Monday, December 21, 2009

Stunned By Christmas - wk 2

Here is the recap of what we discussed this past Sunday @ all our Student Ministry Weekend Bible Studies:
Luke 2:8-11
"8And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord."

Intro: What is the one gift you are asking for this Christmas?
Illustration: We gave away a gift to one random student, made a big deal of it and were sure that all the other students saw. The point: that gift was for one person only but God's gift of Christ at Christmas is for ALL PEOPLE, everyone - even our students today!

This week's stunning prophecy - the Angel foretold that the baby born as Jesus Christ was going to be "good news of great joy" that was for all people - people back then, people of all time, you today.

We challenged our students to evaluate their relationship with Christ this Christmas in light of how many of the people surrounding Jesus' birth could have responded. We asked are you...
1. Waiting - sometimes we find ourselves waiting for God to show up in our lives much like the Jews were waiting for the Messiah. We wait for Him to do something in our family, school, relationships, circumstances, and in any area that we think is just not right. The truth is that God has already "shown up" in the birth of Christ @ Christmas and today he calls us to rest and trust in His provision for us, first for eternal life, and for the day to day things in this life.

2. Watching - other times we find ourselves watching Christ from a distance much like many of those surrounding his birth were barely aware of the baby born in a manger much less of His significance for them. We sit on the sidelines of our faith and stay our of the game out of fear or doubt that God can come through if we do it His way. Are you "watching" God work all around you today, but are hesitant to experience him personally? No doubt it was those that engaged Jesus personally that yielded the greatest return in life - healing, life-change, etc. God doesn't call is to passively watch but to passionately follow!

3. Waking up to Worship - That Christmas night it was the Shepherds that went to see Christ and to worship Him spreading the word of his birth to everyone in amazement! Do you see it - their worship. Their response to Christ at Christmas was one of awe. This Christmas morning will you wake up to presents, excitement for a gift, desire for a special something OR hope in the SOMEONE who God sent to change everything? The greatest response we can have to this week's stunning prophecy of things to be fulfilled in OUR lives, to the joy God has given is Worship. On Christmas morning, every morning.

Friday, December 18, 2009

Merry Christmas from the Youth Staff

Merry Christmas from all of us here in the Student Ministry @ Second's North Campus!

"Stunned by Christmas" Series - part 2 this weekend @ all our Bible Studies

Saturday @ 7:15pm

Sunday @ 9:30 & 11am

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Christmas Bash(s)!!!


Tomorrow night (Wed Dec 16) the Second North Student Ministry is going all out to host two of the most, crazy, outrageous, unexpected, and just plain fun Christmas Parties ever - get this - we're calling them our "Christmas Bash." Invite a friend and see you there!
HS Chrismas Bash - FLC Gym / 7-8pm
JHigh Christmas Bash - FLC 108 / 6-7:30pm

Monday, December 14, 2009

Stunned by Christmas - wk1

Intro Video: Staff Stunned by Christmas Stories

Key Concept: Every year we are stunned by the Christmas Season in one way or another but are we stunned by how amazing the Christ of Christmas is? This week we will look at the prophecies leading to the birth of Christ THEN ask how this evidence leads to greater worship for you this Christmas.

Intro: What is stunning about Christmas to you?
- Lights
- Stores / shopping
- Presents
- People / family
- The non-stop Christmas music?
I told a story of a time I was stunned on Christmas morning. parents said my gift was, "in the driveway" but left shoes there for me to find - stunning!

Main Illustration: The Greatest gift @ Christmas
We used 1 large wrapped present with lid, 1 large Bible
· Placed the present on stand before all the students we began the message.
· Referred to the present as containing the "most stunning Christmas present of all time"
· Asked students what they think would be inside
· Opened the box & pull out the Bible (God’s Word)
· Describe how God’s Proven & Trustworthy Word if the most valuable, most stunning present we could ever receive at Christmastime or in our lives!
· The greatest gift of all – God’s Promise to fulfill his Promises.
· He is absolutely trustworthy / so is His Word
This year in stead of looking at the manger, at the shepherds, at the wise men – were going to look back over 500 - 750 years before Christ was born to see where Christmas all started…to see how we can trust God & His Word even when it comes to Christmas; to Christ!

Read Luke 1:1-3 1 "Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us, 2just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were eyewitnesses and servants of the word. 3Therefore, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good also to me to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus."
- He writes to Theophilus: either a new Christian convert or possibly a letter to all God’s people because Theophilus literally means “lover of God.”
- Luke starts by taking about all the things that have been fulfilled…the Jews had been looking for these things for a long time. (500-750 years plus)

What year was it 500+ years ago = 1509 / Doesn't that seem far away!!!
- How did they know so far in advance?
- How could they predict with such accuracy?
- How does it impact us today? Especially as we celebrate Christmas?

Q: How do you ID anyone today? Drivers Licence, SS card, birth Cert... well, Jesus was ID'ed as the coming Messiah 500+ years before he came! The identification was 1) predicted 2) specific

The birth of Jesus Christ is in direct fulfillment of many Bible prophecies:
- All these prophecies were made at least 500 years before Jesus was born.
- They stand as an irrefutable monument to the inspiration of the Bible and prove that God revealed himself through his messiah, Jesus of Nazareth.
- Most importantly - they prove that God can and should be trusted to do what He says He will do!
- As we look at these fulfilled Prophecies let them remind you of how trustworthy God & His Word is for you in your life!

1. Jesus’ Birth
Prophecy
Jesus would have to be born at least 30 years before the following prophecy could occur: "And after the sixty-two weeks,Messiah will be cut off, but not for Himself." (NKJV) Daniel 9:26
Fulfillment
Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, that a census be taken of all the inhabited earth. This was the first census taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria.
And everyone was on his way to register for the census, each to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, in order to register along with Mary, who was engaged to him, and was with child. While they were there, the days were completed for her to give birth. (NASB) Luke 2:1-6

2. Jesus’ Mother
Prophecy
Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel." (NKJV). Isaiah 7:14
Gen 3:15 that he was born of the seed of woman,
Fulfillment
Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins . . . His name [is] Immanuel." (NKJV) Matt. 1:20-23.

3. City of Birth
Prophecy
But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come . . . one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times." (NIV) Micah 5:2
Fulfillment
After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod . . ." (NIV) Matt. 2:1

4. Children Killed
Prophecy
This is what the LORD says: "A voice is heard in Ramah, mourning and great weeping, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because her children are no more." (NIV) Jer. 31:15
Fulfillment
When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under . . . then the [prophecy] was fulfilled. (NIV) Matt. 2:16-4:1

Jesus was the ONLY person in history that could have fulfilled those prophesies
- no one before…they would be too early!
- No one after – they would be too late!
- He is the only thing worth our worship this Christmas
- He is absolutely trustworthy for your life as well!

Application: So what does all that mean for me at School this week? With finals, etc

Proverbs 20:7 7 "Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God."
- God has something here that no one & nothing else has….He is the only one that can be TRUSTED!
- God keeps his Promises
- He Does what he says he will do
- “we trust in the name of the LORD” God’s name is His reputation. HE IS TRUST!


Conclusion: There’s tons to be stunned by this Christmas
Commercials, presents, lights, traveling, skiing, hours off of school, finals over…tons!
- There is only 1 gift God has given you this Christmas that’s more stunning than them all – HIS WORD
- You can trust it
- You can build you life on it
- @ Christmas you can know that Christ is the Messiah because of it




Saturday, December 12, 2009

Christmas is Coming

Dear Parents,

With the Christmas season here (can you believe that it's December 11) I thought I would pass along a resource that has been helpful for me. The website is:

http://www.commonsensemedia.org/

I know that many of your students will be asking for video games and movies and this site does help us to make informed decisions about what they are asking for. I would encourage you to not let this site be the deciding factor since you know your student better than a website, but my hope is that this site will help you to make an informed decision.

I also read an article on how to survive Christmas in the economy that we are in and thought that I would pass that on.

Know that as Christmas is coming I am praying for you and your families.
Brian Harris


10 Tips for Surviving Christmas Without Going Broke
Author Jim Liebelt

The consequences of the recent economic crisis have hit many families hard. Sure, there have been economic downturns before that have affected many. But, in my years as an adult, I have never seen such widespread financial impact and uncertainty.

I am reminded that in Christ, there is no reason to be afraid. As Christ-followers, we know that God is still on His throne, and we have much for which we can be thankful. As we enter in upon the Christmas season, all of the economic bad news ought not to affect our celebration that “Unto us a Child is born. Unto us a Son is given.”

But this Christmastime, perhaps more than any other in our lifetimes, we need to be wise in our approach to our Christmas celebrations and traditions, to ensure that we take economic realities into consideration and put our families in the best posture to weather the difficult financial times we might well face in 2010.

Here then, are some practical ideas for surviving the holidays without going broke.

1. Establish a Budget for Christmas Spending. Make a quick list of everyone you feel you need to “gift” this Christmas. Then, take a look at the state of your finances, and decide how much you can afford to spend on Christmas gifts. Set this amount as your limit. Write it down. Finally, take a look at your gift list again, and begin making some decisions on specific dollar amounts to allocate to each person. Remember, not every gift needs to be one that has been purchased.

2. Stick to Your Budget. Christmas tends to bring out the best in people in terms of feelings of generosity toward their loved-ones. But, once you’ve set your Christmas gift budget, stick to it. Don’t budge. Once you reach your budget limit, you’ll need to say, “That’s all. No more.”

3. Resist the Urge to Buy on Impulse. One of the biggest reasons people break their Christmas spending budgets is that there is a strong urge for us to buy on impulse. We go out looking to buy a certain gift for someone. We pick it up in the store and then as we’re headed toward the checkout stand, we see a special super duper sale on turnip twaddlers and think what a great gift it would make, as well. So, we end up buying something we wouldn’t have otherwise purchased. I don’t know how to completely avoid having an urge to buy on impulse. But, what we need to remind ourselves of is this: Whomever you purchase an item from has a vested interest in seeing that you buy more. They’ll advertise, market, and display with their goal, to create that impulse within you to buy, on sight.

4. Don’t Buy Yourself Anything. According to the last statistic I’ve read, the majority of people who go Christmas shopping end up buying items for themselves. Many don’t take this into account when they set up their Christmas spending budgets. So, either be smart from the start by including an amount for purchases you want to make for yourself, or, simply choose not to buy yourself anything this year.

5. Shop for Bargains. In a struggling economy, retailers will be discounting items (but not everything, mind you). Help stretch your dollar by being a comparison shopper. Take advantage of sales. Lots of bargains can also be found online, and keep in mind that you might actually find your best price there. But, one caveat: Often times, online retailers may give you a real bargain, but charge horrendous amounts for shipping, and in the end, you might even pay more for that item online than if you had purchased it locally. Finally, there are lots of non-name-brand items that are made with decent quality. So, even if a purchase is not as “cool” without that popular name-brand, during times of economic hardship, non-name-brand items can provide good choices for saving some money.

6. Pay in Cash. Give the credit cards a rest this Christmas. Pay by cash, check or debit card. Or, as a last resort, only use credit cards for items included in the Christmas spending budget, and pay off amounts charged for Christmas gifts the following month, so as not to incur any additional finance charges.

7. Think Creatively. When it comes to gifts for Christmas, do some creative brainstorming on what you can give that won’t cost you money, or at least minimize costs. What can you make or bake that would be meaningful? What service might you provide? One father, for example, gave a simple print out of coupons to his son for Christmas, entitling his son to forgo certain expected household chores, which Dad would do for him instead. The son could use the coupons whenever he wanted and when the coupons had been used up, the son was expected to comply with the rest of his responsibilities.

8. Remember, the Best Things in Life Are Not Things. This tip follows closely with the “Think Creatively” concept. Remember that more than “things,” people yearn for close relationships and the gift of your presence in their lives. So, for example, perhaps one gift to your family might be to schedule monthly family nights where everyone can hang out together and enjoy each other’s company. In this scenario, each family member can take a turn making a decision regarding what the activity for the evening will be for the current month (like a game night, watch a movie together on the television, go out for ice cream, etc.)

9. It’s Okay to Cut Back. If your family goes to great lengths in celebrating Christmas, it might be tough to decide to cut back this year. But, understand that the family will survive if you do. There will always be a “next” Christmas, and as financial conditions improve, you can move back into a more “regular” Christmas experience for your family. Make the most of what you are able to do this year. Strive to keep family morale high, and place the focus on “the reason for the season.”

10. Think Through Other Holiday Expenses. There are a lot of other little Christmas season related expenses that typically aren’t considered. So, this year, take some time to make a list of what those expenses are and how you can save by cutting back or doing things differently. For example, perhaps you’re used to making Christmas dinner for your entire extended family and over the years you’ve provided all of the food and fixings. To cut back on your expenses, have family members who will attend bring an appetizer, or provide other parts of the meal. Maybe this year, you can cut back on your outside light displays to save some money on electricity. Buy a smaller Christmas tree. You might choose to write handwritten notes instead of buying Christmas cards, or send Christmas emails instead of sending out Christmas cards. The idea is to think through your Christmas-related expenses and make cuts wherever practical.

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Kids Crazy Christmas

This Christmas Season Second Baptist is once again hosting a Houston Christmas Tradition - Kids Crazy Christmas. This is a Christmas show like none other for the whole family. Dancing by our JUMP team, puppets who creatively tell the Christmas story and a tasty treat at the cookie corner following each show. It's free for the whole family! See you there! Learn more at www.christmasatsecond.org


Find a show time near your corner of Houston!

Woodway Campus

Dec 11 -12 and Dec 18-23
Sat, Dec 12 at 10 & 11AM

Sat, Dec 19 at 10 & 11AM, 2PM
Sun at 2, 5:30 & 6:30PM
All other days 5:30 & 6:30PM

6400 Woodway at Voss Rd

West Campus

Dec 11 -12 and Dec 18-23
Dec 11, 18, 21, 22 and 23 - 5:30 & 6:30PM

Dec 12 and 19 - 10 & 11AM; 5:30 & 6:30PM
Dec 20 - 4 & 5PM

19449 Katy Freeway at Fry Rd

North Campus

Dec 11-12 and Dec 18-23
Sat at 10 & 11AM only

All other days 5:30 & 6:30PM

Highway 59 North at Kingwood Dr

Pearland (South) Campus

Sat, Dec 12 – 10 & 11AM
Berry Miller Junior High
3301 Manvel Rd, Pearland

Cypress Campus

Sat, Dec 19 – 10 & 11AM; 2, 5 & 6PM

Berry Center

8877 Barker Cypress at West Rd

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

This Wed Night! Whoo Hoo

Here's what's happening this Wed Night @ Overdrive and Motion:

Overdrive: Week 2 of the Addiction Approval Series for Overdrive. Patrick Thurman is speaking and it's going to be awesome - invite your friends! Overdrive meets on Wed nights from 7-8pm in FLC 108 @ SBC North!

Motion: This week Jason finishes our series on Worship...are you a fanatic?
Motion meets every Wed night from 6-7:30pm in FLC 108! See you there.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Are YOU Stunned by Christmas?

Year after year are you STUNNED by Christmas?
Do the gifts stun you? (for good or bad)
Do the lights get you?
Does the food do it for you?

This Christmas we are challenging students to be STUNNED by Christmas for all the real reasons! Join us on Dec 13/20 as we look at the Stunning way Christ dropped in to our world by fulfilling every prophecy told of him many years before!

Saturday, December 5, 2009

HS Parent Fellowship - WED DEC 9



Reminder....HS Parent's Fellowship
Who: anyone who has students in HS & would enjoy meeting other parents in the same place.
What: Simply socializing and fellowship with other Parents here on the North Campus
When: Wednesday December 9, 2009 / 6:15 - 8:15pm
Where: Los Cucos Mexican Restaurant (room is reserved) Hwy 59

I hope to see you there - we will simply meet at the Restaurant!

Friday, December 4, 2009

[ fanatic ] Week 1

We've just started a series on Worship for our JHigh students. So excited and hopeful to see them grow in this area. I wanted to simply share some of what happened last night @ Motion.



Week 1 notes:

WHAT IS THE ONE THING GOD DESIRES THAT ONLY YOU CAN GIVE?
YOUR WORSHIP.

WHY IS WORSHIP SO IMPORTANT?
THERE IS A WAR FOR YOUR WORSHIP.

Exodus 20:3-5
You shall have no other gods before me. "You shall not make for yourself idols…You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God.

Jealous-Demanding exclusive devotion to Himself

WHAT IN YOUR LIFE DO YOU VALUE THE MOST?
YOU WERE CREATED TO WORSHIP.

Luke 19:38-40
Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!" "Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!" Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, "Teacher, rebuke your disciples!" "I tell you," he replied, "if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out."

TWO IMPORTANT PARTS OF Worship
THE AUDIENCE. We think it's those of us in the crowd, but it's really God Himself!
THE PERFORMER. We think it's those on stage leading, but its truly us who are the performers.

WHAT IS WORSHIP?
WORSHIP IS A RESPONSE TO WHO GOD IS AND WHAT HE HAS DONE.

Romans 12:1
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God-this is your spiritual act of worship

WHO IS GOD AND WHAT HAS HE DONE?
­­­­­­­­­OUR ONLY REASONABLE RESPONSE IS WORSHIP!


Thursday, December 3, 2009

Winter Retreat '09 is coming! Signed up?


It's a perfect opportunity to leave behind everyday life! You signed up?

Pick up a registration packet today @ the church, or online HERE

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Are you a fanatic?

Worship. It's a funny thing if you stop and think about the whole thing...

Worship IS- [def.] verb to feel an adoring reverence or regard for (any person or thing).
noun - adoring reverence or regard: excessive worship of business success.
honor, homage, adoration, idolatry. honor, venerate, revere, adore, glorify, idolize, adulate.


So is worship something we do, something that just IS, or something everyone does? Don't we all "adore reverence or regard on something?" Especially this time of year....High regard for that prized present, that perfect holiday setup, isn't it true we are all fanatics over something.

We ALL worship.

This season are you INTENTIONAL in your worship of the Christ? The one true messiah sent by God to make you right with your creator. How are you making that happen?

worship just happens. worship of the One True God doesn't.

I pray that I will, that you will, that our ministries will be defined by intentional worship this season of the Savior.

couple thoughts on worship here on the North campus...

1. Introducing Eli Dawson: Eli will be joining our North Campus Youth Staff this week as the Student Ministry Music Associate. He is currently a senior music major @ HBU and will be a great addition to our team. Be sure to introduce yourself to him as he gets to know everyone in the weeks to come!!!
2. Our JHigh is starting up a "fanatic" series on Wed's beginning tonight @ Motion. If you are in 7-8 grade or have a JHigher there is no better way to ramp up for the Christmas season than to be @ Motion to hear " why we worship"

http://www.blogger.com/www.brianaharris.blogspot.com

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Christmas @ Second - a Houston Tradition

I just love this time of year! If you are looking for the right place to get in the Christmas spirit OR simply have friends who are looking for great activities for the Christmas Season look no further than Christmas at Second - it's truly a Houston Tradition!

This year there is a special site dedicated to all things Christmas - check it out at www.christmasatsecond.org

Monday, November 30, 2009

SBC NORTH HS Parent Fellowship



Do you have a student in HS that regularly attends our Student Ministry here on the North Campus of SBC? if so we have something just for you...

HS Parent's Fellowship
Who: anyone who has students in HS & would enjoy meeting other parents in the same place.
What: Simply socializing and fellowship with other Parents here on the North Campus
When: Wednesday December 9, 2009 / 6:15 - 8:15pm
Where: Los Cucos Mexican Restaurant (room is reserved) Hwy 59

Drop off your students at 6:15pm @ the FLC for Overdrive and pick them up at 8:15pm afterwards. I look forward to enjoying an evening with you before the holidays start up!

Friday, November 27, 2009

HS Winter Reatreat '09


Winter Retreat is a retreat to look forward to! We'll spend the weekend having fun, getting to know one another, worshiping and diving into God's word! During the day enjoy a variety of activities. Ropes course, canoeing, all sorts of sports, and more! It's a perfect opportunity to leave behind everyday life, be challenged in your walk with God, and spend time with others! Don't miss out!

Pick up a registration packet today @ Bible Study, Overdrive, or ONLINE HERE

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

I AM SECOND series starts this Sunday

So Thanksgiving just happened and Christmas is on it's way...if you're anything like me it's easy to get caught up on myself this time of year. Don't miss the next 2 weekends as we challenge ourselves to live as Christ taught us...HIM/Others 1st, us SECOND.

Here is a clip from a video of Colt McCoy we will be showing this weekend...see you there students!


Tuesday, November 24, 2009

ABC: Lambert's performance draws 1,500 complaints



Brian Mills, a fellow student pastor and friend sent out this tweet on Sunday Night after seeing Adam Lambert's "performance" @ the American Music Awards: Adam Lambert just put on one of the most INAPPROPRIATE performance's of all time. Do u agree? Wow!!!

I think the performance is just another indicator of the deterioration of our society....I was watching and thinking "Seriously. People watch this and just accept it for what it is!" At least I was not alone - read this ABC Article which speaks to the 1500 complaints they received. I was still surprised it was only 1500! The article still shy's away from calling the performance what it is.

Seems like the message of the day, especially to you if you are 25 and under, is "DO WHAT JUST FEELS RIGHT."
We're in desperate need of being straightened out, fixed, and made new.

Looking for an example subtly placed in the media communication this Christmas. Chew on this video
"You 86 the rules. You do what just feels right. . . " huh?





Can't see the video - go to www.brianaharris.logspot.com

Monday, November 23, 2009

Angels of Light - next MON/TUES

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Angels of Light, a cherished Second Family tradition. Begun in 1990, this annual event continues to bless families from Houston’s inner-city and surrounding communities at Christmas time. Participating in Angels of Light is sure to be the highlight of your Christmas season.

Every night during Angels of Light week, needy families are transported to one of our three campuses aboard buses hosted by friendly, volunteer bus captains. Upon arrival, our Angels (guests) are met by volunteers and treated to a delicious dinner followed by a fun-packed Christmas program and meaningful worship experience. The evening ends with a gospel presentation, and the biggest surprise comes when the Angels return to their buses and find their seats piled high with gifts!

How to Get Involved:

DONATE:

Bring the following items to Drop Sites on each campus November 7-30:
• Sacks of groceries: Non-perishable/non-glass containers (baby food glass containers acceptable) Please consider whole meal can donations; meats, vegetables, fruits and starches.
• Clothing: Good, clean, gently used for all ages (in garbage bags)
• New, wrapped toys labeled with name of toy, boy or girl, and appropriate age.

For your convenience, two Drop-off Days on the North Campus:
Sundays Nov 15 & 22 from 12:30-1:30PM
Eager Volunteers will be available to help you unload your car.

WE NEED STUDENTS TO VOLUNTEER:
Angels of Light North Campus
Monday, November 30 & Tuesday, December 1

• Students meet the student pastors in the lobby @ 6:30pm to help out
• We will be greeting and sorting toys both nights!

WHAT A WAY TO KICK START THE CHRISTMAS SEASON!!

www.brianaharris.blogspot.com

Friday, November 20, 2009

Weekend Bible Study in December

VISIBILITY
Lately I have been challenged to tell the story of what HAS happened and what IS HAPPENING in our Ministry here on Second's North Campus. The picture above is from a kiosk we will begin to have in the lobby of our church where we will constantly be talking about all things Student Ministry (in addition to constant video @ the kiosk as well) that we will use to communicate....pushing upcoming teaching series, Weekend Bible Study, trips, events, past victories, life change, and communicating to parents. I love the challenge of raising our ministry's visibility so we can "tell the story" of what Christ is doing in the hearts of students here in NE Houston.

Should be an incredible Thanksgiving and Christmas season around Second as we challenge our students in these upcoming series! Great time of year!
www.brianaharris.blogspot.com

Friday Fun Facts




My friend in Florida, Allen James, regularly post these...thought I would share! "These will not add any value to your weekend but they are fun to know" - Allen


The USPS handles over 40% of the world’s mail volume.
Pretzels were originally invented for Christian Lent.
Every gallon of saltwater yields more than 1/4 lb of salt.
King Kong was Adolf Hilter’s favorite movie.
Pittsburgh is the only city where all major sports teams have the same colors: black and gold.
Pollen never deteriorates. It is one of the few natural substances that lasts indefinitely.
In most advertisements, the most often displayed time on a watch or clock is 10:10.
A company in Taiwan makes dinnerware out of wheat, so you can eat your plate.
Israel is 1/4 the size of the state of Maine.
Coffee beans aren’t beans – they’re fruit pits.
Male hospital patients fall out of bed twice as often as female hospital patients.
Eskimos don’t gamble.
The eye of an ostrich is bigger than its brain.
A group of frogs is called an army.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Being an Influencer = Being a Leader

Are you a leader?

@ your workplace?

@ your home?

- in your neighborhood?

- in your school?

- on your team?

- on a ministry team?



It's been said over and over again that Leadership can be boiled down to one word...INFLUENCE - nothing more , nothing less.



As a learning leader I still have not figured out everything I need to know about being an influencer in my family, my ministry, my sphere of influence, but I'm moving forward....and so is our Student Ministry Team here on the North Campus @ Second.



As a Team we are taking a regular look at John Maxwell's "21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership." This past week we look at the "Law of Influence." Jonathan Gray, our HS Pastor, led our team in a discussion on what it means to lead via influence and here is what we fleshed out in terms of what factors come in to play: (adapted from Maxwell's "21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership")



Character - who you are: as some one who strives to live for Christ who I am inside is vastly more important the who I am outside. The question: is God's Word 1st influencing me before I can begin to influence others?



Relationships - who you know: influence happens through relationships; not in a vacuum. This week I identified those key influencers around me and asked if I have a solid relationship with them.



Knowledge - what you know: timing, vision, the direction of things...I found I need to think, "have I done my homework?" more often.



Intuition - What you feel: how is the morale, energy, and momentum in the group you want to lead; grasp that and you can influence effectively. For me - how is the energy, momentum, and morale on my team, in my ministry, in my home where I strive to lead?



Experience - where you've been: basically what have you proved you can influence previously...people will give you a chance if you give them a reason to do so.



Past Success - what you've done: a track record that says you can be trusted helps make your influence stick. Even small victories can be leveraged to build influence and credibility. My thought is - am I "sharing our story" enough so that others see the small & large victories?



Ability - what you can do: lastly, people want to be able to believe in you, in your cause, in your mission. Maxwell says, "they want to know whether that person can lead the team to victory"...huh, have we defined the win so others can get excited about following the casue?



Are these a part of who you as a Leader, opps I mean Influencer?


Wednesday, November 18, 2009

iParenting

Parents, last weekend we had a great time together as we discussed parenting in the digital age. i hope we can make gathering like that more frequent. If you missed the session here is what we covered (much of this was developed by David Drinnon, our fabulous IT Director here at Second Baptist Church)

PARENTS SAVE THE DATE:
High School Parent Social - Dec. 9th 6:15-8:15pm, Los Cucos/Hwy 59
Next Parenting Seminar - Feb. 6 or 7 (details tbd)


iParenting Notes (Nov 15, 2009)
What is the Digital age?
The period in history that is marked by the introduction of the computer and the subsequent convergence of all other technologies in TV, film, photography, music, sound, telecommunications, and more.


Getting Informed (simply information ishared)
Web 2.0 - a web where the “Users Add Value”
Social Networks
Examples: YouTube, Facebook, MySpace, Webkinz, Club Penguin, LinkedIn
- Mobile Social Networking
- Gaming
- The web is as much relational as it is informational.
MySpace (#1 Most Trafficked)
110+ Million active users around the globe
1 in 4 Americans is on MySpace
Facebook
70+ Million active users
14 Million photos uploaded daily
You Tube
Contains 83.4 Million videos
100 Million videos watched daily
150,000 videos added daily
Today's Top Influencers on students
1. Family
2. School
3. Media (especially music)
4. Friends


Suggested Family Game Plan ishared..
- Find the best school for your child
- Attend a Bible based evangelical church
- Go where the good kids are
- Relocate Your Home Computer(s)
- Supplement Parental Supervision with Technical Tools
- Teach Your Children
- Help students learn How to Choose Friends (Shared Biblical Values)
- Guard their Privacy of Personal Information
- Have Online Fire Drills: What to Do & Where to Go
- "Inspect What You Expect" - be in the know about what they are doing.
- Have Child Show You Their Online Profiles
- Watch for Physical & Behavioral Clues

Tools ishared for Protection @ Home
NetNanny
Safe Eyes
CYBERSitterCyberPatrol
Covenant Eyes
ClearPlay DVD Player
TiVo KidZone
PluggedInOnline.com

Tools ishared for Protection in Hand (cells)
Verizon Wireless
Content Filtering (Free)
Usage Controls ($4.99/month)
Chaperone ($9.99/month)
AT&T
MEdia Net Content Filtering (Free)
Smart Limits ($4.99/month)
Sprint
Parental Controls & Filtering (Free)
Family Locator ($5.00/month)
T-Mobile
Web Guard Internet Filtering (Free)
Message Blocking (Free)
Family Allowances ($2.00/Month)

Additional Reading and Information:
- Protecting Your Family (Focus on the Family)
- GetNetWise.org
- ConnectSafely.org
- Internet Use Statistics (enough.org)

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Wednesday Night Lights - this Wed!!

This Wednesday Night is WNL or Wednesday Night Lights for our students!
Here is the lineup:
6:30-8:15pm
Free Pizza for EVERYONE!
Michael Middleton & band will be THERE!
Fire Pit @ the Pavilion
Hot Chocolate
Sure to be a night to remember!

Monday, November 16, 2009

KPHS banquet tonight

I just love being involved in and supporting our community in any way I can! Its been a fun night with our jv and freshman football boys here in Kingwood. I love serving in this community.
www.brianaharris.blogspot.com

Friday, November 13, 2009

This Weekend @ SBC it's all about Students!

This Sunday @ Second Baptist Houston North it's all about Students. Everything we are doing is focused on our ministry to teens; should be an Incredible Weekend whether you are a teenager, parent of a teenager, or just want to catch a glimpse of all that is happening for students!

Here is all that is happening:

FOR PARENTS OF TEENS: we're hosting a Parent Breakfast and Seminar @ 9:30AM in the FLC focused on meeting you and talking about Parenting Your Teen in a Media World. Read more about what we have in store for parents here.


FOR STUDENTS: At 9:30am on Sunday morning were hosting an event called Summit Sunday for all our students grades 7-12! In and around the FLC gym we will have rock climbing, hot chocolate, games, competitions, giveaways, and a special message from our series on Joseph called "Everest" on Avoiding the Pitfalls of Life. It will be a Sunday students will NOT want to miss! Here is a video we have been showing our students about the event!



Around SBC north we will also have:

  • A SHIFT Student Ministry Booth in the Lobby Highlighting our ministry and passing out upcoming event information.
  • "Student Ministry @ a Glance" video in all services
  • Your Student Pastors leading out in all services

Hope to see YOU @ SBC this weekend!

can't see the video? Go to www.brianaharris.blogspot.com

"Wuv Twu Wuv" Series @ Motion / "Set it on Fire" Series @ Overdrive






We did a "wedding" with 'dating" vows in our series "Wuv...Twue Wuv." The first week we studied purity of the heart and the second week we looked at how pointless dating is in JHigh. After the service we had cake and punch to celebrate the "wedding." Great series as we saw God challenge us on how we can be pure of heart and how that carries over into our relationships. Jason Mick did a great job leading our JHigh students to understand the roots of relationships over these 2 weeks! You can also see the video of the "mock" wedding posted on my facebook wall.

Jonathan Gray, our HS pastor, has walked our HS Students through King Josiah's story over the last 2 weeks in a series called "Set it on Fire." The challenge was just as young King Josiah set aside those things in his kingdom that did not honor God and placed God's Word as primary we too should "sat on fire" those things that don't honor God in our lives and watch what God does as we fully sell out to HIM! Great teaching JGray!

http://www.brianaharris.blogspot.com/



Thursday, November 12, 2009

Parenting Your Teen Seminar - this weekend @ SBC North!


Parenting your teen in today's world : this weekend our student ministry is hosting a Parenting Seminar and breakfast @ 9:30am in the FLC for ANY parents of students grades 7-12. Mom and Dad, spread the word to the parents you know in the community that would enjoy a morning of some very practical tips and thoughts on raising teens in today's media driven world!
want more info go to http://www.second.org/North/Students/JHigh.aspx

Don’t know where to go? We will have volunteers happy to meet you at our information both to show you the way!

WHO: any parent of teens in NE Houston Community.
WHAT: During the hour we will host two seminars back-to-back called ”How to Protect Your kids on-line” and “iParenting” discussing both internet protection and awareness.
WHEN: Sunday Nov. 15, 2009 / 9:30am - 10:30am
WHERE: Second Baptist Church North, Family Life Center Rm. 108

Parents, spread the word...anyone is invited!
We have something happening for your teen that morning as well.
Learn more about Summit SUNDAY here!

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Dodgeball Tonight @ Woodway!

Tonight the Woodway campus here at Second Baptist is hosting a City-Wide Dodgeball Tournament. It should be a blast, and I invite you along with our north Campus student ministry team to be in prayer that it's a big success! Check this video out below:

( Save the date: The North campus tourn will be on Feb. 27, 2009)

The Most Painful Video Ever

See painful video at www.jordaneasley.com

Monday, November 9, 2009

Is your Twitter Trashy?

Today you can take what's "on your mind" and share it with the world in a matter of seconds...maybe even before you have had a chance to filter those thoughts. With twitter tweets, Facebook posts, and texting everywhere it's easy to communicate quickly - The question is:
DOES WHAT YOU COMMUNICATE BROADCAST WHO YOU REALLY ARE?

Here are some things I have seen lately that have challenged me on this front to "Pause my post" and think about what I'm really saying...are you doing that?


  • a student who post an update on Faceboook that completely dashes his character as a follower of Christ. (probably didn't even think about the lyrics he posted)

  • Lifecaster, blogger, and über web geek, Chris Pirillo [@chrispirillo] says that more and more bloggers are tweeting instead of blogging. One of his favorite lines to repeat is, “Twitter is a great place to tell the world what you’re thinking before you’ve had a chance to think about it.”

  • a NFL football player who was fired for his Twitter comments. (Read the full story of Larry Johnson's twitter comments / firing here)

Couple thoughts...


- Do you think about what you post before you post it?


- Do you stop to ask, "Who is reading this?" and, "What am I saying about myself?"


- Do you regard, " what am I saying about my faith in Christ?" here in this post?


It's a whole new world where who you are on Facebook, Twitter, and Mysapce IS who you are! Are you someone you respect?



"Are you still so dull?" Jesus asked them. "Don't you see that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then out of the body? But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean.' For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. These are what make a man 'unclean'; but eating with unwashed hands does not make him 'unclean.' " Matthew 15:16 - 20



Food For Thought: Parenting Seminar @ Second this weekend!


Food For Thought : this weekend our student ministry is hosting a Parenting Seminar @ 9:30am in the FLC for ANY parents of students grades 7-12. Mom and Dad, spread the word to the parents you know in the commiunity that would enjoy a morning of some very practical tips and thoughts on raising teens in todays's media driven world!
read post on www.brianaharris.blogspot.com

Sunday, November 8, 2009

Do YOU text while driving?


Someone passed this cartoon on to me and it made me curious. Do you text while driving? To respond to my texting poll go to www.brianaharris.blogspot.com

Here is something else that is interesting....seems like cell phone use is soon to be limited when it comes to driving anyway. Uncle Sam has already passed laws for their employees. Read more in this NY Times article.

Saturday, November 7, 2009

Everest Week 2: Joseph's Imprisonment final notes

Four thoughts we gleaned from Joesph's Improsonment experience in Genesis 39-41 this weekend:

When you feel like life handed you a bad hand and God's great plan for your life seems crushed rememeber 4 things:

1. Live by Faith not by Sight

2. Look for ways to serve in every circumstance

3. Look for opportunities to express you Spiritual Giftedness

4. Dont' try to manipulate your future

10 Signs of a Secure Leader...



#1 – Realizes he has nothing to prove!



#2 – Works for the applause of heaven and not for the applause of men.



#3 – Seeks God for direction instead of merely asking Him for permission.



#4 – Doesn’t pretend that he has all the answers.



#5 – Seeks to submit to the Spirit instead of constantly grieving Him.



#6 – Understands that he will go insane if his goal is for everyone to understand him.



#7 – Is willing to repent when he is wrong…and do whatever it takes to make things right.



#8 – Puts personal preferences aside when making decisions that will impact the church.



#9 – Has a sense of desperation for God…fully understanding the reality of John 15:5.



#10 – Refuses to compromise the vision…even when it may be convenient to do so!

What is it you have been called to lead for God?
A family (Dads), a team, a office, a organization, a ministry, a small group...
Are you leading from a place of security or self -focus? huh?

Friday, November 6, 2009

15 Signs a church is in trouble




Here is a re-post from Joshua Griffin's blog More then Dodgeball. Josh is the High School Pastor at Saddleback Church in Lake Forest , CA.

"Enjoyed reading the sometimes painful blog 15 Signs a Church is in Trouble by Perry Noble this morning. Good stuff in here, hope it stings us a bit so we fight against it! Here are a couple of them before you head there for the rest:"

#2 – When the church becomes content with merely receiving people that come rather than actually going out and finding them…in other words, they lose their passion for evangelism!

#9 – The church is reactive rather than proactive.

#10 – The people in the church lose sight of the next generation and refuse to fund ministry simply because they don’t understand “those young people.”

#11 – The goal of the church is to simply maintain the way things are…to NOT rock the boat and/or upset anyone…especially the big givers!

#15 – When the leaders/staff refuse to go the extra mile in leading and serving because of how “inconvenient” doing so would be.


How are you keeping your church out of trouble? What is it you are doing to be part of the solution and not the issue?

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Everest Series..."The Climb"




Admittedly I'm not the biggest Sooner fan out there, but this Sunday we are walking through Part 2 of our "Everest Series" as we study the life of Joseph. As I looked for today's examples of Joseph it is Sam Bradford's faith in Christ and understanding that whatever happens he's resolved to follow God's leading and plan that impresses me - it's that resolve that will serve him well now that his life's vision for playing in the NFL is in jeaopardy due to his recent injury.

Back to Joeseph...Now Joseph's story is really one of desappointment, after letdown, after abandonment. ONE MINUTE he was 17year old with his entire life before him; the next he was totally @ the mercy of some stranger (their property, imprisoned) Joe didn’t deserve jail…but he responded to it beautifully!
That's the marvel of HIS story! FIRST and foremost Joe had a vital and consistent relationship with the Lord & BECAUSE OF THAT – God used him in strategic and significant ways!

What about you? When mistreatment, disappointment, or abandonment hit you and your feel like life's VICTIM how will you respond?? When you life circumstances don't match up with what you think if God's vision for your life - what will you do?
Read Joseph's story in Genesis 39:20- 40: 23 and learn.

I love Sam Bradford's statement in this video: "The minute you start to think you're 1st and HE's second and what you think and what you have planned in your mind is more important than what HE has planned in your life - that's the minute your life begins to go the wrong way."
What Perspecitive, What Attitude in the face of Adversity!


Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Summit Sunday...coming soon!

Sunday November 15 / 9:30am @ SBC north...You will not want to miss this Sunday morning as we flip Wednesday Nights onto a Sunday morning...What can happen? more to come on my blog soon!

What's @ the Center?


Someone/something has to be the center of the family. If it is the marriage, the kids, the sports, the activities, or anything but Jesus then idolatry is ruling the home. We need to have marriage honoring kid loving activity encouraging Christ centered homes with Him as our priority and unity.- Mark Driscoll

In Ministry I have the priviledge of working with many fabulous famillies. Families of all sizes and shapes and all very different. However, there is one thing that they all have in common...something or someone is a driving the family. If the family is sports oriented then I can clearly see that it's the practices, coaches, and games that drive the family's decision making. If the kids are the center then the kids opinions and whims drive the family. If anything but Christ is at the center of the family it plays out in the way that family spends their time, money, and energy. No doubt that as we place Christ in his rightful place in our home then HE will honor and bless the rest of our ventures.

My prayer for our families would be that we determine that Christ will be at the center - at any cost and watch as everythign else falls in to place. Anything else is truly taking the King off His Throne and placing Him on the sidelihnes of life.

If you have a family, lead a family, or are a memeber of a family - What would you say is at the center? What drives your family?