Conflict and Forgiveness

Conflict and forgiveness, two very difficult things to deal with.  Although this is difficult, God has given us a strong standard in which to follow to guide us through these situations.  Have you ever sat down and discovered how it is you deal with conflict?  I choose the word discovered because often times our conflict resolution technique, whether positive or negative, is not cognitively known to us.  In order to be aware of how we deal with conflict we must go through a process of discovery.  How do you deal with conflict?  How should we deal with conflict?

 

Matthew 18:15-17

Matthew 6:14-15

Non-negotiable's

Rebellious People

Do you find yourself to be a rebellious person?  This may seem like a simple, and a bit ridiculous of a question because of our sinful nature.  However, Romans 6: 18 "...having been set free from sin, have become slaves of righteousness."  When thinking about this passage we have been set free from sin through Christ's death because of which we should be slaves of righteousness.  Are you a slave of righteousness?

Isaiah 30: 15-16

Romans 14: 13-23

Non-negotiable's

Understanding the non-negotiable's within scripture has been the catalyst for strength, courage, and discernment for many churches.  Determining these non-negotiable's has also driven a wedge between various church bodies.  The outcome of these wedges have been as severe as a church split, or simply, and yet as difficult: frustration, confusion, and disrespect.  Our goal is to work through the non-negotiable's of scripture and ministry to strengthen our ability to be obedient to God as one team fighting for the same cause.  A cause and purpose that has been laid on all of our hearts by God Himself.  

What do you think are the non-negotiable acts of obedience being taught within these scripture passages? Please explain.

+Matthew 10:24-25

+Romans 12

What is the purpose in life?

Do we need a purpose in life? Why or why not?

At the end of your life, what would your final words be if you had the chance to write them down?

Do you ever feel like life is so busy that you never seem to have time to think about life? If so, explain.

Read Ecclesiastes 12:13-14

What does it mean to obey God's commands?

Does it motivate or intimidate you to know every thing we do will one day be judged by God?

Are you ready to know God and make Him known?

Are you ready to live a full life with purpose?

On a tombstone a persons life is represented by their name, date of birth and of death, and finally, a few words that encompassed their life.  What should your dash look like that seperates your birth and than your death? 

$50 million dollars

What would you do with $50 million dollars?

What is your purpose if life?

Is there a higher power?

If you could be a god what would you do with your supernatural ability (powers)?


Do you believe there is a higher power? Why or why not, please explain.

Do you believe there could be many god's as represented by other religions, or do you believe there is one God? Please explain.

Psalm 33:6-9

What does this passage say God is like?
What stands out to you most personally? Why?
How might this passage help you address the question: "Is there a God?

Colossians 1:15-20

If there is a God, what does this passage say this God wants with you?
Would you want to know this God personally? Explain.

Revelations 1:5b-6

Why do you think Jesus might want to be in relationship with us?
Please reflect on this silently: Do you think you want to be in a relationship with Jesus?
Consider: Is it possible that the creator of the world created you to be awesomely, wonderfully unique? Different from everyone else? Explore the idea that, as the Bible says, God holds you tightly...loves you fiercely...and wants to be with you forever.

Is greatness within your reach?

Before greatness can be grasped greatness needs to be defined.  How would you define greatness. 

Do you believe you can achieve greatness at any level  (you can decide what "level" it is)?

Do you want to change the world or chase it?  What is meant by changing the world is simply to impact it by bringing about something different (a thought, perspective, attitude, etc.).  What exactly you want to change is up to you.  To chase the world is to follow the direction of the majority.

Does God fit into your plan for achieving greatness?

Wednesday Post (a little late)

Ok, so last night was really awesome. We got to do community meal with the church and other people who live out here. But for this thing that I am going to tell you, I have to give you prior knowledge. On the third night we were here we had taco chili. A bunch of the other students didn’t like it (I did) and we had a lot left over, so I ran over to Stefan and asked if we could give the left-over food (the chili and spegetti from the nite before)to people in the city who needed it. Stefan didn’t know if we could, but last night during community meal he pulled me aside and told me that if I really wanted to do that, that I should do it then and that it was ok. So we went over to Chad the pastor and asked him what families were in need of something like that. He told us and went over to the lady that he mentioned and asked her if she would want to take it. She said yes and I was so excited that we were able to do that and take care of them. Also after community meal we got to change up how open gym was. They usually have it on the third floor gym, but we decided to take a ball and run across the street to play kickball. It was so fun. One of the little kids that we are working with at VBS went with was as well as other teenagers from here. The little kids name is Omar. He was so good at it. I just loved to see him play and how much fun he was having. I kind of feel bad for his mom though because he got covered head to toe in dirt. Also some other toddlers were running around the park and ran over to the field and started to play with us. There mom looked really happy because of that. Later we went back to the church to get a Frisbee so that us in the group could play (extreme Frisbee was kind of our game this whole trip). It was great. I love being here and doing the things that we are doing. I could say so much more but someone else needs to get on, so bye.
~Cassie

WOW! Yesterday was quite the day! We had some awesome breakfast and did morning devotions, which I was in charge of. I think they went really well! People seemed to get something out of it! Then we went outside to help rearrange the playground, we pulled weeds, shoveled wood chips, and so much more. Then at noon we went inside for lunch and got ready for VBS. VBS went really well yesterday, all the kids were pumped and loved the singing, dancing, and the lessons! Granted some of our kids wouldn’t stay still or be quite, but that’s part of the fun! Later on we went to the open gym and some of the kids came to the park to play kick-ball with us! It was so fun! Omar was so cute, we let him get like 4 home runs! (he’s one of the kids) then we came back to the church for about an hour before going out to play ultimate Frisbee! It was SO much fun! I got knocked on the ground like twice, and kicked in the hand. And yet it was REALLY quite a blast! After Ultimate we came inside and did devotion, Kevin W was in charge of them last night. He did a really good job! After which Stefan took over, we sang a few songs, then the emotional part of the night jumped right in. Stefan talked about his grade school and high school years, I was bawling! Then he had us write our secrets to God and had Amber read them allowed anonymously. Everyone was off kilter after that. We ended around 1am this morning and then some of us crashed! It was a great day! Praise God!
~Miss Deanna!

Okay, so yesterday was a fun and exciting day! We woke up, ate some cereal, and then we got our first task to do for the day. We helped out the church by taking care of some things on their landscape. Then a little bit after we ate lunch, and then came VBS. My group for VBS was always small with about 3 kids in it, but yesterday we had seven, which was really exciting! All of the kids in VBS got so into the songs and with the chariot races we had (which my group dominated in, ha) and it was so awesome just to see them all have fun and smiling. After VBS the church had a free dinner that they hold for the community every Wednesday, so we got to interact with all the people in the community and just have fun. Later on we played some pretty intense kickball and ultimate Frisbee which was really fun. But at the end of the day we did devotionals led by Kevin W. which was awesome, and then Steffan took over and we had worship. It was amazing that, even though we were all so tired, everyone gave their all to God which he deserves. It was an overall great day!
~briana

Video Blogs

Note from Heather: Well I have been trying to load all the blog videos and fun videos, that we have been taking this trip, directly onto the blog. This is where the problems began. It seems that the computer, internet, or website do not like that idea, so I have decided to post the remaining videos on a youtube.com account. The accounts name is thehouseofstu so please check it out and if you have not noticed it yet there is a link on the left hand side of the screen. THANKS FOR TAKING AN INTEREST IN THE KIDS AND WHAT THEY HAVE TO SAY! :)

http://www.youtube.com/user/TheHouseofSTU

Tuesday Evening

After VBS today we hung out and went to Starbucks and Borders! Stephan had this really cool thing we all did at borders. He had books that he had picked out for all of us because he thought that we'd love them...my book was / is called Messy Spirituality. we couldnt find that one, but i'm totally looking it up when i get home! So instead i read this other book, the name i forget. but it was completely what Stephan said it would be, it was a really cool thing that he could pick out books to fit our personalities and where we are at so well!! After Borders we returned to the church, some of us went to the park across the street to play frisbee golf, where as others stayed back to chat and pray. Me personally prayed with Carolyn and then had a long activity with Ture until 11:30. everyone else returned to the church early. This missions trip is really opening my eyes to a lot! I'm so glad at how strongly God is working in my life right now! Praise God for the VBS too! So many kids loved it more so today...and little Ebony gave me a hug as she left! it was cute!! Today has been such an adventure, as has the whole missions trip so far! Tonight was great!
~Miss Deanna~

I really enjoyed Stephan's activity at Borders! He assigned us each a book that he thought we would enjoy, and my book was, If You Want to Walk on Water, You Have to Get out of the Boat. I thought that it was interesting that Stephan actually hadn't read the book, Amber just told him she liked it. When I read a little of the first chapter, it seemed like the perfect book for me. I was thinking, "I feel like God wanted me to read this book." It was really awesome. Then we ended our evening with a nice devotional time, this all gave me a lot to think about and reflect on. It just feels good to be so focused on God and how he wants me to live my life for him!
~Karly~

Today for me has been nothing short of amazing. From prayer walks to teaching VBS to reading devotionals and talking with the group, I definitely see God working in more ways than I have ever imagined, in my heart and in the hearts of others in the group. It is absolutely wonderful just to be in God's presence and to learn so much about his heart for all people. I am so excited to continue to carry out God's work and follow his will for us. I cannot wait to see what he has in store!
~Nicole Fish~

Monday Recap and the beginning of Tuesday

Monday night was really exciting! After we ate dinner we did quick devotions and gave out the Stone of Peter, and answered some questions, then we went on a walk down Divon Street, praying for the church, for VBS and for us to remain strong when we have difficult kids in our groups. Then we went to Baskin Robins for some ice cream and had a bit of hang out time, while we walked back to the Church. Some people took showers and went to bed but some of us stayed up playing volleyball and basketball and Sardeans. Stephan was hidden for like ever because NO one could find him, then we all decided to go to bed.

We got to sleep in this morning, until 7:30! had some awesome cereal for breakfast and then went outside and picked up garbage around the church property. After having a quick recap of the day we went on another prayer walk, had some good talks, and prayed for the VBS to go as well if not better than it did yesterday! Then we came back and worked on our VBS groups, and had some chill time. Right now some people are outside playing with the kids who are about to join us for VBS! It's going to be GREAT FUN!!!!

~deanna~

Last night the group all walked to a large park a mile away from the church. We were able just to play some frisbee and fellowship with each other. God has put together such a special group of students. I have been so impressed by their maturity and ability to come together as a group. I can't wait to see what God does with this core group of students when we join the rest of the element.

-stefan

It has been amazing for everyone to experience the variety of cultures so close to home. The students have put themselves out there to engage people in conversations, which has been fun to see and experience for myself. Our eyes are being opened to see people as God sees them - those that are lost, and those who have been found. The hope, joy, and peace that can be found in Christ is something that seems to be so lost within the plethora of belief systems found in such a small area. The lack of understanding of what God offers is not uncommon around the world, but the overwhelming number of options that any one person has here in this neighbor only makes the standards of God that much harder to be found and experienced. God is so much bigger than any decision that can be made that we know, and those decision will only be directed by God by Christians living, not just talking, out the standards of God. Just as Jesus was relational, so must we if Christ is to be seen, experienced, and loved.
Ture

Post VBS

Hello, world. So today was very great. We started VBS and about 20 kids showed up! I had 3 kids in my group-family thingy and I loved them all. Of course others didn’t have it that great… but I sure enjoyed all my kids. Heh heh. At first one of them didn’t want to do ANYTHING and he was really shy, but by the end he was talkative and sweet and really adorable. I don’t think we’ll be able to get these songs out of our heads. Ever. For crafts they made these scratch-off fish thingies. They really liked those… of course I may have enjoyed those a little more then the kids… hehehe. Cassie is telling me to say how perfect her and Luke’s family was. Mine was better  (in my opinion.) My hand hurts pretty bad (it’s broken) and I have to crawl through a box-tunnel to get to the cave where the secret church meets. SO THAT’S NOT GOOD AT ALL! So if you all could pray for it to feel a wee bit better tomorrow that would be much appreciated. WHOA there’s a dance party going on, so I’m going to leave you with these words.
Bye.
More like word… but….
-Sarah

Hey there. Today has been pretty fun so far. At the beginning, I was kind of tired and irritable. However, when the children came for VBS all my spirits were lifted when they smiled. It’s odd how in a couple of hours one can become sort of attached to children. It was sort of strange; I felt sad when they were leaving. Dinner just HAD to be done. Dinner was good though! Kevin W. knows how to make spaghetti. Yum. My VBS group, Cassius was our name, was actually incredibly well behaved. Two children didn’t really want to be involved, but it seemed at the end of the VBS day they were much more interested. I think part of the sudden involvement was due to the fact that we had game first. The students were REALLY enjoying the “cave.” They also seemed to enjoy sneaking around as if guards were looking for us. Fun times. Bye for now.
-Luke

So VBS was more fun than I thought it was going to be today! I had an awesome group of kids that were so cute. Usually I do not like kids that much but God showed me that I can do anything with him!!!!! We got to do sweet fish crafts with the kids, play games, and learn about Paul and the Underground Church. We also got family time with our kids so we could closer with them and help them to understand the lesson better. Even though I am running on four and a half hours sleep I still feel energized and ready to go. I can most definitely feel God at work on my heart thanks to every ones supportive prayers. Please keep praying for strength, energy, and patience for us=]]]
~Love Jenni

Walking Around

Ok, so we just took a walk down California to Devon and then Sacramento to the church again. It was pretty weird for me because no one, and I mean NO ONE, would look at us or say hello back when we would greet them. It was also pretty weird that we past no other churches but a bunch of synagogues and mosques. The bad thing about the short trip is that we were suppose to be spreading flyers for VBS but because of them not giving us the time of day or anything, we didn’t get to pass out any. DARN! But the other groups might have talked to people (which would be sweet) and we might get even more kids here :) .
~Cassie


Alright, we all split into groups and went out on a prayer walk. After just finishing prayer for the Holy Spirit to have someone come talk to us, this mid-aged man started to walk behind us. Ture finally started to say hello. We soon noticed that he was, in fact, Jewish. Even though he was going to wait for a bus, he said that he didn’t mind walking with us and talking. We had a very interesting conversation with this man. He has had a very rough life with what he told us. He also seemed very in love with late wife Syri (not sure about spelling), and he spoke of her quite highly. He looked at me and Deanna and told us to stay pure no matter what, which was pretty cool. Even though he was very lost within his religion, it was a good experience to be able to show God’s love towards him in the way of just simply listening to him talk. He was walking with a limp, had a very scratchy voice, and seemed like a person that most people would end up avoiding. But despite all that there was something about him that spoke to my heart. I knew that God had him talk to us, so that we could start praying for him. I know God wants to do some heavy work in this man, but first he needs to see the truth. It was a very rewarding experience, and I’m glad I got the chance to do it.
♫Hannah♫

Monday Morning Posts

After sleeping on a pull-out sofa for only 4.5 hours I’m tired but we get to go out and talk to strangers. Woo-hoo… All the set-up went well and now time for the kids. I speak for myself but sure for everyone else also but we need prayers for sleep.
~Kevin Weis

Last night was great. When we arrived, we meet a few of the leaders and kids, but not enough to be completely overwhelm. We seem to be getting along very well “so far”, and the energy level has been pretty high. Can’t wait to see what God has for us today.
~Dave

Sunday Night

This is what Kevin is talking about:

Broken Chalkboard



Dave's injury

Away We Go!

Hey All!
The Element Team is in high spirits as we pack up the trailer with boxes and suitcases! There are so many emotions in this small room right now! We are so excited, and nervous and trying to figure out how to fit all of our equipment in the trailer! We ask for prayers in regards to meeting new people in West Ridge. Pray that we are able to deal in all situations and rely on God to pull us through every single day! Thank you for your prayers, we will keep you posted on the awesomness God is doing in West Ridge Chicago, and in us! God Bless!