Blessed to be a Bragger

This is an article I wrote for our church's newsletter. It's about my church and our youth missions trip and how.... you know what, I'll just let you read it.

I would imagine that if I were a professional basketball player, I would undoubtedly rub shoulders with other professional athletes. Or say I was a lawyer. I would probably spend a sizeable amount of time around other lawyer types. The same probably goes for Policemen, Hair stylists, Comedians and yes – Pastors. As a Pastor, I spend a decent amount of time with fellow pastors. And although our conversation is probably much different than that of a group of pro athletes or say hair stylists (sometimes I wonder though), we do share one very instinctual conversational tactic; we like to brag.
Now, we don’t brag about our new shoe endorsements or the 2.3 million dollar scandal we just unveiled, but we do in fact brag about things that we are very proud of. Our bragging usually consists of children, family, youth groups, the sweet half-off deal we managed to broker with the local laser-tag guy….. you know, Youth Ministry stuff. But for me, the thing I have found myself bragging about most recently is not something I did, but some people I know. Truth is, I brag about you.

You read it right, I brag about you. And not just once, but repeatedly. When I am sitting on a smelly youth-room couch in a meeting with my fellow Youth Pastors, I brag about the best, #1, most loving and generous group of people known as Canby Christian Church. I brag because I cherish your thoughtfulness, and your diligence toward seeking Christ. I’ve experienced your love and dedication and it is awesome. Fact is, your number one in my book.
One particular trait that I like to brag about is how our church family rallies and supports our youth Missions trip to Mexico. I often hear horror stories from Youth Pastors of lack of funds and church support, rained-out car washes and lemonade stands that make $43 for 8 hours work. I am blessed to be a part of a church family that realizes the importance of our youth, and the exposure they get to the global need for the gospel of Jesus. In my past 2 years I have been overwhelmed by your generosity. Thank you for your support.
As our 2009 Mexico Auction approaches, I would like to again ask you for your help. We are in need many items to sell at our annual auction. This auction is our sole fund-raising event to help offset the cost of our trip to Mexico in June. Would you start praying to God and asking yourself, “What can I give”? In the next few weeks we will be making in-service announcement that will provide you with details as to how and when you can give.

I look forward to seeing how God will work through you in partnership with our Mexico Missions Trip. Thank you Canby Christian Church for being who you are. Without you, who knows what I would brag about!