Saturday, June 20, 2009
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Alex on #Selflessness
Two years ago, my experiences at Varsity were very different from how they are now. Back then, my approach to Varsity consisted of arriving on time, sitting alone (or with someone whose friends didn't show up) and leaving as soon as Varsity was over. Don't get me wrong -- I loved the messages and I worshiped with the music. But I wasn't connecting with fellow students. I think most of the problem was that I was only concerned about myself. I was logging in my time with God, as you might keep track of summer reading minutes or hours at work. I wasn't connecting; I wasn't caring for other people. I expected them to care about my life and my circumstances, but I didn't care about their lives or their circumstances. This carried over into many areas of my life.
At Varsity tonight, we talked about being selfless. Basically, selflessness is the act of putting others before yourself or giving more than you take. It's loving other people with not only our words, but with our actions. It's recognizing what others do for us; it's giving up our time, stuff and/or money for others. It's asking Maddie how she's getting along with her new stepmom; it's inviting Vince to the game with your friends, even though he's a little weird. It's volunteering at a local organization or going on a foreign mission trip. It's considering someone else in your decision-making.
If we give Jesus all of us, even our dreams, our feelings and our personal opinions -- Jesus can use us to do extraordinary things. In the third and fourth chapters of Acts, Peter and John introduced a crippled man to the saving power of Jesus and the man was healed. He got up and walked! The people around were interested in this miracle, and they began to gather around. Peter, being selfless and giving himself to God, began preaching. And guess what the people said? "When [the nearby people] saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus." (Acts 4:13) These two ordinary guys were incredible because they spent time with God. They gave all of themselves to God and to others. They were selfless.
You can be used by God, too. Second Timothy 2:21 says, "If you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable use. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work." Give Jesus everything you hold close. Be willing to give your time and resources to others. God can and will use you to bring others to Him.
Alex W / Message Writer
At Varsity tonight, we talked about being selfless. Basically, selflessness is the act of putting others before yourself or giving more than you take. It's loving other people with not only our words, but with our actions. It's recognizing what others do for us; it's giving up our time, stuff and/or money for others. It's asking Maddie how she's getting along with her new stepmom; it's inviting Vince to the game with your friends, even though he's a little weird. It's volunteering at a local organization or going on a foreign mission trip. It's considering someone else in your decision-making.
If we give Jesus all of us, even our dreams, our feelings and our personal opinions -- Jesus can use us to do extraordinary things. In the third and fourth chapters of Acts, Peter and John introduced a crippled man to the saving power of Jesus and the man was healed. He got up and walked! The people around were interested in this miracle, and they began to gather around. Peter, being selfless and giving himself to God, began preaching. And guess what the people said? "When [the nearby people] saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus." (Acts 4:13) These two ordinary guys were incredible because they spent time with God. They gave all of themselves to God and to others. They were selfless.
You can be used by God, too. Second Timothy 2:21 says, "If you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable use. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work." Give Jesus everything you hold close. Be willing to give your time and resources to others. God can and will use you to bring others to Him.
Alex W / Message Writer
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Alex on #YouAretheChurch
You may have learned the little adage, "Here's the church and here's the steeple; Open the door and see all the people" when you were in Sunday school. It's a cute reminder of where we go on Sundays and/or Wednesdays, but it's also a bit misleading.
The first "church" was formed by a group of Jesus's followers after Jesus rose up into heaven. These guys and gals met in each other's homes or outside. In fact, the early church did not have an actual church building until 300 years after Jesus was around. This group is considered the first church because they were the first to organize and begin preaching -- not the first to build a building!
For information about the first church, we turn to the book of Acts, right after the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) and right before Romans. (... Okay, don't lose me here! I'll post the verses.) The early church provides us with a great example of how a church should act. Keep in mind that the church is not a building. It's a group of people who love God and have accepted His son as their Savior.
1. Believers should be connecting with other believers!
Acts says: "...all the believers met together in one place" and "They worshiped together at the Temple each day [and] met in homes for the Lord’s Supper..." (2:44, 26)
We connect at Varsity on Wednesday nights, but also during the week at D-Teams and at Varsity Unplugged meetings.
We serve the homeless through Homeless on Tuesdays with Varsity. You can also volunteer to serve at Varsity by working the lights or sound or checking-in or greeting students.
3. Believers should devote themselves to learning!
"All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching..." (2:42)
This is more than just hanging out at Varsity each week. This is grabbing a Bible and reading it for yourself. This is listening closely to Josh's message and relating it to your life.
The first "church" was formed by a group of Jesus's followers after Jesus rose up into heaven. These guys and gals met in each other's homes or outside. In fact, the early church did not have an actual church building until 300 years after Jesus was around. This group is considered the first church because they were the first to organize and begin preaching -- not the first to build a building!
For information about the first church, we turn to the book of Acts, right after the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) and right before Romans. (... Okay, don't lose me here! I'll post the verses.) The early church provides us with a great example of how a church should act. Keep in mind that the church is not a building. It's a group of people who love God and have accepted His son as their Savior.
1. Believers should be connecting with other believers!
Acts says: "...all the believers met together in one place" and "They worshiped together at the Temple each day [and] met in homes for the Lord’s Supper..." (2:44, 26)
We connect at Varsity on Wednesday nights, but also during the week at D-Teams and at Varsity Unplugged meetings.
2. Believers should be meeting the needs of others in love!
"[T]he believers devoted themselves to ... sharing in meals" (2:42). They also "... sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need." (2:45)We serve the homeless through Homeless on Tuesdays with Varsity. You can also volunteer to serve at Varsity by working the lights or sound or checking-in or greeting students.
3. Believers should devote themselves to learning!
"All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching..." (2:42)
This is more than just hanging out at Varsity each week. This is grabbing a Bible and reading it for yourself. This is listening closely to Josh's message and relating it to your life.
4. Believers should be participating in people being saved!
"And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved." (2:27)
Okay, it's important to note that God is saving people. We are just participants! You can bring your friends to Varsity or attend a Baptism service (the next one is June 28th, along with our Independence Day celebration).
5. Believers should be celebrating God in worship!
"They worshiped together at the Temple each day ... while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people." (2:46) Worship is not just singing to God. Worship is acknowledging that there is something greater than you and me. Worship is giving God the glory he deserves. We do this through singing, raising our hands while we sing, even obeying God's direction. It's saying: "God is more important than me. God has a plan for my life. It's His plan, not mine."
Are you living like a believer? Remember, you are the church.
Verses above taken from Acts 2:42-47, New Living Translation
Alex / Message Writer
Monday, June 8, 2009
Alex on #1John3:1
How great is the love the Father has lavished on us that we should be called children of God! (1 John 3:1)
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Kyler on #Exodus14:13
"Don't be afraid. Just stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today."
-- Exodus 14:13
-- Exodus 14:13
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Alex on #Temptation
There you are... holding your cellphone in one hand, a question posed by the person on the other end of the phone. Kate is texting you, and she says that Cole says that Phil says that Elizabeth knows for sure that one of the really cute guys from your math class will be at Susie's house party tonight. You seriously consider going. So what if you don't know Susie very well? So what if her parents aren't going to be there? So what if your dad won't let you out of the house after 10 p.m.? You'd really like to be at the party!
Oops. Temptation! It's lurking around every corner. You really, really, really want to do something. In this case, hang out at Susie's party with the nice-looking guy from PreCal -- even though it's past your curfew and there'll probably be drinking at this party. So, what do you do? Do you give in to the temptation? Go to the party even though you know you shouldn't? Or do you choose not to give in? And how?
Tonight at Varsity Josh reminded us (as if we needed reminding! LOL) that summer's upon us! And with summer freedom comes summer boredom. With summer boredom comes summer mistakes, like heading over to Susie's party. All kinds of things will be happening at this party that could cause serious dilemmas in your future.
Like us, another young man faced some tricky situations thousands of years ago, as recorded in the book of Genesis. Joseph, after being sold into slavery by his 11 brothers, rose to a high position of authority in Potiphar's house. He was like Potiphar's 'right-hand man' or 'personal assistant'. He was also a pretty good-lookin' fellow! Potiphar's wife began to take notice of Joseph and invited him to sleep with her. (Genesis 39:6&7) Temptation! So what did Joseph do? Verse 8 says, "But he refused." When Mrs. Potiphar continued to demand him, he "ran out of the house." (verse 12)
So what about that text message from Kate? You're in a tempting situation just like Joseph was. My advice? Take a deep breath. Then refuse. Tell her the truth like Joseph did in verses 8-9: "'Look,' he told her, 'my master trusts me with everything in his entire household. ... How could I do such a wicked thing? It would be a great sin against God.'" Tell her you have a curfew to keep. Tell her you don't want to be where there's drinking going on. And don't back down! When Joseph ran away from Potiphar's wife, she grabbed his cloak and it came off. He ran away, naked, as she held on to his clothes. She told Potiphar and the rest of his servants that Joseph had tried to rape her. Guess what? Joseph was put in jail -- but he had done the right thing! (verses 13-20)
It probably won't be easy saying no to temptation. Especially when it seems like all your friends are saying yes. But God will work your situation out, just like He did for Joseph. In Genesis chapter 41, verse 41, Joseph is put in charge of all of Egypt! It's better to change your location or a relationship to avoid temptation than to give in to temptation.
Comment with some thoughts about temptation or share what your breakout group discussed!
-- Alex W / Message Writer
Oops. Temptation! It's lurking around every corner. You really, really, really want to do something. In this case, hang out at Susie's party with the nice-looking guy from PreCal -- even though it's past your curfew and there'll probably be drinking at this party. So, what do you do? Do you give in to the temptation? Go to the party even though you know you shouldn't? Or do you choose not to give in? And how?
Tonight at Varsity Josh reminded us (as if we needed reminding! LOL) that summer's upon us! And with summer freedom comes summer boredom. With summer boredom comes summer mistakes, like heading over to Susie's party. All kinds of things will be happening at this party that could cause serious dilemmas in your future.
Like us, another young man faced some tricky situations thousands of years ago, as recorded in the book of Genesis. Joseph, after being sold into slavery by his 11 brothers, rose to a high position of authority in Potiphar's house. He was like Potiphar's 'right-hand man' or 'personal assistant'. He was also a pretty good-lookin' fellow! Potiphar's wife began to take notice of Joseph and invited him to sleep with her. (Genesis 39:6&7) Temptation! So what did Joseph do? Verse 8 says, "But he refused." When Mrs. Potiphar continued to demand him, he "ran out of the house." (verse 12)
So what about that text message from Kate? You're in a tempting situation just like Joseph was. My advice? Take a deep breath. Then refuse. Tell her the truth like Joseph did in verses 8-9: "'Look,' he told her, 'my master trusts me with everything in his entire household. ... How could I do such a wicked thing? It would be a great sin against God.'" Tell her you have a curfew to keep. Tell her you don't want to be where there's drinking going on. And don't back down! When Joseph ran away from Potiphar's wife, she grabbed his cloak and it came off. He ran away, naked, as she held on to his clothes. She told Potiphar and the rest of his servants that Joseph had tried to rape her. Guess what? Joseph was put in jail -- but he had done the right thing! (verses 13-20)
It probably won't be easy saying no to temptation. Especially when it seems like all your friends are saying yes. But God will work your situation out, just like He did for Joseph. In Genesis chapter 41, verse 41, Joseph is put in charge of all of Egypt! It's better to change your location or a relationship to avoid temptation than to give in to temptation.
Comment with some thoughts about temptation or share what your breakout group discussed!
-- Alex W / Message Writer
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Jacob on #R-E-S-P-E-C-T!
We've all heard the song! "R-E-S-P-E-C-T, find out what it means to me." We all want respect, but do we always give it back in return? AH-HA! I got you thinking, didn't I?! How would you like it if someone didn't treat you with respect? How would that make you feel? It hurts a lot. I can tell you that from experience.
People used to (and kinda still do) make fun of me because they think something of me that's not true. It hurts, and it's hurting other people when you make fun of them. You may not see it on the outside, but it cuts real deep on the inside. People may not remember what you say, but they'll always remember how you made them feel.
I used to go home upset everyday after school because people made fun of me. I didn't want to go to school. I never told my mother but tried to make it through, and it was really tough... nobody wanting to be my friend because other people might make fun of them, too (or they were the ones picking on me). I've worked my entire life since the fourth grade to convince people that what they've been saying isn't true. A lot of them are finally taking me seriously.
It hurts when people say stuff like that, and I don't appreciate it. I used to be upset because people didn't want to be around me. It so doesn't feel good! I know that a lot of you know how it feels when someone doesn't like you. It hurts. I'm still trying to get over it... but it's not easy. Being the target of hate can be devastating and often results in tremendous sadness, grief and fear. During such a time it's not always humanly possible to respond to hate in any way but to feel the hurt, absorb the hate and feel anger towards the perpetrators of the attacks. These feelings can often lead to prejudice against others whom we feel may be responsible for these attacks.
However, we need to be aware of and stand up to physical and emotional hate and empower others to do the same. Guys, if you have any hurt inside of you... turn it over to GOD, and HE will make it all go away. It may not go away immediately, but it will. GOD works in mysterious ways, and all we have to do is believe in HIM and have faith that HE will make what is wrong, right (or left). Haha... some humor for you.
At Varsity, there are people there just like you. Ones who want to find a place where they can be safe and find hope and encouragement. Believe what people say when they tell you something about themselves that's not true. You'd want them to do the same. Remember the GOLDEN RULE... DO UNTO OTHERS AS YOU WOULD HAVE THEM DO UNTO YOU. Translation: TREAT OTHERS THE WAY YOU WANT TO BE TREATED. If you're hurting, tell me! I'll try to help you make it through whatever it is you're going through.
People used to (and kinda still do) make fun of me because they think something of me that's not true. It hurts, and it's hurting other people when you make fun of them. You may not see it on the outside, but it cuts real deep on the inside. People may not remember what you say, but they'll always remember how you made them feel.
I used to go home upset everyday after school because people made fun of me. I didn't want to go to school. I never told my mother but tried to make it through, and it was really tough... nobody wanting to be my friend because other people might make fun of them, too (or they were the ones picking on me). I've worked my entire life since the fourth grade to convince people that what they've been saying isn't true. A lot of them are finally taking me seriously.
It hurts when people say stuff like that, and I don't appreciate it. I used to be upset because people didn't want to be around me. It so doesn't feel good! I know that a lot of you know how it feels when someone doesn't like you. It hurts. I'm still trying to get over it... but it's not easy. Being the target of hate can be devastating and often results in tremendous sadness, grief and fear. During such a time it's not always humanly possible to respond to hate in any way but to feel the hurt, absorb the hate and feel anger towards the perpetrators of the attacks. These feelings can often lead to prejudice against others whom we feel may be responsible for these attacks.
However, we need to be aware of and stand up to physical and emotional hate and empower others to do the same. Guys, if you have any hurt inside of you... turn it over to GOD, and HE will make it all go away. It may not go away immediately, but it will. GOD works in mysterious ways, and all we have to do is believe in HIM and have faith that HE will make what is wrong, right (or left). Haha... some humor for you.
At Varsity, there are people there just like you. Ones who want to find a place where they can be safe and find hope and encouragement. Believe what people say when they tell you something about themselves that's not true. You'd want them to do the same. Remember the GOLDEN RULE... DO UNTO OTHERS AS YOU WOULD HAVE THEM DO UNTO YOU. Translation: TREAT OTHERS THE WAY YOU WANT TO BE TREATED. If you're hurting, tell me! I'll try to help you make it through whatever it is you're going through.
"They cannot take away our self-respect if we don't give it to them."
-- Jacob Painter / Chief Photographer
Victoria on #AmazingV1Leaders
What makes students come back to Varsity? It's not the food stand, the iPods or the game consoles, but the amazing friends they meet -- ones who constantly lead them towards Christ. I'd like to thank some influential #VarsityOne students for impacting my life and the lives of others.
Jacob Painter: You've been there for me through thick and thin! You're the go-to person whenever I have a problem and need advice. You're also the go-to person whenever I want to have a good time. I admire how you're comfortable with yourself -- you're not scared to show who you really are. You have a colorful (LOL) personality, and I thank you for the countless memories (prom, ilyiapw, hot ghetto mess, reversed dyslexic watermelon... haha).
Kara Palso: You were one of my first friends at Varsity. I feel like I can trust you with any secret. You're honest and loyal, and you make everyone feel welcome! You're very talented onstage, and you glorify God in everything you do. You truly are incredible on all levels. :)
Kyler Hall: You're a total spaz, but you know when to be sincere. I can count on you 100%. You're an empathetic and caring guy, and you put your friends before yourself. Plus, you laugh at my jokes... and my awesomely attractiveness (LOL).
Caroline Worthy: You're someone I can be real with. I feel like there's nothing to hide when I'm talking to you! You make for excellent conversation, and you're always interested in how my day's going. I think we get along well because we can relate. One thing I'd like to mention: you don't change your values for anyone. You're a respectable girl, and any guy would be lucky to have you!
Katie McCarthy: You're someone who'll lend a hand, and you genuinely want people to be involved in Varsity. You consistently contribute your ideas, and you're pretty good with lights and sound, too. My favorite: you never let anyone feel left out. I look forward to hanging out more on Wednesday nights. :P
Alex Waddell: It brings me hope when I watch you praise on Wednesday nights. You love God, and you're not afraid to raise your hands and tell the world! You've given back to #VarsityOne in several ways, and I can depend on you as a friend. You're too sweet, Alex!
David Bohnenberger: You're enthusiastic about God -- no matter what! You're definitely not a counterfeit Christian. You have an infinite number of ideas, and I consider you a bona fide leader. You've left a mark on those middle schoolers, too! Don't forget that God has SO MUCH in store for you. :)
Brittany Bowman: I remember the skit you, Dusty, Hilliary and I did that one Wednesday. You're a skilled actress, and I believe God will use your creativity to do His work. You're always helping someone, and we all love to be around you!
Dusty Hollahan: You're cool, Dusty. When you weren't at Varsity for a couple of weeks, everyone was so concerned. That in itself proves you help make Varsity a fun place to be, and we miss you when you're not there. Thanks for being my friend. :)
Hilliary Clark: You have to be one of the most bubbly girls! Your personality is out of this universe, and you have a positive spirit and energy about you. I like that you come to me when you're feeling down. You just make everyone feel loved! You're too cute, Hill.
Zan Greene: You make me smile when you're onstage. You're a unique person, and you take pride in yourself. You bounce off the walls, and you don't care what anybody thinks. God made you like this... and you appreciate it (as does everyone else)! Keep rocking on that guitar, Zan. :)
Justin Okamoto: Justin, your sense of humor could brighten the darkest of rooms. Although you tend to be a goofball, you understand what struggle is, and you're always willing to assist someone in a rocky situation. Your musical talent and love for God will take you far in life. I thank you for your support. Don't forget how big your heart is!
Jeff Wood: You're one of the friendliest and relaxed guys I know. You're the first to notice me in the hallways at school, and you never cease to make me laugh. What's great, though, is you can also carry on an intellectual conversation. You're a brilliant actor and musician, and you make me feel cool (haha).
Matthew Riddle: *person I tease the most* Matthew, you may come off as the player type to some, but you're sensitive deep down! You never fail to reach out when I'm upset, and you do everything you can to make it better. You've taught me a lot this year. You're a good friend and actor, you're fun to hang out with and I can always rely on you. Plus, your dad just rocks... haha.
Tyler King: Mr. Brain-on-Legs (or Brain for short), you're one smart cookie. You've done a lot to help our church as a whole and to help your friends. Even the little things you do matter. Thanks for being a leader on and off stage.
Kasey Ensign: You're hysterical, and I love your laugh... haha. I remember the first time I heard you sing at the Midsummer's auditions. You tried to make it appear like you were an amateur, but then this POWERFUL voice belted out. I enjoy watching you onstage, how you put your heart into it...
Dillon Grasser: I haven't known you for very long, but I can see that you're one funny, smart kid. I realized something the other day at the #VarsityOne meeting: you're a touching speaker. You've had a hard past, and you want to encourage people who've been through similar struggles to speak up. That makes you a leader in my book.
Casey Goodwin: You may be new to Varsity, but you've already begun to fit in. You have such potential, and you're one heck of a Colorguard geek! :P
If you weren't mentioned, it doesn't mean you won't be. I've just been sitting here forever... haha. :)
-- Victoria Ralph / Editor
Jacob Painter: You've been there for me through thick and thin! You're the go-to person whenever I have a problem and need advice. You're also the go-to person whenever I want to have a good time. I admire how you're comfortable with yourself -- you're not scared to show who you really are. You have a colorful (LOL) personality, and I thank you for the countless memories (prom, ilyiapw, hot ghetto mess, reversed dyslexic watermelon... haha).
Kara Palso: You were one of my first friends at Varsity. I feel like I can trust you with any secret. You're honest and loyal, and you make everyone feel welcome! You're very talented onstage, and you glorify God in everything you do. You truly are incredible on all levels. :)
Kyler Hall: You're a total spaz, but you know when to be sincere. I can count on you 100%. You're an empathetic and caring guy, and you put your friends before yourself. Plus, you laugh at my jokes... and my awesomely attractiveness (LOL).
Caroline Worthy: You're someone I can be real with. I feel like there's nothing to hide when I'm talking to you! You make for excellent conversation, and you're always interested in how my day's going. I think we get along well because we can relate. One thing I'd like to mention: you don't change your values for anyone. You're a respectable girl, and any guy would be lucky to have you!
Katie McCarthy: You're someone who'll lend a hand, and you genuinely want people to be involved in Varsity. You consistently contribute your ideas, and you're pretty good with lights and sound, too. My favorite: you never let anyone feel left out. I look forward to hanging out more on Wednesday nights. :P
Alex Waddell: It brings me hope when I watch you praise on Wednesday nights. You love God, and you're not afraid to raise your hands and tell the world! You've given back to #VarsityOne in several ways, and I can depend on you as a friend. You're too sweet, Alex!
David Bohnenberger: You're enthusiastic about God -- no matter what! You're definitely not a counterfeit Christian. You have an infinite number of ideas, and I consider you a bona fide leader. You've left a mark on those middle schoolers, too! Don't forget that God has SO MUCH in store for you. :)
Brittany Bowman: I remember the skit you, Dusty, Hilliary and I did that one Wednesday. You're a skilled actress, and I believe God will use your creativity to do His work. You're always helping someone, and we all love to be around you!
Dusty Hollahan: You're cool, Dusty. When you weren't at Varsity for a couple of weeks, everyone was so concerned. That in itself proves you help make Varsity a fun place to be, and we miss you when you're not there. Thanks for being my friend. :)
Hilliary Clark: You have to be one of the most bubbly girls! Your personality is out of this universe, and you have a positive spirit and energy about you. I like that you come to me when you're feeling down. You just make everyone feel loved! You're too cute, Hill.
Zan Greene: You make me smile when you're onstage. You're a unique person, and you take pride in yourself. You bounce off the walls, and you don't care what anybody thinks. God made you like this... and you appreciate it (as does everyone else)! Keep rocking on that guitar, Zan. :)
Justin Okamoto: Justin, your sense of humor could brighten the darkest of rooms. Although you tend to be a goofball, you understand what struggle is, and you're always willing to assist someone in a rocky situation. Your musical talent and love for God will take you far in life. I thank you for your support. Don't forget how big your heart is!
Jeff Wood: You're one of the friendliest and relaxed guys I know. You're the first to notice me in the hallways at school, and you never cease to make me laugh. What's great, though, is you can also carry on an intellectual conversation. You're a brilliant actor and musician, and you make me feel cool (haha).
Matthew Riddle: *person I tease the most* Matthew, you may come off as the player type to some, but you're sensitive deep down! You never fail to reach out when I'm upset, and you do everything you can to make it better. You've taught me a lot this year. You're a good friend and actor, you're fun to hang out with and I can always rely on you. Plus, your dad just rocks... haha.
Tyler King: Mr. Brain-on-Legs (or Brain for short), you're one smart cookie. You've done a lot to help our church as a whole and to help your friends. Even the little things you do matter. Thanks for being a leader on and off stage.
Kasey Ensign: You're hysterical, and I love your laugh... haha. I remember the first time I heard you sing at the Midsummer's auditions. You tried to make it appear like you were an amateur, but then this POWERFUL voice belted out. I enjoy watching you onstage, how you put your heart into it...
Dillon Grasser: I haven't known you for very long, but I can see that you're one funny, smart kid. I realized something the other day at the #VarsityOne meeting: you're a touching speaker. You've had a hard past, and you want to encourage people who've been through similar struggles to speak up. That makes you a leader in my book.
Casey Goodwin: You may be new to Varsity, but you've already begun to fit in. You have such potential, and you're one heck of a Colorguard geek! :P
If you weren't mentioned, it doesn't mean you won't be. I've just been sitting here forever... haha. :)
-- Victoria Ralph / Editor
Alex on #PrepforVarsity
Hi guys! I'm Alex, and I'm a new writer for the #VarsityOne blog. I'll be summarizing the messages and sharing about what they mean to me each week.
Today, though, I just wanted to let you all know about how much work goes into Varsity each week. It's a ton! The adult leaders on staff at Brookwood meet on Thursdays to talk about what worked and what didn't work at Varsity. Our volunteer adult leaders also meet fairly often to discuss their work at Varsity. Our student leaders (#VarsityOne) meet once a month as well. In addition, some adults and students arrive at the South Campus at 3:30 to prepare for all the activities. The greeting and check-in groups have recently been formed -- they're reminded by fellow students during the week about when their group is volunteering. Then they arrive at the South Campus at 6 p.m. to start welcoming students, signing students in and stamping hands. We have adult leaders at the front desk and in the cafe; many students also work in the cafe. Students work the lights and sound under the direction of an adult. Students lead the breakout groups. Adults and students stay at Varsity pretty late, too, talking, eating dinner, playing basketball, playing the Wii... Students and adults set out and stack up the chairs each week. Then everything gets cleaned up! Whew!
This is a big thank you to all of the adults and students who make Varsity possible, including all of the behind the scenes stuff. These people and their hard work make it possible for us to worship God, hang out with our friends and meet new people each Wednesday.
Thanks!
Alex / Message Writer
Today, though, I just wanted to let you all know about how much work goes into Varsity each week. It's a ton! The adult leaders on staff at Brookwood meet on Thursdays to talk about what worked and what didn't work at Varsity. Our volunteer adult leaders also meet fairly often to discuss their work at Varsity. Our student leaders (#VarsityOne) meet once a month as well. In addition, some adults and students arrive at the South Campus at 3:30 to prepare for all the activities. The greeting and check-in groups have recently been formed -- they're reminded by fellow students during the week about when their group is volunteering. Then they arrive at the South Campus at 6 p.m. to start welcoming students, signing students in and stamping hands. We have adult leaders at the front desk and in the cafe; many students also work in the cafe. Students work the lights and sound under the direction of an adult. Students lead the breakout groups. Adults and students stay at Varsity pretty late, too, talking, eating dinner, playing basketball, playing the Wii... Students and adults set out and stack up the chairs each week. Then everything gets cleaned up! Whew!
This is a big thank you to all of the adults and students who make Varsity possible, including all of the behind the scenes stuff. These people and their hard work make it possible for us to worship God, hang out with our friends and meet new people each Wednesday.
Thanks!
Alex / Message Writer
Monday, June 1, 2009
Justin on #Musicianego
We all know about the musicians who go onstage and play for the money or for the fame and fortune, but some of us go onstage and play for an audience of one. That one person is the person we love more than anything in this world -- God.
Many musicians don't see how other musicians can just go onstage, not wanting anything out of it but to connect with the Lord and praise Him in the way they know how. However, many of these musicians sometimes forget that they are praising God, not themselves. We have a tendency to do that, I mean, you're gonna get a little excited up onstage in front of hundreds or even thousands of people. When it all comes down to it, you have to remember that this is for God, this is for our Lord and Savior who we want to glorify with all of our hearts. Now don't go and think that you're self-centered just because I said this. You're probably not. I've been up onstage and gotten cocky before; I know how it feels to lose sight of what you're actually doing. For all of you musicians out there who play at Brookwood Church or any church for that matter, always remember that this is for Him. Everything we do is for our Lord and Savior!
Justin / Mainstream Music Writer
Many musicians don't see how other musicians can just go onstage, not wanting anything out of it but to connect with the Lord and praise Him in the way they know how. However, many of these musicians sometimes forget that they are praising God, not themselves. We have a tendency to do that, I mean, you're gonna get a little excited up onstage in front of hundreds or even thousands of people. When it all comes down to it, you have to remember that this is for God, this is for our Lord and Savior who we want to glorify with all of our hearts. Now don't go and think that you're self-centered just because I said this. You're probably not. I've been up onstage and gotten cocky before; I know how it feels to lose sight of what you're actually doing. For all of you musicians out there who play at Brookwood Church or any church for that matter, always remember that this is for Him. Everything we do is for our Lord and Savior!
Justin / Mainstream Music Writer
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