Comments on: denver blog 09

By: Meghan

Meghan — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 18:50:39 +0000

That sound just like what we did all week. I like it.

By: danielr

danielr — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 03:57:17 +0000

Been thinking about what helped us connect with God and hear His voice as we ATLed. What do you think?
[RAFTTS]
Recognize and Respond to God’s chiseling work in your life
Ask for God’s heart by connecting with Him daily
Focused prayer Asking The Lord for direction
Test if it is of God
Trust God’s direction by stepping out in faith
Surrender often asking God to give you spiritual eyes

By: Meghan

Meghan — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 22:50:30 +0000

Daniel-
Thank you for dealing with us all wek in Denver. I hope you’re have a great time in the mountains. Se you on Friday!

By: cheese

cheese — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 04:02:13 +0000

A moose and a partridge in a pear tree.

By: Meghan

Meghan — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 16:11:27 +0000

I am so sad that I am not in Denver anymore. Yesterday before we left and we were talking about everything we did in Denver, I was about to cry. As I saw the mountains fading away, I realized that I might not go back there for a couple of years. God has taught me so much in Denver in the two weeks I’ve spent there over the past 2 years and I have met so many people there. I am going to miss everything about the city, and I am going to miss Jon as well. I know that God wants me to take the experiences from Denver and apply them here in Bloomingdale everyday. After all, the missions trip starts today.

By: Mrs. Z

Mrs. Z — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 15:40:52 +0000

Daniel & Linda,
Thanks to both of you for returning our children to us safely. I am thanking God for the opportunities you provide our kids to know and grow in the Lord. I’m praying that you returned changed kids to us. I’m praying they are on fire for the Lord and will continue to work as a team. I’m praying that they will live out their faith every day and continue to share the Gospel at home. I will continue to pray that all our students will be the same on the inside as they are on the outside. I’m looking forward to seeing changed students return to us from San Carlos as well. Thanks to you both for your leadership of our children. We are blessed to have people who love the Lord as you do, leading our children.

Thanks,
Therese

By: Daniel Riemo

Daniel Riemo — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 15:09:44 +0000

Just got finished reading the blog..after finally getting to sleep in!
It was so rewarding to read the retelling of stories our students wrote. I am so proud of them.

One story that wasn’t added: On Friday, we invited John (our project leader) to spend the night in the mountains with us. We traveled all day playing in the mountains and had no cell reception. When we finally got into Estes Park we went straight to the grocery story. John told us that he decided to drive up and meet us. He called me 15 times but I had no cell reception. With no luck, he went to the grocery store to pick up some Pepsi to keep him awake so he could drive home to Nebraska. He said that he felt a stirring in his heart to pray for how to find us. It was at that moment that I ran into him! Only God.

The team had a safe trip home…they’re probably sleeping in now! I stayed behind to spend a couple of days processing everything from last week while enjoying the mountains. Please pray for me as I seek the Lord’s guidance.

By: Mama Gabs

Mama Gabs — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 15:50:55 +0000

So glad to hear everything has gone so well. I, too, love looking at the awesome nature God has created. It is very overwhelming don’t you think? I’m so sorry that I haven’t blogged more this past week. We’ve been working like crazy on the house…..and we’ve BECOME crazy, too. I think you guys will be surprised when you see it. Joshua was out digging post holes for $$ for his trip this past week, and it was in the 90s. They’re putting plumbing and electric in this weekend!!! Steve, Timothy swam so well yesterday. You’ve been such an awesome role model for him. Jeff and I appreciate it soooo much. Look forward to seeing you all!

Love,
Mama Gabs

By: Mikey Mouse

Mikey Mouse — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 14:45:23 +0000

i don’t want to leave this awesome state!!! i love it here!!!

By: lady claire

lady claire — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 14:42:30 +0000

i <3 denver

By: quote of the day by daniel

quote of the day by daniel — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 14:41:19 +0000

“go this way, come back; go that way, come back”

By: Greg "Big Man"

Greg "Big Man" — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 14:36:44 +0000

Hey everyone, we are getting ready to leave the mountians. We will land in chicago around 10:21 pm chicago time. Cant wait to see you all. i hope everything is fine at church. talk to you later.

By: Meghan Mahottieoda

Meghan Mahottieoda — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 14:24:04 +0000

We are getting ready to leave the mountains. Yesterday we hiked and swam in ice cold water. We had Linda’s daughter and sons sleep over last night. See you all when we get home!

By: group

group — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 14:04:11 +0000

Good morning. We are enjoying our last day in the Rocky mountains!

By: Lou

Lou — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 07:49:01 +0000

Stephen, I can picture you atop a mountain surrounded by a bright starry sky. Sounds awesome! Thanks for your leadership within the YG this past year and especially for your friendship too. I know God has great plans for you.

By: quote of the day by Jon

quote of the day by Jon — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:35:00 +0000

homeless lady: “ya scared the hell outta me!”
Jon: “Good! you dont want any hell in ya”

By: Mrs. D

Mrs. D — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 17:44:49 +0000

Hey Stephen,

I wish we could see God’s beauty that you are seeing right now. I am sure it is breathtaking.We miss you very much and am very exciting to hear about your trip. As your exploring the mountains enjoy quiet time with the Lord and listen with all your heart. I love you and am very proud of you.

Love Mom

By: stevie d

stevie d — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 14:09:39 +0000

We are up in the mountains. it is 8am and just got back taking a hike with daniel that was a highlight for me. The stars last night were so beautiful and memorable. This is my last and final trip, and this was the most experiential trip I had in my 4 years with the group. Its been awesome. to all the leaders back home, Thank you. Cant wait to see to see you guys. To my parents and family, can’t wait to see you all.

By: People We Have Met

People We Have Met — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 07:09:28 +0000

All of Daniel’s friends:
elk
deer
mouse
coyotes
squirrels
chipmunks

By: The Denver Group

The Denver Group — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 07:06:57 +0000

To all of our youth group leaders we just want to thank you so much for being there for us and loving us as much as you guys do. And even though we give you a lot of crap and discouragement we love and appreciate you.
Lou-thanks for being so giving and willing
Todd- we love how much you teach us about respect and prayer
Joel- your fun and awesome =) we love it
Dom- thanks for being the tough guy that looks out for us
Brent- your an awesome tree, and your also a good friend
Mario- your kool, thanks for letting the boyz d group use your house even when your not there
Melissa- thanks for giving us girls a good Christian perspective on things
Amy- thanks so much for being there when we need you and making us laugh
Jen- you are hilarious and got jokes (YEAH bloomingdale church)
Janelle- your pretty and thanks for the worldly advice
Barb- thanks for leading us
Nicole- your amazing and we love you at d groups p.s. bring brownies next week lol jk

By: Mikey Mouse

Mikey Mouse — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 06:53:30 +0000

fine i miss u all
=)

By: Annette Padron

Annette Padron — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 06:37:56 +0000

Linda – How blessed you must feel to be doing God’s will in your life and making an impact on each one of those teens and all that come near you. Praying for you!

By: Annette Padron

Annette Padron — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 06:27:31 +0000

Praying for each one of you that God will open you eyes to what He has planned for all of you. My prayer is that you see other people in God’s eyes and not your own. I love that song by Sanctus Reel – Sometimes we have no idea what God is doing in our lives, but whatever it is – We must Trust in Him alone. Our Prayers are with you!
Steve & Annette Padron

By: Ryan Batzkall

Ryan Batzkall — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 02:51:15 +0000

what about me mikey? jkjk. lol

By: Mrs. Wells

Mrs. Wells — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 21:11:46 +0000

Greg, I am glad to see that the final group worship impacted you. I hope this week touched your heart and that you were able to make a difference, by listening and following. I hop you enjoy the mountains, I am sure they will be great. I love you and I miss you, Mom

By: Todd

Todd — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 19:24:55 +0000

What a great experience this must be for you! I can’t wait to hear all about it. I am so proud of each of you and sad because we all could not be there. My prayer is that you are able to sit together in the incredible surroundings and reflect on all that took place. Mostly I hope that you get some time by yourself to talk with God. Let our Lord know all about what you did, saw, and learned. I know that spending quite time with him and sharing our thoughts (both good and bad) are what he wants from us. I look forward to hearing how your conversations go. You are my hero’s! Love you all and see you soon.

Todd

By: B Soden

B Soden — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 17:34:32 +0000

Joe,
I’m glad you are meeting so many new people. I’ll look forward to hearing about the skate park when you return. Enjoy the mountains!!
Love, B

By: B Soden

B Soden — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 17:32:01 +0000

Lady Claire,
Your lessons will serve you well as you follow God’s plan for your life. I hope you have a wonderful visit to the mountains!! Celebrate God’s creation and the friendships your team share!
Love, B

By: B Soden

B Soden — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 17:25:59 +0000

Hallie,
It is a beautiful gift from God when you realize spending time in prayer with Him is not useless, doing nothing — but something much, much bigger and better than any other thing we might have chosen to do!!
Have a wonderful day in the mountains!
Love, B

By: B Soden

B Soden — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 17:22:16 +0000

Linda,
You’re so lucky!!! I’m glad you’re there with them to guide and encourage. Maybe a little like heaven in Colorado?
Love, B

By: Meghan's Mom

Meghan's Mom — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 17:02:04 +0000

Meghan Mahottie? Who are you and what have you done with my daughter?
Anyway, I’m looking forward to hearing your stories (we all have one, as you know). Remember that the most important story is HIS STORY (get it?) and how, by His Grace, we all fit into it.
Have fun. We all miss you. Murphy has been watching by the window all week.
Remember, don’t fall off a mountain, and don’t crash into any corn or prairie grass on the way home! I’m proud of you, and I love you. Your favorite Mom

By: B Soden

B Soden — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 16:17:24 +0000

Meghan,
It would be the big sister who spots a little girl who isn’t feeling well!! God is amazing! I am thankful that you are served in Denver once again. Who knows what God is preparing for you next? I’m looking forward to finding out!!
Love, B

By: B Soden

B Soden — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 16:14:11 +0000

Mikey,
With names and faces they can always be remembered in your prayers!!
It is joyful to watch you grow in your faith; as a leader.
Love, B

By: B Soden

B Soden — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 16:11:15 +0000

Greg,
You were the perfect person to mowi a lawn in the pouring rain! You are strong and determined. I am thankful that God is finding ways to show you this and that you are learning to trust him.
Love, B

By: Daniel Riemo

Daniel Riemo — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 13:59:30 +0000

Dear Blogosphere (AKA…anyone who is connected with the Denver Team),

For the last five days I have enjoyed updating you mostly through our Twitter feed (www.twitter.com/storiesofus). I hope you have enjoyed the timely updates. But 140 characters is not enough to brag about God and our youth. Here are some of my favorite moments:

1. Ask The Lord. According to our project leader John, no youth group on an AIM trip has ever done ATL’s every day. I’m not bragging about myself; asking the Lord every day what to do and where to go was not easy for me to do. I am bragging about our team and their willingness to learn how to be sensitive to the Lord and surrender to God’s plan
2. Civic Park. I loved watching our students connect with people from every kind of background imaginable at Civic Park in downtown Denver. They shared sandwiches and cold water with the hope that they could tell their story about Jesus Christ changing their life. Change happened: in those receiving and those sharing their story.
3. Skate Park. Imagine our teens going up to people their own age and starting conversations. Intimidating. The first time we did this ministry we struggled and had a tough debrief. Even though we did not want to we felt God asking us to approach it the second time with confidence knowing that He had asked us to be obedient.
4. Prayer Driving. Our Wednesday our students asked the Lord what to do and felt God encouraging them to drive and walk the city and pray over it. I loved hearing their heart as they prayed for God’s anointing on the city. I also have great memories of Claire leading us in team building while hanging out at beautiful park with the city and mountains in the background. Priceless.
5. Worship. My three favorite worship moments were at the famous Red Rocks Amphitheater on Wednesday night overlooking the city lights below, concluding our ministry at Civic Park by praying in a huddle in the center of the park, and Thursday night with the talented, heaven-minded Confluence worship band.
6. Our Students. Watching Joe approach a guy at bus stop ministry and pray for him. Meghan taking the reigns of leadership because she felt confident in what God was asking her to do. Greg’s passion to finish mowing Agnes’ lawn in the pouring rain, meeting a felt need. Steve’s focus and willingness to start conversations with strangers who did not know Christ. Hallie’s continual joyful attitude and desire to hear God’s voice. Claire’s surrendered choice to allow God to lead her rather than Claire lead. Mikey’s spiritual mindedness to lead the team in prayer throughout the week. Linda’s graceful approach to trusting God and guidance of the teens.
7. Thursday’s Struggle [Surrender]. It was our last day of ministry. We had an amazing week of trusting God and going on great adventures. When the theme of our morning devotions was surrender I knew God had some different plans for us. We struggled. We did not have the tools we needed to work on houses. It took extra time. It was hot. It rained. We went to Civic Park and had a difficult time finding people to talk to. But God reminded us that He did not ask us to “do” things for Him. Rather He asked us to “be.”

This week’s theme in my life: God’s calling me to close my eyes to the physical things I can see and ask Him to open my eyes to be sensitive to the way He sees people. Lord, help me to have spiritual eyes!

“Whatever you’re doing inside of me / It feels like chaos somehow there’s peace / It’s hard to surrender to what I can’t see / but I’m giving in to something heavenly” [Sanctus Reel/Whatever You’re Doing]