Bump-Set-Spike It. That's-the-way-we-like it...

I'm writing this morning to all of those students who have had the summer of their lives. Some of you went to camp with Lake Hills or another church or organization and found yourself walking with God on a level you'd never dreamed you would. Some of you served the hungry, homeless, and hurting last week at Mission Austin and again sensed that you were up to far more than community service as you followed Jesus into neighborhoods he taught you to love. I'm writing to those students who inevitably have to go back to the routine of life this morning, engaging relationships that you might have been avoiding this summer and trying to somehow overlap the two worlds of Summer and School. I'm writing to the Dancers, Athletes, Musicians, and Academics who together begin the process of preparing for a new school year today. Its August my friends. Ready or not, your time has come.

So I simply want to give you, the student, a few words of encouragement today; something to ponder as you bump-set-spike it or repeat the same marching steps over and over again.

1. The same God who transformed your life this summer, walks with you now. In fact scripture tells us that for those who know Christ, that same God dwells inside you now. Remember Colossians 1:27. "Christ in you, the hope of Glory." Don't let distractions fool you into believing that God is somehow somewhere else. God is with you wherever you go.

2. God has gifted you with whatever your doing for a reason. Your gifts and abilities weren't given to you just for your enjoyment. God has placed you exactly where God wants you at this time so that you might help others know him. Who do your talents place you in proximity to that need healing, hope, love and grace? Remember Colossians 3:17. "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."

3. Create Margin in your lives to spend time with Christ. Don't forget that in the hustle and bustle of adjusting to the "old routine" that you now have the opportunity to create a "new routine." Students, you don't have to live the same life you've always lived. Let me say that again. You don't have to live the same life you've always lived. You can change. The rhythms of your life can change. Just because last year you didn't have time to spend with Jesus, doesn't mean that you have to bow down and act as slaves to last year's schedule and routine. This is your life and your schedule, or perhaps more appropriately God's life and God's schedule. Make time for the things that matter most.

Beyond that, I just want you all to know that we believe in you! We're praying for you and we're here for you.

Live Love.