Easy Mission Projects for
VBS, Church, and School

Chosen

2012-01-03

I'm reading The Chosen by Dwight Nelson as my devotional book. I want to share a short excerpt with you from January 3.

" 'God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ....And it gave him great pleasure' (Eph. 1:5, NLT).

"Can you believe it! Choosing the likes of you and me has given God 'great pleasure.' But sadly, how easy it is for us to forget our chosenness. The King of the universe has adopted us into His family....What an affront to God must be my worries, my whining, my forgettng the glorious truth of that old gospel song 'My Father is rich in houses and lands, He holdeth the wealth of the world in His hands!'

" 'Such love is without a parallel.

Children of the heavenly King!

Precious promise!

Theme for the most profound meditation!

The matchless love of God for a world that did not love Him!' (Steps to Christ, p. 15)."

I pray that durng this new year you will embrace your chosenness and fall even more deeply in love with the One who has chosen you as His own.

Candy

What If?

2011-12-14

Recently all the editorial staff in my office went to a local summer camp and spent Sabbath together studying about God and His will for our lives--and our ministry. It was an awesome day and I am so privileged to work with a boss who values time with God.

At one point, my boss asked "What would your life be like if you were completely led by the Holy Spirit? This was my response:

There is so much that frustrates me--things I view as unfair and slights to me and my ministry. It makes me defensive and feel the need for self-preservation.

If I were constantly led by the Holy Spirit those petty things would not bring up strong emotions. I would be driven to prayer rather than hoarding slights. I would take time to replenish my spiritual cup rather than rolling the cup around trying to get that last drop. There would be no complaining aout overload or burnout. My cup would overflow.

Talke time today to answer that question, "What would your life be life you were completely led by the Holy Spirit?" Pay close attention to your response. I pray that you are inspired to say, "God, lead me minute by minute. My my every move be led by the Holy Spirit and may my cup overflow.

God bless.

Candy

Welcome Back!

2011-11-22

Ok, so I created the title with tongue in cheek. I'm welcoming myself back....

It's been such a long time since I wrote a blog and much has happened since then. Gary and I are in our new house accompanied by Drago (the dog), Zuri (the white kitty), and Smokie (the grey kitty). In addition we've picked up two kids who are interning with me at work. Our house is full and blessed--just in time for Thanksgiving.

Thank you for visiting our site--and for sharing your talents. My God bless you greatly each day from here on out. And may we all be welcomed into Christ's presence minute by minute.

God bless.

Candy

 

Red Bull Isn't The Only Thing That Gives You Wings!

2011-07-20

I try really hard not to drink caffeine--I'll go through a cleanse and rid my body of the stuff, and before I know it, it's snuck back in somehow!

None of us seem to have the energy to meet the needs of our work load--you know what I'm talking about! But, I was reminded at worship this morning that what we need isn't a heavily loaded  energy drink or the newest concoction from Starbucks (albeit delicious). Finding space in your head and your heart first thing in the morning and returning to that space throughout the day--well, that can supply ALL the needs we have. I'm talking stress relief, mental acuity, patience, unconditional love, and even energy.

Prayer should be our first response to all situations. Prayers coupled with the active faith God supplies so readily will give us wings to soar as eagles.

Red Bull can't touch that!

Surprises of Delight

2011-07-12

My husband and I are endeavoring to buy a house--something I've wanted to do for a long time but really never thought would happen. We've lived in apartments attached to dormitories for 16 years and in regular apartments for a few more. My own home seemed like an unattainable dream. But here we are, with a pending contract, waiting for the closing date.

I've negotiated with God for years about a home here on earh. I was convinced that the only home we would ever have would be in heaven and the new earth. But guess what! God surprised me with the possibilty that will quickly become a reality. Isn't He amazing?

When I was a little girl, we traveled alot--my father was stationed in Germany and we took every opportunity to see the countries and cultures that were near. Daddy knew that I would easily get bored and had a bag in hidden in the trunk of the car. Whenever I became agitated in the back seat of the car, he would pull over and retrieve a surprise from the trunk--a toy or a book--and I would be content for quite a while until we would repeat the scenario.

God is the same way. He brings out treats of delight just when life becomes agitating and a new perspective is needed. I'm so grateful to know Him--and even more grateful that He knows me. Look for your own surprises of delight--God will bring them to your attention when you need them most.

It's May 5!

2011-05-05

Today is a really special day--for my co-worker James, it's his birhday (Happy Birthday James!). For those of Mexican heritage, it's Cinco de Mayo (Happy Day to you!) For all of us, it's the National Day of Prayer (Amen!)

I have had the privilege of seeing God answer prayers over and over again. Some of the answers were exactly what I expected them to be--most were not as transparent. But, they were answers non-the-less.

I'm grateful to serve a God who cares about the ins and outs of our lives. I'm grateful to know that my wants and wishes mean something to Him. And I'm most grateful that He knows the big picture and answers according to my ultimate salvation.

Take time today to celebrate prayer. Spend more time than usual talking with God, and even more importantly, listening to His response. To quote Francis Shaeffer, "God is there and He is not silent."

Happy National Day of Prayer!

God, You've Got A Problem!

2011-03-10

The other morning at our editorial department worship we listened to the testimony of Elder Richard Bland who leads out in prizon ministries. He said they don't ask for money, they just spend until they don't have any more. Then when a need arises, he goes to God and says, "God, You've got a problem!"

How many times I've wished I had that faith! How many times I've complained and stressed myself into a cold or migraine because I didn't remember Who is in control.

When you face a mountain--not enough volunteers, too little budget and too much expense, too much to do and too little energy--then follow Elder Bland's example. Take it to God and remind the One who is in control, "God, You've got a problem!" I can't wait to hear how God takes care of things!

God bless.

It's That Time Of Year Again!

2011-01-26

Wow--the older I get, the faster time flies! I can't believe we are back to preparing for VBS. Looking out my window at the snow falling makes it even more difficult to think that in just a few short months we will be harried and happy VBS workers.

One thing is certain--God blesses in all things that we commit to His care and His leading. He also rejoices when we build relationships with His little ones. So this year, admidst all the hustle and bustle of VBS planning, take time to build a relationship with the little ones in your care. As my friend Steve Severence so eloquently said, "The programs we present are there to fill the time while we show the kids we love them."

 

God bless--Go VBS!

Thanksgiving All Over Again

2010-11-23

It's difficult to believe that 2010 is almost history and 2011 about to begin. This Thanksgiving season is the first we are spending without my mother-in-law and it's already starting to be a soppy holiday. I'm so grateful for the promise of the resurrection and the hope of spending eternity together. My prayer for each of you is that no matter the earthly separations that come our way, may we all be united in heaven as complete families with not one person missing. Have a wonderful holiday season filled with loved ones and laughter.

God bless.

 

Fall

2010-09-29

Fall is my favorite season of all. The beauty of the changing colors coupled with the chilly winds that begin to blow--it gets my creative juices flowing. And my favorite color in the world? The infusive blue of an indian summer sky. It seems that if you fell into it, you would be enveloped in a paradise of possibilities.

Perhaps you don't look at fall that way--after all fall is the season when lots of nature dies--leaves fall and pile up on the ground. But with each leaf that falls, the promise of a blossom in the spring is sure.

Our own failures are like that. Sometimes it seems we can't hide the fallout from our sins and mistakes--they fall too quickly and pile up too fast. But, with every failure comes an opportunity for a new beginning.

So, where fall and failures are concerned, don't focus on the pile of leaves that gathers at your feet or the barren limbs of regret and disappointment. Look to the sky and see the possibilities that are before you. And, let the chilly wind of a new season blow away your cares. God promises a new beginnng, right around the corner.

Here's Our Newsletter

2010-08-03

I"m excited to announce our new electronic newsletter! If you are on our mailing list, you will receive it automatically. If you aren't, please create your login to this Web site and you will be added to the list.

Each newsletter will contain ideas about activities, crafts, and new products that are available to enhance your ministry.

Keep watching in your inbox--you should get your Kids' Ministry Ideas newsletter soon!

 

Budget Schmudget!

2010-04-28

We all know what it's like to have little or no money to budget for our ministry--we've all been there and are probably still there! It frustrates me immensely when I sit in a meeting or church board and my requests for additional funds are turned down time and time again. Sometimes I want to throw up my hands and say, "How do you expect me to lead the kids when I don't have money to purchase supplies?"

But that is the cool thing about children--they may not have a coloring page to work on but give them a blank sheet of paper and they can draw a masterpiece; tell them a story and they will imagine a better scene than you could ever duplicate; show them love and they will love you forever.

I don't understand budgets at all--but I do understand that effective ministry is not limited to a committee decision or someone's arbritrary decision about how much money the department can get. It is only limited by your imagination and your heart--and all good children's ministries people have an unlimited budget in these two things!

God bless and go forward!

It's a Baby!

2010-04-07

Jimmy looked at his teacher--she was peering into his eyes to see that moment of recognition when she knew what she was teaching hit home. And there it was! You could almost see the lightbulb go on in his mind. He got it! He understood for the first time that Jesus died just for him! The joy he felt couldn't compare to the joy his teacher experienced watching the revelation unfold in his young mind.

Nothing is more exciting than the birth of a baby. We plan and organize and prepare for the wonderful day the baby will arrive. Jimmy's teacher saw him reborn that day and it renewed her own love for not only Jimmy, but the One who created him.

Rejoice in your calling. Celebrate the birth of new life in Christ. And thank Him for His gift of salvation--and the gift of a calling to work for Him. There is nothing mroe exciting.

Just Existing

2010-01-27

I met up with an old friend I hadn't seen in a long time and asked her how she has been. She said she hates her life and is just existing from day to day. It broke my heart, and it caused me to wonder; how many people do we pass in our day-to-day life who feel this way? How many of our collegues at work--and at church--just exist? More importantly, how can we raise a new generation that recognizes every day as a gift from God--and appreciates that gift?

I can't change my friend's life--I can't do anything to make it better other than to love her and remind her that she is important; her contribution of just being makes this world a better place. God intended for her to be--and to thrive. He intends that for you and for the small ones in your care.

If you are tempted to pass time just existing, remember that you are important. Your contribution of just being makes this world a better place. God is intentional about your life, your work, and your ministry. All these things have been gifted to you from His very hands--and these are gifts you can share with the little people who admire you so much.

God bless.

Tour de France

2009-07-23

My husband is a cyclist and a huge fan the Tour de France. This stage race lasts 23 days (each day is a stage) and attracts cyclists from around the world. It covers approximately 3,500 kilometres (2,200 mi) throughout France and bordering countries and includes grueling mountain stages that can be exhausting and dangerous.

The fascinating thing about this race is the efforts of the entire team to have one person, or general contender, win the race. Each team chooses one strong rider to win the coveted yellow jersey and then the team, under the expertise of their coach, will work to see their champion win. While the team does get recognition for the win, it is the general contender who stands on the podium and receives the prize. This brings a whole new meaning to the word team.

Children's ministries is alot like the Tour de France. It is a stage race to bring all our little ones to the feet of Jesus. It requires team work to remove every obstacle that might hinder that child from winning the race that is life. Sometimes the race will be grueling and dangerous, but when God is the coach, and we work as a team, we are guaranteed a win.

Collecting Change

2009-05-27

There is only one thing in this life that is certain and that is that nothing is certain. It's an oxymoron but it's true. Change is inevitable--it happens. Things change. Jobs change. Churches change. We change. With each change comes a new beginning and often, sadly, discomfort.

I've been a church worker all my life. It all began in 5th grade when I got the job as hall and bus monitor. I was so proud of my badge and bright orange belt! But then we moved...alot. With each move came a new job--waxing the floor of the gym at boarding school, working in the cafeteria, counselor at summer camp. The list goes on for 30-plus years; alot can change in 30-plus years.

Looking back over the collection of jobs, moves, and changes proves that change is inevitable. But it also proves that God's constancy is even more inevitable. He offers His strength and stability to each of us. So, even when we--you--face change, remember that God is stable. His feet are planted firmly on the ground and He has hold of your hand. You can't even stumble or stub your proverbial toe. God is constant. Let change come--let God be your stability. And, let the kids in your care see that come what may, you are OK.

God is Good--All the Time

2009-04-13

One thing I know for sure--God is good! I was speaking with my daughter last night about how both of us are in a state of flux. We are both encountering huge changes in our personal lives and feel like we are at the point where we are just waiting for what comes next. Waiting is so difficult and rarely is it comfortable. But, it can be.

If we wait for what comes next in life, knowing that what comes next has already been through the fingers of God, it can give us a peace--you know the kind--the kind that passes all understanding. Easy to say, tough to put into practice.

So if you are wondering what comes next, wait with patience. Pray for that peace that is so great we have difficulty wrapping our minds around it. And hold on to the thought that God truly is good all of the time.

It's Almost Windsday

2009-03-05

My favorite weather is anything in the inclement category. I love rain, stormy skies, and a heavy, heavy snowfall. That being said, I really don't like to come to work because there are no outside windows in my office. I'm smack in between a conference room (very interesting!), the ladies restroom (not so interesting!) and a hallway (both very and not so interesting all at the same time!!!) So, I have no idea if it is sunny or windy or rainy or snowy outside my office walls. Unless a co-worker comes and tells me, a tornado could pass by, and I'd be oblivious to the whole event. Sad, very sad indeed.

 

Sometimes our ministry is like my office experience. We have a job to do and we are so busy that we don't get to experience the whirlwind around us. A child may have a sunny existance, or maybe they have stormy skies at home, or perhaps they have been devastated by an emotional tornado. Our job is to be in tune to the weather of their lives. We can't let the walls of the "job" of ministry keep us from knowing how the wind blows with our little charges. Stop, take a step away from the responsibilties you face, and do a weather check with your kids. Be a safe haven for them, no matter how the winds  blow. Your "job" of ministry isn't nearly as important as the child that is your ministry.

 

Think I'll go find a window and check the weather. You do the same. God bless.

The Promise of Dry Ground

2008-10-06

I've been reading Genesis lately and had never realized something before; Noah saw dry ground on the first day of the first month of a new year. It was a new beginning. That got me thinking about how exciting it is to embark on a new ministry. You know, that thrill you feel when you start your first day holding office at church, or your first day of Sabbath School as the children's division leader. It is a great event--you plan lots of exciting programs and you can't wait to see instant results.

The thing is, anything good and worthwhile takes time. It was almost a full two months after Noah saw the dry land before he could step out of the ark. He had to follow God's timing--to be patient and faithful to His calling, even though he was probably chomping at the bit to get out of that ark--to let all those animals go free. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if the most difficult time of his entire ordeal was that last two months of waiting.

Realistically, it may be years--decades even before you see the fruits of your labor. You may plan wonderful programs and have volunteers who are less than faithful. You may have to put ideas on the back-burner while your church raises money to fund your ventures. Whatever the reason, if you find yourself moving slower in your ministry than you planned, remember that you are doing His calling. God is in control. He may decide to let you see the "dry ground" but it may be weeks, months, even years before you can touch it. Don't grow weary of well doing (Galatians 6:9.) Remember God promises to bless your efforts and save your chlidren. He absolutely does not call us to fail--but He does often call us to wait.

About My Father's Business

2008-09-04

I'm not one of those women who can do it all--you know, go to my highly successful job and revolutionize the work industry, and then come home and keep an immaculate house with my husband in ironed shirts, the bed made without a wrinkle and the cat litter box cleaned. In my world, it's one or the other. When I have a day off, my house is clean; when I'm at work, I do well there. But please don't judge me because I can't do both well. And then, on top of it all, I'm supposed to be about my spiritual duties as well? Wow! There just aren't enough hours in a day to do it all!

The funny thing is, when I'm truly committed to the spiritual job--to my Father's business, the other stuff just seems to fall into place. I'm not sure how it happens but it's as if the precious minutes in those fast-flying 24 hours are slowed down. It's seems more stuff can be put into them and at the end of the day, I feel satisfied with a job well done.

God created time. It is a blessing He gives us. He doesn't want us to be frazzled and spent--He never intended us to be overwhelmed with stress. But, He does want to be first. His organizational skills are top-notch and I'm learning that if I spend time with Him--if I give Him some of those precious minutes in that fast-flying 24 hours, He shares His skills with me and my day goes better. 

I still don't think I can do it all--I don't think we were called to. But, with God watching the clock, I can end the day at peace. That's a more-than-fair trade.

Dear Jesus....Amen

2008-04-29

When I was young, my cousin came to live with us for a few months. He was older than me, really cute, and very popular with the kids in his class. Of course, I was proud to be connected to him!

One night we were all sitting around the dinner table getting ready to eat. Daddy asked Stevie to ask the blessing and we all bowed in prayer. Just then, the phone rang and since Stevie was closest, he reached up to answer it. Without a blink of an eye Stevie spoke into the receiver, "Dear Jesus." This got him all flustered and he blurted out, "Oh wait, I mean amen!" At this point, all composure was lost and Stevie just hung up the phone. We all stared at him and then burst out laughing--we laughed long and hard about that until we realized the person never called back. That got the laughter started all over again.

I want my life to be like that moment for Stevie. The fact is, he was so intent on that prayer he couldn't think of anything else. What if every time we faced a situation in life our resopnse was "Dear Jesus"? And all God's people say "Amen!"

Coming to the Beginning of the End

2008-03-25

Many of you have called about the new evangelism kit "Castles and Crowns". I'm really excited about all the positive responses we are receiving. And I really appreciate everyone's patience. It's been a real faith builder to see all the obstacles that have cropped up now that we are actually in production of the kits!

We now have all the CDs in house and are mailing them out to everyone who registered their kit. If you are missing anything, watch the mail for the next week and it should arrive!

God is good! (I'm imagining all of you shouting "All the time!") And, yes He truly is good all the time. We are so thankful to Him for all He has done to make Castles and Crowns happen. You are all in my prayers as you prepare your VBS programs. What a blessing to be a part of the work for children. There truly is no higher calling!

The VBS Adventure

2008-02-18

I can't believe it! Castles and Crowns is done!! It has been such a blessing to work on this project and now, it is such a blessing to have it completed and available for everyone. Thank you to all the wonderful people who contributed to this project. There has never been any doubt in my mind that God wanted this VBS to be created.

This journey has truly been an adventure. Let's see, through this process I was put on blood pressure medicine, I gained a few pounds (ok...more than a few) and I never got a full nights sleep. So, what have I learned? First, that my level of trust in God needs some boosting. Secondly, I should never second-guess God because He's way better at everything than I can ever hope to be. And thirdly, the Lord never asks us to do something without sending the reinforcements needed to do the job right.

I pray that you are as blessed by using this VBS as much as all of us who played a part in its development. We have learned that we truly are royalty. That is a fact; and it is time we all realized it and celebrated our heritage. Have fun on this royal adventure!

Rubble Hill

2008-01-03

Just southwest of the town of Stuttgart, Germany, is the Birkenkopf, a hill that stands 1,677 feet tall—a fact that is not particularly remarkable until you learn that this is a man-made monument composed of all the rubble left after Stuttgart was bombed in World War II. I have many times had the privilege of climbing Rubble Hill, as we Americans called it. My favorite adventure was late at night December 31, 1975. Penny, my best friend from high school, had come over to spend the holidays with my family, and we hiked up Rubble Hill with blankets, thermoses of hot cocoa, and all the optimism that comes with ringing in the New Year. As midnight struck, we looked down on all the fireworks that were going off all around us. It was a beautiful sight.

December 31, 2007, found me sitting with my husband as we encountered our first “empty nest” New Year’s celebration—it was a quiet, unceremonious, and somewhat lonely welcome to 2008, and that New Years gathering so long ago came to mind. I realized that I was metaphorically doing the same thing this year. Looking back over the “rubble” of 2007, I realized that there were events I wanted to forget, people I should apologize to, celebrations I wanted to revisit, and prayers I needed to pray. How good it is that we practice new beginnings each year. How much greater it is that we can do this each day. In Lamentations 3:22, 23 we are told that God’s mercies are new every morning, with each day offering us a clean slate to start anew. Each day God’s redemptive power can change us and make us better people.

As you look at this new year, thank God that He offers us a clean slate through forgiveness, and mercies to last our lifetime and for eternity. Then celebrate each new day with Him. He will take the “rubble” of your life and make it into a beautiful monument to His glory and your redemption.

Put Your Mask on First

2007-10-24

I travel by plane quite extensively representing Kid's Ministry Ideas and I think I know the flight attendants safety spiel by heart. One particular day, the attendants got to the part that says, "In the event of an emergency, oxygen masks will fall from the compartment above your seat. Parents, please put your masks on first before helping your children."

I've heard that more times than I can count, but this time a light bulb went off in my head—help yourself before you help your children. Hmmm. That's a concept you seldom hear in church work. Our motto seems to be more along the line of "Do it all while you can because no one else will, and come to terms with the fact that you will burn out long before the work is done." Sound familiar?

The fact is, we can't help the children if we don't take care of ourselves. We have to be right with God, using the best fuel for our bodies, and taking advantage of undisturbed rest. Take time this week to sit back and analyze your ministry. Is your life-line to God in place? Are you breathing the sweet aroma of the Holy Spirit, arming your self for those inevitable emergencies? Your children need you. Be sure your mask is on securely and your seat belt is fastened with your tray tables locked securely and your chairs in the upright position. It's only when you take care of yourself that you can effectively take care of that little ones in your charge.