray that we will all stay healthy in the coming months at camp.

Camp — The first few weeks of camp have gone really well, despite the incredible storm we had. As Amanda and I minister to cabin leaders, pray we would have insight and Spirit-centered wisdom. Pray we would know how to encourage the cabin leaders and equip them to deal with the emotional and spiritual baggage many campers carry.

YMI — (YouthFront Mission Institute) We would like to find a few more people to join us this fall. Pray God would call students who are looking for refreshment, formation, and community. Pray also as our plans for the trips are finalized. Pray that students will raise their support quickly and fully. Pray that unfinished details would be seen and completed.

Club 121— Amanda is meeting with one of the girls from our morning Bible study throughout the summer. Pray that she would have wisdom as they meet together. Pray it would deepen their relationship with each other and Christ.

Microburst!

2008-06-05T08:53:00.000-07:00

Monday camp registration started at 1:00. At approximately 1:15, “the storm” moved into camp. Just minutes later we watched out the chapel windows as the rain turned horizontal, and trees started falling. Thankfully, no one was hurt, but there was more tree damage than any of us could imagine.

Every year we have a few rough storms, but this was the worst in our history. It left us without running water or power for 7-8 hours and uprooted some of our largest trees. Immediately, the staff sprung into action, working long hours to clear the grounds of dangerous limbs and trees blocking roads and sidewalks. Our flagpole was bent in half. Cabins were flooded from the rain. Though we’re not finished, camp goes on. Pray for us as we try to repair and clean up camp without sacrificing our ministry to students.

Here are some more pictures from the storm.

Participation in God's Work

2008-05-09T08:24:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been covered in shaving cream?

This month, for our final Club121 large event, we had a huge shaving cream war. Historically, events like this are some of the funniest you’ll see. There is nothing like trying to escape an onslaught of laughing teenagers covered in white slippery foam.

Next week will be our final Wednesday morning Bible study. The relationships we have built (and are building) in this small group of teenagers are some of our most cherished blessings of this school year. I am excited to see how they will grow in the years to come.

This week, in our study, as I looked into the eyes of these Louisburg high school students, I asked, “What does it mean for you as American teenagers to participate in what God is doing? ” I gave them one last assignment for next week: think about how our Club121 could more actively participate in God’s mission to redeem the world. Fun is wonderful and important, but extreme poverty, social injustice, and people without access to the message of Christ are more important.

We are praying that they will hear and seek to obey Christ’s call to reflect the knowledge, love, and joy of God to Louisburg and the world.

This month, Amanda, Abi, and I will be transitioning from working at YouthFront headquarters and our home in Paola to being at YouthFront Camp South until mid December . For the summer, I will function as the Cabin Leader Supervisor. Then in the fall, we will continue to live at camp while we launch the first semester of YouthFront Mission Institute (YMI).

Please continue to pray for us as we enter into this six month stretch of ministry at Camp in La Cygne, KS.

Moving into our camp home.

Looks like she's gonna get even with somebody.

My niece, Chloe decided to join in the fun.

Trying to get a group picture.

Get that stuff out of my eye!

May Prayer Requests

2008-05-09T08:23:00.000-07:00

Family — The first weeks of parenting have been a joy as we have not only watched Abi grow and change, but ourselves as well. Pray we would happily embrace the changes God is making in our lives as he uses Abi to shape our hearts.

Wednesday Bible study — Pray for our final meeting next week. Pray that our conversation would be fruitful for their growth in Christ-likeness and for future ministry in Louisburg. Also, pray that our final meeting would be one they ponder for the next several weeks and into the summer.

Camp — As our family packs up and heads to camp pray that our transition would be smooth and easy. Pray for final preparations before cabin leaders arrive in a couple weeks. We are responsible for training and preparing them for this summer. Pray for wisdom as we teach and equip. Pray that they would be physically, spiritually, and emotionally ready for camp.

YMI — (YouthFront Mission Institute) Currently we have seven applicants to whom we will be sending an acceptance letter. Pray God would call more students to come be a part of YMI this fall semester. Pray we would have wisdom and discernment as we sort through applications and recruit more people.

Abigail update

2008-05-01T11:07:00.001-07:00

Our Family.

Papa and his grand-daughter Abigail.

Abigial is such a content baby. One of her favorite places to be is under her gym.

After she was born, because of a little jaundice, she spent some time on the billy-reuben (not sure how that is spelled) bed. The bed was essentially a drum head with a blue florescent light underneath it.

Praise the Lord!! Developing some charismatic tendencies.

She loves to look in the mirror. Hopefully we're not encouraging vanity. She is so pretty!!

Mommy and Abi.

Cousins

Abigail and her home-made bunny booties.

Eliana and Abigail

Two mommies::: Michelle (my sister) and Amanda
Two little girls::: Eliana (left) and Abigail

More baby pictures

2008-04-17T15:51:00.003-07:00

2008-04-17T15:51:00.001-07:00

Its a girl!!!

2008-04-17T14:49:00.000-07:00

For the last five months or so, I’ve had to keep a secret. At an early sonogram, I really wanted to know the gender of our baby, but Amanda did not. So we compromised and I found out while she did not. However, this knowledge came with a stipulation. I had to promise that I would tell no one until the day our baby was born.

On April 14th, at 11:10pm, I had the privilege of telling my secret to the whole world. “It’s a girl!!” A beautiful, precious, wonderful, baby girl! Her name is Abigail Joy and I can’t wait for you to meet her.