This is my 3 millionth youth trip – approximately 45% of which have been to Gatlinburg, TN.

My first ever in the role of youth pastor…

So, I know what you’re thinking… You are picturing me with a backpack on my back and some outrageously cheesy hat on my head (e.g. a sombrero, oversized cat-in-the-hat foam hat, or frontward golf visor), sporting my oversized button-up Hawaiian shirt (not tucked in) with my khaki shorts (that are grossly too short), all atop my birkenstock sandals that expose my crew sock tan line. If that doesn’t ring a bell, maybe you’re picturing me with: some board shorts from AE, sandals, wearing a way-too-tight shirt that reads “Obey,” and so many necklaces around my neck that it almost appears tribal from a distance, and spiky hair or dreads (with a red beard?). If either of those descriptions, or their derivatives, came to mind then we are no longer friends. [The bit about the stereotypical youth minister look was mostly an inside joke with some friends, but one that we can all appreciate.]

Here is what the trip looks like in one sentence or less: I have middle schoolers; 4 of them; all of them are girls; two of them sisters.

So far, there are no fatalities and no injuries, no significant damage to the property, no arrests, no convictions, but many “acts of God.”

It has been a blessing to serve in this capacity at NorthBrook. I am enjoying this moment with my students and waiting on the Spirit of God to become obvious in my life and in the lives of my students.

“Yes, Lord, walking in the way of your laws, we wait for you; your name and renown are the desire of our hearts.”

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