160206 Thank you for the first Meeting House

Are my jade plants growing or dying?

This week was the launch of the Meeting House (MH). It is a new ministry in the Hi-C congregation of my church, where the students meet in small groups, and meet on a biweekly basis. It's pretty much the same as life groups which I'm a part of. I am co-leading a group of 6 girls from grade 7-9. Today was the first day for my group to meet. 

I was excited for our group to meet, especially hearing from others on how great their first meetings have been. I'm not completely sure why but I was not in a good mood today and this made me not to look forward to it as I was getting ready for the MH. However, things changed as I met the students and started our meeting. 

It was a little awkward, students were little shy and reserved as it is usually the case in first meetings. Although it was only introductory, I see how much these girls will grow together in a small community that we just established. As we have shared on what we expect and in which areas we want to grow from now until June, I hope and pray that we will keep each other accountable to make this happen. As for me, what I hope to do for the next 5 months or so is to take them as my disciples and to genuinely care and pray for these girls, and get to know them deeply.

no.368 140503 Thank you for letting me realize my anger towards my family

Housewarming brunch at a friend's house

Frustration.

I was frustrated at the fact that my parents were inconsiderate about something I had told them earlier this week. I had two schedules lined up for me - brunch at a friend's house and the first Mexico meeting. I got angry because they weren't on time when I told them that I needed to be at certain place by certain time. I told them I needed the car and it seemed like they totally ignored what I had said before. When they called me that they were gonna be late, I got angry. My parents running late meant I was gonna be late for my meeting. I wanted to be at church on time especially because I am in the leadership team. I also wanted to take the car because the team members are high school students and I know the majority won't be driving… I wanted to take them home afterwards. Anyways, we had to make some last minute changes and concluded that my parents will give me a ride to church instead of having myself driving.

While I was waiting for them, I realized how easy it was for me to get angry at my family. I hardly ever get mad at my friends or co-workers. I'm not sure if most people are like that though. I think in some degree, yes, because of the reason that it is your family. We are so comfortable and in a way, there is barely any etiquette amongst family relationships. It's an area that I need to definitely change but it's challenging.

When I think about today's situation, I do also think that I was being selfish in a way. Sometimes I think I'm such a selfish being and think that the world revolves around me. Originally, I told my parents to not go anywhere because I needed the car… yes, I was being super inconsiderate and selfish. I had my reasons… however, I should've brought it up more nicely.

Thankfully, I ended up arriving at the meeting right on time but I wasn't able to drive. I hope, that in the future when I get into an argument with my family, that I wouldn't let my emotions come out first. Rather, I want to logically think and ask the question, what would Jesus do or say in a situation like this.