CLC Crossover Youth

2009-12-24T18:43:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas everyone.

Skillet Concert Review!

2009-10-29T13:52:00.000-07:00

October 23rd 2009 Friday Night, The 6 of us (Tony, Kevin, Sarah, Joseph, Brian and I) went to the Skillet Concert in LA at Club Nokia... a really amazing event for any fan of Christian Rock music! I picked up my friend Brian Singer from his school about 12 or 12:30PM, brought him towards Long Beach so I at least have him with us for our ride to the show. We went to Millikan High School to pick up Joseph from school. After picking him up we went and grabbed Wendy's delicious food and brought to Joseph and Sarah's home to have some lunch to tide us over for a while. When we finished eating (and watching the spiderman cartoon) we headed out to LA for the amazing concert! Kevin and Tony were going to meet us there later, but we thought we might as well save a spot in line right? Traffic at about 2 or 3 wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be, so we managed to get there we hours to spare, being second in line!
We played Cards for a long while, used the restroom one at a time, and then finally got a call from Tony and Kevin saying they arrived. We finally were let in the building, and it felt like an airport with the metal detectors and security checking everybody, blah what a hastle.

So we finally were in, center just behind the pit area. Perfect spot, see the whole stage, no one blocking our view (pit is lowered).

The First Band up was: "The Letter Black"
They had a hard rock style, with a girl singer, who can scream just as good as any screamo guy can. Overall they were pretty good! A little joke was, one of the guys in the band was wearing white while everyone else was wearing black, he stuck out so bad lol but Tony and Brian fell in love with the Girl Singer haha... New to the scene I'd say maybe a
8/10

The Second Band up was: "Decyfer Down"
They've toured with Skillet before and are good friends with them, so I knew they were gonna be pretty good at what they do. And they were, they played really well, they had good messages in their songs. Singer had the weirdest talking voice, didn't fit him but at the same time it did. He reminded me of the band Disciple's Singer.
But They did well
8/10

The Third Band up and Second Headliner was: "Hawk Nelson"
I've seen these guys before a Youth Convention, I'm not a huge Hawk Nelson Fan, but they actually did pretty good, made their show really fun, with their cool glasses, and cartoony additude. One thing awesome about being in California and hearing Hawk Nelson is you get to hear their song called "California!" They did a good list of songs from both their newer albums and older albums, I know more of their old stuff with they did a lot of so I wasn't totally just starring at them... Of course they told their reasons for being there on the tour and proclaimed Jesus the Reason! Overall they did really well
9/10

Finally saving best for the last "Skillet" was up:
As we watched the other band's instruments get torn away, only one drumset was left with two poles sticking out on the left and right. As we stood there, we were wondering what those poles were and why they were there, I thought they were for the string section so they don't fall off the back of the stage... They had ramps right in front of them coming down onto the actual stage. Korey's Keyboard (Korey is the keyboard player/ backround vocals/ guitarist for Skillet) was brought out. Other people who were helping out with the tour were tuning the instruments and setting up everything so the bandmembers didn't have to reveal themselves yet. As the "Hawk Nelson" Sign went down in the backround, the giant "Skillet" sign appeared making everyone cheer... as the lights went out the show began to start...

As it was about to start, we heard a monster voice telling us if we have any Heart Problems, trouble with rocking out, or trouble with pushing and shoving and other various stuff that made us laugh... a countdown was then conducted by the Monster Voice, when it hit zero, we then knew what those two pole were for, as music started, Jen was on the drums, and suddenly Korey and the Guitarist, Ben were infront of the pole, being lifted up on two cranes, with lights glowing behind it. It blew my mind, amazing intro, they came down and rocked out, they intro went right into their song "Whispers in the Dark" amazing transition. Through the first 2 or 3 songs, I was wondering where the string section was... and when the lights went dark again, they did their famous String intro off of the "Comatose Comes Alive" CD transitioning into Comatose!
Other amazing songs they did were "Better Than Drugs," "It's Not Me It's You" "The Last Night," "Those Nights," "Awake and Alive," and "Hero" being one of the main hits, was where they showed off their smoke machines, and seeing Jen sing and drum was impressive! In between some songs they had solos, first solo was done by Jen in an amazing Drum solo! It was awesome! Another one was done by Ben the Guitarist, all the Squidlies were awesome haha!Another good Song was "Yours to Hold" and John Cooper (Singer) made us laugh of course before hand, but I made Jen Ledger the drummer laugh on her singing solo (ask me later if you wanna know how :) ).
Of course one of the best songs they did "Monster" made everyone in our group rawkfist or headbang. And when the scary Monster voice came on we were rocking even harder!

So after they played the song "Savior" they left the stage... (Tony says he started it) Everyone started saying "One More Song!" or "Skill-Et!"
After a little while they came back out and started playing "My Obsession" after that, they played the song "Lucy" which I almost cried on, such a sad song...
They then finally ended off the night with a String Section Solo first with the Cello Player and then Violinist and then it went right into "Rebirthing" it was amazing!
The Concert blew my mind and even though our throats felt as if we were in the desert, the show was worth every penny and every breath... I wish I could repeat Friday... oh well I can't :)
I think they should come out with another DVD for this tour, it'd be cool... but yeah they did amazing
10/10

Well if you didn't get to come this time, there will always be other concerts to go to, and Youth Convention is coming up soon, so be prepared for that!!! Godbless thanks for reading this long drawn out message about "Skillet!"

><> Joe

Skillet Concert

2009-10-15T15:25:00.000-07:00

The Four that I met with Wednesday Get Ready for

Next Friday October 23rd 2009, it's gonna Rock!!

><> Joe

And that's what happened...

2009-09-09T07:16:00.000-07:00

Acts 13
38 "Brothers, listen! We are here to proclaim that through this man Jesus there is forgiveness for your sins.39 Everyone who believes in him is declared right with God—something the law of Moses could never do.40 Be careful! Don't let the prophets' words apply to you. For they said,41 'Look, you mockers, be amazed and die!For I am doing something in your own day, something you wouldn't believe even if someone told you about it.'*" 42 As Paul and Barnabas left the synagogue that day, the people begged them to speak about these things again the next week.43 Many Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, and the two men urged them to continue to rely on the grace of God.Paul Turns to the Gentiles44 The following week almost the entire city turned out to hear them preach the word of the Lord.45 But when some of the Jews saw the crowds, they were jealous; so they slandered Paul and argued against whatever he said. 46 Then Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly and declared, "It was necessary that we first preach the word of God to you Jews. But since you have rejected it and judged yourselves unworthy of eternal life, we will offer it to the Gentiles.47 For the Lord gave us this command when he said,'I have made you a light to the Gentiles, to bring salvation to the farthest corners of the earth.'*" 48 When the Gentiles heard this, they were very glad and thanked the Lord for his message; and all who were chosen for eternal life became believers.49 So the Lord's message spread throughout that region. 50 Then the Jews stirred up the influential religious women and the leaders of the city, and they incited a mob against Paul and Barnabas and ran them out of town.51 So they shook the dust from their feet as a sign of rejection and went to the town of Iconium.52 And the believers* were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.

Welcome Back XOY

2009-08-10T08:17:00.000-07:00

XOY is back from AG Summer Youth Camp.

We heard testimonies last night about what God did for them last week. Topics that hit home - Life Re-Do's, relationships, family & missions work.

Testimony that hit home for me -"I was born for days like this"
I get caught up so many times wishing God would pull me out of a jam, waiting for a rough patch to be over, and just outright hoping for Friday when it's Monday (confessions of a 9-5er lol). I have to ask myself though, “How long will I be waiting for Friday, for the sun to come up, for the storm to pass?” Because while I eagerly wait w/ anticipation for the resolution to a problem, the answer to a prayer, the God-send for a need I miss out on life that is happening underneath my nose!

The truth is that life just doesn't "go-on". Life ladies and gentlemen happens and is happening. Life doesn't stop and wait while we wait for an answer to "what do I do w/ my life", "what career do I choose", "should I go to a UC, Cal State, private, out of state school..." I can go on and on.

Life happens regardless of our ability to deal and cope with its outcome. So my analogy for the day, treat life as a roller coaster ride (this is especially pertinent for roller coaster enthusiasts) - ride it through. Throw your hands up in the ayer (lol) and wave em like you just don't care. If we rode a roller coaster the way we live life we'd miss all those tummy dropping moments, the adrenaline rush, the thrill of your hair flying every which way, and the awesome sight of the world as seen from atop a roller coaster :)

If You (yes you) were born for days like this, then get out there and live it.

And They're Off

2009-08-03T16:17:00.000-07:00

XOY is off for a week of mountain air, camp food, awesome worship and even awesomer (?? awesomer?? lol) worship.

Keep the team, the camp staff and our youth in your prayers. Pray for: safety, a time of revelation and just all-out amazingness that only happens when our youth are away from the comforts of home life and up on that mountain top.

Life Application Devo 7/8/2009

2009-07-08T06:39:00.000-07:00

A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart. Luke 6:45, NLT

Jesus reminds us that our speech and actions reveal the true underlying beliefs, attitudes, and motivations. The good impressions we try to make cannot last if our hearts are deceptive.
What is in your heart will come out in your speech and behavior.

Daily Devo

2009-07-06T10:21:00.000-07:00

Good word -

"What sorrow awaits you who are rich, for you have your only happiness now. "
Luke 6:24, NLT

	If you are trying to find fulfillment only through riches, wealth may be the only reward you will ever get--and it does not last.

	We should not seek comfort now at the expense of eternal life.

New Site Soon

2009-06-22T11:13:00.001-07:00

We are going to be making changes to the site so get ready for a new and improved site!!

Ride Well Tour

2009-06-15T16:19:00.001-07:00

Ride Well Tour kicked off their 8 week long bike ride across the U.S. yesterday at CLC.

Follow them on Twitter or Facebook - www.ridewelltour.org

Happy Memorial Day

2009-05-25T20:49:00.000-07:00

The day started off well.... COLD.. but thank goodness the Sun decided to grace us with its presence! The sun was shining, the grill was sizzling and the people were enjoying some good ol' BBQ! Thanks to all who made this annual event a success!

To all the Men and Women who served our country and died in the line of duty, we salute you and remember each and everyone of you this Memorial Day and years to come.

Ponder Me This...

2009-05-08T06:43:00.000-07:00

Think about this for a little bit. This song gives me the chills.

It's a New Season - Israel Hougton

It's a new season, it's a new day.
A fresh anointing is flowing my way.
It's a season of power and prosperity.
It's a new season coming to me.

The devil's time is up no longer can he bother me,
‘cause the Creator of the universe He fathers me,
and it's transferable my children's children shall be free;
it's a new season (it's a new season).

If you don't know by now, you need to know it's jubilee,
where debts are cancel and your children walk in victory.
It's so available to you right now just taste and see,
it's a new season (it's a new season).

The new millennium presents a new horizon,
and no greater time for us to make a choice and take a stand.
All that we need, is resting in His hands;
it's a new season (it's a new season).

All that was stolen is returned to you a hundred fold,
Tried in the fire but you're coming out gold.
Cling to His hand,
yes, to every promise take a hold;
it's a new season

2009-05-03T22:08:00.001-07:00

Whoa! Engaged mobile blogging! Watch out now. lol

Servants Heart Volunteer Banquet

2009-05-03T21:43:00.000-07:00

Pictures from the banquet this evening. Lovely night, beautiful setting, yummy food, even better company. What more can one ask for???

Apologies in advance - there are a few blurry pictures, some without a purpose, and I know for sure there are lots of setting type pictures...sorries!!! :)

Give Me Your Eyes Drama Crew

2009-03-22T21:03:00.000-07:00

Great job XOY!!!
Presenting the cast...

Dead Sea Scroll Authors

2009-03-16T10:48:00.000-07:00

Whoa! Check this out...

http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1885421,00.html?xid=rss-topstories?iid=perma_share

God is in control

2009-03-03T18:57:00.000-08:00

Recently we've been moving into a transition and I was faced with a huge and great opportunity, one that I know is from God. Going into the situation I was calm, yet the doubts soon flooded my mind, I began to feel nervous and didn't know where to turn. As I sat there at my desk at work I tried to clear all the thoughts out and I remembered praying, "God give me peace" and saying "you are in control of the outcome no matter what the outcome is." As humans we tend to let our mind wander and it's a part of our human nature to feel that doubt and to feel like we are not in control of the situation. As I was sitting there I too had that feeling, but then realized... wait there's more to this, God is in control and most importantly we have him fighting our battles. Soon after I uttered those few simple words I was at peace. Sunday morning we sang a chorus, one that was so appropriate for the start of my week "I went to the Enemy's camp," and I took back what he stole from me. Satan stole my peace for a minute and the assurance that God gave me, upon realizing that... how could I not smile and say God.. you really do take good care of us. So when you're down and out, remember you are a child of the King and he's fighting that battle for you. Consider him your secret weapon in which no one can claim it or take it away from you. God Bless and don't let the world or your circumstance stand in the way of what God has in store for you. God created us, now who are you going to let rule your life? God is in control of all things!

-Gwen E

Concert Review

2009-03-01T23:39:00.000-08:00

Hey Music Lovers,
So Tony and I went to a free concert on 3/1/09 about a half hour away... it was at Calvary Chapel Golden Springs in Diamond Bar! It featured Kutless, Disciple, Stellar Kart, and Esterlyn.
We got there too late and missed Stellar Kart and Esterlyn but we saw the main two we came for, Disciple and Kutless. It was packed when we got there so it was hard seeing Disciple do their thing! But it was still rockin', they played most of their new CD, so I didn't know most of the songs but it was still awesome to hear. After that, me and Tony were thinking about listening to one or two songs from Kutless and then leave because we wern't too into them. But when they came out, they rocked the roof off the building! They caught our attention and kept us there through the whole time! I, now have a lot more respect for Kutless. So overall it was worth going to and if you haven't heard Disciple or Kutless, you should take a listen!

><> Joe

Billboard - Hot Songs/Albums

2009-03-01T13:57:00.001-08:00

For week ending 3/7/09

Can I say...

2009-02-23T19:26:00.000-08:00

...your Christian walk can be like exercising?

Seriously - When exercising you start off by warming up your muscles - get your heart rate up just a tad bit (of course not enough to make you want to give up and hit the couch, popcorn and TV remote control in hand)but just enough to warm you up. As you progress through your exercise program your body slowly starts to build up a memory bank. Your body starts to think, "ok I can do this, I've got the last two circuits down, how hard can it be?" Then BAM! Your regimen gets kicked up a couple notches and then you kick it up another. Your body muscles are burning, sweat streaming down your forehead, your heart feels like it's going to burst out and do the running man on the floor. Then just when you thought you couldn't take any more your cool down circuits begin. You slowly bring your heart rate down. Your body is tired it needs rest and it gets it at just the right time.

Our walk with God can sometimes feel like your exercise routine. When we're babies in Christ we take things slowly. Make adjustments: slowly get into our bible reading habits, meditation, prayer, study and fellowship with other believers. As we grow in Christ sometimes our walk "warms up" so to speak. We're thrown different challenges, life changes, hurts, frustrations or revelations. Just when we're ready to give up - God speaks and says, "I'm here" and like a wave of relief we have that little bit of energy it takes to make it over our hump - to get beyond the burn into our cool down time.

I like to remind myself of the time Jesus and the disciples were out on the lake in a boat (Matthew 8:23-27). Jesus went to sleep and the disciples got worked up over a storm that started brewing. When Jesus woke up he asked the disciples, "Why are you afraid?" Then he turned around and spoke to the wind, instantly all was at peace.

The storms in our lives can be the same way - sometimes they come from nowhere, other times we expect them. The important thing to remember is our exercise regimen - prayer, studying the word, partnering up with other believers.

God IS there - through your calm time & through the storm.

See you in God's Gym.

awww this guy is a cutie! :)

Friday Night Live - (even pictures)

2009-02-16T15:42:00.000-08:00

I didn't get very many pictures from last Friday, but here are the two I managed to take. lol

Sam Vuluca

idk maybe Chris is actually praying for Tim???

Friday Night Live

2009-02-06T15:44:00.000-08:00

tonight @ 7pm
hosted by Masters Commission Phoenix

Masters Commission - The Mix

2009-01-16T18:34:00.000-08:00

Get ready for a weekend of spiritual training, community service, team building and an all around good time.

March 19-21, 2009

See Pastor Bill for details.

Happy New Year

2009-01-03T16:46:00.001-08:00

2008 is now in the history books and we have a whole new 12 months to conquer. If 2008 wasn't so much your year, take 2009 and make it yours. Delve into your bible, establish a pray life and surround yourself with believers. A new year is always an opportunity for a new start. So get out there and make it yours.

Cradle That Rocked the World

2008-12-21T00:21:00.001-08:00

Please join us for our Christmas musical - Cradle That Rocked the World.
Sunday December 21, 2008
10:30 am

CNN International 12-24-97 Christmas.com Interview Excerpt

2008-12-08T18:05:00.001-08:00

Very interesting.

Youth Convention Here We Come!!

2008-10-09T13:27:00.000-07:00

Check out the website www.socalyc.com

Meletofetofe Luisa, daY sTar

2008-09-18T10:50:00.001-07:00

Good song people.

September...blues?

2008-09-16T17:15:00.000-07:00

I hope not! Lets see, September is a time that usually signals the start of something new. Late August & early September usually means back to school for many of you. Some of us are so tired of the nothingness that is summer that we'd love nothing more than to get back to school, see those friends, meet the new ones & get to know a new set of teachers, oh and work on your collection of homework, extra credits & projects.... Some of us on the other hand hate to see the fun of summer go away. We greet the first day of school with sleep filled eyes and the sound of parents cajoling us out of bed - eventually their pleading turns into sounds of frustrations and the inevitable, "If you don't get out of bed I'll..." lol

Whatever challenges September brings you - just remember that time with God should be #1 on your list.

Welcome Back!

2008-08-25T14:58:00.000-07:00

Welcome back XOY from your weeklong + missions trip.

Tye Tribbet is too cool!

2008-08-15T20:34:00.001-07:00

me likes

August Events

2008-08-01T16:43:00.000-07:00

August 2nd - Treasure Shoppe
August 3rd - Baby Shower for Grace Elliott Center
August 8th - Young Couples Gathering
August 15th-21st - Youth Missions
August 16th - Church Board Meeting
August 17th - Membership Classes
August 24th - Membership Classes
August 31st - End of the Summer Blow-out

How Great Is Our God - Freedom Nite

2008-07-16T18:37:00.001-07:00

Politics & Bible

2008-06-24T13:10:00.001-07:00

Things are heating up with the elections nearing:
http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/06/24/evangelical.vote/index.html

Stop The Noise

2008-06-08T14:15:00.000-07:00

Jesus Stolen...

2008-06-04T16:55:00.001-07:00

ok - this is lame. Why would you steal Jesus??

http://www.cnn.com/2008/CRIME/06/04/jesus.stolen.ap/index.html

Mandles - Manly Candles

2008-06-02T13:52:00.000-07:00

OMGosh! Seriously, if you're losing sleep over what you're going to get your dad for Father's Day I think I might have the answer for you. You are just a click away from the best Fathers Day gift ever!! Forget about the ties friends check out these Mandles!! buhahahaha muhahahaha. lol

buhahahahahaha!!!

Last Pix from Girls Nite

2008-06-02T00:13:00.000-07:00

aww this is a really cute one :)

XOY Girls Nite

2008-06-02T00:12:00.000-07:00

So I finally figured out I can only post 4 or 5 at a time...and I'm too lazy to wait until all the pixs are up on Picasa.

XOY Girls Nite...cont

2008-06-02T00:10:00.000-07:00

not sure why this pixs didn't post all at one time :(

CLC Girls Nite

2008-06-02T00:08:00.000-07:00

Britain's got talent - Animated Gospel Choir

2008-05-27T17:52:00.001-07:00

I love it!!

Feel The Burn

2008-05-22T14:16:00.000-07:00

Ok folks, you know that we're emphasizing on true lifestyle change right? Well in case you didn't know, now you know. No more of that Sunday Christian only type living from here on out we're in this for the long haul. A true lifestyle change people.

We're asking God to burn away all that extra stuff that we've built up inside, to purify us and bring out the God flavors in us.

Feel the burn.

photo by Ernest von Rosen

Get Ready!

2008-05-16T18:01:00.000-07:00

We're coming back to a heart of worship ya'll. A lifestyle. Don't sleep son :)

Aviad Cohen

2008-05-16T17:24:00.000-07:00

This is different: http://www.aviadcohen.com/

Lots of synthesizer and beat machine stuff, has that dance club type sound. Not my type of music, but if you like it then good for you.

The message in his music is about the relationship with God and not religon, a God you can know, not one that is distant, Jesus the messiah. I can roll with that.

Shalom

What!?

2008-04-26T12:37:00.000-07:00

I had to revisit this one, I don't think this one got as much press as it should've so I'm doing my part. One word question - Why?
Good job Tone :)

Album Issue Resolved

2008-04-26T12:04:00.000-07:00

For those of you trying to access the albums loaded onto Kodak - I think I fixed the issue. So try it out and let me know if you still encounter problems.

~merci

Random Thoughts

2008-04-22T20:56:00.000-07:00

Geeze it's been a while since I posted on here...my apologies :( Seems like I've gotten wrapped with the business of being busy :)
I'm not able to jot down deep and meaningful thoughts - so I'll leave you with this product recomendation. ;p

http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?item_no=43016&event=CFN#curr

If you end using this let me know how it works out for you. TY

Earthy Day 08

2008-04-21T16:59:00.000-07:00

It's Earth Day folks. We can all do something to help. Our Earth, like our bodies, need to be taken care of. Now I'm not one for extremes like some groups, but I think we can ALL do something (and should) to help.

Check out this link put up by the US Federal Gov't. www.earthday.gov

Kirk Franklin Without You Jesus

2008-04-16T12:56:00.001-07:00

Shout to The Lord American Idols on Idol Gives Back

2008-04-10T20:18:00.001-07:00

interesting...

Friend Of God

2008-04-09T20:49:00.001-07:00

Israel Hougton and New Breed.

Check out their CD's good stuff.

Easter has come and gone...

2008-03-23T23:49:00.000-07:00

...but don't let Jesus' work on the cross come and go with the days of the week. Remember his birth, life, death and more importantly resurrection.

SoCal YC Electric Slide

2008-03-16T00:55:00.001-07:00

I seriously had to revisit this one! Lol...GO UNCLE BILL. Get your slide on...ha!

Pray for our Missionaries

2008-03-16T00:12:00.000-07:00

Please be sure to keep our missionaries in your prayers. XOY had the awesome oppurtunity to hear from Pastors John & Renee Michno who are missionaries in St. Petersburg, Russia. They shared with us their struggles,joy and hopes for the country of Russia. We also received a challenge from the Michno's to be missionaries right here in our schools,family, jobs and among our friends.

Check out their church website: www.icapetersburg.com

remember this?

2008-03-15T20:36:00.000-07:00

Stages of Life I

2008-02-19T08:53:00.001-08:00

Scene from Stages of Life - MCUSA during Masters Commission annual conference.

CLC Chili Bowl Cook Off

2008-02-04T17:16:00.000-08:00

Yay for the Giants...yay for birthdays that fall on super bowl Sunday...yay for camping chairs...Yay for yummy chili...yay for red velvet cake...yay for cute kids...yay for Jesus stickers...yay for the judges...Yay for good times :)

Crossover

2008-01-24T00:07:00.000-08:00

This is a good one:

Thanks Joe!

TobaccoSmacho

2008-01-23T22:56:00.000-08:00

XOY's stand on Smoking. No smoking.

Meagan wrote, "Smoking = Choking" so profound.

Adrian's creation

Tina wrote

CLC Annual Business Meeting

2008-01-21T23:16:00.000-08:00

Election time at CLC. No, you won't find CNN, MSNBC or FOX News reporting on the results, but this election is just as important. This election will produce Deacons & Trustees who are given the duty of making decisions for our church. Collectively their decisions will impact the visions, goals and actions of our church. It's a big deal, make sure you pray about it!

Release the Deep - XOY

2008-01-21T12:37:00.001-08:00

XOY - Release the Deep - Telecast

Life

2008-01-17T12:40:00.000-08:00

One of the best forwards I've ever recieved :) -Linga

A coffee group of alumni, all highly established in their respective careers, got together for a visit with their old university professor.

The conversation soon turned to complaints about the endless stress of work and life in general...

Offering his guests coffee, the professor went into the kitchen and soon returned with a large pot of coffee and an eclectic assortment of cups: porcelain, plastic, glass, crystal - some plain, some expensive, some quite exquisite.

Quietly he told them to help themselves to some fresh coffee. When each of his former students had a cup of coffee in hand, the old professor quietly cleared his throat and began to patiently address the small gathering... ''You may have noticed that all of the nicer looking cups were taken up first, leaving behind the plainer and cheaper ones. While it is only natural for you to want only the best for yourselves, that is actually the source of much of your stress-related problems! "

He continued...''Be assured that the cup itself adds no quality to the coffee. In fact, the cup merely disguises or dresses up what we drink. What each of you really wanted was coffee, not a cup, but you instinctively went for the best cups... Then you began eyeing each other's cups....''

''Now consider this: Life is coffee. Jobs, money, and position in society are merely cups. They are just tools to shape and contain Life, and the type of cup we have does not truly define nor change the quality of the Life we live. Often, by concentrating only on the cup, we fail to enjoy the coffee that was provided. The happiest people don't have the best of everything - they just make the best of everything they have... So please remember: Live simply. Love generously. Care Deeply. Speak Kindly. And the richest person is not the one who has the most, but the one who needs the least.

Missions ReCap - By Youth Leader Bree

2008-01-12T22:58:00.000-08:00

This past year Crossover youth went on a mission’s trip to the Gila River Indian Reservation. While on this trip many phenomenal events took place. Students and leaders learned literally what it meant to serve and be flexible. Also they experienced the power and wonder of God through running youth and children’s services, witnessing amazing sunsets, and for some their very first sand storms. Even though weather temperatures were unpredictable, ranging from chilly nights to days being over one hundred degrees, the team still served Co-Op Assembly.

Days were spent showing a true servants heart by providing each other with laughter, conversation, water, and "sticky" hugs rather than complaining about the heat and tiredness they felt. God provided the team with a restful sleep. Most nights the students and leaders only received two to three hours of sleep or less, before heading to the reservation to begin a long days work. Mid afternoons consisted of preparing for evening services and whatever rest could be captured. In the evening’s, lives were changed. The team and members of Co-Op experienced a massive move of God through the testimonies shared and altar calls. We saw God deliver youth from doubts; feelings of not being good enough, some accepted Christ into their lives, rededications, etc. The entire week was filled with God transforming lives and glory beyond comprehension.

The way that God used our team blessed Co-Op Assembly so much that Pastor Gloria invited us back. More than that, each of us wanted to come back and continue the bond that God started between us all. One of our leaders was so touched by this trip that God really laid it upon his heart to bless Co-Op Assembly for Christmas. Thanks to the body of Christian Life Church and Toys for Tots, this idea became a reality. Again the team went out to the Reservation, but this time with much more excitement to see our old friends and to see the children open their gifts.

The day the children came to the church, as some came out of the van you could see the joy of the Lord in their faces. Some that were so lost in July now knew that God loved them and was working in their lives. Their smiles went from ear to ear and they couldn’t stop hugging us. For example, a youth named Heather on our last visit didn’t feel worth much; she felt ugly, worthless, unloved and unworthy of love, but on this last trip as she came from the van she was happy, smiling and ran to greet us with hugs. Instead of running from the cameras, she wanted to be in most pictures. She met us with hugs and laughter. She performed in the play that Co-Op put on for us. God literally flipped her world around through love.

Overall, both missions’ trips to the Reservation in Arizona no doubt changed the lives of their congregation, but eternally left that place etched on our hearts. Each of us took a new understanding of what it meant to trust god, serve, and be flexible for Him. Some of us discovered gifts and talents God’s given us, for some their calling in life, amongst other revelations. We became a stronger body as well. New bonds were created and memories that’ll still be remembered in the years to come. But most of all what God did in each of us, that work will be carried on into our lives.

Gila Gift Project

2008-01-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

Seasons Greetings

2007-12-26T18:37:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas, Happy Boxing Day and Happy New Year

Prayers

2007-12-06T23:58:00.000-08:00

Remember to pray for the families living in the recently burned areas of Orange County - with the pending rain storm some areas have been evacuated in case of flash floods. These families recently battled the fires now they have to deal with this.

-Just remember to lift them up in prayer. K?

Thanks

CLC XOY Practice

2007-12-06T23:24:00.001-08:00

Tony leading practice, singing Give Me Jesus

Who Am I In Christ

2007-12-06T22:50:00.000-08:00

We tend to put a lot of thought into the roles we play in life. We hate labels yet at times find ourselves obsessing over where, what and who we are in life.

For many living up to the expectations is a daunting taks. Here's a question - in all your obsessing over who you are as a student, employee, son, daughter, mother, father, friend, sister or brother have you ever wondered who you are in Christ? I mean we talk about what it means to be a Christian, many of us have an idea, but really who are we in Christ?

Who am I in Christ? I'm so glad the bible lays it out for us.

Are You Running?

2007-12-05T17:54:00.001-08:00

Have you ever ran from anything? A person, situation, sadness, loss? God knows our hurts and pains - and he steps in at just the right time and gives us just the right thing to help us through.

I know many times (more often than not) we run from those situations, hurts, loss etc. We think we're running from "that" thing, but when we stop and think, we find out it's another, something deeper and more profound that we run from. Stop the running, I guess this would even be an appropriate time to say - STOP THE NOISE.

This video was the winner in YouTubes Project Direct.

We'll See You Soon

2007-12-04T00:32:00.000-08:00

I think Monica Quiroz said it all, it's not "Goodbye" more like, "See You Soon". Any loss is hard to deal with, I think as Christians though we have the comfort of knowing that we really will see each other one day.

I like Apostle Pauls take, "For me, to live is Christ to die is gain"

Youth Pastor's Electric Slide

2007-11-27T21:04:00.000-08:00

Uncle Bill showing off his moves at So Cal Youth Convention in San Diego

Back from SoCalYC!!

2007-11-26T15:51:00.000-08:00

...and we're back from So Cal Youth Convention. Pictures and thoughts defintely on the way.

In the meantime, I'll leave you with this -

God is always present, but are we always present to God?

Frontline Worship Release

2007-11-13T23:14:00.000-08:00

Be sure to visit your local Family Christian Store to pick up Frontlines newest album.

To find the nearest Family Christian Store check out their website: www.familychristian.com/locations.asp

COPS MC Edition

2007-11-08T21:57:00.001-08:00

If you join Masters in the ATL you can make cool videos like this one :)

If you're interested- check out their website: AtlantaMastersCommission

Teaching The Truth In Love

2007-11-07T16:52:00.001-08:00

Ephesians 4:14-16
No prolonged infancies among us, please. We'll not tolerate babes in the woods, small children who are an easy mark for impostors. God wants us to grow up, to know the whole truth and tell it in love—like Christ in everything. We take our lead from Christ, who is the source of everything we do. He keeps us in step with each other. His very breath and blood flow through us, nourishing us so that we will grow up healthy in God, robust in love.

Check it out:

Everything Skit by XOY

2007-11-01T12:15:00.001-07:00

The Mix- Masters Commission

2007-10-29T11:26:00.001-07:00

If you're interested in Masters check out this link: www.masterscommissionusa.com/themix

Masters gives you the opportunity to visit the campus, participate in workshops, live among the Masters crowd.

Youth Sunday

2007-10-29T01:03:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Amanda Barnett this years Young Disciple Award recipient.

Check out pixs from Sunday:

XOY Sunday

Bonquisha's Ghetto Fabulous Workout

2007-10-18T20:33:00.000-07:00

If you join Masters Commission you'll make awesome videos like this one :) This is from Sac Town Masters. Hilariousness!!

For you juniors wondering what you should do after high school check out their webpage: www.mcsacramento.com Yay Masters!

Thank You

2007-10-08T11:45:00.001-07:00

Thank you so much to everyone that made this years Luncheon & Pound Auction a true success. Your generosity never ceases to amaze us. Our goal to cover the cost of our rooms at youth convention was met and we truly couldn't have done it without your help.

Special Thank You to:
Carrie Carr- for her event expertise
Johnny Parslow- for his auctioneer skills
Hanny Parslow- for lending her time and materials to wrap gifts
Angie Vasquez- for slaving away on that delicious meatless sauce
Veronica Valdez- for helping us out with the cash drawer
ALL The Businesses- for their GENEROUS donations

Here are some of the funniest pictures, check out the album for all the pictures.

Steve Davenport's reaction was priceless!

Here's what he paid for :)

Check out Val & Marge (lol)

Lou in reaction to Marge's Bid

Stop The Noise- So Cal Youth Convention

2007-10-06T18:19:00.000-07:00

Ahh fall is here, morning dew greets me first thing in the morning, crisp air, football :)and finally the one thing that sticks out most about fall- So Cal Youth Convention :) This year we'll be hearing from Reggie Dabs, Monty Hipp, Hawk Nelson & Group 1 Crew, I can't wait!!

Stop the Noise is this years theme. The dictionary defines noise as: Sound or a sound that is loud, unpleasant, unexpected, or undesired. As I type I hear all sorts of noises: cars passing by blarring music, the fan, kids running in and out of the house, road traffic and the chatter of family. At times the noise gets to a breaking point- where my focus is solely on the noise. It is at that time I need to remember to focus on God rather than my situation. He has always taken care of the noise.

As you prepare for convention try focusing on God and God things. When you take the focus off the stress, issues and noise of your life and start putting God at the center of your attention everything takes backseat.

He Stops The Noise.

Get Yer Prayer on- ya heard?

2007-10-01T23:14:00.000-07:00

Please be advised- this week is prayer week at CLC. Not to discount your own prayer time, but there's just something about getting together with a group of people and praying for the same things.
Have you ever sat through a sermon or lecture? Try discussing it with a group of friends who heard the same thing- chances are each of you took something different from the message. When you share lights come on and you say, "You know what? I never thought of it that way, but you're right." Same with prayer, even though we're all praying for the same thing God hears different things because of where we are in our life, the struggles we're facing at the moment, the challenges we're fighting through, the drama of life. God hears all that "extra stuff" too and the crazy cool thing is that he speaks to each of those pieces of the puzzle that we come to him with. Then he deploys people, situations and other challenges to get us over the hump.

That ladies and gentlemen is my take on corporate prayer. What do you think?

Let the sun set on your past...

2007-09-27T15:15:00.000-07:00

...today is a new day. A new day brings new chances to try something new, talk to someone new, make amends- anything. Today is your day to make a difference.

AZ Sunset

Thank You!!

2007-09-17T16:35:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all of you that came to PJ's farewell get together. We are so thankful to have such wonderful friends and family. Yes, it's sad to think that our little family will be without the little brother for a while, but at the same time we trust and believe that this is God's will for PJ's life. We hope you enjoyed the food, fun, company and laughs.

Ofa Atu

'Ete'aki Family

Lifehouse- Everything

2007-09-14T15:52:00.000-07:00

I’ve always wondered how much it breaks God's heart when we sin and turn away from him- I mean he created us, gave us breath, air & life after all that we turn away from him. To add insult to injury some of us go out of our way to hurt him turning & totally forsaking all that we know to be good, true and right. When we finally realize our error we realize we have to go back, but then reality sets in- it’s so much harder to get back to that place where we felt safe & carefree because we have to fight through years of habits, hurts, misery & doubt.

If you need to get back to God- your first love, run back to him, fight hard, fight against those habits, the hurt, the fear, the shame- don't give up. Your friends will tease you, your body may cry out, your mind will play tricks on you, but don't give up. The harder you fight the brighter the light at the end of the tunnel gets. He's there waiting.

Some of you need to make things right not only with God, but how about your parents, loved ones, a pastor, a brother or a sister? Think about it.

Rom 12:2

2007-09-14T15:45:00.001-07:00

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

Back to School

2007-09-12T12:16:00.000-07:00

Congrats to those of you going back to school!

Mighty XOY

2007-09-02T23:27:00.000-07:00

flossin' the guns...

AG Elects New Superintendent

2007-08-21T17:27:00.000-07:00

In case you didn't know, AG USA elected a new General Superintendent- Dr. George Wood.

Here's his bio:
The son of missionary parents to China and Tibet, Wood holds a doctoral degree in pastoral theology from Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California, and a juris doctorate from Western State University College of Law in Fullerton, California. He did his undergraduate work at Evangel College in Springfield, Missouri, and served the college in several capacities, including being director of spiritual life and student life from 1965-71. Wood was ordained with the Southern Missouri District in 1967.
Prior to his current post, he was assistant superintendent of the Southern California District from 1988-93. He also pastored Newport-Mesa Christian Center in Costa Mesa, California, for 17 years. During his tenure, the church experienced significant growth, relocated and constructed new facilities, and gave $1 million to world missions in the last biennium of his pastorate.

JD? Pretty impressive stuff.

Continue praying for our leadership.

bio from: http://ag.org/top/About/leadership.cfm#secretary

Leave Comments

2007-08-17T11:47:00.000-07:00

Howdy, I opened up the comment option to anyone. If you want to add or comment on a post please do so. Be sure to keep the comments rated G. Remember one of the scriptures from camp:

Psalms 139:23-24
Investigate my life, O God, find out everything about me; Cross-examine and test me, get a clear picture of what I'm about; See for yourself whether I've done anything wrong— then guide me on the road to eternal life.

Before you leave questionable comments- please put it to the WWJD test.

Thanks,

Linga

Drano For The Soul

2007-08-13T01:12:00.000-07:00

Many times we suppress the emotions years of hurt and anguish cause. When those emotions are recalled a steady stream of thoughts make its way into our mind playing like a movie reel over and over again. Things we thought we were over come at us like a ton of bricks. We make mental notes and add bricks to the wall we've built over the years, slowly reminding ourselves of the hurt and the pain, promising that never again would we be hurt. Then we remember the people that caused that hurt. As the years pass our wall of protection grows higher and higher, impenetrable, even to those who love and care for us.

At camp our speaker, Dan Atchison gave one of the best examples of the consequences of unforgiveness - a clogged shower drain. He talked about how his tub filled up with water while running the shower. When he cleaned out the drain he discovered the culprit: hair, dirt, soap, shampoo and conditioner residue- 10 years worth of junk (eww gross!). We don’t plan on harboring the hurt, pain, bitterness, unforgiveness, but when we let time pass without dealing with all that “stuff” we find ourselves becoming emotionally clogged, unable to properly channel current hurts, pains and fears, because we've never dealt with hurts from the past. I’ve never heard of anyone preferring a clogged drain over a free flowing drain- same goes with the emotional clogs some of us deal with. The following is the path to forgiveness Dan Atchison shared with us- an emotional Drano® exercise:

1. Recognize the injury & the emotions
2. Express your hurt & anger
3. Cancel the Debt
4. Work toward reconciliation**

**Move towards a more healthy relationship. Remember this is something we have to continually work towards. Continually forgive. Chose to take the high road.

I’ll be the first to admit forgiveness is hard, but to harbor bitterness towards someone when God continually forgives me for my sins and offenses is just wrong and why hold onto the hurt if in the end I’m the only one that really suffers? The person who hurt me moves on, but I chose to stay in that memory, never allowing healing to take place.

I’m not saying it’s easy. That’s why forgiveness is a continual process- something we constantly and consciously work at. Like I said I figure if God can forgive me why shouldn’t I extend that same forgiveness to others? So for those of you who need to deal with unforgiveness and hurts from the past- this one is for you. Be blessed and remember God has a plan for your life- there’s no need to schlup around the hurt. Let God take you to another level, he'll rock your world.

Back From Camp

2007-08-11T04:40:00.000-07:00

...and we're back from camp- 5 fantastic days of the glorious outdoors, gourmet meals, 5 star rooming, top of the line fitness equipment :) Kidding aside camp was an awesome experience; I'm still a little tired, so you'll have to wait a few days to read about our experiences- I really need to collect my thoughts, ideas and just the sweet bits of goodness I got from the last week. I'll be sure to get some youth input for your reading pleasure. For now you'll have to browse through our collection of pictures, all one thousand four hundred plus pictures and videos :)

More camp posts to come- stay tuned.

XOXO

Linga

Harvest Crusade

2007-08-04T02:45:00.000-07:00

Harvest Crusade 07,in comparison to Youth Convention, this seemed to bare more people than any other youth event. The worship was spectacular in the sense that as I glanced around the stadium, hands were raised and people were just crying out in song. However, our group was unfamiliar with many songs, it still was a powerful time learning the lyrics and finding that peace in not knowing. When Phil Wickman took the stage, none of us knew who he was, but his music was all-inspiring. Lyrically it seemed a love letter to our Father. Upon The David Crowder Band's arrival to the stage, they were greeted with much love and adoration. Each song was upbeat to where you could get lost in the goofiness of dancing for our Lord. During "O Praise Him" our group just found that intimate time with God to praise Him in our own way.

When Greg Laurie took stage he just had a presence to where you wanted to listen to what he had to say. The way he spoke of the way God can change your life and deliver you from any strongholds and baggage made me want to accept Christ all over again. It was amazing. The Altar call was phenomenal. It seemed as if half the people in the stadium responded to the call to take their place before God. I've never seen anything like it. This was my first Harvest Crusade and my most memorable event in seeing that type of response from the audience towards God. If you haven't been, Go!

Now signing off,
Bre S.

Ice Cream Social

2007-07-29T21:56:00.000-07:00

Today was our very first Ice Cream Social. I didn't eat ice cream, but we sure did take loads of pictures :) Check out the album links section. I scream you scream we all scream for ice cream...

How To Save A Life- The Fray

2007-07-27T16:09:00.000-07:00

Artist: The Fray
Album: How To Save A Life
Year: 2005
Title: How To Save A Life

Step one you say we need to talk
He walks you say sit down it's just a talk
He smiles politely back at you
You stare politely right on through
Some sort of window to your right
As he goes left and you stay right
Between the lines of fear and blame
You begin to wonder why you came

Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life

Let him know that you know best
Cause after all you do know best
Try to slip past his defense
Without granting innocence
Lay down a list of what is wrong
The things you've told him all along
And pray to God he hears you
And pray to God he hears you

Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life

As he begins to raise his voice
You lower yours and grant him one last choice
Drive until you lose the road
Or break with the ones you've followed
He will do one of two things
He will admit to everything
Or he'll say he's just not the same
And you'll begin to wonder why you came

Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life

Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life
How to save a life
How to save a life

Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life

Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life
How to save a life

2007-07-25T23:34:00.000-07:00

Ambers Journal Entry Monday 7/16/2007

Welcome Back

2007-07-23T14:32:00.001-07:00

Welcome back to our Youth Missions Team!! Personal joural posts to follow...

Out of Office!

2007-07-17T13:27:00.000-07:00

Shout out to the AZ missions group!! They got to church at 3am yesterday (well most of them were on time- except for the crew that was riding with PJ!! lol) Made it to Wilmington First a little after 4am and finally hit the road at exactly 6am. They made it to AZ safely and have since been ministering to the Gila River Indian Community. Pray for our missionaries- that they'd be used by God, for an life altering God experience and for a safe trip home.

XOY Guys Day Out...

2007-07-15T01:03:00.000-07:00