the stronghold

Kamp Life

2010-09-29T08:45:00.000-07:00

I haven't been much a blogger since last spring. We had and exceptional summer at
k2, the best that I have been a part of. God moved mightily. We are ramping up to hit the road for staff recruitment and visiting kamp families around the country. We put this video together to spread the word. Imitation is the greatest form of flattery they say, so we took a spin off the popular youtube video "Dad Life" and the "swagger wagon" (of which the Robbins family now owns) videos.

If you or someone you know would make a great staff member at Kanakuk Kamps of Kids Across America check out our perspective staff page and find out when we will be at a University near you!!

http://www.kanakuk.com/staff/Prospective.aspx">>

Kanakuk Klife Video: Survival of the Fittest: Episode 3

2010-04-13T12:34:00.000-07:00

Kanakuk Klife Video: Survival of the Fittest: Episode 2

2010-03-25T11:45:00.000-07:00

Check out these classic quotes from Episode 2:

"Rex Horton is never going to find the corn dogs in my secret trap door in my sombrero...ever." -Juan

"You can never have too much nasal spray...yeah!!" -Kathy

"Turn the camera off, turn the camera off." -Rex

"Taste like dirt, because it is dirt." -Rex

Kanakuk Klife Video: Survival of the Fittest: Episode 1

2010-03-19T07:33:00.000-07:00

Every summer at Kanakuk K2 we create a Kamp Video for Klife. 3 summers ago we did the Krunkicles of Karnia, 2 summers ago we did K2 Musical and last summer we did a series called Survival of the Fittest. We are in the process of dreaming up the Klife video series for this upcoming summer. Let Survival of the Fittest wet your appetite. Ashley and I will be posting the remainder of these videos in the days to come. You can check out here blog for the K2 girls at: www.kanakukashley.com

You kiddin me?!

Kanakuk Kamper Michael Aquino goes YARD

2010-03-18T13:24:00.000-07:00

http://www.hcnonline.com/articles/2010/03/17/conroe_courier/sports/wv-s_tw-cp_baseball_0317aa.txt

Check out the Article above. Michael is from a long time Kanakuk family and is one of my boys from K2. Last night he texted me asking me to pray for his game...his performance makes it look like I have a direct line to the Big Man Himself! (really we all do as long as we don't allow sin to separate us-Jesus is the answer...that's another blog for another day) Anyway, here is Michael's own words he sent to me after the game:
"Last night I was the starting right fielder for the nations biggest high school baseball game. The pitcher for the other team is the nations #1 draft pick for next year. He throws 99mph. I hit a towering home run off him in the 5th inning to break a tie and go up 6-5. Later on in the game the score was 11-11. I come up with two outs, runners on first and third. I swing and miss at the first curveball...I swing and miss at the second curveball...The crowd was going wild...I actually did feel God's presence (my prayer no doubt:) in the box. He throws me another curveball and I hit another homerun to win the game!!!"

That is legit!! You made us proud my friend!

If you are going to go...go Yard.

Ironman Branson: Team Kanakuk

2010-03-11T07:18:00.000-08:00

Here is a picture of me training for the Ironman Branson that quickly approaches in September 2010:) As you can see I am training on a jalopy and have some significant body fat to shed in the next months but I am not afraid. I will tell you this, I had my first wipe out on the bike yesterday. I was going about .5mph and just fell over going up a hill. It was awesome and I bled.

Here's the latest update on TEAM KANAKUK. I believe we have between 20-30 Kanakuker's signed up right now with high hopes of 50 plus. However, I did hear that there were only 500 spots left last week. So If you would like to enjoy some pain flavored lactic acid for 6-10 hours next September step up to the plate and sign up for the Ironman Branson. Let me know when you do and I will let you in on all the perks of being a part of TEAM KANAKUK. The official event sight is below.
http://www.ironmanbranson.com/

K2 tri-athletes drink pain like it's Strawberry Milk.

Where are my cookies?!

2010-02-26T07:34:00.000-08:00

Every morning at Kanakuk we start the day off with prayer. This morning I walked into the prayer room to find some of those coconut girl scout cookies-samoas I think they are called. They are my favorite girl scout cookie however each scumtous bite was tinged with a little bitterness...

On 4 occasions, yes 4, I have prepaid for my cookies and have yet to receive a single one...

Summer 2004. 1930 Hermosa Beach Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA: A sweet, little neighbor girl comes knocking on my door selling girlscout cookies. I order 2 boxes of samoas and she responds that will be $8. I'm like, "now?" Little girls responds boldly, "yeah, now". Days, weeks and months pass by...looking out the window, waiting by the door, wondering, "Where are my cookies?"

Spring 2005. At an address I can't remember, Hollister, MO: A red-headed neighbor girl knocks on the door selling girl scout cookies, once again. I briefly hesitate because of my past experience but assume the best in this bold salesgirl. I order 2 boxes of samoas and fork over the cash. Once again, the days eclipse into weeks and months and the red-headed girl is never to be seen again. "Where are my cookies?!"

Spring 2007. Woodland Hills Community Church, Branson, MO: A Friend of mine approaches me and asks me to buy some cookie dough his daughter is selling. Caught off guard and in a moment of vulnerability I cough up the money. But this time I was giving it to an adult...surely this was safe bet. Still no cookie dough..."Where are my cookies?!?"

Winter 2009. Kanakuk Kamps, Branson, MO: An unnamed colleague is selling cookies for his church. I even get a little sample. Having been burnt 3 times prior I didn't even expect to ever see the cookies.....you guessed it, 3 months later-still no cookies. "Where are my cookies?!?!??!??!!!!???!???!??????????!!!"

where are my cookies?

Kanakuk K2 "Make War"

2010-02-17T09:33:00.000-08:00

I grew up thinking Christianity was boring and unimpressive. It seemed like every Christian example I had fit into the "Mr. Nice Guy" mold.. When I gave my heart to Jesus I discovered a lifestyle that was passionate, aggressive and life changing. All the qualities that the enemy worked so hard to hide from me and countless other young men. This is what fires me up about our ministry at Kanakuk K2. Teenagers get to see, through Godly examples, that being a man of God isn't about a list of do's and dont's...it's about engaging in battle, it's about good vs. evil, it's about making war. This is how I will live my life. This is how I will lead our staff. This is the way we will approach "Christian Camping". We are fighting for our King and for the lives that He places in our path.

MAKE WAR

New Members of the Kanakuk K2 leadership Team

2010-02-17T08:42:00.000-08:00

My brethren,

I apologize for being and inconsistent blogger last fall. I am committed to finishing strong this spring and using the Stronghold as an avenue of communication in regards to the summer to come at Kanakuk K2. Each year I have the pleasure of assembling K2's leadership team from the limitless pool of Christian leaders of Kanakuk K2. The goal is to build a body of men whose gifts compliment each other and who collectively have a heart to serve the staff and kampers each summer.

We have an incredible returning cast with Adam Donyes, Jared Kolter, Nasa Sete, James Burke, Seth Higgins and Brandon Rossi alongside Joe White, Don Ford and myself. Billy Heydel and Kevin Harrison have both moved on to lead ministries of their own as well as investing in their new marriages...WOOHOO! We are so pumped for them and are excited to watch them continue to develop as Christian leaders.

We have added John Downing and Todd Linder to the team.
John is obtaining his nursing degree with the goal of entering the anaesthesiology field. He is also a college tennis player at Mississippi College. We believe that John's qualities of faithfulness, attention to detail and his training in a highly delicate field is a perfect fit for the high calling of a Kanakuk Safety officer. All the guys in K2 tennis will be blessed to have him as a coach all summer long.
Todd is a long time kamper and student at University of Georgia. Todd is a leader on campus and is consistently investing into the lives of others. Todd is going to be filling the role of scheduler this summer. This is one of the most important jobs at kamp as he will be responsible for the daily schedule for kampers and counselors.

We are thrilled to have Todd and John on the team and with their help we believe that this will be the BEST SUMMER we have ever had!!

Colt McCoy National Championship Postgame

2010-01-10T14:53:00.000-08:00

Colt McCoy standing on the rock. This guy is legit. This fall he gave his testimony prior to Joe White's gospel presentation at After Dark at University of Texas. Colt used his own heartbreak to direct the nations thoughts to our soveriengn God. This is Awesome!!

Brit Hume tells O'Reilly: Tiger Woods needs something Christianity offers

2010-01-06T06:21:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine forwarded this to me yesterday. As a Christian, I am absolutely thrilled and proud of Brit Hume for speaking boldly about redemption and forgiveness in Jesus Christ. I am sure that he is suffering the repercussions of his remarks. John 15:18-20 "If the world hates you, you know that it has hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you, 'A slave is not greater than his master.' If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they kept My word, they will keep yours also." I pray that Brit stands firm and for the Lord's protection from the haters. More than that, I pray that all of us who are in need of forgiveness and redemption would follow Brit's advice and give our lives to Jesus Christ.

Ironman Branson

2009-11-17T08:46:00.000-08:00

My Brethren,

I have been avoiding my calling to run a Ironman and now it has come knocking at my door. It is with great excitement and a healthy dose of fear. For those of you who are foolish enough to join us we will be competing as "Team Kanakuk". Please email me and let me know if you are game to join and we can enjoy a nice long dose of lactic acid together September 19th, 2010...shay@kanakuk.com

This race is a 1/2 Ironman consisting of a 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike and 13.1 mile run in the Ozark Mountains. Any takers?

I Am Second - Colt McCoy and Sam Bradford

2009-10-19T08:37:00.000-07:00

Father/Son Retreat 2009

2009-09-21T13:18:00.000-07:00

We just wrapped up our last Father/Son Retreat of the fall this weekend. Every bed was filled as 40 father/son teams joined us at K-Kauai. They traveled from as far east as Niceville, FL and as far west as Aspen, CO to join us in manly adventures. Now there's all kinds of manly things a guy can do on the weekend. For example: alligator wrestling, throwing a rock at a cougar or sneaking up on a hippopotamus but few feats can out match the men that joined us. I think the words of our special guest Charley O'Maligillicutty said it best...
"Now that’s manly, but that ain’t nothing…
You’ve head of Sasquatch? (Other: yeah)
The Yetti? (Yeah)
Trolls ? (Yeah)
Loch Ness Monser (Yeah?)
Two Headed Dragons? (Yeah)
A walk in the park compared to…Giganticus Americanus—also known as The Monster Sloth Troll (others: oh my?) It’s fur is like razors, it’s claws like sharks teeth, and it’s breath like death and rotten eggs…(others: ew, well what did you do?)…the only thing I could do: I gave him a shake, I gave him a smack—I turned him into a coat and a hat!"

I learned this summer that God always shows up in His perfect timing. By the end of third term we had battled the flu non stop and God showed His might at our final cross talk when 54 kampers rang the bell. This retreat turned out to be one of those times. This weekend we had two Daddies lead their sons to Christ and three that baptised their sons on Sunday morning. One of those father/son teams happened to be my brother and nephew. God is good.

Alex, Shay, Andrew, Kelly and her husband Nick

I was so blessed to be a part of this weekend. We created memories that father's and son's will never forget. And the support and encouragement we recieved from the Father's and son's was absolutely overwhelming. God is good...all the time.

Youth miniStarZ

2009-09-15T11:56:00.000-07:00

Back from an Amazing summer at Kanakuk K2!

2009-09-09T13:23:00.000-07:00

Ashley and I are back from Kamp this summer and after a nice long vacation we are back in full swing at the Kanakuk headquarters. Last weekend we held a Father/Son retreat at K-Kauai which was a smashing success-we made some great memories with those men. Many people ask us what we do during the school year. We mostly do really important things like blob testing, zipline maintenance and washer tournaments. In addition to those staples we stay busy by building relationships with staff and kampers, recruiting staff and planning for next summer. We are already are preparing for summer 2010 but before I get to far ahead of myself I want to share the highlight of summer 2009.

Each term we do a gospel drama called "Cross Talk". This is a powerful presentation of the gospel of Jesus Christ and we generally have many kids give their lives to the Lord during Cross Talk. When a kamper gives their life to Jesus there is a bell at the office that the kids will ring to share their celebration with the rest of Kamp. First and Second term we struggled with some disappointment because very few kids responded to the gospel message. We found ourselves questioning our presentation and wrestling with the Lord. Third term rolled around and we tweaked just a couple things but essentially gave the same gospel presentation hesitant because of 1st and 2nd terms response. From the very first speaker I could see something different in the crowd. As Joe chopped away at the cross the kids hung on every word that came from his mouth. They shuddered as Jesus was whipped and beaten by the Roman guards...something was just different. Finally when Jesus was hoisted up on the cross, died and rose again the kids began pouring out of the bleachers to surrender at the foot of the cross. As they gathered around 10-20 kids at the very center of the group where weeping loudly over their sin. I have never seen the likes of this at K2.

On a powerful night at K2 we will see 20-25 kids ring the bell. That's typically the night of the summer at our kamp (many kids have given their life to the Lord at this point). On this particular night kamper after kamper rang the bell. As a leadership team we stopped everything and just watched as the seemingly endless wave of boys and girls came forth. By the end of the night 54 for kampers rang the bell that night.

God moved in His timing. I think God was testing our faithfulness this summer. We were stretched and challenged in many ways. Most importantly we got to see the generation take a huge step towards the cross of Jesus Christ. It's time to prepare for 2010.

Summer Blogging...

2009-06-09T07:59:00.000-07:00

Friends,

Summer has been phenomenal thus far. Ashley and I moved to Kanakuk K2 on May 12th and have been going 100 miles/hr. ever since. We have an incredible staff this summer who are committed to showing teenagers the love of Christ. It is such an honor to work in such a Christ centered environment. I would like to share Ashley and I's highlight thus far. Ash and I run our tri-athlete specialty at K2. Neither of us are legit in the sport but we love what God does spiritually when our bodies are stretched to the limit. A couple days ago we ran our first triathlon. Ashley was running side by side with a girl who was really struggling to finish. As they pushed through the pain this young lady began to share life with Ashley and explained that she was sick of quitting on the various aspects of her life. She also explained that up to this point she was unwilling to commit to giving her life to Jesus.

The last portion of our triathlon is a stretch of pavement called "Cardiac Hill" because of its long, steep incline. This young lady prayed to receive Christ as she was running up cardiac to finish. The rest of the specialty was cheering them up the last stretch as Ashley and this young girl cross the finish line in tears. Once they explained why they were crying the rest of us began crying as well...it was unlike anything I have ever been a part of. The entire group of kids and counselors rallied around this young girl and prayed for her and we all walked up to the office where she rang the bell signifying her commitment to Jesus Christ.

I will not be blogging regularly until summer closes out in August. We prepare for 9 months to pour our hearts into K2 and prayerfully there will be many more stories just like this. God is great and is greatly to be praised. Please feel free to email me @ shay@kanakuk.com

God Bless

The Relationship between John and K2

2009-05-20T11:10:00.001-07:00

This is a picture of my baptism two years ago, the guys all around me are all stud leaders in my life who have impacted me greatly.. my dad is standing next to me on the left with the glasses.

Why John?

Thats the simple question I wondered about recently, Why John? What made him so passionate for Christ and so devoted to God that he gave up his life in order for Christ's name to be advanced?

After posing those questions I later realized a couple of days later that the reasoning behind his passion and devotion was no different than ours, excepting that he had this concept a good 2000 years or so before we figured it out. This concept is the idea that K2 and Kanakuk were created by, that God needs to be first, others second, and yourself to be third. In other words, yes; the saying I AM THIRD. John truly lived out and modeled the theme I am third to the max, for he consistently gave his desires and wants up so that Christ's own could be raised. John was a cousin to Jesus and was born before Jesus, and had gained the spotlight of the Jews of Jerusalem by baptizing them in water in the Jordan and constantly preached to them. Referring to John 1:19-28 we can even see that he is even asked if he is Christ, the Messiah to the Jews, which is a representative to how influential John really was. When he was asked if he was the Christ he gave an I am third like response to the question by saying, "I baptize with water, John replied, but among you stands one you do not know. He is the one who comes after me, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie." (John 1:26-28). He doesnt even consider himself worthy to tie Jesus' shoes!

When Christ was coming forth, John knew that he had step down from the mound and hand the ball to Jesus, so John once again put himself below Jesus so that Christ could become greater and accomplish the tasks that the LORD had set out for him. John told the people who eagerly listened to him during his testimony that,

"He must become greater, I must become less." (John 3:30)

I remind myself of that verse constantly wherever I am, whether it be at school, on the sports field, on a date, or anywhere. Keeping in the mindset of- How can I be more effective for Christ? can help you focus on what it true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8) and also keeps you humble and in the mindset of a I am third like attitude that John so faithfully strived to have.

LeBron James MVP 2009

2009-05-11T15:25:00.000-07:00

LeBron has made me a fan of the NBA again. The Cavs are dismantling the competition thus far in the playoffs. Can anybody stop this guy? My guess is we will find out in the finals when the Cavs meet the Lakers for the dream finals (in my opinion)...I will be at K2 but will be rooting for LeBron. Check out these highlights for his MVP season.

Where did "Uncle Week" come from?

2009-05-06T13:55:00.000-07:00

My brother, there is a long standing tradition at Kanakuk K2 that is only whispered about behind closed doors. It is a mystery that has confounded the wisest men and left them wondering, “is this oral myth based on a tangible truth or simply a figment of my imagination??” The sort of general malaise only genius possess in the insane lament. Well, as you know, legends are birthed by legendary men. Let me tell you the story of how UNCLE WEEK began…

Many…many….moons ago a child was birthed in the dark recesses of a mysterious Ozarks cave. His mother and father, who were eaten by bats (obviously) named this infant boy…”Hawkeye McGillicuty”. The young Hawkeye fashioned a crib from guano and ate endangered blind albino salamanders to survive the first months of his legendary life. The boy grew strong because endangered salamanders are high in protein (not to mention 50 years later we know that HGH is derived from this very Ozarks salamander). In those days the last grizzly bear still roamed the hills of the Ozarks. Affectionately known by conservationists as, “Betsy” this grizzly discovered the man-child and raised him as her own. At the age of 5 the Ozarks experienced a hard winter and old Betsy’s fat reserves had run out and she was left foraging the stony hills to feed her and her man-child. Unable to forage even a single grub Betsy realized she must eat the manchild to survive…

The following spring rumors circulated amongst locals of strange sightings: a child wearing grizzly fur streaking though the forest. None of those claims could ever be substantiated. Meanwhile conservationists mourned over the disappearance of Betsy, the last Ozarks Grizzly.

Years later an ambitious man named Joe White began building a kamp in the heart of Hawkeye Mcgilliguty’s territory. Hawkeye stalked the young Joe White bent on taking his life. On a crisp, winter morning Hawkeye leapt from a towering oak tree onto the broad shoulders of Joe White. The two manbeasts tumbled down the side of the Ozark mountain bulldozing everything in sight. Legend has is that these two Men fought an epic battle lasting 13 or maybe even 25 days. Their fury and tenacity collided like a Texas tornado uprooting the Hard Cedar and Mighty Oak trees leaving behind perfectly constructed kabins, weight rooms, soccer fields, tennis courts and a k-dome in their aftermath. When the dust finally settled Joe White stood facing Hawkeye McGillicuty, fists drawn and jaw clenched…

Some say those mighty men reached an accord that day, still others claim Hawkeye is waiting to deliver his final blow. The following day a band of faithful men arrived at K2 to pave the way for the first summer of the Lord’s work. They were dubbed “UNCLES” in remembrance of the epic battle between Joe White and Hawkeye McGillicuty where one or both men said “uncle” knowing that the Lord’s work must begin. The Legend of Hawkeye McGillicuty lurks like a mysterious haze over Lake Table Rock. Every now and then you will see a flash of grizzly rustling in the trees and if a cold shiver whisks its way down your spine you will know that the Legend lives on.

Did you know?

2009-05-04T15:12:00.000-07:00

What DOES it all mean?

Victors Crown Bible Study

2009-04-29T12:34:00.000-07:00

Our heartbeat at Kamp during the school year is to encourage kids in the walk with Christ. We have developed year round Bible studies as part of our strategy. For just the cost of the books, Kampers ages 7-12 have a unique opportunity to get into the Bible daily through Champion's Walk. Kampers ages 13-18 dig deeper into the Bible and what it says about their daily issues through the Victor's Crown. In both these 44 week programs Kampers read and do the lesson then report back to their Kamp Director at the end of each month. Kamp staff cheers your child on throughout the year in fun and creative ways. A special award time at Kamp the following summer puts a “BIG” bow on what God has already accomplished in their life through his Word!

Recently Andy Dolliver facebooked me on his experience. Here is what he had to say:

"Victors Crown has been a great experience because every morning it gets me started. It has not been easy. Many times I would much rather snooze for another 10 min. However, it is not that hard: all you do is read a bible verse, then read the study, and answer a few life applications. It's a lot like a Kanakuk bible study. It has also helped the relationship between my dad and I because we have done it together. He has encouraged me and taught me, and I have done the same for him. The hardest part for me were the first few months, but after that it has been something that has become a norm during breakfast."

I agree with Andy, making time for God isn't always the easy thing to do. As Christians we are called to seek God and obey His commandments regardless of how we feel. Andy, I am proud of you for being faithful to God's Word. Thanks for your example!!

http://www.kanakuk.com/store/default.aspx?dept=kuk+spirit+dev

Former Kanakuk K2 Counselor Pete Ittersagen signs a free agent contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars

2009-04-28T07:18:00.000-07:00

"Wheaton, Ill. – On Sunday evening the NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars signed Wheaton College graduate Pete Ittersagen to a free agent contract, following the 2009 NFL Draft. Ittersagen is the 15th Wheaton College football player to sign a professional contract, including 12 NFL contracts. Ittersagen’s contract with Jacksonville comes one year after the selection of his former Wheaton teammate Andy Studebaker who was the 203rd pick of the 2008 NFL draft by the Philadelphia Eagles. Studebaker is currently a member of the Kansas City Chiefs.

Ittersagen, a three-time All-American for the Thunder, graduated from Wheaton in December of 2008 with a degree in Business and Economics. A three-time All-American, Ittersagen has been a standout at both cornerback and return specialist. His 60 career passes defended, is fifth all-time in Division III history in the category. Ittersagen’s five career punt returns for a touchdown established a new school record and his nine career touchdown returns (five punt, three interception and one kick) also set a Wheaton College record. He is the program’s all-time leader in punt return yardage with 65 punts returns for 1,075 yards (16.5 YPR). The four-time All-Conference selection at cornerback recorded 252 career tackles, with 189 solo stops. Ittersagen noted on Sunday evening, “It is a blessing to see all of the hard work that I have put in pay off. However, I still have hard work ahead of me.” He added, “I have had some wonderful opportunities at Wheaton and it is great that things have turned out like this.” In 2008 Ittersagen concluded his brilliant Wheaton career as a unanimous Division III All-American with selection to the Associated Press’ “Little All-American Team”, as a First Team honoree. He was also recognized as a First Team Division III All-American by the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) for the second consecutive year and was named a First Team All-American at cornerback and a Second Team pick as a kick returner by D3football.com. He was named the North Region “Defensive Player of the Year” by D3football.com. He returned 25 punts for a school record 464 yards this season, averaging 18.6 yards per return, with two returned for a touchdown. He finished the season ranked second in Division III in yards per punt return. Ittersagen helped lead Wheaton to its first-ever NCAA Division III Playoff Semifinal appearance with three touchdown returns in the team’s four postseason games." - Article from offical Wheaton Thunder website:
http://http://athletics.wheaton.edu/news/2009/4/26/FB_Pete_Jax.aspx

Earthshaking Robbins Family Announcement

2009-04-24T11:33:00.000-07:00

Brothers,

I will never forget when David Liggitt, past K2 men's Director announced that he was having a baby at FUAGNEM one summer morning. Immediately the guys start chanting, "Name him Thor, Name him Thor, Name him Thor". David responded, "What if it's a girl?" Of coarse the guys responded, "Name her Thor, Name her Thor, Name her Thor". Oh man, I am laughing out load as I relive the experience. Well brethren, the chants will be hearty because that shrimp shaped creature pictured above is my future son or daughter?!?!? Wow.

Ashley dropped this little bomb on me about a month ago. We had been trying for a short time and she totally caught me off guard with the announcement. Normally, as many of you know, I am a pretty emotional guy (now I can still skin a squirell with my eyes closed mind you) yet I didn't really know how to deal with the announcement. She looked up at me with these puppy dog eyes welled up with tears and says, "I think I am pregnant". To which I responded, (in a Brian Reagen dumbfounded voice, "Ok". Well, yesterday we had our first ultrasound and heard the little monster's heartbeat-171 beats/minute. The emotions finally came. I can't explain how excited I was. My heart swelled up and my heartbeat quickened to match the speed of our young fetus. Amazing. The nurse explained that the heartbeat begins just days after conception. This gave a whole new meaning to a "child not a choice".

God is knitting together a little grappler in my wife's womb and I am one excited Daddy. I absolutely can't wait. Our due date is the end of November. I look forward to sharing our little one with you.

Woodlands K-Life Vision Picnic!!

2009-04-20T11:06:00.000-07:00

Forgive me for not posting in the last week. Ashley and I have been on vacation in Atlanta as well as speaking at the Westminster Schools FCA Retreat last weekend. We are back in the office preparing frantically for another Amazing summer at Kanakuk K2. This weekend I have the pleasure of speaking at the Woodlands K-Life kick off picnic! It is so fun to connect with Kanakuk Kampers around the country who are committed to winning the World for Christ. K-Life is a tremendous ministry and I beleive it will revolutionize the Woodlands youth culture. If you are from the Woodlands area I would love to see you this Sunday!!

K2 Kamper Kyle Ondera named Most Outstanding Player

2009-04-09T09:01:00.000-07:00

"Even though, he was just 1-of-11 from the field, Kyle Ondera made the go-ahead and game clinching free throws in Oak Hill's 48-43 win in double-overtime against Kalida in the Division IV state championship game last Saturday at Value City Arena in Columbus.

Ondera was named the most outstanding player on the 2009 Associated Press Division IV all-tournament team.

The junior point guard scored 26 points in the Oaks' two state tournament games, including 20 points in Oak Hill's 55-46 win over Ada in the state semi-finals last Thursday.

He also had 15 rebounds overall, including 10 in the championship game, to go along with five assists and six steals.

His clutch free throws in the second overtime period sealed the first-ever state crown for the Oaks in school history.

Oak Hill outscored Kalida 10-5 in the second overtime, but it was a one-point game, before the Wildcats were whistled for an over-and-back violation with 1:27 left.

Westen Hale made a pair of free throws with 18 seconds remaining to put the Oaks ahead by three and Ondera's free throws with eight-seconds left locked up the victory.

Ondera was joined on the all-tournament team by teammate Ryan Borden, who knocked down three-point field goals with 23-seconds left in regulation to send it to the first overtime and another with 31-seconds left to force a second overtime period.

Borden finished with 19 points, including 13 in the championship game. He played just six-minutes because of foul difficulty in the first half against Kalida and was 0-for-2 from the field.

Kalida's Jordan Basinger (28 points in two games) and Scott Schnipke (33 points in two games); along with Ladell Trotty (18 points in the semifinals) of Cleveland Heights Lutheran East and Ada's Aaron Cross (19 points in semifinals) were also named to the Division IV all-tournament team."

Way to go Kyle-K2 is proud of you!!

Mark Driscoll: The Church Needs Dudes

2009-04-07T10:41:00.000-07:00

Mark Driscoll says, "The Church needs Dudes". What do you think?

The K2 Hearthrob, Kevin Harrison pops the question!!

2009-03-30T12:40:00.000-07:00

"I knew for a long time that I loved Chelsea Brandel and that I planned to ask her to marry me. For some reason it was laid on my heart to wait and tell her that I loved her until I put a ring on her finger. I remember the first time I realized that I loved her and that I would spend the rest of my life with her. It was half way through second term last summer. I was trying to fall asleep but I was to restless. I thought at first my sleeplessness came from the K-Life that ended an hour ago, but it was more than that. Then it hit me. For the first time in my life I realized I was in love.
I would wait almost eight months before I said the words "I Love you."
Here is how it happened.
1 Corinthians 13 is the famous verse on love. It says that love is patient, that love is kind, and that love keeps no record of wrong.
For over a year, Chelsea has taught me what love means. So on the morning of February 25, she woke up and on her bible was a letter that had the first part of the bible verse on it. For the rest of the day she received letters from 1 Corinthians 13 and how she has demonstrated and has taught me what love is.
I showed up at the house around 6:30 that night to pick her up. The Lord had blessed me with a great night to go for a walk outside. At this point, I am starting to get anxious for I knew that soon I would tell my best friend that i loved her. I still had one letter to give her. The letter that set me up to say the phrase that was burning to get out. Back behind her house is a cross that sits up on a hill. As we were walking in front of the cross I gave her the last letter to read out loud. The letter finished with this, "When you are crazy and passionate about something, you are determined to do whatever it takes to be faithful. Through the bond of Jesus Christ, I look forward to finishing the race together. For love is...." With a nervous I never felt before, I began to say, "For love is patient, love is kind, it does not envy boast, it is not proud...It always protects, always trust, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." I then dropped to a knee and for the first time told her that I loved her and that i wanted to marry her and spend the rest of my life with her. It is a moment I will never forget as we hugged in front of the cross. I realized that the love that I share with my fiance is a small example of the love that Christ showed us by dying on the cross. It is through the love of Christ that Chelsea and I began a long and fun journey of loving each other as Christ loved us." -Kevin Harrison

Of the Flesh or of Christ Jesus

2009-03-29T18:36:00.000-07:00

There are two choices one can make. There is either one that is driven by desires of the flesh or one driven by the will of Christ Jesus.

It cannot be any simpler than that. Every choice we make comes down to these crossroads. We are split between them and many times, we run down that path motivated by our so called "needs" or something we desire that we think can satisfy us. Taking the right path often is the most difficult choice to make, for our hearts so often desire the path that is materialistic or pleasurable. The path of righteousness is not going to be the fun route at times. Did the way of the LORD seem like fun when Paul was flogged in Rome or when Christians were martyred for their belief in Christ?

Today this subject occurred to me when I was alone at my house for a good three hours. During that time, no could see any of the choices I made. Many times alone like this, I have fallen to the desires of my flesh and sinned in a way not honourable to the LORD. Again, I was at the crossroads of my choices- should I make the decision to fall into sinful desire or follow the path that the LORD wills me to pursue? Thank the Lord I took the straight path that leads to Him!

This is such an easy area for Men of Christ to fall in, for we are so near to the path that seems enjoyable, yet is not right, and so far from the upright one. It takes just one step to get moving though, and then you will find yourself running to the Cross instead of faltering. Be encouraged Men for we are in a daily battle against our flesh and we must prevail so that we can be stronger Men of Christ!

Albert Pujols and Steroids- "Someone to believe in"

2009-03-26T12:59:00.000-07:00

Major League Baseball has been tarnished by the induction of the "steroid era". The greatest players in the league have dropped one by one: Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens (not sure in Clemens is officially "guilty" but he certainly has fallen from his platform), Mark McGwire and Alex Rodriguez to name a few. All of this disappointment leaves baseball fans looking for someone to believe in.

In the March 16, 2009 issue of Sports Illustrated Albert Pujols is featured in the article, "The Power to Believe" by Joe Posnanski. Posnanski boldly calls Pujols the best player in baseball. Anyone carrying that title is bound to be scrutinized and suspected for steroid use. Here's how Pujols responds, "'We're in this era where people want to judge other people,' Pujols says. 'And that's so sad.' He would like to leave it with those three words-that's so sad-but then people might wonder. So he continues: 'But it's like I always say, "Come and test me. Come and do whatever you want." Because you know what? There is something more important to me-my relationship with Jesus Christ and caring about others. More than this baseball. This baseball is nothing to me.'"

This is an incredible article and I encourage everyone to read it. Pujols has an amazing story, an amazing testimony, and he faithfully reps Christ throughout.

Thanks for your example Albert. We are proud of you.

Part 2: What will Heaven be like?

2009-03-25T07:52:00.000-07:00

I have been studying Heaven, slowly but surely, in the last couple weeks. A couple days ago Ashley asked me, "Why are you studying Heaven so much?". That's a great question and it's important that we know why we are doing what we are doing in every aspect of life. After giving it some serious thought here is my answer:

In Paul's letter to the Church of Philippi he said, "Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." From the creation of man God has created us to be in perfect fellowship with Him. That is our end goal and our ultimate destination according to His design. Paul lived in such a way that his focus on Heaven propelled him forward in the work of the Gospel.

Think about this for a moment: how many elite athlete's train without a specific goal in mind? None that I can think of. As strange as that thought is, this is typical of Christians. I asked a college Graduate and student in a year long Bible Institute what the eternal Heaven would be like and all he could tell me were some simple thoughts his mother told him about as a child. (To his credit, he hadn't studied Revelation yet in his coarse work). For the most part this guy was a Bible wizz kid yet he had very little knowledge of the goal that Paul speaks of. I am not dogging him by any means however I think this is an accurate picture of Christian's overall understanding of their Eternal Destination.

Ok, I know that's a second post on "What will Heaven be like?" without any questions answered. I am becoming more and more passionate about this and want to make sure I set this up adequately. Answers are on the way...stay tuned!

"A Football Game Gives Hope"

2009-03-22T17:00:00.000-07:00

This video is incredible. Because of our sinful nature Christians often fall short of our calling. However, when believers in Jesus live out His example amazing things happen. This is an "amazing" example of the heart of Christ and his followers.

Kanakuk Skit Contest!! And the winner is...

2009-03-20T08:24:00.000-07:00

As you know we have been holding a Kanakuk Skit Contest over the last week and 1/2. Thanks to all of you who submitted ideas. Regardless of whether you win or not it make sure to keep an eye out this summer for YOUR idea!! Well the verdict is in. Don Ford and his calves have chimed in!! Your winners are...

3rd Place: Danny Felty

There is this composer (guitar player, singer, whatev). He composes this AWESOME song, and really wants to share it with everyone he knows. When he gives/offers it to his friends as well as ask them to perform it in front of other people that don't know the song, they try to play it from their own interpretation (or dance to it), but it is not how the composer wanted it or intended for it to be. (It embarrasses the composer and the performer.) I am describing the skit as sad, but it can be very funny as well.

what the skit means is that God (the composer)has a plan (the song) for our lives, and when we don't follow his plan and do things that he says for us not to do, we loose people to christ and brings shame to us as well as "embarrasses (the right word?) " God. We should act as friends/believers of God.

2nd Place: "Worst Case Scenario" by Katie Fredrickson
So you could do like someone breaking a rule at Kamp and showing some random repercussion for doing it. Like have someone pretending to text or talking on the phone and their cabin mates walk in on them and they all start freaking out thinking that the person hates all of them since he's on the phone and not hanging out with them. But then show the good side of it and have him turn the phone in and say something corny like "you guys are all I need".
And then end it with some catch phrase like: "We think of the worst case scenarios so you don't have to!"

Or another one could be someone walking with their cabin and being like "Wait, I forgot my nalgene! Let me go back to the cabin and get it!" and all his friends are like "You know you aren't allowed to", and he's like "I'll be fine, it'll only take a second" and he runs back to the cabin and picks up a nalgene and turns around and starts to leave but he slips and hits his head. Then all of his cabin comes back a little later and wake him up saying that he missed a day better than Laid Back in Lampe Day and Warball combined. And he's really sad and is like "I'll never go back into the cabin alone again!"

.. "We think of the worst case scenarios so you don't have to!!"

GRAND PRIZE WINNER: Ashton Jacobs (this is really no suprise-dude thinks outside of the box all day everyday!!)

"Ever since the earth was created, a great evil has been threatening the great light that is for some reason (and unbeknown to most) is housed right at Kanakuk kamps! For centuries, brave and mighty men have fought to protect the relic from being destroyed. These men include:

The original Mohekan (sp?) (who then made the haka as his battle cry) circa 1500 AD

Pentathlon Bill

Joe White

Dawn Ford...

(without even knowing it) CHAZ

Chaci Laruse and his plethora of pals

Dawn ford

Brave, Cheif and the flaming Eagle

The Original Mohekan again (any other notable characters I forgot to mention)

There is also one text discovered that depicts a...woman...actually fighting against this evil (which you could make the Gato or something else) but of course we all know this is false and just their attempt to try and fit in with the guys. We all know that Chuck Norris was the character in that episode, but since all who witness Chuck Norris fight die of aneurysms, we cannot fully prove this clame."

All I have to say is, "WOW". Danny, Katie and Ashton you prizes are in the mail!! Thanks again for all your submissions. By the way, keep the ideas coming and I will see you this summer!!

Fatherly Love

2009-03-18T08:14:00.000-07:00

I was asleep last night and woke up from a bad dream. I turned my iphone on and accidentally clicked on youtube. For some reason my iphone's history only had this one video on my history. I never recalled watching the video from my phone. Nervous, I clicked on it, only to recieve a complete surprise. The second video that I posted was the video that I watched last night and it was a true blessing to me and I hope it will be to you. Both these video's display an illustration of love, each father pouring out love to their sons. These reminded me of the great love that our Father in heaven has given to us.

"as the Father has loved me,so have I loved you. Abide in my love"
John 15:9 (ESV)

May these be a blessing to you as they were to me.

"Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart."
-Proverbs 3:3

Kanakuk Kamps Skit Idea Contest!!

2009-03-10T11:49:00.000-07:00

Ladies and Gentleman, This spring we are in full swing...creatively speaking. One of my favorite things about Kanakuk Kamps are the crazy skits and skit characters who rock our world every summer. Last year we introduced a plethra of new skit characters: Carl Cleveland, Juan Guadalupe Enchilada Burro Nunez, the Jaguar from Equador, the Mohican, your friendly neighborhood Tongan, the Rocky Road Youth Group Troop and of course my friend and yours--Chachi Larussa, but his friends call him Chooch.

Anywho, I started a Facebook conversation with some kampers about the skit ideas and realized that there are some Mind-Blowing ideas out there that deserve a shot at the big time. So I have created this contest. Here are the rules:

1. Create a skit character, theme or on going skit that you think would be awesome at Kanakuk K2
2. All entries must be Kamp Appropriate
3. All entries may be submitted through Blog comments, my Facebook or email shay@kanakuk.com
4. All entries are due by next Wednesday March 18th at 5pm CST
5. Don Ford, his calves and myself will be the three Judges
6. Entries will be judged upon: Creativity, mind blowing awesomeness, out of the box thinking, recreatability, character development, funniness, and if Don Ford's calves like it.

The top three entries will receive a prize and the winners entry will be posted on Friday, March 20th. The prizes are below:
Grand Prize: Kanakuk Blanket, Soccer Socks, Nalgene, Bible and one of a kind Baseball Cap with Kanakuk Kamps accidentally printed upside down!!
2nd Place: Kanakuk Blanket and Bible
3rd Place: Kanakuk Baseball Cap, Tee Shirt and Nalgene

*I know all of my readers aren't necessarily "Bible Readers" so I would be happy to honor that and trade you out for comparable items if you wish.

What will heaven be like?

2009-03-10T06:14:00.000-07:00

3 people die every second. Scripture says that our lives are but a breath. Picture your breath on a cold day. It hovers before you for a moment and vanishes the next. And so it is with our lives in the scope of eternity.

There are many opinions in regard to what happens after this life. Atheists, agnostics and many evolutionists claim that there is nothing. Hindu's believe in reincarnation. Most other world religions believe in some type of Heaven and/or Hell. Still others claim we will be reunited with an alien race as long as we correspond with the mothership during our stay on earth.

Regardless of what you believe we can all be clumped in two categories. "Philip of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great, commissioned a servant to stand in his presence each day and say 'Philip, you will die.' In contrast, France's Louis XIV decreed that the word death not be uttered in his presence. Most of us are more like Louis than Philip, denying death and avoiding the thought of it except when it's force upon us." -Randy Alcorn, HEAVEN

As a Christian I believe in a literal Heaven and Hell as taught by Jesus. For the longest time I was unmotivated to give my life to Christ in order to float around in the sky with a harp singing hymns for eternity. Call me crazy but that doesn't sound that awesome. I mean floating would be cool for about an hour...but then what.

I believe that Satan has blasphemed Heaven and one of his strategies, being the father of lies, is to spread lies about what Heaven is really like. So I am on a journey. A journey to discover the truth about Heaven. As I learn the truth, I intend to share it with you in a series called, "What will heaven be like?"
I would love to hear what you have to say about Heaven as well. Stay tuned...

Tim Tebow with Joe White at After Dark!!

2009-03-06T05:55:00.000-08:00

"Last week I had the opportunity to build the cross for AFTER DARK at the University of Florida as we saw 5,500 Gator students come pack the O’Dome. This was our third largest crowd ever right behind Clemson and Texas A&M. Tim Tebow shared his powerful testimony, and I filmed some of it to share with you. Check out the video to see the Gators changed for Christ!" -Joe White

You can find Joe's video footage of this event on his facebook page..It is AMAZING!!

Kurt Warner Gives God the Glory

2009-03-06T05:41:00.001-08:00

Jason Castro, American Idol- I am Second

2009-03-04T05:51:00.000-08:00

Josh Hamilton, Home Run Derby King- I am Second

2009-03-03T05:34:00.000-08:00

Brian Welch formerly of KORN - I am Second

2009-03-02T07:21:00.000-08:00

Theological Thursday

2009-03-01T18:20:00.001-08:00

Wow! who would of thought that these guys could ever get serious! They are some of my best friends who mean the world to me. They are not just guys, they are the Highland Park Cross Country Team!

One day, a buddy on the team and I were talking about his beliefs, for he is Jewish and being the curious man that I am, (as well as being somewhat of a theologian), we really got into it and discussed all about his beliefs and I got to ask him some questions and then thats when the fun began. He in turn started firing questions to me about my faith in Christ and right there on that Thursday coming home from practice, a seed was planted in his life because I had the awesome opportunity to share the gospel of Christ with him! And we both enjoyed learing about each others faiths. What a great time it was indeed!

The next week rolled by and this kid I will name "Ralph" decided that that conversation that we had on Thursday must continue on, but this time we would make it into a weekly matter. We coined our conversation as a day called "Theological Thursday," and continued on with the learning and questions. Little by little, more guys started putting their beliefs and thoughts up for discussion, and our group doubled to four the next week.

Soon the whole team joined in for Theological Thursday and every week I get to share my faith now with the whole team!!!! That my friends.. is a miracle only made possible by JESUS CHRIST.

This really has challenged my faith and spurred my growth in Christ for I know now that every Thursday 'Ralph' will have a question for me, and I must answer, meaning that I must dive in the word each week so I can be sharp as a sword and prepared for battle!

Hebrews 12: 4 "For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart."

Be encouraged men and never back down from the opportunities that Christ gives you!

Part 2: Breaking the "grace abuser" mold

2009-02-25T05:59:00.000-08:00

Last night I continued my conversation about breaking the "grace abuser" mold with my 11th grade bible study here in Branson. We came up with a list of reasons to break the mold:

1. Obedience is Worship to God
2. God is a God of order
3. Walk in a manner worthy of the death of Christ
4. So that God my be Glorified in our lives
5. So that others may see the light and come to know Him
6. To honor Jesus
7. To illustrate our love for our King
8. We have died to sin and become alive in Christ: "Born Again"
9. To be free of Guilt, ie: Clear Conscious
10. Free from Addiction
11. Be a man of Character and Integrity
12. To be sanctified or "set apart"
13. Be a Good Leader
14. So that no one can call us a Hypocrite
15. Eternal Investment

1 Corinthians 3:11-15 "For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any man builds upon the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, each man's work will become evident; for the day will show it, because it is to be revealed with fire; and the fire itself will test the quality of each man's work. If any man's work which he has built upon it remains, he shall receive a reward. If any man's work is burned up, he shall suffer loss; but he himself shall be saved, yet so as through fire."

Salvation is a free gift, but rewards, for those who are saved, are earned. One day we will all stand before the "Judgement Seat of Christ"and the quality and heart behind the good works we have done will be tested by fire. Those done out of love will be rewarded- another great reason to break the "grace abuser" mold!!

Breaking the "grace abuser" mold

2009-02-24T08:00:00.000-08:00

A young man emailed me this question:

"Every time I get on a good streak, I break it within a week and keep on living my life. I sin, confess it, pray, and repeat. I realize that I'm a human and a sinner, and I always will be. Nobody's perfect but God. I think that's why I still have a lack of motivation, I think that's why I'm complacent. I think to myself, "If I'm always going to be a sinner, what's the point of really trying hard?" Even hearing good advice and stories of success from my youth group leaders, who struggled through the same stuff when they were younger, doesn't make a huge dent. Even that phrase "If I die today, where would I spend eternity?" doesn't work for more than a couple days. I'm not into drugs or sex or robbery or anything super bad like that, but I've done some pretty bad things. I guess it's not that bad when you compare my case to others, but still if I'm not living how God wants me to be living 100%, then I think again: "What's the point in trying hard?" Romans 10:9 and God's infinate mercy don't really help this situation either. As long as I'm truly sorry and confess my sins, God will forgive me, right? I'm just scared my bad habits will become my character, who I am. I'm scared that someday I might not be truly sorry for my sins. What then?"

First of all, you are right to be concerned about becoming hardened to the sin in your life. If we continue to sin our conscious will eventually be drowned out and the pleasure/addiction to sin will become a drug of sorts. The only way I know for a man to change his character is by immersing himself in the things of God. IE: listening to Christian music, bible study, accountability, youth group, DAILY quiet times, daily prayer for strength. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to the patterns of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” The thoughts circulating through your mind will eventually become the beliefs in your heart and the beliefs in your heart become your character.

You are right, you will always struggle with sin. However, God has given us the strength to break the chains of sin through his Son. 1 John 5:3 says this “For this is the love of God, that you obey His commandments and His commandments cease to be burdensome.” The more time you spend with God the more you will fall in love with Him and the more you love Him the more obedience becomes a joy.

Here are some scriptures that speak directly to this situation:
Romans 6
1 Corinthians 10:13
Ephesians 4:1

Kanakuk at the Missouri Discovery Center on Feb 28th

2009-02-23T14:03:00.000-08:00

On February 28th, Kanakuk Kamps is sponsoring the Wire Bike at the Springfield, Missouri Discovery Center’s Kids Camp and Educational Fair. It’s FREE and open to the public from 10am to 5pm. I’m going to be there! It will be great to see all the Kanakuk kids and families there. If you come, wear your Kanakuk shirts and bring your friends. We are going to pass out some T-shirts and just have a great time hanging out and riding the wire bike. Hope to see you there!!

K2 Counselor on ER Tonight!! Introducing Kristolyn Lloyd!!

2009-02-19T05:03:00.000-08:00

ATTENTION: K2 Counselors and Kampers, Kristolyn Lloyd, our very own K2 counselor, is going to be on ER this Thursday (Feb 19-yeah tonight) at 10 pm (or it might be 9 pm for you depending on where you live). All she will tell Ashley is that she plays Angela Bassett's daughter! Boomshakalaka! Here are some pics on the set of ER and of Kristolyn from K2 08.

Pictured Above: This is an actual, undigitalized/unenhanced/unimported/non copy and pasted picture of my wife, Ashley Robbins, touching her forehead to the forehead of Hollywood Starlet Kristolyn Lloyd!! Whoa.

This is a picture of Kristolyn getting touched up on the set of ER.

Here is Kristolyn's trailor door. She had a trailor...awesome. Anywho, check it out my freinds. Just another Kanakuk Kamps star being born. Now we have an American Idol: Jordin Sparks, American Gladiator: Tim Oliphant, Jimmy Kimmel sidewalk star: Geoff Todd, Heisman winner: Sam Bradford and ER Star: Kristolyn Lloyd to add to the list of Kanakuk heros in recent years.

Carter Hulsey Concert!!

2009-02-16T11:56:00.000-08:00

Ashley and I went to see Carter Hulsey in concert for Valentines Day on Saturday. As many of you know Carter led worship this summer with Brady and Jennifer White. He is so talented and we absolutely loved seeing him in his element!!

Many of you have asked, "Is Carter coming back this summer?" And officially, as of Saturday night the awnser is YES!!
You can check out Carter's music and concert schedule at his Myspace page below!!
http://www.myspace.com/carterhulsey

Tutorial: How to ride a wild donkey. By Shay Robbins- Donkey Rider

2009-02-10T07:04:00.000-08:00

Step 1: Find yourself a wild donkey, like the beast pictured above.

Step 2: Become the Donkey Whisperer. In a soothing voice reassure the beast that, "everything is going to be ok", "i am a your friend, donkey" and "i have some corn for you to munch on...it's delicious."

Step 3: Look into the Donkey's eyes...into his soul.

Step 4: Make contact with the beast. Give him the thumbs up to calm his donkey nerves.

Step 5: Every so gently position yourself to the side of the beast. Note: do not get behind the beast as he will use the most lethal of defense mechanisms in all the Animal Kingdom: the deadly...DONKEY KICK. Now, swiftly perform a left legged chuck norris roundhouse kick to the spine of the beast. This will temporarily paralyze the monster.

Step 6: Muster all the tenacity of the Legendary Donkey Riders that have gone before you and sink in a Kung Fu grip into the mane of the beast. At this point expect the donkey to come out of the paralysis delivered from the Chuck Norris roundhouse to the lumbar spine you delivered moments ago. With the swiftness of a black shadow ninja assassin slide into the full mount position and hold on for dear life. Upon completion of your mission you will have earned the highly coveted title of "Donkey Rider".

Chinks in My Armor

2009-02-06T09:00:00.000-08:00

I was having coffee, about a year ago, with my friend and mentor Bernard. We were sharing the highs and lows of life. Thankfully our conversations always lead to the lows. I know that sounds depressing but there is great value in sharing the hard parts of life. This particular morning we were discussing the spiritual battle we are in.
Ephesians 6:12 "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places."

Understanding that we, as Christians, are going to war day in and day out gives weight to every step we take. In fact, it is wise for Satan to disguise this truth. With this shift in perspective everything we do has greater urgency and importance. Instead of dreaming up ways to minister we develop strategies for War. Instead of scheduling our day we lay out Battle plans. This is the way of life for a Mighty Man of God. I am getting all jacked up just writing about it!!

If we are heading to war there are some checks and balances that we must administer. This particular day Bernard and I talked about the "chinks in our armor". A chink in the armor is a point of weakness, an area of vulnerability that the enemy can target and attack. If one weakness is exposed and exploited in can change the course of the battle.

As men of God we must step back and take a hard look at ourselves. It is easy to see the chinks in our neighbors armor yet incredibly difficult to see our own. This is because we don't want to recognize our own weaknesses. Pride thwarts this check and balance more often than not.

For the next week or so I examined my life. The obvious weaknesses surfaced immediately: lust of the eyes, pride, thought life, etc. But I am aware of these issues. The enemy is sly, he uses those areas to distract us so that he can work subtly and without detection. I knew there had to be more. With much prayer and contemplation I discovered my chink. Honestly, I did not like what I uncovered. The chink in my armor is self glorification, the desire to build myself up. The scary thing is that I can use God's ministry to do this.

Since then I have began a campaign in my own life to fortify this chink in my armor. I am making some strides but it is still a battle. I am learning. One of my stategies of war is to pass on the lessons I am learning to others. Today I want to ask you, "What are the chinks in your armor?"

Give me 4 seconds to brighten your day.

2009-02-04T13:59:00.000-08:00

Men at the Cross Charlotte

2009-02-02T07:39:00.000-08:00

I attended Men at the Cross Charlotte this weekend. Joe and I ran in to our 6th term Cherokee chief, Collin Ball, at the event. It is always fun to run into K2 kampers as we travel across the states with various Kanakuk Ministries. Seeing Colin got me so excited for the upcoming summer. We have been brainstorming and planning non-stop since kamp concluded August 12th. Kanakuk is the most exciting Christian Sports Camp (we spell it with a K!) in the WORLD!! Admittedly, I am very biased:)

Check out our new Kanakuk Website to see what's in store for summer 2009!!

Pruning is Painful

2009-01-29T09:57:00.000-08:00

I sat across the coffee table from a dear friend today. Sometimes he is a mentor, sometimes a boss, sometimes an authority, sometimes a teammate but today he was a friend. Without knowing it, he said what I needed to hear, "Pruning is painful".

I woke up feeling a little beat up because of my shortcomings that were brought to the surface in the last couple days. The pruning he spoke of comes from John 15. Jesus said, "I am the vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful."

Thankfully this reminded me that while pruning is often a painful process their is great purpose in it. For whatever reason I was reminded of how much God loves me. Maybe you can relate?

Evolution vs. Creation

2009-01-28T07:17:00.000-08:00

"The past couple weeks a lot of questions about my faith have come up and i wanted to know if you could maybe give me some advice. the biggest question that's come up is about "the Beginning"...i have always believed that God created this world(i still do), but we watched a video in a bible study that explains that evolutionary creation of the world is such a flawed concept. it talked about how intelligent design is the most plausible explanation, BUT they said that evolution AFTER creation is possible...as long as i believe that God created everything, including evolution, is it wrong to think that the creation story is just an explanation of what people thought happened "in the beginning"?" -Chris

First of all, you must remember this: "All scripture is God breathed.."2 Tim 3:16. God's Word is perfect and literally written. If there isn't absolute truth our faith in Christ would be worthless. If the Genesis story is "just an explanation of what people thought happened" our entire faith would be based off of man's ideas. We would be no different that Buddhists, Mormons, Scientologists, etc. The story of creation and the fall of man is the foundation for the Christian faith.

I want you to read Matthew Ch 4 where the Devil Tempts Jesus in the desert. You will see that the Devil twists scripture in an attempt to lure Jesus into sin. The evil one uses the same tactics today. When we become believers the enemy has to change his strategy. One strategy he uses with Christians is to weaken their faith, or create doubt, by twisting our understanding of the scriptures.

The enemy has developed a brilliant plan to crush Christianity by using Darwin's theory and seducing the science world to believe this theory as truth. The truth is that amongst the millions of fossil discoveries they have found no "transitional species" to support the theory of "Macro Evolution". It remains an unproven theory. Note: "Micro Evolution" is proven. ME is evolution that takes place w/in the species. For example: the variations in the breed of dogs...they have unique changes and specializations over time but they are still dogs.

Anything is possible with God. The man of God must sift through a world of deception and filter everything through the Word of God to find truth. You will find great resources on Creation/Evolution on the following website: http://www.drdino.com/
You can watch their videos for free. They will show you the science that the Evolutionist doesn't want you to see.

I love your heart Chris. I was an Cultural Christian and an Evolutionist until I was 24. I have a biology related degree from Iowa State and saw things no other way until my faith required me to seek out the truth. For two years I studied the science supporting creation and a young earth and my world/faith has never been the same.

Connections with David

2009-01-25T17:20:00.000-08:00

Recently in my spiritual walk of faith with the LORD, I found that living a life for Christ is not the norm for even Christian teens, let alone the rest of the secular world. Most guys care more about who can say the biggest swear words, who has the most tackles in the football game, who has the "hottest girl"....and the list goes on.. They seem as if they only care about their relationship with Christ on Sunday. It really has discouraged me in the last couple of weeks when even some of the guys who I would say I am close too have fallen into this trap of being what I call a "man of the world" No one cares intently for "Pressing on towards the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 3:14. I feel sometimes as if I am in this spiritual race alone, and everyone is too lazy or undriven to get on their feet and run towards the cross.
One of my spiritual hero's David was coined "as a man of God." He could relate to my (or anyone else who is feeling this way) struggles. He even was alone in a cave because his own people had outcast them! This idea of being alone can be shown through Psalms 14:2- "The LORD looks down from heaven on the sons of man to see if there are any who understand, any who seek God." the Lord admits himself that there will be times when no one understands or cares to seek God.

Though these times may be difficult, We all will press on like Paul said and continue on my brothers of Christ. Prayer will be essential to survival, for the Lord charges us to pray continually. ( As for the men that are of the ways of the world, encouragement and prayer for their sake is all that we can do. 1st Thessalonians 5:16-18-16Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus!

Be Strong My Brothers In Christ.

Reflective Thinking on the Arizona Cardinals Victory

2009-01-19T06:57:00.000-08:00

Reflective thinking on a football game?? Yeah I know, how do you get spiritual over a football game. The Apostle Paul encourages us to "make the most of every opportunity". Last night, the Arizona Cardinals defeated the Philadelphia Eagles for the opportunity to play in the Superbowl XLIII. As always, Kurt Warner deflected the glory to Jesus Christ in the post game interview. I am so thankful and encouraged when athletes like Kurt Warner and Tim Tebow boldly proclaim Jesus. These two guys consistently make the most of every opportunity.

This morning I had an awful time getting out of bed. Monday's start early because I have Bible study with the 7th grade Mighty Men. Satan always attacks me in these moments because I am so susceptible. At 5am the alarm clock goes off and it's dark, cold and my stomach churns because my body wants to just fall back to sleep. There are no lights, video cameras, no audience yet God has given me the opportunity to meet with Him on Monday mornings. Not only that, but I have been given the opportunity to teach His Word to the next generation. Forgive me for ever wavering.

Thanks you Kurt Warner. I became a Cardinals fan just to hear you rep Christ in your post game interview. I will be routing for you in two weeks knowing you will make the most of that opportunity as well.

You can see Kurt Warner at Men at the Cross:

www.menatthecross.org

"I will never travel through Louisiana without taking a swamp boat tour"

2009-01-14T08:57:00.000-08:00

As many of you know from facebook and twitter that my New Year's "Revolution" this year is that I will never travel through Louisiana without taking a swamp boat tour. Ashley and I have continued our journey through this magical state. We are know in New Orleans and headed to Alexandria shortly. Our journey will conclude in Baton Rouge-where I intend on selecting the shadiest Swamp Boat operation we can find-naturally Ashley is very apprehensive but somebody has to take pictures of me holding an Alligator!!

Swamp boat tour is on...I will keep you posted!!

Kanakuk Movie Tour...

2009-01-12T11:27:00.000-08:00

We are back on the Kanakuk Movie Tour this week through Louisiana. I have a couple of goals. First, I take Ashley on a swampboat tour and wrestle an alligator. 2. Eat Cajun every day. 3. Put as many Kanakuk kids on Jumping stilts as possible. So far we are setting pace to achieve all of those goals!! If I can pass anything on to the next generation it is this: set goals and then do um

Last night we were in Shreveport, LA. Above I am on the jumping stilts with Danny Felty, Matt and Shawn Williams and James Haynes, aka a bunch of Studs!!

Yeah so Matt Williams is a stud and happens to be a natural on jumping stilts.

This is my new best friend James. James is as fearless as they come. He will no doubt be a warrior at K2 in a couple years.

K2 Musical: Episode 6

2009-01-09T09:04:00.000-08:00

Sorry I have taken so long to continue the series....We had some technical difficulties uploading the video and I got very sidetracked. For like two months. Anywho, Episode 5 was a recap to we leap forward to Episode 6 as the saga continues. K2 Musical, enjoy. Episodes 7 & 8 will be posted next week!

Bird Huntin!

2009-01-08T09:20:00.000-08:00

This weekend we had the 2008 K2 Leadership team come to Branson to Dream up K2 2009. We spent long hours in the hot tub brainstorming parties, Klife, FUAGNEM and opening day. I must say the weekend was a great success. Toby Pardon, our K2 Maintenance Head, hosted us at his bird ranch as well! It was amazing!
Billy "Hightide" Heydel killed his first bird ever...and five more to follow.
There's me on my new jumping stilts!
There's Don Ford laughing at me after I wiped out. You know it's bad when your arm is sticking out your back.
TK, Jared and myself meanmuggin it.

We killed them.

Beans are a vegetable and NOT a fruit=you want proof here it is!

2009-01-07T08:58:00.001-08:00

Vote for me in this contest!

Submit entry

Contest details

Hello,
I just wanted to send an email to see if there was anyway you could lend me a hand. David Holland (k7 event director and orlando klife leader) and I (8 year kamper and klife volunteer at Orlando klife) made a video for a Bush's beans contest this past month. They wanted to convey that beans are a vegetable and not a fruit. Anyway, we made the final five of this contest that had a hundred videos or so. Now it all depends on votes to win and we're doing all we can to get people to vote. The winner receives five thousand dollars and a trip for four to New York City to perform our "beanchant" in time square with Drew Lachey. Not only a really fun opportunity but also a great opportunity to be a light in such a fun way. The link to the page is above . If there is anyway you could put this on the news section of the website that would be fantastic. Voting can be done once a day and a login is required. Which means your email is required but no junkmail or spam is sent so its no big deal to give them your email. The voting ends January twenty third and I will be sure to let you know how it turns out.

Thank you so much for your help,
Kyle Sapp

Friends lets ban together and join this worthy cause!!!

AMPEC: Understand your Bible better with one word!

2009-01-05T19:52:00.000-08:00

I am teaching Matthew to my 7th grade Mighty Men. This morning we talked about the background of Matthew and I used a simple acronym I was taught in the institute. The guys really caught on and I was reminded of how simple and effective this acronym is in simplifying the structure of the Bible. Thought I would throw it at you...hope it helps. This is worth writing down in your Bible somewhere.

Anticipation: The message of the Old Testament is summed up as the Anticipation of Christ
Manifestation: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. The Gospels are the manifestation of Christ
Proclamation: Book of Acts. The message of Christ is spread throughout the World. The Beginnings of the Church
Explanation: Romans-Jude. Authors of the Letters to the Churches give explanation of the new faith in Jesus Christ
Culmination: Revelation. Gods description of Victory in Christ and the Culmination of all things.

On a less serious note: I have wiped out 4 times this weekend on my jumping stilts...I am getting dangerously comfortable on them!!

New Year's Resolution

2008-12-31T11:12:00.000-08:00

We are quickly approaching the new year. It is always interesting to hear about New Year's Resolutions. It's even more interesting to sit back and watch few people succeed. The RESOLVE to finish is special quality. It's special because very few people have it. Many of us have the propensity to dream but not many have the determination make a dream become a reality.

What is your dream/resolution in 2009??

I want to encourage you along the way!

You can run... but you'll just die tired

2008-12-29T15:04:00.000-08:00

There is a saying among snipers, "You can run...but you'll just die tired." My homeboy Jason told me that-he has been shot and blown up oversees and lived to talk about it so I know the source is legit! The spiritual truth in this saying is fantastic. For the longest time I ran from God. He was clearly calling on my heart yet I wasn't ready to give up control of my life. He persistently and patiently pursued me. Many of you know what I am talking about.

God has each one of us lined up in His scope. So many times in my life I have felt like God was about as close to me as a distant star in the sky. Despite how we feel God knows each one of us intimately. The psalmist tells us that he calls the stars by name and Jesus tells us that every hair on our head is numbered. Even in the midst of this mighty Universe He knows us amongst the cosmos. We are significant enough to be greatly loved by our Creator despite how insignificant we may feel.

If you are running from God just remember, "You can run, but you'll just die tired." God has you in His sights. Nothing you can do can escape His reach. God wants YOU. If you are tired of running all you have to do is stop, turn around and embrace Him.

Advent Conspiracy: Christmas can change the world

2008-12-22T10:32:00.000-08:00

"The story of Christ's birth is a story of promise, hope, and a revolutionary love.

So, what happened? What was once a time to celebrate the birth of a savior has somehow turned into a season of stress, traffic jams, and shopping lists.

And when it's all over, many of us are left with presents to return, looming debt that will take months to pay off, and this empty feeling of missed purpose. Is this what we really want out of Christmas?

What if Christmas became a world-changing event again?

Welcome to Advent Conspiracy."

If you like the taste of lactic acid you'll love NEGATIVE SPLITS

2008-12-19T06:11:00.000-08:00

"I'm told by youth ministers and other people that my life shouldn't be this spiritual roller coaster, but how does that happen? I mean we all sin daily right? How can I keep growing in godliness but still day after day fall into the same traps of lies,gossip,or dishonoring my parents? As a Christian aren't supposed to be getting better and better at becoming more and more like Christ? Instead the more and more i get to know Christ it seems like the less and less i become like him. These are just some thoughts from a confused young Christian!" -Senior in High School

I totally understand where you are coming from. I think there is a better illustration than a roller coaster: I think our Christian life is more like a train track (I totally ripped this off from Rick Warren): with one good rail and one that’s bad. There is and will always be things to rejoice over and always be things we are struggling with. That is how James said, “Consider it pure joy my brethren when you encounter trials of many kinds” or when Paul said, “God uses all things for good for those who love Him”.

The more you get to know Him the more you will realize how jacked up you are!! That’s actually a good thing because your heart is becoming more like Jesus. It is softening to His voice. I must admit, the more I know God the more I realize how much I need Him and how far off I really am. But rest assured, that is how He sets us apart.

Let me leave you with one illustration: NEGATIVE SPLITS (I totally ripped this off from Scott G.)
Negative splits is a runners term. In a negative splits work out you run a 6 min mile, 2nd mile a 5:50 and the 3rd a 5:40. It is the most grueling, gut wrenching work out there is. Some say that it’s not the fastest guy who wins the race but the man who runs slow and steady. But I disagree, I say the guy who wins is the one who runs NEGATIVE SPLITS. In football you give everything you have for 3 quarters-running, hitting, juking, jiving but the team who wins is the one who comes out in the 4th and runs a Negative Split.
It’s the same with Men of Faith. The guy who wins for Christ is the one who runs with greater urgency, conviction and determination each day. This is how we win the race! NEGATIVE SPLITS!!

Carl Cleveland: Inventor Extraordinaire

2008-12-18T07:58:00.000-08:00

Gentlemen, Carl Cleveland-Inventor Extraordinaire is back at it. Introducing his latest invention...

Reflective Thinking

2008-12-16T17:16:00.000-08:00

Some days it seems like our lives our way too fast. We never take even a moment to spend time in God's word or in prayer. After a week of not being in the word, I felt as if the LORD himself was tugging at my heart, saying "Matt I want you, but do you want me?" Then I knew that changes needed to be made in order for me to spend time with Him. So late afternoon one day I made the decision to spend some time by the water, and reflect on His nature. Let me tell you, that experience softened my heart and I really connected with the LORD that day. The next morning I cracked open the word, letting God take me to the place where I was to read. By chance I stumbled upon the very verse that I needed to hear so badly. Proverbs 27:19 (New Living Translation)
"As a face is reflected in water, so the heart reflects the real person."

This struck a positive chord in my heart. Who knew that one could find the LORD by staring at a pond in a park? The LORD did.

Matt Galvin

Sexting...A new trend

2008-12-15T13:59:00.000-08:00

A new article just got released by USA Today surveying over 1,2oo teens about cell phone/picture usage. There were some pretty startling results...

About a third of young adults 20-26 and 20% of teens say they've sent or posted naked or semi-naked photos or videos of themselves, mostly to be "fun or flirtatious," a survey finds.

A third of teen boys and 40% of young men say they've seen nude or semi-nude images sent to someone else; about a quarter of teen girls and young adult women have. And 39% of teens and 59% of those ages 20-26 say they've sent suggestive text messages.

Growing up in the 80's my father had a single phone to monitor in order to protect my little sister. We had no Internet, answering machine or cell phones. The ability for others to influence our home was limited to the TV and and the single line into our small country home. 20 years later the circumstances have changed drastically.

I know of a young girl in a town near me who sent a nude picture to her boyfriend. The two broke up and days later this picture had circulated throughout the entire school. This innocence of this little girl was shattered. Sure she made a mistake in sending the picture originally, but how cruel has this world become?

Text messaging and the new trend of "sexting" is a powerful threat to teenagers and adults alike. In fact, text messaging is the easiest avenue to affairs to date. As believers we have to be aware of this threat. Text messaging is a great thing, however we must continue to guard ourselves as technology develops.

"I will set before my eyes no vile thing." Psalm 101:3

"You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart." Matthew 5:27-28

"Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." 1 Peter 5:8

Inspired Life/Living with Vision- What is the draw of this post?

2008-12-12T09:18:00.000-08:00

I posted this entry on Oct 28th. In the last month it has received over 200 hits standing out above all other "old posts". I am not sure why? Help me understand. What is it that draws readers to this post among the archives???

The product of an inspired life is fantastic. Like Nehemiah, David, Jesus and countless modern day Mighty Men this lifestyle is that of the best leaders. People want to follow a man who has a dynamic dream and the character to fight for it daily. At Kanakuk K2, the Christian Sports Kamp I help direct, we believe that there is a born leader inside every boy and girl that enters our Kamp. Under the leadership of Joe White we have developed a program that challenges kids to dream for Christ and gives them the practical steps to accomplish their dream. As a result of this program we see teenagers taking the world for Christ. By God’s grace we get to see kids eyes opened to a passionate and intimate lifestyle that they didn’t know exists. We ignite this process by casting vision. And now more than ever our country thirsts for Men of faith leading with vision.

Proverbs 29:18 says, “Where there is no vision the people perish.” The literal definition of perish is this context means: to cast off restraint, to loosen, to dissolve, to break up, to go to pieces, to go naked, to perish. If we take an honest look at our culture we see moral restraint being cast off. The foundation of truth that our Nation was founded on is dissolving. Our ability as a society to raise children of respect, honor and integrity is breaking up.

The prophet Amos warned the nation of Israel to return to their first love. The people forgot their God during times of prosperity and the time would come, in the midst of captivity, when they would long for the Word of God. Amos 8:11, “Behold days are coming,” declare the Lord God, “When I will send a famine on the land, Not a famine for bread or a thirst for water, But rather for hearing the words of the Lord. And the people will stagger from sea to sea, And from the north even to the east; They will go to and fro to seek the world of the Lord, But they will not find it.” The nation of Israel is to point all other nations to the One True God and to model to all other nations.

Brothers, our country has strayed from its first love blinded by prosperity. The economic state of our country is causing men and women to question everything. Now is the time for Mighty Men to rise up with a vision to take this nation for Christ. The Harvest is plenty but the workers are few. I pray that a remnant of Men who dare to dream, who dare to be faithful, who dare to fight for Jesus Christ will rise up from the obscurity of faithlessness and turn our nation back to the One True God. This is a mighty dream. This is an inspired life.

What do you think worship is?

2008-12-11T10:32:00.000-08:00

This is a great question coming from a college student...

"Shay can i ask a question??? well i hope so because im going to go ahead and ask... but what do you think worship is??? how do we worship??? and does worship change us??? well i guess that is actually 3 questions but im just interested to see what you think... and don't feel like you have to answer..."

Worship is obedience.

The first biblical reference to worship was when Abraham brought his son to be sacrificed (Genesis 22). His act of worship was obedience. In this case, to show that he loved God more than his son. God provided a ram for the sacrifice and Abraham proved to be a man of faith.

When we praise God with music and singing we are being obedient to praise Him. When we are faithful to our Bible study we are worshipping. When we walk out of movies that convict our spirit we are worshipping. When we share our faith with friends we are worshipping.

I believe the misconception of worship is what causes men and women to fall away throughout the week. If the emotion of music and singing is what brings us close to God we will surely feel separated from Him throughout the week. However, a life of worship will keep us intimately connected with our Creator everyday. This is how it changes us. Daily worship leads to transformation (Romans 12:2)

Highland Park Clean Team

2008-12-08T08:43:00.000-08:00

Highland Park High schoolers hosted their first Clean Team event. The event brought about 60 kids and provided a positive alternative activity on Friday Night. Congrats to the Kanakuk Kampers making a stand for Christ in their high school. Proud of you guys! Check out the website below to find out how to start a Clean Team in your school!

http://www.theoriginalcleanteam.com/

I want proof that God is real: The Prophetic Cross

2008-12-05T09:30:00.000-08:00

Psalm 22:14-18 written by David in the 10th century B.C.

"I am poured out like water, And all my bones are out of joint;

My heart is like wax; It is melted within me.

My strength is dried up like a potsherd, And my tongue cleaves to my jaws;

And Thou dost lay me in the dust of death.

For dogs have surrounded me; A band of evildoers has encompassed me;

They pierced my hands and my feet. I can count all my bones.

They look, they stare at me;

They divide my garments among them, And for my clothing they cast lots."

Psalm 22 is a prophetic description of the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ which occurred 1000 years later. Primitive forms of crucifixion date, at the earliest, to 6th century B.C. with the Roman style crucifixion specifically described throughout the Old Testament being developed around the 2nd Century B.C.

Specific details of Roman Crucifixion in this scripture are as follows:

-"all my bones are out of joint"-Dislocated shoulders from hanging on cross. Most deaths from crucifixion were the result of asphyxiation which is from a lack of oxygen supply to the body. Victims would have to pull themselves up with their nailed hands and feet to take each breath. The victim would eventually be overtaken by the pain and exhaustion and in essence suffocate to death.

-"my heart is like wax; it is melted within me"- victims suffered from high fevers due to infection called "sepsis" from pre-crucifixion flogging.

-"my strength is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue cleaves to my jaws"-victims suffered from severe dehydration and exhaustion from loss of body fluid. Dried up like a potsherd refers to drying out of pottery in a kiln. A kiln removes the moisture from the clay. Crucifixion slowly removed blood and water from the body slowly killing the victim.

-"They pierced my hands and my feet"- Jesus was held to the cross by nails driven though his hands/wrists and feet.

-"I can count all my bones"-there are multiple Old Testament prophecies predicting that the Messiah would not have a single bone broken. Roman soldiers would often hasten death by breaking the legs of victims. John 19:34-36 tells us that the soldiers broke the legs of the thieves on either side of Jesus but when they came to Jesus they found him already dead thus fulfilling the scriptures.

-"They divide my garments...and for my clothing they cast lots." A specific fact recorded in all four of the Gospels.

This is a limited reference to the Biblical prophecy of Jesus Christ's Crucifixtion becuase there are references throughout the Old Testament. This is another scripture to go to when in doubt or dealing with a sceptic. Press on brothers!!

I want proof that God is real...

2008-12-03T13:59:00.000-08:00

Doubt. As a believer in Christ I wrestle with doubt from time to time. Honestly, I think it is a healthy process to reevaluate your belief system-to search for truth. Christians are often lumped into the stereotype of being narrow minded, brainwashed, ignorant and uneducated. Christianity is the only faith that is backed by archaeological, philosophical, historical and biological evidence. God has provided the evidence to quench our doubt.

The following statements describe one man. Who is it?

-"Those who hate me whithout cause are more numerous than the hairs of my head."
-"The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers conspire together against the Lord and His Anointed One"
-" Strike the shepard and the sheep will be scattered"
-"They peierced my hands and my feet."
-"My God my God, why have You forsaken Me?"
-"They gave me gall for my food, and for my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink."
-"They divided my garmets among themselves, and they cast lots for my clothing."
-"He submitted Himself to death."
-"He bore the sin of many and interceded for the rebels."
-"He protects all his bones; not one of them is broken."
-"They made His grave with the wicked, and with a rich man at His death, although He had done no violence and had not spoken deceitfully."
-"He was oppressed and afflicted, yet He did not open His mouth. Like a lamb led to the slaughter and like a sheep silent before her shearers, He did not open His mouth."
-"Yet He Himself bore our sicknesses, and He carried our pains; but we in turn regarded Him stricken, struck down by God, and afflicted."

The following statements unmistakeably describe one man, Jesus Christ. However, these statements are found in the Old Testament which was completed 400yrs before Christ was born. No critic, no atheist or agnostic has ever claimed these prophecies were written after His birth. Their credibility is undeniable. You will find no predictive prophecies in any other religous writing: not Buddha, Confucious, Mohammed, Lao-Tse or Hinduism. Jesus Christ stands apart. The odds of just 10 prophecies becoming true is mathmatically impossible. The above statements represent a miracle defying impossibility. My doubt is quenched and my faith is strengthened.

Shay's Favorite Books for Teen Boys and older guys who can't read that good...

2008-12-02T07:42:00.000-08:00

"Hey Shay: I am a mom of a 14 yr old girl K2 camper and a 16 yr old boy, and left this same question on Ashley's blog. Always having a difficult time finding quality uplifting and entertaining reading for the kids that is age and development appropriate. Wonder if you would consider a "Shays Favorite Books for Teen Boys"; kind of addition to your blog? Cathy"

I am reading "Do Hard Things" right now and I am recommending it to every teenager I meet. Awesome!!

Mark Cahill is the most sold out evangelist I have ever met. His writing is simple and easy to read. And there is no one that will get you more fired up to share your faith than him!

I read "Season of Life" after a Klife Conference with Joe Ehrman. This is a must read for every father and son. I devoured this book!I have only read portions of this book but I trust Ron Luce and his message to teenagers.

"Wild at Heart" is a must read for every dude!

"Every Young Man's Battle" is the most important book availible for young men today. It absolutley changed my life and caused me to become the man that the wife of my dreams would be attracted to. EVERY GUY needs to read this book!!!

I would not say that "Purpose Driven Life" is for every teenage boy but I know kids that it has impacted in a mighty way. It's awesome!

Ok, this is probably the book I am most excited about. I picked up "SINNER" a couple weeks ago and I could not put it down. It was my first Ted Dekker novel and it rocked my world. SINNER is a part of a series of books so I totally blew it, however I will be reading every Dekker book I can get my hands on! These books are action packed...gripping...mind blowing...

These are the next two on my list!

Jake "the Snake" story from a wanna be Author

2008-12-01T07:41:00.000-08:00

Hey All, I have been writing a book for the last year. I am totally insecure and sheepish when it comes to my writing but I figure I need to take it on a test drive. Here is a sample. Let me know if its gutter trash that way I can crawl up in a hole and cry for a day or two. Otherwise...ENJOY!

"The summer of eighth grade, I embarked on my one and only summer camp experience. Directing one myself, I now see the importance of such an experience, and I’m occasionally caught thinking about my own expectations when I catch the dejected look of one of my current youths. Although much of this camping experience is lost somewhere in the recesses of my memory, a certain experience impacted me in such a way that it has altered the course of my life. Of course, that is the purpose of Christian camping—planting a seed that may take root many years down the road.

As we pulled into camp I was brimming with excitement. Our youth pastor informed us that the featured speaker at Pine Lake was Jake “The Snake” Roberts. As he delivered this news I nearly passed out from an overexposure to awesomeness. Jake “The Snake” Roberts was a former professional wrestler in the World Wrestling Federation.

Growing up in the 80’s there was one man who led the greatest army the world has ever known. He was more powerful than Ronald Reagan; he rocked harder than David Lee Roth, and his moves were smoother than Michael Jackson. His name was Hulk Hogan. That’s right, through the eyes of an eight year old, the 1980’s were dominated by one man: Hulk Hogan. The Robbins boys were Hulkamaniacs. In fact, I am fairly sure that the reason I still kiss my biceps is because of the impact of Hulk Hogan on my life.

The Hulkster was surrounded by a solid supporting cast, which included Hacksaw Jim Duggan, The Junkyard Dog, and Jake “The Snake” Roberts. Jake "The Snake" was famous for knocking his opponents out cold and draping his 10-foot python across their lifeless bodies. His look was classic 1983: curly, wet mullet; a hairy, barrel chest; and a pair of blue tights.

I don’t know that I can adequately explain the excitement that raced through our veins that day at summer camp. Picture a hoard of rowdy boys congregated outside the chapel. As one can imagine this group of boys erupted into a Royal Rumble reenactment. I delivered a forearm shiver and then a chop across the chest in tribute to the “Nature Boy” Ric Flair, “Whooo”. From the top ropes, two feet drove into my chest alla “Superfly” Jimmy Snooka. A pair of twins marched around pumping their fists like the Bushwhackers, WWF Tag Team Champions. We even spent precious commissary on cans of root beer that we chugged without tasting simply to smash the empty cans on our heads in a show of strength.

Consumed with a lethal mixture of testosterone and adrenaline the Chapel doors burst open. Covered head to toe in root beer we wrestled our way to the front. I positioned myself with one goal in mind. As soon as he pulled out that python, I was going to touch it. There are times in life where men must weigh “the cost”. In this case there wasn’t much consideration to be done, sacrificing a hand would be well worth the bragging rights.

The Chaplin made his introduction as I scanned the building looking for "The Snake". Expecting an entrance from the back I strained to survey the double doors behind me. All of a sudden the crowd began to applaud. Looking to my left a man stood up and approached the stage. He introduced himself as Jake Roberts. My heart sank.

"The Snake" had cut his mullet and lost 50 pounds. I grimaced, “Not the mullet Jake…not the mullet.” Instead of blue tights he wore a collared shirt buttoned to the top—not a single chest hair exposed. With every moment that passed my disappointment mounted. Jake made no mention of his battle royal with the "Junk Yard Dog". He uttered not a word about the patriotic "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan. Nor did he tote a bag slithering with a 10-foot python..."

New Kanakuk Website

2008-11-26T11:17:00.000-08:00

Ya'll gotta test out the new, awesome, Kanakuk webpage. Click on the links below. Leave comments of what you would change, hard to navigate, or any suggestions and I'll pass it on to our marketing/software people.

Don't know the first thing about Kanakuk Kamps? Discover it!
Wonder what the hype is about? Feel The Impact!
Need a new friend? Meet The People?
Want to see Joe White in a suit? Drink in the "Unquenchable love"!
Want to ask a question or tell your Kanakuk story? Why don't you Sayso!

We've hidden a treat on the new www.kanakuk.com. Just type the letters "JOY" on your keyboard to find it.

Share any of these pages with a friend! Just click on the little envelope at the bottom of the website.
Today, you get a sneak peek at the nearly ready, all brand new, http://www.kanakuk.com:2008/Default.aspx. We need you to check it out, kick the tires, try to find problems, and let us know. When you find a flaw in the new website just click on the ladybug at the bottom of each page and send us a short description of the problem and we'll fix it.

Some known problems:
Internet Explorer(IE) 6.0 looks bad, messes with our flash content, doesn't like going places, etc. If you are running IE 6, upgrade to Firefox or the latest version of IE. We'll eventually work all the IE 6 bugs out.

You can login with your regular Kanakuk id (probably your email). You don't need it to get around most of the site but if you want to track your Sayso conversations or get to any of the personal stuff you'll need it.

Forgot your password? Click on the green "Login" button and follow the links so we can send it out to you.

Thanks for helping us with this. This has been a huge project and we really have poured ourselves in to it. Our vision is that you find it easy to use and a place that has a lot of value for your life and your Kanakuk experience. Today we lay the foundation for that.

A conversation with an Atheist: Round 2

2008-11-25T07:36:00.000-08:00

A comment was made by an atheist on the article I wrote early this week in regards to a question sent to me from a teenage Christian. He made some good points and I think there is some valuable dialogue we can have. That being said this is the comment made on the blog post. This post is in regards to paragraphs two and three.

"How can there be a loving God when there are 33 million people in Africa with HIV?""You seem to imply that the Africans with HIV lack faith in some way, or they are being punished for completely unrelated people lacking faith. Either way, it leaves the feeling that God could be a bit sadistic.

On the topic of that video, I have heard that story a bazillion times, but never actually seen a citation saying who this professor is. It also implies that atheists are horrible oppressive people designed to turn Christians into more of these horrible evil Atheist monstrosities. As an Atheist, I always find this incredibly offensive just as a Jew would find being accused of having gold, a Christian of hating Jews, books, and free thinking, or a Muslim being accused of being a terrorist.

The entire video implies that there is only one path, as if there is what about the numerous chains of Christianity, are some left out? Or what about the Jews and Muslims, they still believe in the same God. Or what about the Buddhists, they only try to help people and seek inner peace by doing good deeds. I may not believe in heaven, but if there is a big club in the sky for those who are good, shouldn't it be open to everyone who has helped one another?" -Kaiserbill

First of all I agree with Kaiserbill in regards to the video (which can be seen on my original post). I would like to see a citiation before I put all my eggs in that basket.

Secondly, the video DOES imply that there is only one path to God and so does the Bible. Jesus said, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me." Most world religions are works based assuming that man can earn his way to heaven. The truth is that "we have all sinned and fallen short of God's glory". Our sin separates us from God. Ephesians 2:8-9 says, "For by grace (receiving something we don't deserve) you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God".

Kaiserbill, there is a "big club in the sky" and it is open to everyone. You and I have been offered a free gift. God sent Jesus to pay for the sin in our lives. There is nothing we can do to earn our way to heaven. We simply have to accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior and we can enter into God's presence.

The Journey

2008-11-21T13:27:00.001-08:00

Hey men, this is Matt Galvin ( a K2 Kamper) and this is my first post ever on a blog so bear with me!

Recently life has been great, the LORD is a God who blesses. The LORD has given me a family that loves, a home that shelters from the storms, friends that encourage, and men like you who strive for strong relationships with the God who is mighty to save.

But through all these blessings, its easy to push God to the side and quickly forget about him, even though He was the one who provided all this for me. Thats something that I feel is left out in our fast, transgressing, society filled lives in a world that never takes time out of their day to spend time with the almighty Creator.

Take a look at this picture. Just stare at it for 10 seconds. I think its rather facinating because dreamed a picture like this during my quiet time on Friday. Here is a road, beaten and surrounded by nature.
We can compare a road like this to our everyday lives. Close your eyes for a second. Pretend like you are a traveler on this very road. Perhpaps your home is far away, but for some, it is very near and the end of the road is just around the bend. Your journey home is underway and there is still ground to travel. The journey described is your journey to the Lord. For some it is coming to an end, with the ultimate goal of reaching heaven, our real home and not like the earthy one we have here on earth.

Let us remember we are still on our "journey" on this earth to our heavenly home and we are alien to this world. Let us journey with a passion, stop and look at the scenery but keep in mind the goal that we press on towards. This is truly what our christian journey is but the LORD wants us to stop along the way and help the others who are lost and need to find their true home.

Be strong in your faith men and dominate your christian journey!
-Matt Galvin
K2 Kamper
Highland Park, TX
1 Peter 2:10-12
11Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires

That is my prayer for you, let me know how we can keep in touch!

Conversation with an Atheist..."it leaves the feeling that God could be a bit sadistic."

2008-11-21T08:09:00.000-08:00

A comment was made by an atheist on the article I wrote early this week in regards to a question sent to me from a teenage Christian. He made some good points and I think there is some valuable dialogue we can have. That being said this is the comment made on the blog post "How can there be a loving God when there are 33 million people in Africa with HIV?"

"You seem to imply that the Africans with HIV lack faith in some way, or they are being punished for completely unrelated people lacking faith. Either way, it leaves the feeling that God could be a bit sadistic.

On the topic of that video, I have heard that story a bazillion times, but never actually seen a citation saying who this professor is. It also implies that atheists are horrible oppressive people designed to turn Christians into more of these horrible evil Atheist monstrosities. As an Atheist, I always find this incredibly offensive just as a Jew would find being accused of having gold, a Christian of hating Jews, books, and free thinking, or a Muslim being accused of being a terrorist.
The entire video implies that there is only one path, as if there is what about the numerous chains of Christianity, are some left out? Or what about the Jews and Muslims, they still believe in the same God. Or what about the Buddhists, they only try to help people and seek inner peace by doing good deeds. I may not believe in heaven, but if there is a big club in the sky for those who are good, shouldn't it be open to everyone who has helped one another?" -Kaiserbill

He responded three arguments to which I would like to engage in dialogue on each one in consecutive posts. Before I start I want to say that I have a lot of respect for Atheist’s. They are generally very well thought out and well educated and I appreciate that. My intention is not to engage in a competitive argument but in healthy conversation.

1. The Bible clearly states that our faith, as Christians, will be tested by hardship. And the result of this testing produces amazing things: maturity, endurance, strength, compassion and hope to name a few. Romans 8:28, Romans 5:3-5, James 1:2-3, 1 Peter 1, etc. As I addressed in the previous post man brought sin into the world which caused this world to be "broken", but God uses all things to work together for good for those who love Him.

Rather than implying that Christians in Africa with HIV lack faith, I would say exactly the opposite. Men, women and children of faith, when faced with dire circumstances come face to face with death, while those of us living in prosperity often fail to contemplate the timeless question, "What happens when I die?" In these circumstances our faith is tested and men react in two ways. Either they reject God or their faith in Him grows infinitely stronger.

I happen to be very close with a man who was supposed to die of cancer. He came face to face with death and he had to weigh whether Jesus truly is the way. In this moment his faith was put to the test. Despite the doctor’s predictions of death, he beat the cancer and is alive to this day. The hardship of this disease became a turning point in his life and his faith in Jesus. God used leukemia to perfect his faith. As a result his love, faith and relationship with Jesus are many times greater because of this awful disease.

Secondly, Kaiserbill said, "or they are being punished for completely unrelated people lacking faith".
Romans 3:23 says, "All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God" and Romans 6:23 says, "for the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Every man is guilty because of the sin in our lives and God is just, the price for sin is death...BUT, the FREE GIFT of eternal life is Jesus Christ. This gift is offered to everyone.

John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

I pray that this helps Kaiserbill understand our faith a little bit more. I am eager to understand his thought process better myself.

More conversation to come...

Tough Question: How can God be loving when there are 33 million people in Africa with HIV?

2008-11-16T14:52:00.000-08:00

A Kanakuk Kamper sent me this message over facebook looking for some advice. We thought this would be worth posting as many believers are faced with similar situations.

"a friend of mine were in a non-hostile religious debate about a youtube video (ill post the link to it on your wall) and he simply brought up a response that someone else had written commenting on the video saying- your god is an awesome god.he can stop the chalk from breaking but meanwhile murder and rapes are occuring. tell the 33 million people with HIV in Africa that there is an all powerful god who loves them."...how could i respond to this? ive been challenged with questions like this, but this one seems very difficult for me to find answers to." -Chris, GA

Here is my advice:

"Great question bro, thanks for using me as a resource.

First of all we live in a broken world and Satan is "the prince of this world". In 1st Peter Chapter 1 Peter starts off by addressing his letter to all who are "aliens and strangers". This is not our home. Our home, as Christ followers, is in heaven.

God did not make us Robots, he gave us free will-which we should be thankful for. Man has used his free will, a gift from God, to do evil. As a result we live in this imperfect world-full of evil, rape, aids etc. In the midst of all this junk that we have brought upon OURSELVES God in His loving mercy gave us a way out. And as broken and helpless as things seem, all of us (you, me and your friend) deserve to be punished. But while we are still sinners CHRIST died for us (Romans 5:8).

Chris, this is the perfect opportunity to share the gospel message. It isn't God who brought all this filth into our lives...it is man. Scoffers point thier fingers at God. Believers point thier fingers back to themselves, get on thier knees, and repent. Yes, God could swoop down and clean up our mess, and He will someday, but He is patient. He is waiting, giving us an opportunity to take a step of FAITH."

I know that is a simple answer to a complex question but I hope it gives you some perspective when faced with this kind of opposition. Proud of you Chris.

Ramblings from a Road Weary Gypsy and a wanna be Wabash Football player

2008-11-14T06:35:00.000-08:00

Ashley and I have been traveling across the midwest for the past two weeks. The road has been good to us (see picture above). I have had the opportunity to interview close to 30 of the coolest Jesus Freak College students in the United States. I am driving home so encouraged. Honestly, I think I have been naive to the community of believers in College campuses. I think that's because I missed out on this community in college while I was off chasing the pleasures of this world. And in someway I am sad, because with each campus we stop at I see how much I missed out on. Of coarse God has purpose and can use the failures in my life to glorify His kingdom however, I want to take an opportunity to encourage you to embrace a life for Christ NOW. He wants you NOW. Not once you finish High School or once you graduate and move into the business world, He wants you NOW.

We were at Wabash college a couple days ago. Wabash is a private, secular, All-Guys University in Indiana. Ashley and I kept asking ourselves why you would attend an ALL-GUY campus. You are probably wondering the same thing?! Let me tell you one reason why. Because 60 of the 100 guys on the football team are in Bible studies. Remember this is a secular school. At out Kanakuk Movie we got to meet some of the most passionate, cool and on fire believers in Christ. There was a handful of solid senior guys leading the way: Andrew, Josh, Brock, David and Chris (All Kamp Guys). These guys were unbelievable and we could see how all the young guys wanted what they had! As a result we met all these young guys who had come to Christ just this semester because they wanted what the team leaders had, a relationship with Jesus. This group of men have started a Revolution on their football team and their Campus.

All that to say, these guys were living for Christ NOW. The Wabash Football team is on fire for Jesus and they are making a difference NOW. I am so encouraged and so thankful their example. Press on Brothers.

A Stand Against "Ugg" Boots

2008-11-11T13:21:00.000-08:00

Ashley and I are recruiting staff in the Midwest this week. Today we are at Purdue University and the weather has taken a turn towards winter. Last week we were enjoying 70 degree weather wearing shorts and a tee shirt. With the cold weather comes the cold weather clothing and a particular item I dread...Ugg boots. Ashley thinks she needs a pair but I refuse to budge.

Gentleman, there comes a time in every man's life when he must take a stand against injustice in this world. And for me, the time is now! Ugg boots are not cool. In fact, 10 years ago, when the crazy things came out every woman agreed with me. In fact they were scoffed at by the most hip and fashionable. And then something ridiculous happened, some celebrity looking for some free media coverage strut down Sunset Blvd in Hollywood and BOOM, they are next big thing.

Well, I am here to issue a reality check. Just because everybody has a pair doesn't make them look cool. And the old excuse of "they are so warm" doesn't cut it. If you are looking for warmth a pair of Alpaca Mucklucks from Alaska can't be outdone, nuff said.

Stand your ground men.

Do Hard Things

2008-11-09T10:35:00.000-08:00

Ashley and I are in Indianapolis killing some time and Barnes & Nobles. We spoke last weekend at a youth retreat inspired by this book, Do Hard Things. I sat down to read it this afternoon and I put the book down after reading the first chapter, only to promote their message. Alex & Brett Harris's message is a call to teenagers to rebel against low expectations. Here I am 27 years old and I find myself inspired by their message. Check these guys out!

I am sick of "just getting by".

2008-11-06T12:13:00.000-08:00

It seems like God is bringing men into my life who are sick of "just getting by". In fact, I recently met a successful college athlete who broke down because this lifestyle of "just getting by" is eating him alive inside. This young man is not alone. Young men throughout our country are simply floating through life. I believe this is a subtle epidemic in our faith.

You might wonder why a successful athlete is wrestling with mediocrity. So many men are floating through life because they are afraid to give their all and fail. As long as we give a partial effort we can always fall back on the fact that we did not give our all. I believe the enemy uses this to prevent us from accomplishing devastating work to his agenda. This is unhealthy fear that is fed by lies saying, "you aren't good enough" or "your worth is based off of your success".

Here is the truth. The truth is that the Battle is the Lord's. When David ran to the battle line to face Goliath he knew that the Battle was the Lord's. When Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego refused to bow to a foreign God Nebuchadnezzar threatened to throw them in a fiery furnace but they replied, "If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the furnace of blazing fire...but even if He does not, let it be know to you, O King, that we are not going to serve your gods of worship the golden image that you have set up." Daniel 3:17-18

When Eleazar took his stand in the barley plot he didn't know the outcome of his battle with the Philistines. Scripture tells us that he cut down the enemy until his hand clung to the sword and, "the Lord brought about a great victory".

This is why the Evil One plants seeds of doubt in our minds! When men take a stand in a spirit of courage and God brings about great victories. We don't get to be a part of these victories if we decide it's safer to "just get by".

Colossians 3:17 says, "And whatever you do in word of deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus." God has mighty plans for you. And God will always reward our faithfulness. If you are struggling with "floating" through life I want to encourage you: God has built you for a specific purpose, unique of any other man, and he wants your best. We are all broken. We all fail, but praise God, His power is perfected in our weakness.

KMT: Taylor University

2008-11-05T11:53:00.000-08:00

Ashley and I are in Upland, IN yahoo! This place is amazing. The population is approximately 2000 people and it is home of Taylor University. Pictured above is Jordan Dodd, a former K2 Kamper, and our Kanakuk Campus Rep. He did a great job setting us up to recruit awesome staff from Taylor.

Here I am on the back of K2 counselor, JP Smith's CHOPPER!! He gave me a tour of Taylor's campus on this beast...it changed my life.

We had the amazing privilege to attend chapel this morning at Taylor. The worship was amazing and they had guest speaker Dr. Krish Kandiah from Evangelical Alliance speak on the state of the church. He gave an eye opening message challenging the body of Christ to consider Church as a way to serve rather than a way to be served. I had the opportunity to speak with Krish afterwords and I really appreciated his words of wisdom.

We have one more show tonight at Taylor then we are heading down the road to Indiana Wesleyan University. Staff recruitment is a huge part of our job during the year because Kanakuk and KAA hire approx. 2500 college students every summer.

Speaking in Kansas City Area!

2008-10-31T06:17:00.000-07:00

What's up brothers, for those of you who live in the Kansas City area Ashley and I will be speaking at a Youth Retreat at Lee Summit Community Church. There are three sessions that you are more than welcome to attend.

3:00 Worship Session: Shay speaks "Live Deeply" media message

4:15 Breakout Session: Shay and Ashley purity "Live Pure"

7:00 Worship Session: Shay speaks "Take a Stand"

I would love to see you guys if you live in the area! Come check it out at LSCC's youth facility "Element". Directions are on link below: http://www.students.lsccnet.com/

Joyful Noise: FLAME feat: Lecrae & John Reilly

2008-10-28T12:17:00.000-07:00

This video is Sick! If you are looking for some edifying music to fill your iPods Flame and Lecrae are a killer option. Remember this: The thoughts in your mind will eventually become the beliefs in your heart. Fill you mind with things of God brothers!

DON'T GET RIPPED OFF!

2008-10-28T09:50:00.000-07:00

I want to encourage you to take a moment today and reflect on your relationship with Christ. As I talk to our brothers throughout the country I hear over and over again how their relationship with Christ is being squashed with the business of life. I want to challenge you today: Set your alarm 30-60 minutes early every morning and start your day by investing in your relationship with Christ. DON'T GET RIPPED OFF! Keith Chancey told me for years that I needed to have a quiet time first thing in the morning. I always resisted him because I am by nature a "night owl". Not only that I was consistently meeting with the Lord before bed. I remained stubborn and proud of my routine however the Lord kept nudging me to discipline myself in this way. Last year I finally made a rock solid commitment that I would get up 1 hour early for the rest of my life. I decided at the very least that I could honor the Lord by disciplining myself on His behalf. The product of this decision has been priceless. With each morning that goes by our relationship gets sweeter and sweeter.

Here is the biggest change I have seen. For the last week my time with the Lord has been "dry". I was getting lazy with my prayer and realized that I need to focus on connecting with the Spirit before digging into the Word. So yesterday morning I bared down and had and UNBELIEVABLE time with the Lord. I was so fired up that I wrote a talk that I can't wait to give. In the wee hours of the morning Christ lit a fire in my life and I walked out my door ready to Kill My Day For Christ (you know what I mean-spiritually speaking) ...don't just do it...kill it! What good is a quiet time like that if you are just headed to bed once you are done?!

This kind of commitment equals some early mornings-5am on Mondays for me. I don't tell you this to blow sunshine on my face-I am as afflicted as the next guy. My hope is that I can encourage you through the lessons I am learning. Understand this, mornings are the only time of your day where nothing can infringe on your time. He died for us, it's the least we can do for Him. Let me know how it goes!

Bears Bandwagon

2008-10-21T21:11:00.000-07:00

Ashley and I are in Memphis, Tennessee staying with the Folk family. We just watched plays of the week on ESPN and it reminded me how fantastically awesome the Bears/Vikings game was this weekend. I would like to take a moment to reach out to those of you whose team loyalty is currently wavering. Now is the time to abandon the Patriots, Colts and Cowboys and join the Bears bandwagon. I stand here with arms open wide. Come forth my child, embrace your ditka mustache.

Lecrae Rebel

2008-10-18T18:29:00.000-07:00

"I love rap and I am an atheist. I noticed that Lecrae's music was in the top 10 on iTunes and after sampling all of the tracks, I've purchased the album. Even though I don't believe in God, I enjoy listening to someone who believes so strongly about something and is able to convey it with such passion through his music. Great job, looking forward to more albums."

This is a customer review quote from iTunes regarding Lecrae's new album "Rebel". This is a phenomenal example of a passionate man impacting the world for Christ. Congratulations to Lecrae on such a fantastic testimony, we are proud of you. Lecrae is currently #5 on the top ten Hip Hop Albums on iTunes ahead of Dr Dre and Kanye West.

Ashley and I just bought his album and I can't wait to hear it!!

SMU Mustangs: Blake McJunkin

2008-10-17T11:41:00.000-07:00

We are proud of you Blake! Former Kamper Blake McJunkin is starting for the SMU Mustangs as a Freshman. Blake is quite possibly the most dangerous Warball player in K2 history. He has taken the skills he learned on the warball court and is applying them to the gridiron! Just joking, but seriously. Below Blake's Dad, Kirk, gave us an update.

"As of this weekend he will have started his 6th straight game for SMU. In the week prior to playing Texas Tech the starting center broke his finger. As result Blake got his opportunity to step up and fill the position. This photo represents his first start, and first plays, in Division 1 football against Texas Tech, a top ten rated team.

According to his coaches he is doing a great job and consistently receives high grades for his performance. More importantly, after last week’s game an assistant coach approached me to compliment Blake’s contribution to the team and how proud he is of Blake to have him on the team. I said thank you for the compliment. He responded, “and I am not talking about him as a football player.” As his Dad I know that God has used Kanakuk as a tool to build, in Blake, character that honors the Lord."

Blake you are a beast. Thanks for representing Christ in D1 football. We are proud of you.

K2 Musical: Episode #4

2008-10-16T07:51:00.000-07:00

Fellas this video is probably my favorite. It is very "random" and somewhat ridiculous. So I would love to know what you all think. Leave a comment below to let me know!

Shay

Poor economy: The Ingredients for a Revolution

2008-10-14T11:38:00.000-07:00

There is so much unrest in our country right now. The state of our economy is dire straits. I don't pay to much attention to what is taking place in the media because I feel like every bit of news has spin on it. Either spin from man's opinion or worse from man's intention. This morning the state of our economy hit me right in the heart-no spin. One of my best friends called me and told me his company was making cut backs that would affect him. This is a guy who is tremendously successful and even his job is in limbo.

How do we look at the situation of our country as Christians? I suppose there are a number of things to do: love our neighbors, comfort those in distress, provide for those who suffer financially, etc. If we allow ourselves to dream I think there is greater possibility in the state of our nation.

When David was declared on Israel’s most wanted list he hid from Saul in the Cave of Adullam. David was in complete despair (Psalm 142). Deep in the recesses of this cave David cried out for deliverance from his God. His family and friends heard of Davids situation and gathered to him. Not only that, scripture tells us that, "everyone who was in distress, and everyone who was in debt, and everyone who was discontented gathered to him and he became captain over them. Now there were about four hundred men with him." 1 Sam 22:2.

How many people are in distress, in debt and discontented in our country today as a result of our economic burdens? Allow me to shift your perspective on our lowly economy. Israel was coming off of it's darkest days when the cave of Adullam birthed David's Mighty Men. This group of men eventually made David king and King David lead an entire nation back to God. And thus you have the ingredients for a revolution: those in debt, distressed and discontented.

I pray that our economic challenges we face would result in a group of Men who unite together to deliver a lost nation back to the One True God. My prayers also go out to those who have lost homes, investments and jobs in recent days. May your hope rest in the Almighty.

KMT:K2 Represent Get Krunk

2008-10-13T14:58:00.000-07:00

Houston and Dallas KMT last week was awesome. Pictured above are my K2 peeps representing Dallas.

And here is the Houston crew. It was so awesome hanging with you guys.

KMT: Kid Movie Tour in Houston and Dallas

2008-10-10T08:27:00.001-07:00

The Kanakuk Movie tour has officially been kicked off. We had our first show of the year in Houston. We had over 300 people at 2nd Baptist Church...it was Awesome!! I performed as "Dancing Irish Janitors" which was a life changing experience for the crowd no doubt. Then I had ice cream with a bunch of K2 Houston Studs pictured above!!

Yesterday I went to Highland Park school lunches in Dallas. It is so fun for me to hang out with you guys in your neck of the woods. Last night we did our Dallas show at Watermark Church and topped the Houston attendance with 350 people strong. Pictures of that event to come...

I love seeing you guys. Proud of your for standing for Christ.

K2 Musical Episode 3

2008-10-06T14:11:00.000-07:00

Clean Team in Highland Park!

2008-10-04T13:15:00.000-07:00

Mohicans of K2,

I am pumped to imform you that I have evidently struck gold in Highland Park, HP Clean Team opened the faceboook group on Sunday September 28, 2008 with 16 representatives as members and as of the lastest check we are at 227 members and its only Tuesday September 30, 2008. I am so lucky to have guys like you that poured into me for 25 days and light me ablaze to spread Jesus like fire through Highland Park. Nothing was more of a life changing event than taking K-Equip this year, from that i am now about to help lead a bible study for my little brother David's friends and I am getting poured into by two wonderful ex K-2 leadership guys, Ryan Nixon and Jordan Hamilton. I just wanted to say thank you for truly putting me where I needed to be to make a difference back home. You guys are wonderful and I hope all is going well with Kamp and your families. I am constantly praying for yall.

Your brother in Christ, Benjamin Parke

Kanakuk Movie Tour: Houston and Dallas

2008-10-03T06:13:00.000-07:00

Kanakuk Kamps is bringing Klife to you! We are coming to 2nd Baptist in Houston next Wednesday October 8th from 7-8:30. You will see all of your favorite Kamp Directors: Joe White, Matt Houston, Todd Rapp, myself and many others.

And we aren't stopping there. We will be in Dallas on Thursday October 9th from 7-8:30 at Watermark Church.

Each event will be a Klife Kolaboration from all of our Kanakuk Kamps. Bring your family and friends! We will be pulling out all the stops. I want to see YOU next week!!

Mighty Men: What are men fighting for? Part 2 of 2

2008-10-02T05:40:00.000-07:00

“I read somewhere you said that you are fighting now for peace. Fighting against racism. Fighting for literacy. This means all the boxing was just a prelude to what you do now.”
-Quote from Juan Williams interview with Muhammad Ali-

Brothers, I apologize for failing to follow up yesterday as I promised. Forgive me for not following through on my word.

On Tuesday we talked about the how the fall of man concieved the curse of man and the curse gave birth to "the fight" we experience everyday as men. Men are fighting for women, sports and everything in between. We are fighting for a promotion, some credit, a good cause, or maybe the first seat in the jazz band. We desire authority, control, respect, applause and popularity. Our goals are security, success, power and advancement. This desire to fight is universal and I believe that God created this instinct at the core of a man. This desire is a driving force in our actions as men therefore we must understand how and why God built us this way. Our instinct to fight is a powerful force and quite honestly it is scary how easily we can be swayed to fight for the enemy.

Scripture thoroughly addresses our desire to fight. The origin of this desire is seeded in man’s forfeit of stewardship to Satan. After the fall of man we are left with the desire to manage God’s creation yet we have been left inadequate to do the job. The blessing of stewardship has now become a fight. The good news is that God crafted scripture to appeal and teach men to wage a spiritual battle. God sent His son, Jesus, to bridge the gap of our inadequacy and thus reinstate man’s rule over His creation in the future millennial kingdom (Heb 2:5-9).

Our society is full of men who are starved to fight for something worthwhile. The signs of our times illustrate how far off we are from God’s good purpose. Our fight culture is a manifestation of a spiritually starved generation of men. Men are engaged in fights that fail to fill the spiritual void that God has placed in each of our hearts. But here is the good news: God has engineered us this way for a purpose. A generation of men who are committed to engaging in the Lord’s battle will change the face of this nation forever. He has given us the blueprints to follow in His Word. Join me in this journey.

Mighty Men: What are men fighting for? Part 1 of 2

2008-09-30T06:30:00.000-07:00

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” Genesis 1:1. On the sixth day God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” Genesis 1:26. “Then the Lord God took the man and put him into the Garden of Eden to cultivate it and keep it.” Gen 2:15.

From this partial account of creation we learn some valuable things about the nature of man in his purest form. Man was created in God’s image and he was given stewardship or management of God’s creation. Can you imagine? God created paradise in the Garden and left an entire world of wild and untamed land outside of it for Adam to rule over. In simple terms God instructs Adam, “You are in charge…Go conquer it.” (Shay Standard Version).

Man was made to work even in a world without sin. This implies that man is meant to be active not idle. Adam was a man of action, that’s the way he was created. He was in charge of the animals of the land, the birds of the sky, all the creatures of the deep, the garden cultivation and the most awe inspiring creation of all…woman. God gave Adam this incredible job to do and he was adequately equipped to satisfy his job description. Think about the joy you find in fulfilling a job description. Have you ever faced a job that you knew would be a monster accomplishment if you completed the task well? As a man I treasure the feeling of that kind of accomplishment. The satisfaction of a job well done is directly linked to the way God wired us as men.

God created man to conquer the greatest job description ever written. God gave Adam a healthy drive and desire to work, to accomplish the task the Lord had put before him. However, Adam and Eve were disobedient thus sin entered the world (Gen 3:6). Along with sin came the curse that follows disobedience (Gen 3:17-19). Here is where our nature spins out of control. Prior to the fall God gave us a task of stewardship, which he placed within man’s grasp. Man forfeited his rule over the world to Satan (Heb 2:5-9) and yet the desire/instinct to rule remains. Stewardship is now out of our grasp. This broken eggshell of man’s former self is trying to hold everything together yet man in all his efforts cannot succeed. Creation "wars" against us. The conception of original sin gave birth to “the fight” in the lives of men.

So where does that leave us? What do we do with this nature? Check out Part 2 tomorrow...