Christmas Party Highlights

Here are some highlights from the Christmas Party last week. The first one is from me and then there are a couple from a few others in Lightswitch. If these remind you of your own memories of good times, then please leave a comment with your own highlights!

~Blog Crew (Allison Bucca)

It was the food overflowing

More than could be eaten

Even if there were two more

Mark Novicio’s

It was the servants who stepped up

It was Nesha moving

The girl food line along

When they were taking too long

It was the boys who put out the ice

And took out the trash

It was Michelle washing the dishes

And then Tony taking over

And Megan drying so that they

Were working together

As a team

It was no one needing to sit in a particular seat

Or at a particular table

It was boys sitting with girls

And marrieds sitting with singles

Christ and Culture:Why the authority of Scripture matters

"Tis the season to be heretical falalalala lalalala..."

Earlier today ken Shepherd, who is collaborating with me on Christ and culture stuff, sent me this email.

"Here's something interesting I saw today.

Our unsaved neighbors may read books like this and it seems like something we should be aware of and use as springboards to talk about the Gospel:

Book is called "Reading Jesus" by Mary Gordon, a literary critic who happens to be Catholic. Washington Post did a review of it today, and from the reviewer's examples, it's clear she has some pretty funky interpretations of some of the elements of the Gospel accounts, like Jesus cursing the fig tree or Mary washing Jesus's feet with her tears:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/12/01/AR2009120104532.html

Newsweek's religion columnist Lisa Miller also touched on "Reading Jesus" in a piece back in October:

http://www.newsweek.com/id/219990

I read the review primarily for this reason. In this holiday season more than any other, I believe, we will be bombarded with differing interpretations of absolute truth, namely scripture. While we live and breath everyday the reality that the bible is not authoritative in the lives of people, there is something about Christmas where we really see that reality play itself out in "the most wonderful time of the year." This is the season of reflection, of joy for some and sorrow for many. It is a lonely time and reported to be the highest suicidal time each year. It is a time where the final authority of one's life is viewed and evaluated by that person or others but not by God. 

There is, indeed, something about this season that is to be a worship filled reflection on the birth of Jesus but has condescended to a continual worship of self and its autonomous reasoning to explain life, love and authority. We find such ideology in books like the one reviewed in the above link. 

Now the issue isn't this author, whether or not she is a believer or if her book on the gospels is even true or will sell. The issue as I see it, based solely on the review, which is all it will be based on because I am definitely not reading the book, is the authority of scripture. What is the standard of evaluation to say what the scriptures mean? Is it how we feel or what we think merely by our own thoughts? It obviously is to many people including this woman who is getting pretty rave reviews for her "reflections on the gospels." If you read the review it will be pretty clear that her reflections are but an outright denial of the purpose of the gospels in essence taking the authority away from them and what they are intended to mean and replacing that with what she thinks they may mean. Mind you many people are in this place that she is in terms of how to view the bible. Even "devout" believers would say the bible is not authoritative but can be used as a guide. 

I wouldn't be surprised if you have the chance to have conversations this season about what you believe that in some way shape or form the reality or non-reality that the bible isn't authoritative isn't peppered in the person worldview. This to me would be a far cry away from 2 Peter 1:20-21 ²⁰knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation. ²¹For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

News: Next Registration Open

Next Registration opened online yesterday! The fee is $150 for individuals and $225 for couples and the price goes up beginning in April. Details  about what LS is doing at Next (hotel, travel, etc.) TBA. Check out their website for details and to register. 

~Blog Crew (Allison Bucca)

News: December need to knows!

Five quick things about December:


1. I am going to be posting only on the blog except for very small things beginning January 1. I will send you an email to inform you when to check the blog.


2. I am going to be posting (weekly at least) a new column called Christ and Culture. My goal is to make you all (meaning those interested) aware of what is happening outside “our world” here. I have consistent conversations with pastors on this stuff constantly and I thought it would be cool to bring you guys into those conversations. I posted one today about a gay marriage feel free to check it.


3. Christmas party will be on Friday December 18th. Those who need baby sitters please get them in advance, hence the reminder. I think we will have a great time with the entertainment (hehehehehehehehehehe)! This year I think we are going to make our own dishes. I think it will be better this way. Be thinking what you could make and on the 10th I will have a sign up sheet.


4. I would like to do a New Year’s Eve thingy this year but I don’t want to pt pressure on anyone who has other plans or just plain doesn’t want to come. However I would like to know who will be there bcuz I want to do food and some stuff that I have been thinking about that could be really fun. Feel no pressure to come though. However I would love it if many would be able to make it or some portion of it. I will let you know closer to that date how things are going to kick off and when to let me know if you will make it.


5. Chago’s 2nd B-day party! I can’t believe my big head boy is about to be two. Our invite will be extended to LS but we WILL need to know who can make it. It will be on Saturday 12/19 from about 4-6 pm.

~Blog Crew (Curt Allen)

Curt TV: Clever video promoting gay marriage agenda

My buddy Eric Simmons and I always have conversations regarding Christ and culture. He recently told me about this video as I was telling him some of my thoughts from San Francisco. Basically we were talking about how left-brain the gay agenda is in their marketing of gay marriage and how those who oppose it need to be as clever or more so in their argument beyond simply stating, "the Bible told me so." As we are called to engage in this world it is good to notice what the strategy is. Hence the video link below. What do you guys think of it? Post comments on the blog.

Curt TV San Fran Edition

Curt TV Still Sanning from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.




Untitled from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.




Untitled from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.

Curt TV San Fran pt. 1

Curt TV San Fran pt. 1 from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.

News: Interviews with Curt

For those of you who missed it, recently Curt did an interview on hip-hop with fellow Christian rap artist Shai Linne for Mark Dever's ministry IX Marks. Last week C.J. Mahaney highlighted these interviews on his blog so if you have not checked them out yet you can listen to the audio as well as check out the videos below that Curt posted of the interviews. 
~Blog Crew (Allison Bucca)


9 Marks interviews Shai Linne and Voice pt 1 from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.


9 marks interview pt 2 from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.


9 Marks Interview pt 3 from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.

News: This Week in LS and Next Month

Singles I have the "2 Ways 2 Live" books ready for Thursday (11/12). They do cost $10 each. This may seem like a lot until you check your budget for fast food spent in the last couple of days =). I would like to have this paid by Sunday 11/29. Between now and then if you could bring your $10 that would be great. I will be giving out books Thursday though so we may begin.

There will be no other formal LS mtg that will take place this month due to the holidays and my being in San Francisco next week.

Next month will be a bit different for the multiple holidays, etc. I would like to meet with the singles Thursday 12/3 and would like to meet with the couples Friday 12/4. We will have an all LS mtg on the 12/10 so I can discuss with everyone the new fellowship groups structure, the new schedule/structure for the upcoming year, etc.

12/11 Will be the next game night

12/18 Will be the LS Christmas Party

12/31 New Years Eve party?

Please make note of these changes and get to me if you have any questions.

~Blog Crew (Curt Allen)

On My End

11-01-09 Sunday Morning Interviews from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.

A friend of mine once referred to honoring individuals as arranging a bouquet of flowers to give to our Lord. All of the beauty we find in one another is really a reflection of God’s glory. I’m so thankful for the evidences of grace you have all seen in one another's lives. It’s amazing to read these and think that looks like Jesus. Even in honoring one another, it’s all about Jesus. Thank you all for striving to look like our Savior!

~Blog Crew (Shane Kohout)

Michelle Stefun stands out to me in the way she loves people by taking an interest in them. I have felt her care numerous times. Last night at the game night was no exception. As soon as she greeted me she began to draw me out about what had been going on in my life since we last talked. And as the evening progressed I observed her over and over again caring for everyone else in the same way. Michelle's love for other people has blessed me, and made me want to have an others-focused heart like she does!

~Anna Loftness

GAME NIGHT BABY!!!!!!!!!

Some things to note for tonight. Whoever desires to or is able to make it tonight doors open @ 8:07 pm. Be prepared to bring $3-$5 in case I am unable to cover pizza.  If I am I will let you know through email later.

Things to know, youtube or google for game night 

Drago’s accent from Rocky 3
The word truculent
A girl who just learned to drive went down a one way street the wrong way but didn’t break the law why?
Charlie chaplin
3,5,8,13,21, what is next?
The evolution of dance
Hyphy
Boston Accent
Talk like Yoda
I got the Power ‘90’s song
Middle names that start with Z
Wonderful other uses for Mayonnaise

When you come some of you will receive a piece of paper. Do not show anyone the contents on that paper as some instructions will be on them for you to follow. hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaahahahahahahahaha!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We gon' have some fun 2night!

From the Homefront

Here is the first installment from our new section:  "From the Homefront." This posts will be written by our very own Blog Crew member, Evy Taracena. She will be writing about her experience as a mom and as wife, and what it is like to play out these roles within SRC. She will be writing about the Moms2Moms events, continue writing about the marrieds LS meetings, and continue writing about her two beautiful boys which she already does on her blog. I would highly suggest to the singles in particular, to take this as an opportunity to be encouraged by the wisdom and experience of those a few steps ahead of us in life. Enjoy.
~Blog Crew (Allison Bucca)

Last marrieds meeting was about the doctrine of sin as the third session in our series on the doctrines of fellowship. When the doctrine of sin is correctly understood and rightly applied it should help us to cultivate a gratitude for God's grace. It also helps us understand why we do what we do post-conversion.

What I really liked is that after the teaching, Curt invited John to do a Q & A. One of the questions Curt asked him was concerning how the doctrine of sin should function in marriage. He gave us practical advice about how to interact with each other in light of our sin. For example, it should humble us and make us more compassionate and patient with each other. And we don't have to prove ourselves worthy to our spouses because we've already proven ourselves unworthy to God. Our goal is to help each other look up at who is worthy.

At the most recent Moms2Moms we once again had the privilege to be taught by Jeanne McMahon. Jeanne’s absolute honesty on the “High Calling of Motherhood” was so provoking and such a blessing to us all; she really challenges us to “get real” with ourselves. 
 
I love being a mom! But the demands of the “job” and the constant self-sacrifice can tempt me to complain and have a “woe is me” attitude. God calls us to fulfill our roles with joy; a high calling indeed! Our greatest joy and highest objective for loving and serving our children is that they will repent of their sins, put their trust in Jesus, and reflect the gospel to the world around them.

That really puts things in perspective. Everything I do has an affect on my kids so I want to communicate that God is good and that his grace is sufficient for all things. What makes this possible is only the grace that God provides which means we daily have to come to the fountain to get replenished for the task at hand. I'm so grateful for the older moms teaching us younger moms how to love our husbands and children, manage our homes, and come to know God in a deeper way.

~Blog Crew (Evy Taracena)

News: A Thank You

Kathy Rodgers would like to express her thanks for all that LS did for the founding members of SRC at the church picnic last month. Read her words below and be encouraged!

 

Thank you to every one of you for your outstanding work on the picnic - we were all blessed beyond measure! Thanks for the cards, the food, the games, the babysitting, the planning, the acting and all the myriad of details that something like that takes. Thank you for your care and encouragement - you are an incredible group of servants and you are much appreciated. May the Lord multiply blessings back to you!

Speaking of the picnic, here is a showcase of the amazing skills of our videographer, Mike Perry, who can find the humor in anything..really...even stuff that other people find boring...oh just watch it.

Behind the Scenes at the SRC Picnic Setup from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.

~Blog Crew (Allison Bucca)

News: This Week in LS

Thursday night (11/5) I will be meeting with the couples 7:30pm at the church. Please bring your notes and thoughts from the message Sunday. The groups who will be watching the kids are Megan/Lauren/Ben. Please let me know if this is a problem before being assigned to a home.

FYI the babysitting in the homes only has two more times. This Thursday and then December 3rd. There will be no meeting for the couples on the 19th of this month as I will be in San Francisco.

What I was hoping to do was give opportunities to both the singles to serve and the couples to get to know some of the singles. I also wanted to provide a short season where both parents could make it to our meetings together which I am grateful for the most part have been able to. However, I don’t think I should continue to maintain the responsibility of providing childcare in the homes. At the church I feel more comfortable but by assigning people to homes I am placing the church as primarily responsible for the protection of the children. With the new CM policy some people who wouldn’t be eligible yet for CM couldn’t watch kids on Thursdays either because  the church is responsible. I hope this makes sense. Those of us with kids will have to go back to that good ol’ fashioned getting a babysitter in January.

What I would recommend is asking the singles if they wouldn’t mind babysitting on that Thursday if possible. But I will not be assigning that duty outside of the church building. If more children come to the church I may shoulder it. We can discuss this Thursday night, couples. I hope I have proven I want to serve you all in this.

Thank you for your understanding and singles thank you for the way you embraced this and sacrificed. Well Done!

Lastly GAME NIGHT MY HOUSE FRIDAY (11/6)! Let’s get it in!
~Blog Crew (Curt Allen)

Instant Replay: Ladies' Meeting

This past Saturday SRC hosted a Ladies' Meeting with special guest Carolyn Mahaney as our speaker. She gave two teachings, one grounded in Ephesians 5 on using our time well and another on the presence of God through rough seasons based on Luke 8:22-25. Make sure you check out the pics taken by our lovely photographer, April Sanders, on Flickr. For those of you who couldn't make it, or for you guys who are curious, the teachings are all on the SRC Blog.

~Blog Crew (Allison Bucca)

Sunday Interviews Gone Wrong

Say whaaaaat? from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.

Sunday Morning Interviews

Sunday Morning Interviews 10-25-2009 from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.

American Friends

Pics are up from the American Friends picnic this past Sunday, taken by our very own April Sanders. Check them out but first check out the video below from the corn maze.

On My End

"...the first great and primary business to which I ought to attend every day was, to have my soul happy in the Lord.”

George Mueller

A quick glance through the verses below reveals something wonderful about our God. In him, there is so much to be excited about. These scriptures show among many things that he loves the unlovely. Furthermore, he takes these unlovely people (you and me) and reveals blessing upon blessing out of the limitlessness of himself. It’s so beautiful to see how God continually gives his people the gift of himself. So please read through the following verse and join these individuals by making your soul happy in the Lord.

~Blog Crew (Shane Kohout)

Romans 5:2-5

"And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us."

~Christine Fowler

1 Corinthians 10:13.

"No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it."

~Juan Cruz

Isaiah 41:8-10

"But you, Israel, my servant, Jacob, whom I have chosen, the offspring of Abraham, my friend; you whom I took from the ends of the earth, and called from its farthest corners, saying to you, 

'You are my servant, I have chosen you and not cast you off'; fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

~Anna Loftness

1 John 3:2

“Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.”

~Shane Kohout

Hosea 11:9

"I will not execute my burning anger;

I will not again destroy Ephraim;

for I am God and not a man,

the Holy One in your midst,

and I will not come in wrath."

~Michelle Stefun

Ezekiel 37:23

"They will no longer defile themselves with their idols and vile images or with any of their offenses, for I will save them from all their sinful backsliding, and I will cleanse them. They will be my people, and I will be their God."

~Sarah Jeanne Zastrow

Psalm 42:7-9

Deep calls to deep

in the roar of your waterfalls;

all your waves and breakers

have swept over me.

By day the Lord directs his love,

at night his song is with me—

a prayer to the God of my life.

Isaiah 43:2

When you pass through the waters,

I will be with you;

and when you pass through the rivers,

they will not sweep over you.

When you walk through the fire,

you will not be burned;

the flames will not set you ablaze.

~Shamane Gardner

2 Corinthians 12:9-10

"But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong."

~Brianna Smith

Philippians 4:8-9

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.”

~April Sanders

Sunday Morning Interviews

This is a very encouraging video, yes, it is going up a bit late, and I hope looking at these videos about CJ's teaching will not confuse you after hearing John's teaching today. The encouragements from CJ and others in this one, is not something to be missed. Check it out.

~Blog Crew (Allison Bucca)


Sunday Morning Interviews 10-18-2009 from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.

Instant Replay

Here is another new section, this one is called Instant Replay, it will be a recap of the Lightswitch Meetings for both singles and marrieds. It will have important announcements and highlights from the Lightswitch meetings. So for those of you who didn't take notes (for shame) or came late and missed the announcements (even more for shame) or weren't able to come because of homework or you were sick (aww, we missed you guys : ) then here is the information you will need.

After worship Curt asked if anyone in the group felt particularly burdened so much that they had a hard time entering into worship. We prayed for those who were burdened, and then we discussed how to apply Scriptures to our lives when we feel discouraged. Curt read from 1 Peter 4:12-19 reminding us that those who go through trials should "entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good" (verse 19). We then discussed highlights from CJ's teaching this past Sunday, and how particular points affected us. Two suggestion for applying the teaching to our gospel-centered community is to pray for one another during our commute to work or school every day and to refer to God as "Father" in prayer, to make it more personal.

-If you weren't there last night, make sure you let Curt know if you need the "2 Ways 2 Live" booklet so he can order the correct amount.
-And if you've finished "Prodigal God" then remember to email Curt a summary of how the book affected you.

~Blog Crew (Allison Bucca)

News

American Friends is postponed to this Sunday, hopefully everyone saw the email about it already. But if you haven't this is a friendly reminder.that if you show up tomorrow for a picnic no one will be there and you will have to be an American friend to yourself. Remember, Plan B for the picnic is packing a lunch, meeting at the church at 12:30pm on Sunday (10/25) and then driving to the farm which closes at 6pm.

~Blog Crew (Allison Bucca)

News

Tomorrow (Sat. 10/24) is the next American Friends Event. Remember to meet at SRC to carpool at 1:30pm and bring your $10. We are leaving the church at 2pm and will return around 10pm. Check out the interview with Susan Cole talking about her vision for American Friends.



American Friends interview with Susan Cole from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.

~Blog Crew (Allison Bucca)

News

So, we were trying to think of a title for announcements, and came up with the brilliant idea of calling it "News." Catchy huh? So when you see a post titled "News" it will have reminders and important information and announcements that you need to know. We are trying to transition to fewer emails and more posts on the blog, so try your best to pay attention. 'Cause this is gonna be where it's at!

Singles Meet Tomorrow (Thursday 10/22)

-be there
-be there on time
-be there with your notes from Sunday's teaching 
-be there ready to listen to Curt crack jokes
-be there ready to listen to Curt talk about "2 Ways 2 Live"
-before you get there, take a moment in your car on the drive there or at home before you leave to pray for:
1. the worship, that God's Spirit would fill our hearts
2. the leadership, that Curt and Ben would lead with discernment
3. your heart, that you would be prepared to be met by God, and to use your gifts to serve your brothers and sisters through fellowship. 

~Blog Crew (Allison Bucca)

Cans of Wrath!!

Now we girls know that the raven cannot clap. But do not forget boys, that the unicorn has a small tail and cannot swoosh. He he he.



Cans of Wrath!! from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.

~Blog Crew (Allison Bucca)

On My End

This past Sunday, Mickey Connolly taught on Philippians 3:7-8

“But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ”

This scripture has everything to do with economics. Not the economics we learn in oversized, expensive college textbooks, but spiritual economics--the economy of our hearts. We each previously valued things that now seem worthless. Each one of us has experienced this change in our lives. What I find so exciting about this is that we didn't just get bored of what we used to find valuable. It wasn't that we grew up and found more sophisticated pleasures, instead we were each confronted by a greater pleasure; a greater gain.

Jesus Christ is the pearl of greatest price and from the moment our eyes were opened to see him our heart's economy has never been the same. Read and consider the following statements telling of how our community has clearly been affected by the gospel and God's surpassing worth. 

~Blog Crew (Shane Kohout)

“I used to count my intelligence as gain but now I count it as rubbish.”
~Jeremy Peggins 

 “I used to count others high view of me as gain, but not I’m learning how to count it as rubbish!”

~Aaron Spindler

Our first commercials

Hope to do a bunch of these because this was so much fun!

Mildred's cookies commercials from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.

eFarmony/American Idol Season 9 teaser from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.

Blog Crew having a "Meeting" Part 2

Blog Crew having a "Meeting" Part 2 from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.

Blog Crew having a "Meeting" Part 1

Blog Crew having a "Meeting" Part 1 from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.

Sunday Afternoon Interview??

Sunday Afternoon Interview?? from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.

Come with Me, to NYC (Part 2)

It was a full week before I could sleep through the night. I would lie in bed and scary movie after scary movie would come to mind. But I never had to leave the light on. I discovered the first night that it is never really dark in Manhattan. My bedroom stayed bright enough at night that I could have read without even turning on a light.

It’s also never quiet in the Big Apple. Creaking floors, neighbors slamming doors, sirens, and screeching tires were the soundtrack of my night. These noises went along with the Bachata and meringue music from the 24-hour Latin restaurants on my block. “The City that Never Sleep” is a very appropriate nickname for New York City.

During the day, the city throbs with energy. There is so much movement and life happening that it’s visually overwhelming. On my two-minute walk from my apartment door to the train station, I would pass 10 restaurants, a grocery store, two elderly Dominican men selling homemade breakfast treats, two people giving out newspapers, and at least one person collecting cans and bottles from the trashcans on the street.

Sunday Pastor Interview

9-29-2009 Curt Allen After Service Interview from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.

Sunday Interviews

Sunday Morning Interviews 9-29-2009 from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.

Come with Me, to NYC (Part 1)

Here is the first entry from a new section we are calling "Come with Me." These will be stories from those who are either away from LS right now, or those who were recently away from LS for a short period of time. We will have an interview or a series of short stories from them so in a sense we can tag along on their journey. These stories will be about going away to college, leaving the country, or leaving for the summer like this first installment from Kennesha Dickson.

This is Part 1 from our girl Keke's tale of her internship this past summer in New York City. Enjoy as you get a taste of what she learned and what her experience was like. More "Come With Me's" are to come from Kennesha and from others who are currently away from LS...so stay tuned.

~Blog Crew (Allison Bucca)


Sometime at the end of March I plopped down on my parents’ bed and said, “So how do you feel about me moving to Miami for the summer to do an internship?” My dad gave me a look that was a mixture of surprise and thoughtfulness. He simply replied, “Sure.”

I let out a laugh of disbelief and walked away only to return a couple of days later to ask, “No really, what do you think?” Could it really be that easy? Had my dad really just given me permission to move several states away for a whole summer?

He had. Except time would later reveal that “easy” wasn’t really the word and Miami wasn't actually the place. I was accepted to an internship program at Columbia University/New York State Psychiatric Institute in Manhattan. I would be working on a research study that was looking at the effects of parental incarceration on children.

I had less than a month to prepare for The City That Never Sleeps and I was surprised to find that I was not as excited to leave home as I thought I would be. Some of it was fear of living on my own, finances, finding a church, and making friends. Various other worries clouded my thoughts, but the most prominent thought on my mind was what I was leaving behind.

As I thought about all of the life that would happen with Lightswitch’s new found unity, three months away seemed like an eternity. However, I was encouraged by my reluctance to leave. Not too long ago I did not greatly value my family and my church and would have given anything to get away. As I prepared to leave for my internship this was not the case; God had already begun to do a work in my heart.

"...with Lightswitch's new found unity, three months away seemed like an eternity."

Moving to New York, even for that short period of time required a lot of faith and God was kind enough to grant such faith to both me and my family. So we packed up the minivan and headed up North. After a fun night in the city with the family, they headed home and I was left alone in an unfamiliar apartment in an unfamiliar city.

I was still excited despite the nervousness and yes, I’ll admit it, the many tears I shed that first night alone in my apartment. But I had a plan: I was going to attend Sovereign Grace City Church in Brooklyn and make tons of new friends. I was going to work hard at my job and stay incredibly busy during the day. I was going to take Latin dance and photography classes to keep myself busy in the evenings. This was my perfect plan and it didn’t take long for it to become very evident that God had a different summer planned for me than the one I had planned for myself.

Stay Tuned for part two of Kennesha's "Come with Me, To NYC."

About Us (Part 3)

We have two new additions to the blog crew, April Sanders has agreed to join our photography team to work alongside Megan Murphy in taking pictures. Also Lauren Bucca has been coerced by her loving sister to write about the "American Friends" events along with anything else Allison can convince her to do. Enjoy reading their bios.

Lauren Bucca (Writer) Lauren, (who would like to point out that this bio was written by her older sister) is currently studying English at Howard Community College having begun classes there last year as a senior in high school. Lauren works as a secretary on Saturdays in the SRC office, working under her aunt Donna Bucca. She has attended SRC for as long as she can remember, and was attending even before she could remember, but has yet to become an “official” member. Lauren loves to read and think about what she reads, yet loves on occasion to interact with humans, thus she has found some pleasure in partaking in various LS social events. The only challenge she encounters in being part of LS is the fact that Curt scares her.

April Sanders (Photographer) April is currently a sophomore at the University of Maryland and is planning to major in Spanish with a minor in Human Development. She works at Fairland Sports and Aquatics Center as a certified lifeguard where there is never a dull moment. April has attended SRC since 1997 and counts it a blessing to be a part of a church family dedicated to the pursuit of godliness. April can always be found breaking out in random, never ending bouts of song and dance, sometimes even to the chagrin of her friends and family. Any time she spends laughing with her fellow lightswitchers is enjoyable and she is grateful for the people whose constant care keeps her faith from becoming static.

~Blog Crew (Allison Bucca)

A Video or Two

Did you know that Lauren Murphy starred in her very own music video? Check out the music video from the Next conference of our girl Lo singing front and center.

By This We Know Love from Sovereign Grace Ministries on Vimeo.

Take a look at the over 50 videos now on the Sovereign Grace Vimeo stream. Recently added are two videos (from the WorshipGod09 conference) of John Piper's mind-blowing teachings on "The Heart of Worship" and "The God of Worship" both of which significantly altered how I think about the gospel and how my heart prepares for a Sunday morning.

Also available are videos of Mark Altrogge giving announcements at the WorshipGod09 conference. Mark turns his small job of picking raffle tickets into a hilarious comedic bit about how "King Bob Kauflin" turned him into the insignificant "Ticket Boy." "Ticket Boy, Part 3" is my favorite, and the ones after that just get funnier.

Ticket Boy, Part 3 from Sovereign Grace Ministries on Vimeo.

~Blog Crew (Allison Bucca)

Sunday Morning Interviews [September 20, 2009]

Sunday Morning Interviews 9-20-20009 from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.

Mtg of the Switch (Singles)

After Curt spoke last night and worship began to wind down, the question came to my mind, "Why would we apply this?"

God graciously brought Ephesians 5:1-2 to my attention:

Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Last night convicted me of areas in my life where I am selfish and I complain. Reflecting on this passage I have realized that by repenting from these areas, I can further my pursuit as an imitator of Christ's love. His love is free from complaints, gossip, bitterness, dissension and selfishness. I'm so glad we have the perfect example of walking in love found in Jesus Christ.

I'm so excited to see how our community will learn to imitate sacrificial love. I pray that together we will seek to create the gospel-centered community that Curt mentioned last night. And through this pursuit, we will please our Father in Heaven by reflecting the love that he has entrusted to us through his Son Jesus Christ.

~Blog Crew (Shane Kohout)

On My End

This is the first installment from a new section we are calling "On My End." This is where will we include stories from people within LS and some from outside of LS telling us about how they are living for Christ in their personal lives. There will be Q/A's, stories, anecdotes, etc. sharing how they have been thinking about/applying the latest message from a LS meeting or a Sunday morning meeting. LS Blog Crew member Shane Kohout interviewed Huck Rodgers to get a teenager's perspective on this past Sunday's teaching on conversion.

1. Has this message led you to evaluate your relationship with Jesus Christ?

Definitely, I keep thinking to myself, “Do my actions say that I'm a Christian?” Sadly, I have come to the conclusion that they don't. This I know needs to be drastically changed and I need to take immediate action and have my focus on God.

2. Can you think of times when your relationship with Jesus Christ was based on seeking approval from your parents or friends?

Yes. When I was saved, most of my friends and people I knew were Christians, so I felt like I should consider accepting Jesus as my Savior so that I wouldn’t be the odd one out.

3. What areas of the Christian walk are difficult for you to walk out on a daily basis?

Devoting my time to reading the Bible or praying are both big ones. Also talking to my friends (even though they are in the church) about Christ and what is going on in their personal relationship with him.

4. How do you plan to surrender these areas to the Lord?

To pray, read the Bible, and to seek spiritual guidance. God has shown me the precious value of the Bible and I know that if I want to dive deeper in my relationship this is a vital area that I need to pursue.

5. How has God met you over the week in reflecting on the assurance of your relationship with him?

One way that God has assured me is the fact that the Holy Spirit told me through the message that I need to turn my life to focus on Jesus. Another way is that I know the changes throughout my life can only happen through the Holy Spirit that is implanted in me. Through my assurance I find joy that God will keep his promise and I will be spared from the consequences of my sins.


To hear Sunday's teaching, visit Solid Rock Church's sermon blog.

Curt TV #1 Beef

Curt TV from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.

American Friends Luncheon

Susan Cole comes shuffling by, balancing a platter of appetizers offered to guests, “I’m very excited about the number of people coming. It used to be a lot of families, but this time we have a lot of young people involved.” This past Saturday Susan (administrator of American Friends for SRC) spent all day as host to the American Friends luncheon housed by the Zastrow family.


Approximately seventy people, including hosts (most of which were Lightswitchers) and international students, participated in the luncheon. This is a great increase from the approximate twenty-five people who participated last year. Check out the pictures from the event on Flickr!


Are you an American Friend? It’s not too late to become involved. Don’t miss the "Corn Maze/Campfire" event on Saturday, October 24 from 2-10pm. For more information email lightswitchblog@gmail.com.

~Blog Crew (Lauren Bucca)

Notes & Quotes (Sunday Mtg)

Yesterday, John Loftness opened the “What is a Christian?” series with a message out of John 3:1-8 on the doctrine of regeneration.
John asked the question:

“Is a Christian simply someone who lives a good moral life?”

John introduced us to Nicodemus from John 3:1-8 as a “spiritual big shot” who was widely respected. In coming to Jesus, Nicodemus is confronted by a truth that undermines his entire life’s work, “all your religion, all your attainments, all your obedience are worthless. All your prestige, all your time making religious rulings for the nation, all your efforts in keeping the law they are useless when it comes to having God’s life in you.”

“Religion is the antithesis of Christianity."

John then moved away from the passage and had us look through the lens of regeneration:

“There is nothing you can do to be born again. You can only respond, you can’t initiate with God.” “He comes to you in Jesus. He comes to you speaking words.”

“Have you had the imperishable living and abiding Word of God implanted in you?” Then the Holy Spirit has done a work in you.

John then asked the question “Why is this doctrine so important?”

1. It will protect you from legalism.
“There is nothing you can do to make God favorable to you.”

2. It will help you put down pride.
“You realize that you’re not the source of any good.”

3. It causes you to relate humbly to people who are not born again.
“There should be no sense of superiority towards the people around you. There should be a sense of wonder, why do I have knowledge of God and his ways?"

4. It affects your parenting.
It will bring you to your knees praying for God to work in your children’s lives.

In closing, John brought an encouragement to those who are unsure of their salvation:

“If you desire to come to Jesus, the Spirit of God is working in your life.”

Lightswitch Blog Crew Doing What They Do

Sometimes, our meetings get a little out of hand...

Lightswitch Blog Crew Doing What They Do from Curtis Allen on Vimeo.

Boys' Lock In

While the boys were away, the girls did play. Recently Curt had all of the guys over to his house for a lock-in which is pretty much boy code for a slumber party. Not wanting to be left out of the fun, some of the girls gathered together to prank the guys while they were doing whatever it is guys do when they get together. Check out Flickr to see some pictures from the girls' adventures.

Notes and Quotes (Sunday Mtg)

This past Sunday (9/06/09), John Loftness gave the final message of the "One Message Series." The purpose of this series was to show that the entirety of the Bible has an overarching message. John summarized this message by saying, “God saves sinners through Jesus Christ.” He used Colossians 1:13-20 to show four parts of God’s pattern for our salvation.

1. Creation
2. The Fall
3. Redemption
4. Restoration

Shalom: “Personal wholeness and well-being in every sphere.” Murray Harris

“You were created for Shalom. That’s God’s intention for you; peace, joy, and satisfaction in God.”

“Shalom was shattered in the garden of God.” “Man said I will be God.”

“Can man ever come back to peace with God and harmony with the world, with nature, with the things God has made, with other people?”

Yes! Through Jesus!

“He shows up to transfer fallen wrath-deserving human beings to a kingdom ruled by his Son.”

“We are not just redeemed; this new life becomes a process of restoration.”

John elaborated on restoration by showing 4 implications that it has in our lives:

1. Personal (we are being sanctified into his likeness)
2. Relational (Our relationships are being restored)
3. Communal (the church shows God’s restoration)
4. Cultural (Jesus is restoring all things to himself)

“This is our calling as a church. We are called to participate in this great work of reconciliation of all things to Jesus.”

Question to consider in reflecting on the teaching:

Am I fully engaged in this restoration process?

To listen to the teaching visit Solid Rock Church’s website.

If you have thoughts, questions, or comments about the teaching, email lightswitchblog@gmail.com.