I had the awesome opportunity to attend, no participate in, Idea Explosion 2014 at Kidzmatter Ministries in Marion, IN. So what made this such an awesome opportunity? It wasn't spending a day outside the office. It wasn't the teaching, though that was stellar. It wasn't just the networking that went on. No it was all of that and more! I loved that I could get together with other ministers who are doing what I am doing, trying to partner with parents to lead the next generation in the ways of God. The discussions that went on at the tables and in the hallways were such a joy to hear and be a part of. Hearing from a group of leaders who are not only in the trenches themselves but also doing it with excellence was truly inspiring. There were a few different times where I found myself jotting notes in the margins of my session notes because of the ideas and plans that were being inspired within me because of what was being said. I came away from this day being encouraged, inspired, motivated, and rejuvenated.
Being a young adult in ministry I try to take advantage of all of the conferences, workshops, and classes that I can because I want to learn more. I want to hear how others are dealing with the same struggles that I am having. I want to hear how God has taught a great new truth to someone and it has made a positive impact on their ministry. I want to hear practical tips to make me a better minister, staff member, leader, and person. I hope that I never lose the desire to learn more, because learning more only makes me better as a person and as a minister.
I am very thankful for all of the people in ministry who are willing to share what they know about life, ministry, and everything in between with other people. I heard it once said that ministry isn't a lonely island. We can all help each other if we would only try. The awesome group of leaders that shared today have left a lasting impact because of their desire to not simply hold on to the lessons that God has taught them but to instead share so that others do not have to go through what they went through, or to add to the success of the things that are going well.
So thank you to Ryan and Beth Frank, Tina Houser, Jim Wideman, Michelle Anthony, and the countless others that taught me something today without even realizing it! It is God's work through you that He will use to bring glory to Himself in my ministry. I pray that someday I may be able to teach something to someone else, and leave even a portion of an impact that was made on me.
Absolutely Learning and Growing at The Grove!!
Miss Megan
