Young Adult Convocation

The Illinois Conference invites you to Young Adult Convocation, Saturday, May 17th, 9:45 AM, at McAninch Arts Center, College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137. Hosted by Oasis and MyTown Ministries, featuring Damian Chandler and Okios Principle 2.0. Stay tuned for more info and service opportunities. For more information contact Oasis, oasiss07@gmail.com

The Illinois Young Adult Convocation is a delightful example of grassroot young adult synergy coming together to bring worship to GOD. The first “convo” was held last year and returns with leadership from Oasis, which began out of a desire to create a spiritual “refuge” for young adults. Networking for community service, worship, discipleship, and fellowship, these young adults have met throughout the year offering a spiritually refreshing break from the norm.

When I spoke for the convocation last year, I arrived to the art center which was buzzing with activity. Young adults setting up the worship band, preparing breakfast, transforming the theater into a space for worship, fellowship, and fun. Smiling faces were everywhere. Eager volunteers donning “Oasis” shirts were quick to greet those gathering. The theater was quickly packed with hearts seeking, the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

I was blessed by their enthusiasm, their desire to reach out to their peers. I as impressed by their talent and their willingness to use whatever their gifts were for ministry. Over this past year, I have watched from a distance, curious as to the longevity of their vivacious zeal. It has been refreshing to see their devotion to Jesus and each other grow, albeit with the bumps and hiccups of authentic life together. There is a tangible spirit that is magnetic.

It reminds me of what I imagine the Acts 2 church was like. People saw what was going one with the 1st century church, and liked it. And each day more were added to the Jesus movement as a result.

If you get the chance, stop by the “convo.” Take a look around. Step into worship. Share a meal with them. Tell me what you find.

Carry Out GODencounters

“How do I bring GODencounters to my young adults where I live?”

Carry Out GODencounters is a one-day intensive intending to equip you to “take it home.”

Join us Monday, May 26, 2008, 9:00 AM, at Forest Lake Seventh-day Adventist Church, 515 Harley Lester Lane, Apopka, FL 32703-6129. Carry Out follows the Florida GODencounters Conference. This is a free training intensive, please RSVP to help us plan well. For more information go to http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=12908399906

Lodging: Residence Inn Marriott is offering discounted GODencounters rates! Get info at http://www.residenceinnaltamontesprings.com/
Travel: Although Orlando International Airport (OIA) is a well known travel hub, also check out Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) for economical alternatives.

To RSVP, email A Allan Martin, amartin@GODencounters.org or click “Attending” at http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=12908399906

Encountering GOD: Making Room

When we started GODencounters seven years ago, we began with the simple premise of “Returning to the Heart of Worship.” We relied on a collection of young adults and pastors to prayerfully figure out how we might go about bringing this theme to life. Of course we had some ideas about worship sessions and a nifty idea of doing it “cafe style,” but there were other creative ideas that were added to the mix.

[Before I go on, here is a bit of the backstory:]
One of the local churches had gone through a traumatic pastoral transition, it had left the congregation devastated, experiencing pain on many different levels. A member from one of the sister churches in the area decided to construct a prayer room for this hurting church as a way to help the church heal. Many of the traumatized young adults were blessed by the experience of the prayer room, awed by the gift of compassion, some marking it as a turning point. [Okay so back to the main story line.]

As a result, a couple of the young adults were eager to develop prayer rooms for GODencounters. Feeling like the idea of “living a life of worship” would be affirmed in sacred spaces set aside for creative prayer, these young adults created awesome rooms where one could, creatively and experientially, sense GOD’s presence.

To this day, prayer rooms continue to be a characteristic part of GODencounters gatherings. It has inspired other expressions of prayer and the developing of “houses of prayer” in other settings. Clearly prayer changes things.

When I think of an exceptional party, it is filled with conversations. Sure you need good food, an engaging environment, and even decent tunes. But a great party is filled with discussions, chatter, and introductions. There are stories being told, friendships being formed, and small talk that hopes to grow. The life of the party seems to center around the connections made in wonderful, delightful, mesmerizing, and moving conversations. In many ways, a party is making room to foster these connections.

As I think of the 1st century, I often imagine Jesus being the Life of the party. Wonderful stories, meaningful connections. Conversations that included depth, and jokes, and meaning, and politics, and wisdom, and satire, and drama, and laughter.

Sure there was good food at a great spot, likely there was music, and for at least one of the parties, Jesus’ Mom made sure the wine didn’t run out. But you could always count on the party being filled with conversations, buzzing with chatter; And if there was quiet, it was because everyone was listening with fascination [and/or indignation] to the words of Jesus. A great party made room for chatting with Jesus and listening to the GODstories He would share.

In the 21st century, making room for chatting with Jesus is still the main ingredient of the best parties. For many GODfollowers, prayer rooms have made space for such celebrations.

“After one of the messages on the power of prayer, I celebrated my birthday with my friends in the prayer room. That day was one of the best birthdays I have had. Thank you. God bless.” – Shirley Flores, 37, Nursing Professor.

“Yes, GODencounters has inspired me to create opportunity to listen to God’s voice. . . It’s essential to set aside time to give God our undivided attention. Making a concerted effort to give God that undivided time is a life changing decision that GODencounters has caused me to make.”
- Karlene Graham, 17, Pre-med Student at John Hopkins University

“In the prayer rooms, I rededicated my life to Christ and gave all my cares and burdens to Him. I am born again!”
- Kimberly P. Grey, 42, Executive Assistant

These days of devotion are all about making room. . . Making room in our hearts for the kinds of conversations with GOD that inspire awe and laughter, conviction and closeness, belonging and revolution. It is a celebration of what Jesus has done, is doing, and will do. We’re making room for a Kingdom-size party. And it all begins with a prayer room, set aside in our hearts.

“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” - 2Chronicles 7:14

“I will give them a heart to know me, that I am the LORD. They will be my people, and I will be their God, for they will return to me with all their heart.” - Jeremiah 24:7

Light of the World

It’s been such an encouragement to hear about the flame GOD has ignited in many of you. Like Elisa, many of you have got this fire burning within, and being lit up by GOD cannot go without notice.

“You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.” - Matthew 5:14-15

In Orlando, in Chicago, in Dallas, in Bolingbrook, in Malawi… In Deeper, in GODencounters, in Ignite, in Oasis, in MyTown Ministries, in IGNITION, in YAMA… In the many legs of the journey with GOD, Elisa has given off light to others in the house. It is such an inspiration for the light of Jesus to shine so brightly in the dedication of a friend.

And now she’s asking us to come along on her journey, through prayer. What an honor to join in this part of the trip! Elisa, burn bright! Burn bright.

Praying for the Party

Your Kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven… [Matthew 6:10]

encounter: After reading Matthew 6:9-13, reflect on the following questions with others or on your own (You are always welcome to post your reflections here):

• As a child, what did you look forward to experiencing when you got to heaven?
• Super heroes are often portrayed as “putting things right.” If you were a super hero, beyond describing your powers, what injustices would you seek to correct in the world?
• In praying the Lord’s prayer, have you sensed what on earth is GOD’s will? Explain.
• As a GODfollower, where can you bring a “bit of heaven” to earth? Into what circumstance? What relationship? How will you fulfill GOD’s will today?

The Kingdom of GOD is a Party and U R Invited!

PARTY FAQS

What party?
The 2008 GODencounters Conference will be May 23-25, at Forest Lake Seventh-day Adventist Church, 515 Harley Lester Lane, Apopka, FL 32703-6129. The Kingdom of God is a Party and GODencounters is inviting you to a Kingdom-sized celebration. This free event begins Friday, May 25th, 7:30 PM, with featured worship leaders and artists including Sea of Glass, author Bernie Anderson, and reality television personality, Jason Illian. For more information, go to www.GODencounters.org or call 407-644-5000, extension 129.

Who’s invited?
Everyone, especially young adults seeking to encounter GOD.

What’s the schedule?
Friday
• 7:30PM – Worship Party & then encounters café @ Forest Lake Church
Saturday
• 9:30AM & 11:00AM – Identical Worship Parties @ Forest Lake Church
• 7:30PM – Worship Party & then encounters café @ Forest Lake Church
Sunday
• 10:00AM – Wet ‘n Wild [Tickets only available at FL Adventist Book Centers]
• 6:00PM – Wet ‘n Wild Party begins
• 7:30PM – Worship Party & then book signing @ Forest Lake Church

Where to stay/sleep?
Make your reservations now because they are selling out fast.
• Forest Lake Academy campus in dorms or tents or bring your RV info at http://floridaconference.com/campmeeting/cmapplication.pdf
• Residence Inn Marriott is offering GODencounters rates! Their Studio ($89) can sleep 3, Studio Double ($99) can sleep 5, Penthouse Exec Suite ($139) can sleep 6. Get info at http://www.residenceinnaltamontesprings.com/

Who are these people?
• Bernie Anderson, http://ministryinfusion.com/
• Jason Illian, http://jasonillian.com
• Sea Of Glass, http://www.myspace.com/seaofglassworshipband

Where can I get more info?
• Call 407-644-5000 extension 129
• Email info@GODencounters.org
• Surf www.GODencounters.org
• MySpace www.myspace.com/godencounter
• Facebook www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=6806042113

Why?
Wholeheartedly seeking a 24/7 experience of the living GOD, we’re joining with Jesus who knows how to party hard.

Where’s Waldo? Where’s Joy?

I was talking with a colleague last night who shared their passion for reaching out to young adults who have left the church. As they spoke, I was reminded of an exceptional feature written by Kimberly Luste Maran, Where is the Joy?

Noted author and church demographer, George Barna reported six out of ten (61%) young adults part ways with the church, despite being spiritually active as teens. Adventism’s preminent researcher on youth, Roger Dudley, found comparable young adult departure rates in our church, seeming to suggest we are not immune.

Jesus spoke about this, and in His typical style, He told a story:

“Suppose one of you had a hundred sheep and lost one. Wouldn’t you leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the lost one until you found it? When found, you can be sure you would put it across your shoulders, rejoicing, and when you got home call in your friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Celebrate with me! I’ve found my lost sheep!’ Count on it—there’s more joy in heaven over one sinner’s rescued life than over ninety-nine good people in no need of rescue” [Luke 15:4-7, Message].

My wife has all kinds of intriguing favorites. Among dark chocolate, and 80’s music, and triathlons, she also enjoys a curious series of books called, Where’s Waldo. She enjoys searching the pages, looking for this Waldo fellow. She scours the scenes inch by inch, and upon finding him, exclaims with great delight, “There’s Waldo!”

With humble pride, I would say that my wife Deirdre reminds me of Jesus. He is passionate about His church, and if anyone is missing. . . if anyone get’s lost, He searches for them, He pursues them, not satisfied with just hanging out with the “found.”

Where’s Jesus’ joy? It’s in finding Waldo. It’s in finding Wenda. That’s where you will find Jesus’ joy.

And as you might expect from the Lord of the Party, when Jesus returns from His all-out search party, He sends a text msg to all His peeps, “Let’s celebrate! I’ve found my lost sheep.”

May I find joy where Jesus finds joy.

May I wonder “Where’s Waldo and Wenda?”

And with the success of my/our search party, may a block party bust out with Jesus-styled joy.

Headlines read, “Waldo, Wenda & Joy — FOUND!”

encounter: After reading Luke 15:4-7, reflect on the following questions with others or on your own (you’re always welcome to post your reflections here).

• Make a list of your top five favorite things. What brings you joy?
• When have you lost something valuable to you and later found it? Tell the story, including your emotions.
• What helps you maintain your joy in difficult environments or situations?
• If you were invited to the party by Jesus, as He celebrates a successful rescue, what would be your reaction? Would you share in His joy? Explain.

The IRS observes the Year of Jubilee

It’s the same feeling I get each year on April 15th.

And no it’s not the joy of spring.

I feel poor, I feel stressed, I feel like a debtor. Which is what I am.

Student loans. Mortgage payments. The ten bucks Alexa spotted me when I needed to pay something in cash. I am a debtor. This becomes especially evident when the IRS and I have our annual anniversary.

In my dreams, I would love for the Internal Revenue Service to observe the “year of Jubilee.”

In Tony Campolo’s book, The Kingdom of GOD is a Party, he describes, “All debts were to be canceled in the year of Jubilee. All land was to be returned to its original owners, and those who were in prison were to be set free. In those days, prison was primarily for debtors…” (p.18).

But as I startle from this day dream (just in time to put my properly postmarked envelopes into the mailbox), I don’t forsee the IRS picking up this Biblical requirement stated in Leviticus 25.

Could you imagine? What joy would erupt in the streets! Granted some CPAs would be weeping, but overall I think Jubilee would go over pretty well. However, such pardon is not the case with the IRS.

In fact, even the Jews never observed the year of Jubilee — Except for one Rabbi.

Jesus read for the hometown crowd a passage from Isaiah, “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor” [61:1-2].

Campolo comments, “According to Isaiah 61, we are told when the Messiah comes, He will bring in the new economic order in which the poor will be delivered from all oppression and freed to live life to the fullest” (p.19).

As Jesus took a seat, he declared Jubilee, “This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears” (Luke 4:21).

As the clock tells me that there are only 5 minutes left of April 15, I say “Preach on Jesus! Preach on!“

encounter: After reading Luke 4:14-44, reflect on the following questions with others or on your own (of course you’re always welcome to post your reflections here):

• As for money or favors, which of your debts would you want to be paid off completely today if it were possible? What would be your reaction?
• The familiar chorus goes, “He paid a debt He did not owe, I owed a debt, I could not pay…” As for your sins and salvation, what do you wish the Messiah of Jubilee would pay off on your behalf?
• Describe what being “freed to live life to the fullest” means to you.

Parties for Prostitutes @ 3AM

One of my favorite short films of all time is Rik Swartzwelder’s The Least of These. Rik does a masterful job of cinematically telling Tony Compolo’s story about a party he threw for Agnes, a low-rent hooker who had never had a birthday celebration.

The crucial moment in the film comes not as the party goers yell “surprise!” or as shocked Agnes carries the cake out of the diner. It comes when Tony is found out to be a preacher, and the incensed diner owner demands to know what kind of “church” Campolo belongs to.

“I belong to a church that throws birthday parties for whores at 3:30 in the morning.

The reaction retorted by one can be seen in the faces of all those who gathered, “No you don’t. There’s no church like that. If there was, I’d join it. I’d join a church like that.”

After that powerful line, I always end up asking myself, “Would I join a church like that?” Would I seek it out? Where is the church that parties with prostitutes; banquets with the broken; and raves with the rejected? Or maybe the more subtle. . . where’s the church that loves the lonely, the losers, and the left-out?

The Least of These draws it name from a powerful passage in Matthew 25:40 “inasmuch as you did it to the least of these My bretheren, you did it unto Me.”

The Lord of the party, delighted in throwing shin-digs in the most unlikely places. Wherever there was a cook-out, you would always find Jesus hanging out, with the most unlikely crowd. Weddings, tail-gating, country fairs, and graduations, Jesus likely was in the crowd. . . the wrong crowd. The New Testament makes it repeatedly clear that “The Way, the Truth, and the Life,” was also the Life of the party.

Jesus reveals the Kingdom of GOD is a party. Christ came to create a church that loves to party. He loves to surprise the unsuspecting with awesome gifts.

And His church parties hard– in the hard places with the hard people who have certainly found it hard to have anything to celebrate.

May I belong to a church that throws parties for the poor in spirit–prostitutes, preachers, and politicians.

May I belong to a faith that loves to party.

May I belong to the Lord of the party.

encounter: Read Matthew 25:31-46 then reflect on the following questions with others or on your own (You are always welcome to post your reflections):

• Growing up, who did you typically invite to your parties? What was the criteria you had in mind when thinking who to invite?
• When you throw a party for someone, how are you hoping the party will make them feel? What does it say about your relationship to that person?
• Closer to home than the prisoners and prostitutes “out there,” who are the “least of these” that you know and have relationships with? Beginning with those you know, what will you do today for them in honor of the “Lord of the party?”
• What kind of church do you want to belong to? Explain.

40 Days of GODencounters

Seven years ago a handful of young adults began a journey, returning to the heart of worship. Coined GODencounters it was and still is their desire to see new generations wholeheartedly pursue a 24/7 experience of the living GOD. With thousands of young adults poised to gather throughout the country,

daring to deepen their intimacy with Christ,

recklessly living for His renown,

GODencounters begins as it has for the past 7 years–

inviting you to join us in 40 days of prayer and devotion.

Over the coming days find here at the IGNITION blog and at the GODencounters website devotional entries to aid in your prayers and meditation on the theme– Jubilee.

As we prepare for the GODencounters Conference, coming Memorial Day weekend to Central Florida, we are reminded that the Kingdom of GOD is a Party. We seek to experience the joy of the Living God in all that we are, in all that we do, and in all that say. We are learning to live a life of joyous celebration because of our Lord and Savior Jesusrejoicing and joining in His delight.

In addition to the Florida gathering, a GODencounters Conference will be held the following weekend in Tennessee, just outside of Chattanooga; a GODfest will come to San Luis Obispo the end of May.

The latter part of June will see GODencounters Conferences coming to Washington State, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.

Texas will soon reveal the GODencounters weekends slated to occur throughout the Lone Star state. So there are many gatherings to pray over, but as significant is our desire to pray over the transformation process GOD is working in young adult lives daily.

So we intend to pray with intensity over these days seeking to follow GOD’s footsteps and joining Him in what He is doing.

We aim to give focus to GOD in these 40 days, continuing to be morphed into a reflection of Jesus.

We are ignited to disciple and be discipled.

And we are inviting YOU. Come and join us in these days of GODencounters.