jodyshelton.org

For many years I have been doing Wednesday night programs and have seen some changes take place in the way youth ministry is done from year to year. However, nothing has been as significant as the way it has changed in my group now. There are so many reasons why I like what we are doing at ThExchange so I thought I would list a few!

* Round tables (there is no head of the table all are equal)

* Table leaders it is amazing watching our college students and adults interact

* Connection–to see people talk about relative issues they face everyday while meeting new people who are going through similar situations.

* Live Polling of the audience—allows us to anonymously see what is going on with the students in our group.

* Discussion, it has been awesome to see students and leaders discuss during the message and apply the biblical principles being taught!

One of our live texting polls Wednesday night asked this question:

One of my scars is_____________, and I deal with it by_______________________.

Here is a few examples of some of the comments back:

Divorce—-Prayer

Emotions—-Cutting

my dad being an alcoholic—-talking to my mom

my parent’s apathy towards church—-listening to music

being short—-being sarcastic

As you can see our group is taking the necessary steps to being real. My prayer is that we go beyond surface type relationships and  begin “sharing life with one another.” God desires for us to confess our sins to one another and seek out people who can help us conform to the image of His Son Jesus Christ. One thing is certain we all experience pain and hurt and need a Refuge in our time of trouble. God is with us every step of the way!