Youth Sunday 2010

A big thank you to everyone who helped make Youth Sunday 2010 a morning where God was praised, the Word was wonderfully proclaimed, and people were able to grow closer to God. A ton of pictures, including the big group pics, will be posted sometime soon. Despite a less then good rehearsal, all the music ended up sounding amazing (and that rehearsal will provide a wonderful illustration for my MS message this week, which is on worry). The orchestra, praise band, vocalists, and Junior Choir all really did a fantastic job. Thanks so much to Dan, Julie, Kurt, and Shelly for their great leadership of all the music groups. It was simply awesome seeing so many students (around 100 for Amazing Grace) on stage using their musical gifts for God.

I was also really proud of all those who helped deliver the message, based on 1 Peter 4:7-11. The content was deep, Biblical, and relevant, and it was obvious the students really put the time in to let God's Word be their guide. I've heard a lot of congregation members (of all ages) already expressing that the message really challenged them, so extremely great work.

Many people have asked about the song Prayer for Taylor. It was written by Michael W. Smith and performed with the Irish Film Orchestra on his album Freedom. It is available on ITunes and in many Christian bookstores and websites. With its soaring melody it really serves as a reminder that God desires to have us soar to be with Him in heaven, that death is not a sad end, but the beginning of an eternity with our Lord.

Youth Sunday Set-list
Days of Elijah: Robin Mark
Sing Sing Sing: Chris Tomlin
Inside Out: Hillsong United
Take It All: Hillsong United
Prayer for Taylor: Michael W. Smith
Amazing Grace/My Chains Are Gone: Chris Tomlin (arrangement Sunday by Michael W. Smith)