Conference notes, continued

One session was about "vision in crisis". The statistics reported about kids response to a clear gospel message were:

• 32% positive response for kids between 6-12 yrs old
• 4% positive response for teens 13-17
• 6% positive response for adults 19-90

Wow. The Lord has me serving an important age group for his kingdom. The session presented a 4 part "white" video about an all too typical situation with a teen and his family, church, and peers. There was then discussion about what was wrong & how to correct situations. Kind nice to throw darts at the hypothetical video situations, because way too many things would have hit me otherwise.

Jim spoke about 4 church views on kids, that I must confess, that I've had from time to time as well. (Isn't our Lord wonderful? He forgives and still uses us?) The 4 views were:

1. Kids are a Bother. They are a nuisance and distraction for the adults who make up and are serious about 'church'. -No
   
2. Children are a tool. The key to improved church attendance is to attract children who typically come with a parent. -No
3. Children are our future. If we don't train them right how will they replace us and continue the faith? -No
4. Children are People, their future is now. We extend grace to troubled or sometimes difficult adult members because it is what C Christ wants us to do. However, do we (or I), extend that same grace and patience with the Little People, the children? Their future is Now because if it isn't, they won't be around later to continue the faith.

In the opening session the challenges to Awana, the family, and the faith were outlined. Many the negative trends with marriage, family, and education were mentioned. I am so guilty of many of those things. Lord help me to be a better leader at home, in devotions, in attention to my kids. In so many ways I see how poorly I'm doing. But no, I'm not quitting. I want my kids and the kids I work with to know the Love and Strength and Grace that is theirs in Christ. That Jesus is soo real, an in their lives.

These kids have been described as the Joshua Generation. They will grow up with "Giants in the land". The Giants in this society of homosexuality, promiscuity, gambling, abortion, and "tolerance". They need a solid start. They need relationship.

Its all about my Lord Jesus Christ, and not about me. No mater how I feel about myself, God's word, and my faith tell me the truth - Thank you Jesus.