Deep Fry

It was the epitome of fall in a season of rise; hence, why I can still remember the date. October 29, 2011. T he day my dream of a youth worship team went under construction. Like most hopeful endeavors, despite early buzz, not all was smooth sailing. For the first few years, the revolving door would churn out several talented youth and youth leaders. Each time, a setback to momentum. Each time, a temptation to wonder why. Yet, amidst the turnover, the guest acoustic appearances, and solo keyboard sets, the dream carried on. By 2014, the tide was turning. New faces in familiar places. The hope of persistence shining over the horizon. Still, it wasn’t until October 26, 2016, almost five years to the day of first practice, that the right blend of talent and teaming would intersect and set the stage for the Gate's first youth worship band. Flash-forward to two days ago and for the first time I’m playing keys during service (s...

Context : In this chapter of Jeremiah, we find impending disaster for Jerusalem. Need proof? Check out the opening line: “ Flee for safety, O people of Benjamin from the midst of Jerusalem !” Not exactly the most calming intro in the world, right? Later we read more specifically the war and destruction coming against Jerusalem and the peace she once possessed.  However, in the middle of the chapter, we also find a familiar theme unfolding in God giving his people an opportunity to repent…to consider his ways (v. 16-20 ).  Let’s read… Jeremiah 6:16 (NIV) - This is what the Lord says: “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. But you said, ‘We will not walk in it.’ Jeremiah 6:16 (ESV) - Thus says the Lord: “Stand by the roads, and look, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is; and walk in it, and find rest for your sou...