some random thoughts.

So I have a few thoughts bouncing around my head. None completely formed, and none really worthy of a blog post all their own. Some are random, some are personal. Seven months ago I promised to blog more. For better or worse, here we go:

What the what?
I have seen two separate occasions I have seen groups of grown men (I am guessing mid 20s) out in public wearing tank top undershirts along with a fedora. When the heck did this become acceptable fashion? Has the t-shirt been promoted to semi formal wear, or the fedora been bumped down to the I don't care how I look side of the aisle? Either way I do not approve.

The I-5 is not nearly as boring as I remembered it to be.
This is due in part to radio stations that play a random mix of tunes (there is something about lack of belong/lack of family/lack of commitment/not defining one’s self narrowly that makes these radio stations popular, but I don't have a fully formed thesis, and am most likely over thinking it.) and some classical music along with KLOVE that made the trip entertaining. Also my new Garmin GPS that lets me know how long I have been on the road in miles and time, and counts down to my destination. Plus, it sent me through Gilroy on the way home, that I am sure added some time (despite my per-programmed preferences), but also added some new sights and smells that broke up the monotony that is the 5.

How am I to do my job?
As you faithful readers (both of you) know, I am working towards becoming a Children's Pastor. I have been involved in a Children's Ministry here in town that has a very specific educational and theological theory that works quite well for them. Last week I was able to visit my home church and hang out at their VBS. Their educational and theological theory is quite different, and works quite well I was a little perplexed, as I thought I had found the formula for effective ministry. This week reminded me that there is no formula. We bring our best to God and he takes our efforts, our sacrifice, or piddly little sack lunch, and uses it to feed the masses. It is He who works; we just get a front row seat.

Son Quest Rainforest
As mentioned above, I was able to visit home and "help" out at VBS with Grace last week. Some random thoughts:

• It is so much fun not being in charge of anything.
• No one cares how much you know, until they know how much you care.
• Michael did a fantastic job at rec, and he did much more simply than I ever did.
• Bounce Houses with an attached water slide may be the best thing ever.
• Piranhas are cool, and there teachers are even cooler.
• Watching high school students who came up in the church turn around and give back to VBS is one the most rewarding things I have been a part of.
• There are seasons of rest and seasons of growth. I think I am coming out of a little bit of both, but am not sure exactly where it is I am going.
• This year’s set design was literally five years in the making.
• Good food is always made better when shared with good friends.
• What we do for kids stays with them.
• Second chances are the most important thing you can give.

I was reminded of mine, and am grateful for all who gave it to me.
No I won't go into it just now.
Next year is already in the planning stages.
Pictures up soon (hopefully.)


--Serving Him alongside all of you, just from further away,

--Jesse "Gonzo" Letourneau