A group of us had the opportunity to attend the Divisional Youth Retreat this past weekend. It was a really special time together. The young people heard about the life of the apostle Peter - from his calling to walking on water to Pentecost to his denial of Jesus. They were challenged to reflect on their lives and put into practice some hands-on ways they can share their faith and live their lives boldly for God.
Praying with our young people, I am surprised at the pressures and burdens they carry at their age. I would encourage us all to keep our young people - and their families and friends - in prayer as they navigate their lives. Help them to say "yes" and to follow Jesus! There are real challenges that they face daily, and life will only bring more challenges in the future. Yet, we know that our faithful God will always be by our sides, helping us get through everything that comes our way.
Our worship was led by Reset Worship which included our very own - Mike, Steve, Kaylynn, Rhys, and Daniel (yes, we still claim him!). One of the songs introduced to us was "Gratitude". I love the openness, rawness, and simplicity of this song:
All my words fall short I got nothing new How could I express All my gratitude?
I could sing these songs As I often do But every song must end And You never do
So I throw up my hands And praise You again and again 'Cause all that I have is a hallelujah Hallelujah And I know it's not much But I've nothing else fit for a King Except for a heart singing hallelujah
Hallelujah
I've got one response I've got just one move With my arm stretched wide I will worship You
So I throw up my hands And praise You again and again 'Cause all that I have is a hallelujah Hallelujah
And I know it's not much But I've nothing else fit for a King Except for a heart singing hallelujah Hallelujah
So come on, my soul Oh, don't you get shy on me Lift up your song 'Cause you've got a lion inside of those lungs Get up and praise the Lord
As we enter into Holy Week, remember again what Jesus did for us. This Sunday is Palm Sunday - the day that Jesus humbly entered Jerusalem - preparing to give his life for us so that we can be saved from our sins. How can we return the favor? We cannot outgive this most selfless gift! However, we can express our gratitude verbally in worship and by the way we live our lives for His glory.
Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!
Major AnnMarguerite Jones