Category Aaby Family

Mid-Week News and Notes

Brian Aaby Leave a comment

Have a few posts permeating in my mind, but don’t quite have the time to get it fully done, so today I’ll hit ya up with a few bits and pieces from the last few days…

  • WordPress, which hosts this blog was down most of yesterday, or at least mine was down; first time since I started blogging that this has happened. Props to WP; they’ve been very reliable.
  • Got up at 3:50 AM yesterday (Tuesday) was out of my house at 4:20 AM and returned at 1:20 AM this morning. Drove to Albany Oregon to “booth” at the IFCA Regional event. Good connections with some Pastors. Crazy to do that all in one day, but couldn’t leave Monday because I was speaking at Young Life Monday night and needed to be back this morning for a few commitments.
  • Absolutely STOKED about our Spring Tour Together. I have loved all of our spring retreats and the training materials, but there’s something about the content/layout and format that just has me extra jazzed this year.
  • I don’t think that I ever blogged about this, but many of you know through Facebook and such that my oldest, Halle, had a fall in February. You can read the story on Elisabeth’s blog here.  Anyway, long story-short; hit her chin on a window sill, bit through her tongue (5 stitches on top, 2 beneath) and through her lip (3 stitches) and chipped a couple teeth. Those chips (which we couldn’t find) were eventually found embedded in her lip (X-ray)… so then oral surgery was required. Today the dentist fixed her teeth.  Okay… so here’s the whopper, the bills are just starting to come in and of course insurance will cover a lot (though we need to meet our deductible first), but get this, our estimate is that we’ll get billed for over 10k… that’s an expensive fall.
  • Was honored to preach last week at my home church, Faith. Summed up the themes from Malachi 1-2 thus far, while pointing toward our application of how we can/shoul love, honor and be influencers for the Lord. Check it out here if you want to podcast it.
  • Got to see my college roommate, Darryl, yesterday in Salem on my way back up. Such a great stop! Very encouraging.
  • Still 3-4 churches making final decisions on missions this summer; please pray that they register a team with Youthmark!  We want to see as many as possible trained for Mission51!
  • My NCAA bracket… mmm. Enough said.
  • Will is potty-trained (‘not at night, but by day! Woo hoo!)
  • Anyone know how to fix a TiVo? We can’t afford the $200+ they want to charge.

Grace,
Brian

Unpleasant Reminder of 1994

Brian Aaby 2 Comments

The earthquake and subsequent tsunami in Japan (and other places) has served as an unpleasant, but needed reminder…

The earth shook violently as I curled into the fetal position and covered my head with my arms. As I was shaken awake, I looked up and was able to read the illuminated 4:31 on my alarm clock that sat about a foot from my head in my college-dorm room.  The January 17, 6.8 Northridge quake rocked my world. The freshly purchased Snapple bottles rattled. Books and Picture frames were being tossed around the room.  Within minutes the entire student body would be gathered out in grassy areas outside of our dorms we were forced to evacuate. With the power out, reports were only received through a few radio stations broadcasting in the wake of the disaster.

“The 5 and the 14 collapsed” I heard someone talking about the freeways that were only a five minute drive away.

“A cop literally responding to a 911 called drove off the freeway and fell to his death.” A college classmate relayed what he heard.

The next few hours were filled with confusion, disorder and questions.

My small Christian school began to pray.

The next few days were filled with confusion, disorder and questions.

I began to pray.

I was 21 years old, a junior, a leader (RA) on campus and the Youth Pastor at my church. Caught up in who I was in me, rather than who I was for Him.

When it was all said and done communication was restored, roadways rebuilt and life returned to “normal.” I, unfortunately, slowly allowed myself to become calloused. I don’t know even know if calloused is the right word to describe it; maybe intentionally ignorant or self-absorbed?

I’ve had other rude-awakenings; the orphans in India. The sex-trafficking in Costa Rica. Stories from  my own students about drug, alcohol and sexual abuse in their own homes. Perhaps the “feeling” is best described as a wake-up call. These are earthquakes and aftershocks that help me to see the immediacy to wake-up, get-up, gear-up and get-out to proclaim the best news I have to share.

The death toll will rise in Japan. Hundreds, if not thousands, if not tens of thousands will perish.

Death is imminent. Death is immediate. But Death is not permanent.

Created by God to be in relationship with Him. We have eternal souls; life is eternal and in the end we will either spend that eternity with God, glorifying Him or spend eternity (forever) separated from Him. Because of our sin we would-be eternally separated from Him; but the ultimate rescue mission was performed some 2000 years ago. Long before this quake and tsunami, Jesus, took the current of our sin upon his back. He came to restore life eternal with God for those who put their trust in Him. His life, death and resurrection all proving that He is who He said He is. The tsunami of our sin which leads to death is blocked by the blood of Christ.

But not everyone knows this news. I imagine the majority of those who died as a result of this earthquake and tsunami did not. The news is immediate and the messengers (Christians) must wake-up. I must get-up, we must gear-up and the Church must get-out and share the loving story of grace through faith alone!

If you know Christ, share Christ. For His glory and as part of the ultimate rescue mission with Him.

If you don’t know Jesus, understand that we don’t know when the next natural disaster, cancer or car crash will come. Know that eternal peace is possible in Jesus. He has come so that we may have life. Life eternal with Him.

I am praying for those suffering in Japan right now. Loss of life is devastating. Recovery will be hard for those living. As a human I want to help. As a believer I want my help to be both practical (physical and emotional restoration) and eternal (so that they may know Jesus, forever). Likewise, for my neighborhood (because we don’t know when death will appear), I want to help, eternal life is at hand!

Anyone else waking up?

Grace,

Brian

You Know What I’m Thinking?

Brian Aaby 1 Comment

Jerry Seinfeld had a great line in one of his stand-up acts, he was talking about the difference between men and women and our thought processes.  It was something like:

“Women, you want to know what men are thinking?” (sounds of applause from women).

“Nothing!” Seinfeld answers his own question, “we’re just walking around, looking around.”

Well, there are times when that is me; but lately, I’ve been thinking a lot! I’ll give you a few of those snapshot thoughts.

  • I’m thinking: We have a great family at Faith.  We’re truly blessed by our church.  Though I love the worship services, teaching and other programs, it’s not at all what I think of when I think of our church, I think of the people.
  • I am really thinking: I’ve allowed doubt and discouragement play too major of a role in my life the last couple weeks.  Spiritual attack is evident, but that does not mean the enemy can defeat me/us.  Praise God for His grace!
  • I’ve thought: I am not as disciplined as I’d like to be. My biggest “time” enemy is balancing out what needs to get done for me/Youthmark and meeting the needs/wants of others.  I am social and really enjoy relational ministry, but I can only be free to minister best when I’m done with what needs to be done.  I’d like to create better balance by being more disciplined with the number of meetings and even better, the length of time I spend in these settings.
  • Another thought: Of all the things I get to do with Youthmark, the Spring Retreat may be the thing that excites me the most. Creative thinking, time with teens and youth leaders and inspiring us all for Mission51 gets me pretty pumped. April and May are going to be awesome! (Here is a highlight video from last year if you want to see in two minutes what one of our retreats is like.)
  • I’m thinking: My wife is truly a gifted woman of God!  I really dig her. I love dating her and I really appreciate learning from her (she’s a wonderful Mommy and by her example spurs me to be a better Daddy).
  • Another something that I’ve been thinking: Spending money can be easy and not spending money can actually be fun.  Weird thing to think, but it took us not spending money for me to discover this. We’re excited about some of the cost-saving measures we’ve made and I’m actually pretty pumped about some of the time, family and financial ramifications these measures will have.  However one more thought about this; medical bills stink.
  • Something else I’ve thought: I still love Youth Ministry!  Seriously, it’s so much fun to teach college students each week.  I love some of the discussions we get into.  But I’m just as jazzed about my work with Young Life.  A couple weeks ago we had one of the most fun discussions with a group of 12-15 high school students, most of whom would admittedly say they aren’t Christians.  We gave the group the opportunity to bring up any subject they’d like to discuss.  “Creation,” “Porn,” “Relationships,” and several other questions about Christianity topped their list.  These students WANT to talk about spiritual matters and have a lot to say.  I wish Pastors and Youth Pastors had a little more time freed up to be with these wonderful wanderers!
  • I’m sitting here with this thought: I don’t think the Mariners will be very good this year. I’m hoping for .500, but honestly, I’m thinking 75 wins and 87 losses.
  • I’m also thinking about my 4Runner.  It needs work, but I can’t afford it and even worse, don’t know how (or have the confidence to do it myself); secretly I’m hoping that someone reads this blog and says, “Brian, I know how to replace brakes and do some other general maintenance things on cars, I’d be happy to do that for you.”  Like I said, I’m just secretly thinking that.

Sorry Mr. Seinfeld, this time you are wrong, I’m a man and I’m thinking a lot of stuff.

Grace,
Brian

Quick Notes and Updates

Brian Aaby Leave a comment

Every now and then it’s fun to do some quick thoughts and updates; things that may not warrant a full post; so here they are:

  • Youthmark now has a twitter account, follow us @Youthmark
  • Of course, you can also follow me @brianaaby
  • Updated my “speaking opps” page.  Praying for those opportunities and looking for others!
  • Really digging the College Group at Faith (teaching Sunday mornings).
  • Finishing the work on the 2011 RoadGrip, HomeBase and Merge!
  • This marks the earliest that these books have been completed (because we have offered spring break trips); this is a GREAT feeling (I feel “almost caught up”).
  • Halle is getting baptized this Sunday (this will get a post later), but we’re so excited by her step of faith!
  • Halle and Audrey are both in the church musical coming up; if interested in seeing a show, let me know!
  • Audrey lost her first “upper” tooth last night.  Very exciting, now she whistles while she speaks.
  • Will is about 44% potty trained.
  • Because of gracious friends, carry-over balance on cards from last year and being more creative in my “rent” I have literally only purchased one cup of coffee with 2011 funds. This is huge blessing!
  • If you haven’t seen my wife’s blog in some time, go check it out, she’s been posting more regularly.
  • Please pray this weekend for my friends at Dare 2 Share, they have a 500o person conference in Ohio!  Like Youthmark, they seek to equip students for THE Cause (what Youthmark labels “Mission51“).  Praise God for D2S!
  • Looking forward to debuting a new feature on my blog (perhaps even over the weekend…hmm…stay tuned).

Hope you have a Super-Weekend!

Grace,
Brian

Fast Friday

Brian Aaby Leave a comment

Yep, it’s been a bit busy; there have been a number of times I’ve wanted to post, but then other pressing needs forced my hand (or at least forced my hands away from the blog).

Here are a few fast thoughts for this Friday…

New Ministry: I started teaching the College-Age Gathering on Sunday mornings at my church (Faith).  Great start!  The entire church is doing Francis Chan’s Crazy Love.  I’m looking forward to deepening the relationships with these young adults!  It’s great to have my friend Dusty teaching with me!

Old Ministry, New Role: I’ve been working with Young Life for the last three years at Kentridge High (my alma mater).  We’ve had the last 5 weeks off of regular “club” and we kick things back up this week.  Our staff meeting last Monday was awesome and I look forward to getting back to a regular beat with these students.  I’m taking on a new role as well; Sunday evenings we have a deeper discipleship time (Campaigners) that I’ll be facilitating!

Former Ministry, Great Friend: Miki was one of our former leaders at my last church I was Youth Pastoring at; we had the honor of having her over for dinner the other night!  It was so great to catch up with her!  She’s a blessing to us!

Current Ministry, Big Stuff.

Things are going well at Youthmark, in the next few days we’ll be rolling out a few changes and additions, I’m excited about these things.  Prayer is appreciated as we are hoping for more teams to partner with!  Currently we’re setting up relationships with host towns, planning spring retreat materials and talking with potential church partners who have not yet chosen training or trips for this spring and summer!  It’s not too late! Jump on the Mission51 train!

That was the fast Friday, hoping for a slow-Saturday!

Grace,

Brian

Christmas Day, Our Traditions

Brian Aaby Leave a comment

This Christmas may have been my favorite of my adult-life.  I love my little family and this year I think we really hit our stride when it comes to our traditions.

Knowing that Christmas Day can be a bit hectic with all the extended family et al, we decided to really focus on the “reason” for Christmas leading up to Christmas and on Christmas eve.  Once a week we’d do a family time with our advent candle(s) lit and talk about Christ.  We finished this time after our Christmas eve dinner and Christmas eve service.

Here’s what our Christmas looked like.

A great blessing of a day and season!

Grace,
Brian

Christmas Gift from Youthmark

Brian Aaby 1 Comment

Merry Christmas from the Aaby family and Youthmark!

Since you found yourself perusing the web and came across my blog, go ahead, sit back, relax and take in a couple minutes of highlights from the Live and Love Loudly Spring Tour 2010.

A big thank you to Francisco Santana for the edit work on the video (he composed and performed the music as well).

2011 is going to be a big year for us! This year’s Spring Retreat, Together! is going to be quite the event… I’ll be leaking some of the info as the dates approach, but you won’t know what you’re going to get until you’re there!

Merry Christmas!

Grace,

Brian

Three-For-Thursday: Interns & Apprentices

Brian Aaby Leave a comment

As a Youth Pastor I had the privilege of working with some fantastic volunteer leaders.  The “staff,” as I called them, often felt more like our small group and/or family.  In addition to these great folk, after several years of being a YP, I took on the role of “boss” to paid employees as well.  I can only laugh now as I think of how pitiful I must have been in my first few years of leading those whom I was supposed to be grooming as these folk served as “interns.”  However, through the years (and many mistakes) I think I learned something about serving with interns (and eventually Apprentices, laughter has turned so joyous smiles.

As my Three-For-Thursday today, I’d like to highlight three (actually 4) of my former employees in the Youth Ministry Church-world.

Nathan Schlaud: Nathan served as my second “Apprentice” at Boulevard Park Church.  He moved across the country from Michigan to take this one-year risk of being an Apprentice.  It really was a perfect storm, we were working out the kinks of the now second-year Apprenticeship program we had developed (think: “Student Teacher” but for Youth Pastors-to-be) and Nathan had just recently graduated from College with a Youth Min degree but most of the churches he was interviewing with were not giving him the time-of-day because all other candidates were married, more experienced or older.  Our church and his personal circumstance, made for a great year. Nathan was a fantastic Apprentice, has become a very good friend and has grown tremendously.  He and his wife Megan are doing a great job at Grace Church leading the Jr. High through college-age students as well as handling many “associate” duties at his church.  Hard to believe he is now a “seasoned veteran” (28) in Youth Ministry and is really becoming a mentor to younger Youth Pastors now!  Proud of you brother!

Brad Hostak: Brad was my first intern at Boulevard Park.  Immediately when I arrived (in April) I was told that we would have an intern for the summer.  I was then told I would get to choose between two different college-age students who had applied.  It just so happened these two were good friends as well.  Thanks a lot church! Make me choose between friends!?!  I did the smart thing–I made a committee decide instead!  Anyway, they chose Brad; honestly, the most “raw” Youth Intern I had worked with yet.  Brad loved (still does) people! This foundation, love for God and others, proved to be a wonderful thing to build upon.  I don’t say this as a slam at all, but I honestly just didn’t think Brad had what it took to be a Youth Pastor; he was semi-shy, stuttered when speaking in front of groups, was extremely nervous up in front of groups, etc. etc. But, one could never deny is his passion for Christ and students. God did and is doing AMAZING things in Brad’s life.  He has shaped him into a great Youth Pastor.  Shyness, stuttering and nervousness all gone (okay, maybe some nerves with big crowds still?).  He and Sarah serve the Lord and the students so well at River Ridge!  I’m honored to have had Brad as an intern!

Wescott and Heather Robinson: Wes was a former student, turned college-age leader, turned intern, turned second year intern.  After we had hired him as a second-year intern at First EPC, I asked him if he’d have any issues with us hiring a female intern to work alongside him for the summer.  He was semi-hesitant and semi-excited.  When asked “how would you handle it if you felt any attraction toward said female intern?”  His immediate (emphatic) response: “I’d do nothing about it, I’m here for the students.” Well, he and Heather are now married and have two children.  Just so you know, his response “do nothing” was followed by me saying “why not?  If you had feelings, I would just want to know about so we could handle the situation appropriately.”  It was a great summer with Wescott and Heather; they served so well together  (and still do).  Wes and Heather are very good friends to the Aabys, we love them and their two daughters a ton!  I love seeing Wes grow as a man-of-God, a Pastor and as a Daddy.  His passion for the Word is so evident and he loves seeing students (and leaders) transformed by the Spirit!  Westwood is blessed to have Wes and Heather!

These four people are just a sampling of those that God has blessed me with as partners in ministry.  I’m thankful that I’ve been able to play a small role in their lives as they developed as great leaders of Youth (as well as great leaders to staff, parents and others in their sphere of influence).  I am thankful for all the interns and apprentices and the influence they have had on our lives!

Grace,
Brian

Some Cool Stuff

Brian Aaby Leave a comment

As I start the new week I’m  excited about the week that was.

A couple noteworthy items…

Last Wednesday our family converged on Halle and Audrey’s school to watch them both in their school spelling bee.  The First graders went first and Audrey made it through her first two practice rounds and the first two rounds of the actual bee; she unfortunately missed her word in the third round, but finished in 6th!  A couple hours later it was time for the Third graders to go at it.  I couldn’t believe some of the words Halle (and her friends were given).  One word Halle was given, I had never even heard before: “baronial.” We nervously watched and cheered her on through the first few rounds, it got way more intense as she made the top 7, then 5, then 3… all the way to the first place!  After the new year she’ll be representing all the 3rd graders at her school as she heads to the regional event!  Way to go Halle!

Late in the week I received a weekly email from YMToday.com.  I was very excited to see that they selected one of my blogs as their Featured Article.  Very cool!  Here is a link to it if you’d like to read (or re-read since it was on my blog a few weeks ago).

In addition, I did the finish work on both Anywhere: The Mission Prep Workbook and this year’s Leader’s Guide.  These are both off to the publishers for actual print/production now!  Yay!

Last, we received some brand-new registrations this last week at Youthmark, I love getting return churches, because these friends really “get” Youthmark and Mission51, but I have to say that it is really exciting to have some new folk jump on the the Youthmark train!  Welcome teams!

Here’s to a new week!

Grace,
Brian