Ripen yourself for the Harvest.

Welcome Thrivers:

The time is ripe, people. The field is ripe for the harvest.

We hear these lines thrown around a lot these days, especially in Christian circles. Here's a mind-blow for you: The "time" has been "ripe" since Jesus ascended to heaven! He told His disciples that the time was now, and that was 2,000 years ago! Why then do we wait for some huge move of God or some crazy revival to spread the love of Jesus? Don't get me wrong, revival is an essential part of the ministry of the Holy Spirit, but a pre-ordained move of God is not necessary to move and evangelize. The Bible says that in the end days, God will pour out His spirit on all flesh. Well, since the Spirit was given in the book of Acts, and that same Spirit lives in us today, why can't we just march out and touch some people?

If anyone was in church on Wednesday, you may have seen the spirit that is on Pastor Crea and the ministry here at PCC, a ministry that we all have a part in. That spirit was showing through him so brightly it was hard to miss. Crea understands God's heart. He gets it. So we should follow our shepherd into this new revival, one of practicality and conscience. One of love and healing and miracles.

My friends, it's time to get excited!

Peace and love,
Ken

Fun in the Sun!

We took a few teens down to the beach this past Sunday. We spent a good three hours playing volleyball and having a blast. Justice and Sophia did some surfing. Megan braved the 60 degree water on her boogie board. Ken, Cali and I knew better than to brave the Pacific temperatures. We chilled out on the beach and soaked up some sun.

Our Role as Youth

Vanity.

So, your week is going well. You've gotten good grades on all your projects and tests at school. You are very pleased, so you decide to go out and have a good time Friday night. I mean, why not? You've earned it! Good for you!

The Bible is very clear on what is acceptable and good in the sight of God. Our definition of "rewarding ourselves" is often very different from God's. The Bible actually does encourage us to rejoice and have fun. Ecclesiastes 11:9 says: Rejoice, O young man in your youth. And let your heart cheer you in your days of youth.

Wait, what?? Did the Bible just tell me to party? Let's read on. ...Walk in the ways of your heart, and in the sight of your eyes.

Ok, I'm sold. The Bible wants me to party AND do whatever I want? Your kidding, right? Let's finish the verse: But know that for all these God will bring you into judgement.
Oh man, so I'm still responsible for my actions, even though I'm young? YES!! You've heard me say at youth group "One of the greatest gifts God has given you is your youth." You see, we have a unique responsibility. God has gifted us with energy and passion and the talents and drive to do anything we set our minds and hearts to do. That's pretty exciting, but we, above all must answer for our actions. Don't believe the lie of the world, that you have to go crazy as a teenager, acting however you want and ignoring or bucking all authority. Embrace your responsibility as a young person!

God has placed in us the ability to totally psych up everyone around us. He wants us to exercise our youth, but within His perfect plan. So I encourage you all this week to celebrate your youth by seeking God's will for your power and energy. We can be God's hand incarnate on this earth, blessing and touching all who come in contact with us.

Peace and love to all,

Ken and Melanie

Bump! Set! Spike!

This past Sunday Ken and I went to see Denise and Stossy's Volleyball scrimmage. We finally were able to see what these girls have been doing these past few months non-stop. Both girls are extremely skilled and have quite the serving hand. We were able to watch them win two games which was very exciting. Keep it up girls! We are proud of you!

Grease!

Justice, Ken and I went to see Hans in Grease this past Saturday. Hans did an amazing job as a T-bird. Ken was especially impressed with the hair (hopefully he won't get any ideas). Great job Hans!

Thrive Friday Night!

This past Friday was a blast! Justice played some worship music and Ken had an exciting Word for us. Plan to attend the next service. We will be starting up again on April 18 at 6 PM. We will be making a Taco buffet. Plan to attend!