January/February 2010

Brother Lawrence -- This quiet monk taught us to practice the presence of God at all times, even in the most mundane chores of the day. To learn more about him, get a free download of his book or join his fan page!

Emma's Work in India -- Check out Emma Sleeth's blog to learn more about her work with the Dean Foundation's palliative care center in India and her passion for saving the planet.

Mikey's Story & Sports Servants -- Read more of Mikey's story about his experiences in Belize, and learn how you might serve God and empower children and youth through Sports Servants.

Mobile Bible -- Search for passages in various versions of the Bible on your smartphone!

More about Bluetree -- Learn more about this band from Ireland, whose song "God of this City" has been adopted by cities around the world as a musical symbol of the hope and the promise that God's love is for all people.

More about Kerri Strug -- Learn more about this teenage gymnast whose amazing vault in the 1996 Olympics won her a Gold Medal and a place in the hearts of people around the world.

Playing by God's Rules -- Be inspired by these stories of a high school basketball team and two softball players who sacrificed a win for all the right reasons and gave the spectators a glimpse of how the game of life should be played.

Read the Whole Quote -- Olympic Gold Medalist Kelly Clark finds inspiration for snowboarding and for life in her favorite quote: "Our greatest fear is not that we are inadequate, but that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, handsome, talented and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of God within us. It is not just in some; it is in everyone. And, as we let our own light shine, we consciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our fear, our presence automatically liberates others." -- Marianne Williamson

Read with New Eyes -- Read Matthew 7:24-27. We often think of this passage as a call to trust God in difficult times; but as you read this time, allow these words to speak to you about trusting God in moments of temptation. If Christ is our rock, our lives will be built on a firm foundation that will help us withstand the storms of temptation. Are you building on rock or sand?

"The War Prayer" -- Enjoy this satirical but profound short story by Mark Twain. Then reflect on what your spoken and unspoken prayers are really asking for, especially when you pray for God to be on your side.

Why Memorize Scripture? -- Check out why the guys of Tenth Avenue North believe it's important to read and memorize scripture. Then use these exercises to begin this practice yourself.

Why Pay Cash? -- Did you know that, like major ad companies, credit card companies target teen consumers? Find out how to spend less and to spend more responsibly with cash.