CCY Connect SEPTEMBER edition 2024

In today’s world, we are constantly bombarded with messages from every direction. It can be overwhelming to filter through all the noise. What is true? What is false? Often, the messages we encounter are a mix of partial truths, cleverly twisted to align with worldly agendas.

Currently, in our world, we are bombarded with information intended to sway our beliefs toward a “common and universal” message. You know, I don’t believe for a second that we are to be “common and universal”. I know that we were created with much purpose and distinction and in fact, in an image of holiness, purity, and love. The words of the world say “Conform or you are wrong”, “adhere to a truth or you hate others”. What a weird turn of events!

Amidst all the conflicting messages, there is one thing we can be assured of….. God’s Word. The Bible has been consistent from the beginning, and it will endure until we see the Son return. As 2 Timothy 3:16 reminds us,

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."

God’s Word is our filter to the noise. It is beautiful, infallible, truthful, and loving. In a world that is constantly changing, God’s Word remains the same—offering us guidance, comfort, and the wisdom we need to navigate the challenges of life.

So, when the world’s messages seem loud and persuasive, remember to turn to Scripture. Let it be your anchor, your guide, and your source of truth. Through God’s Word, we can discern what is right, stand firm in our faith, and fulfill the unique purpose for which we were created.

I love September! For me, it represents the love of fall, football, family, and fun. It’s a time when we transition from the fun of summer to the anticipation of cooler temperatures and the comfort of settling back into our routines.

For many, this season brings a sense of consistency and comfort as we return to the familiar rhythm of school, work, and church activities. It’s a time for kids and teachers to find their footing again and for all of us to reconnect through group studies and worship.

However, some of these things may not be your jam, I know that not everyone looks forward to these changes. If you’re not excited about the end of summer or the return to routine, that’s okay. The Bible reminds us to place our hope not in the things of this world, but in God, who makes all things new. Here are a few scriptures that offer comfort during times of transition:

Hebrews 6:19: “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.”

Psalms 33:20-22: “We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.”

Romans 8:24-26: “For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness.”

Isaiah 40:31: “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

As we move through this season together, let’s look to Him for our hope and comfort in every hour, day, and season. Remember, He loves you, friends!

Today, I want to speak to you about a topic that is near and dear to my heart and, I believe, to the heart of God – the importance of children in our church community.

Children are not just the future of the church; they are an integral part of our present. Imagine for a moment CCY without the laughter of children echoing through its halls, without the pitter-patter of little feet. It would be a quieter place, yes, but also a sadder one. Children bring with them a sense of joy, chaos, and an innocence that reminds us of the purity of faith. The Bible tells us in Psalm 127:3:

“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.”

Did you know that 90% of a child’s worldview is established by the tender age of 13? That's a staggering statistic! It underscores the critical importance of nurturing their faith during these formative years. And yet, despite their significance, statistics show that 80% of children do not attend church regularly. This is a call to action for us as a church community.

Jesus Himself recognized the importance of children. In Mark 10:14, when the disciples tried to shoo away the little ones, Jesus rebuked them, saying,

"Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God."

Jesus's love for children wasn’t just a popular Sunday school song; it was a fundamental aspect of His ministry.

As parents and members of this church family, it is our responsibility to pour into our children and prepare them for the spiritual battles they will face. We need to create an environment where they feel loved, valued, and equipped to navigate the challenges of life with faith and resilience.

But how can we do this? It's simpler than you might think. Firstly, we must heed Jesus's words and "let them come." Invite children and their families into our midst, welcome them with open arms, and engage with them in meaningful conversations. I've seen firsthand the impact this can have on a child's life through my own children. The joy it brings me when I watch Landon and Mia run into the arms of their “bonus family” is something I can’t thank you guys for enough. Knowing that as they grow they will have other adults loving them and pouring into the young man and woman they become is comforting. They feel loved no matter how crazy they may act and when people say it takes a village they really do mean it. I can’t think of a better village than a church family. Kids gain a sense of belonging and feel valued as part of the church family when they are included. For Landon and Mia, CCY has become a second home.

Secondly, we can serve on Sunday mornings. Consider joining a rotation to help in a class once every six weeks. Your presence and involvement can make a world of difference in the life of a child and in your life as well. Galatians 6:10 says:

“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong in the family of believers.”

One thing I have noticed about all of our kids is that they love big and they crave to be a part of something. As the school year was winding down, I asked the kids to write down some things they wanted to do this summer and I would try my best to make them happen. I was expecting big things that would take lots of planning and expenses, but they surprised me. Their ideas ranged from dance parties to bowling. Most of all they just want to hang out and fellowship with one another. We saw their wishes through at day camp this summer. Typically I take the kids out every day to do a service project, but this summer I created activities to do at the church that allowed them to just be together. We had 25 kiddos show up, the biggest turn out for day camp yet!

And finally, let us never underestimate the power of prayer. The Bible tells us in James 5:16 to pray for each other and the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. Pray for our children as they go to school, pray for their families, pray for their spiritual growth. Prayer is a powerful tool that can move mountains and transform lives. At the start of the year I was going through some things in my personal life and I was really struggling to minister to the kids when selfishly I felt like I needed the ministering. There was one Wednesday that I remember being harder than usual and that night God made sure one little girl in particular made it to church. You see at the end of each Wednesday night I make sure we have prayer time. This has always been my favorite part of Royal Warriors because it gives me a chance to pray one on one with the children and for them to have quiet time with God. This particular night this little girl came up to me and asked me if I was ok because I seemed off. Now I could have brushed it off and just blamed it on being tired, in fact I tried, but she wasn’t buying it. She asked again and that’s when I told her I just had a lot going on that I was worried about, and in that moment she prayed for me. I have since been blessed with the opportunity to baptize this little girl and watch her grow in her faith. She doesn’t even know how much her kind words that night really helped me. This is where it can be rewarding for us, as adults.

In closing, I want to urge each and every one of you to take an active role in nurturing the faith of our children. Let us be the village they need – a village filled with love, support, and unwavering faith. Together, let us echo the words of Jesus:

"Let the children come."

As we approach Grandparents Day on Sunday, September 8th, we want to take a moment to honor the pillars of wisdom and love in our families—our grandparents. The Bible is filled with examples of the impact that godly grandparents can have on the lives of their children and grandchildren.

Proverbs 17:6 says,

"Children's children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children."

This verse reminds us that grandparents are a treasured blessing, not only to their families but to the entire body of Christ.

Grandparents play a unique and irreplaceable role in nurturing faith across generations. In 2 Timothy 1:5, Paul speaks of the sincere faith that lived first in Timothy's grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice. This passage is a beautiful reminder that the faith we pass down to our grandchildren can shape their lives in profound ways. Your prayers, stories, and example are seeds of faith that can grow into a strong, enduring relationship with God for your grandchildren.

As you reflect on your role as a grandparent, remember that your influence is both powerful and enduring. Psalm 71:18 encourages us with these words:

"Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all who are to come."

Your stories of God's faithfulness, your patient guidance, and your loving presence all contribute to a legacy that will last far beyond your years.

On this Grandparents Day, we want to thank you for the incredible gift you are to your families and to CCY. May you be encouraged to continue sharing your wisdom, your love, and your faith with the next generation. Your impact is eternal, and your reward in heaven is great.