Sunday, May 3, 2009

re:Generations blogging is back!

Hello, hello! It’s about time I blogged a bit, huh? Thanks for your emails requesting re:Gens updates. It’s been an incredibly busy, and amazing, year for the ministry; it all started with a partnership with ‘Faith in the Family International,’ FFI for short. re:Generations is now member ministry of this great organization, thus receiving 501c3, non-profit status. In addition to encouragement and wise counsel, FFI acts as a ministry enabler, providing ‘legal, financial, and administrative services as well as a "covering" and accountability for men and women who are called of God to lead a biblically-based outreach without the hassle or expense of organizing and operating a separate non-profit organization.’ What a blessing! To learn more about FFI, check out ministryenablers.net.

I kicked off the New Year speaking at the United Methodist Church’s ‘Holston Conference’ in Lake Junaluska, North Carolina. It was an honor to interact with hundreds of pastors and youth leaders who are eager to reach my generation. We left challenged, and encouraged. My mentor, Lisa, came along for the ride.

A few weeks later I packed my bags and jumped on a tour bus with 20 college students from King College. Destination: New York City! We served a non-profit organization in Brooklyn called CAMBA, relieving them of the nitty-gritty, time-consuming jobs like cleaning, painting, running errands, etc.



I was on ‘team organization’ and, as you can see, we didn’t mess around with our closet cleaning!

My favorite part of the trip was getting to know these beautiful young men and women who gave up their spring break and PAID $500 to scrub toilets. Their only ambition was to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Words weren’t necessary. I was inspired, blessed and encouraged by the servant-like heart of these college students. Our generation, as a whole, really desires to change the world. And, when we channel that longing for Christ, watch out!

As much as we worked hard in the Big Apple, we made sure to play hard! I think I pulled a muscle in this picture. (I knew I should have stretched first!) Grandma here is getting too old for the late nights and endless adventures that college life entails. But, I sure did enjoy it for a week!











I also had the great opportunity to be on set for ‘Hannity’s America.’ Sean and his staff were very gracious.












Meeting Karl Malone, aka: The Mailman, wasn’t too shabby either!


After NYC, I spoke at a Missions Conference at Christian Medical and Dental Associations. As always, it was a blast. There were ministry leaders from all over the world present, so I gained a global perspective on inter-generational ministry. Thanks CMDA Missions teams!

Perhaps one of the greatest opportunities I’ve had to this point came in April, when I was invited to share on Capitol Hill! I spoke to the House Values Action Team, ‘VAT,’ and several other pro-life organizations on how to reach my generation with the conservative/values message. This is my passion! It was an invaluable experience, and several neat endeavors have emerged as a result. I’m overwhelmed with gratefulness.




As you can see by these highlights, it’s been a great year thus far. I’m thankful for the Lord’s faithfulness. All this is because of Him. Please continue to pray for re:Generations as we move forward with many new and exciting projects and partnerships. I value your love, support and encouragement.

All for Christ,

Jessica

Thursday, January 1, 2009

The DMV and Me

It’s official: I’m a Tennessee resident... again!


I waited three hours-- with 50 other restless Tennesseans-- for my turn to fill out papers and get a mug shot. Fun times!

I frequent the dreaded DMV more often than not because, according to my moving stats, I relocate every two years. With the help of family and friends, I’ve packed up many the U-Hauls and trekked my way from Virginia… to Colorado… to Tennessee. Oh the adventures!

It’s a great season of life to try different jobs, experience other cultures and make new friends. And it’s not unusual for my generation to pack up, hit the road and do just that. Forty-five percent of my peers [24-35 year old Americans] expect to move within the next two years. My guess is, they will. And they should!

I'm excited to discover where my next adventure leads. Until then... on to the next government renewal on my list: a passport.

Italy anyone? :)