I had the great opportunity to spend this past week in Colorado Springs, Colorado at the National Conference for Youth Ministries (NCYM). This was my first time in Colorado, and at the conference, and I was excited about seeing and learning while in Colorado.

The scenery was absolutely beautiful! Snow on the ground, brisk air (7000 ft up make its interesting!), and a lot of vendors giving away a lot of free t-shirts, ipads, kindles, and more. Quite a few universities were there too....all wanting you to send "your kids" to their school. I got a high quality steel water bottle from Harding, free t-shirt from Faulkner, a laptop bag from Lipscomb, a hat from a Oklahoma Christian, and a t-shirt from Abilene Christian. Seriously, they want "the kids".

I have to say that it was nice to be around others in my same position (youth minister) who understood and could relate to the trials and tribulations of youth ministry. I suddenly didnt seem so alone in my struggles in relating with parents, in communication, in expectations, and how to work with teens. I was among those who have been there and understand the magnifying glass we live in. For that alone, I am grateful.

I didnt go to school for youth ministry and dont have a degree in youth ministry. My degree is in Bible Missions and thus I see youth ministry as a mission field. I see if for what it must be instead of what it has become (a glorified babysitting service). Now having said this, I learned something extremely important this past week.

I am blessed beyond belief in being at Riverchase. After listening to the struggles of others and the things they go through, I feel even more blessed at being part of this wonderful church family. I have to turn parents away at time because they want to be and do everything. I have teens who call me and let me know how they are going to serve someone . They do this to see if I want to join THEM. We have created a culture at Riverchase of service that is ingrained in each and every member. It is awesome. Beyond awesome, it is exactly where everyone else wants to be. I heard this all week! Everyone wants what we have created. We are blessed.

I am blessed to work alongside men such as Tony Brimingham and Dewayne Spivey. Godly men who seek and serve God with all of their heart. It is an honor.

I am blessed to work alongside godly women such as Diania Clemmons and Kathy Turrentine. They make my day bearable and are a constant reminder of organization and servant leadership. They are a constant soundboard for ideas and thoughts and are always loving in their advice and support. I am blessed.

I serve alongside wonderful men in Donnie Turrentine, Mike Clemmons, Landy Clendenon, and Jeff Speegle. They serve as deacons and are my co-laborers in this ministry for the teens. They are full of ideas, support, love, and encouragement. They are Godly men who sacrifice their time and support day in and day out for the teens without ever thinking of themselves. They are spiritual greats.

I serve underneath a wonderful eldership that loves and adores the congregation they serve. Tim Parker, Grover Jackson, Ron Steen, Ron Jackson, Don Genry, and Don Bowen are Godly men. Beyond that, they are spiritual giants. I am blessed to have their leadership and guidance in the work I perform on a daily basis. They provide guidance and support in a loving and caring way. I am truly blessed to be part of this wonderful church family.

To the parents, you are a godsend. You love your teens and keep me on my toes constantly. I cant thank you enough for all that you do. Your constant feedback is welcomed and shows a devotion to your teens, what we are doing as a ministry, and a great soundboard for ideas and thoughts. I am blessed by you.

God, you have given me so much. I am so grateful for these brothers and sisters and am proud to serve them. Make me a better servant and allow me to be your hands and feet. We can change the world. I truly believe that. Guide us now.

Amen.