Today I was the 'guest' speaker at Windham Christian's (where I work) high school chapel.  My own middle school students were in the capable hands of my assistant, and i was freed up to speak to our older students.

I started with my new expanding head optical illusion.  this had nothing to do with what I was to speak about, but it's such a cool trick!  After that, it was no longer a show.  I actually preached a bit instead.  I focused on the shortcomings of good works versus the power of true grace.  (See earlier blog entitled "It's not about being good".)  It's hard to read a teen audience sometimes, especially when I know them so well, and they me.  Were they being polite, or truly interested? 

I ended by playing Charlie Peacock's song "Cheer Up Church".  It's a song that focuses on one of the paradoxes of grace:  The worse off we are, the more rely on grace, which makes us stronger.  Before playing the song, I quoted the refrain: " Cheer up church, You're worse off than you think.  Cheer up church, you're standing on the brink, don't despair.  Do not fear, grace is here."  Or, as Scripture says, when we are weak, He is strong.  I pray some of them 'got' it, because a religion built on rules leads people to discouragement and frustration.  A faith built on grace, on the other hand, is incredibly freeing.  I'll take grace any time.

Hear 'Cheer Up, Church' here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xTVVw-AmUug