One of the greatest satisfactions in life is walking in God’s purpose. No one said, however, it would be easy. It comes with many sacrifices, and it requires passion, patience, and a lot of obedience to the One who called you.

That is what our staff does. And they’re doing it for the Lord and for the at-risk youth of Price Hill. We do what we do not only to preach the gospel, model Christ, and lead these youth to Christ, but also to provide them with unique opportunities and experiences that will be remembered throughout their lives.

That is what happened this a few weeks ago. Our youth participated in two football camps with Bengals players!!! This last one was thanks to the help and collaboration of Price Hill Recreation Center, especially our friend Spoon, who reserved several VIP tickets for our kids. Thanks also to the Bengals, UC Bearcat football coaches Luke Fickell and Kerry Combs.

In one year, our Youth Sports Coordinator Chris, has been the person who has helped me take this ministry to another level adding other sports to our calendar. Olivia who has recently joined the team, will do the same with the girls. All our staff must raise their self-funding and personal expenses, without a doubt this adds additional work to the ministerial agenda and the sports calendar.

There is nothing more rewarding than to have the opportunity to minister to hurting kids and at-risk youth and develop them as disciples of Jesus Christ for the Glory of GOD. (Matt. 28:19)

If you want to support this ministry and see lives transformed by the power of the gospel, do one of three things, or all of them:

1. Pray for us
2. Come and be a volunteer
3. Support us financially, you can do it by clicking this link: https://foundation-of-compassionate-american-samaritans.networkforgood.com/projects/122731-online-giving

Grace & Peace!

Recently Lord’s Gym Ministry team partook in a team-building exercise: kayaking six miles on the Little Miami River. This was only my second time kayaking and it was my first-time riding solo in the kayak. Riding by myself was my decision and it was a big one for me, a non-swimming, inexperienced kayaker. The journey was amazing.

I chose riding solo because I wanted to put myself in a situation where I was completely reliant on God. Although my team was with me the “security” of having someone else in the same kayak was gone. I also wanted the opportunity steer in my own strength, or rather what I learned to be His strength.

It was smooth sailing. A lovely day, comfortable weather, calm waters… until things got a little rocky. About 40 minutes into floating, almost effortlessly, I found myself stuck. I was wedged between a few rocks that were hiding under those smooth waters.

At first, I was surprised, as often we are by hardships that come our way. How did I get here? After a moment’s pause, it made sense that there would be rocks under the water, after all this was a natural river. Why wouldn’t there be rocks below the surface? It’s like coming to the realization that we live in a fallen world where sin and hardships surround all of us at every turn.

Back to the rocks. I had to get loose. I kept thrusting my paddle into the water on my left, hoping to hoist myself up enough off the rocks for the quiet current to pull me back into motion. Despite the use of all my strength, my plan was not working.

I was starting to panic. I was getting frustrated. How will I get off these rocks? I must look like a weakling. I kept thrashing the paddle down on that left side. The kayak was not budging. I was beginning to regret that cookie time I had shared with my son the night before. A little less weight and maybe my efforts would be fruitful. I kept pushing the paddle into the rocks and sand on the left side. The kayak stayed put.

Suddenly it became clear. I needed to pray. I rested my arms and asked God to get me off these rocks. “The other side,” I heard deep within my conscious. One of my teammates nearby yelled to me to try the other side too. Confirmation. I needed to try the other side.

So, with all my might, I again shoved my paddle down into the rocks and sand, this time on the right side. Within a few seconds I was free.

I got stuck two more times. I prayed. Remained calm and tried different methods and always became free. A few of my teammates had their fair share of rock time along the way too. Two even tumbled out of their kayak. Thank the Lord they were safe and did what we all have to do in life, climb back aboard and keep going.

My experience taught me that I can’t rely on my own strength. I need God. I need to take time, even in the midst of busyness and trouble, to go to Him. He has the right answers. Always.

Last Saturday, our women at the Covington Lord’s Gym were blessed with a “Beauty in Jesus” event.

The women were first pampered with the Word. A devotional was delivered that included a cleansing facial, a symbol of how the Lord washes us clean from all the “junk” we get mixed up with in life.

Together they read 2 Corinthians 5:17: “…if anyone be in Christ, they are a new creature: Old things are passed away behold all things are become new.”

Every woman there was encouraged to focus on her inner beauty and remember to see herself through God’s eyes. After food and fellowship, the women visited various beauty stations: nails, hair, and shopping. Through many generous donations each woman was able to pick out a piece of jewelry, new outfit, shoes and a purse.

“We wanted to do something to show our ladies that they are loved by us, and that God loves them,” said Women’s Chaplain Emily. “This was also a reminder that the gym is a safe place for our ladies to always come.”

Emily said that the focus was on inner beauty, but the event was also about allowing the women to do some things that most of them haven’t done in years.

Remmie, who has been coming to the Lord’s Gym for a year said she was “super duper excited,” to take part in the day of beauty.

“The best part though is that I get to spend time with my people,” she said smiling. With a little laugh she also said: “Picking out an outfit was really nice too.”

Several ministry partners including Christ Chapel, Urban Outreach and Welcome House pulled supplies and volunteers together for the event. We are grateful for their time and generosity.

This started as a way for me to put up or shut up. I’ve challenged some guys in my men’s group to show our discipleship in practice.

We’ve supported LGM in picnics and Christmas events, but the next step is in RELATIONSHIPS.

So, I decided to help the 6th-grade basketball team. I was asked about being the head coach. Not being shy of my basketball knowledge (nor my ability to learn on the “job”); and being blessed to not carry too much angst when in over my head, I said, “Sure, why not…”

Some of the realities of coaching in Price Hill: Turnover. During the season, I lost 6 kids who started with the team or were added and then left the team. I had 8 to start and ended with 9.

Devotionals. I tried very hard to make these as relevant as I could. At various times, we discussed: Fruits of the Spirit and related it to people we knew who exhibited these Christ-like characteristics and how it made us feel. We talked friendships, like Jonathan and David’s and how it felt to know someone has your back. EGO – “Edging God Out” and the dangers of being self-centered were discussed. The Lord’s Prayer was recited often.

Other things encountered: Attention span and expectations. I prepared a practice plan with primary themes and drills. In retrospect, I’d create more games

to reinforce drills and things I wanted them to accomplish. Practice never went as planned. Practices were about 1.5 hours each and it was a challenge to keep their attention. Skuffles. At least three times, a fight could have broken out. These could have escalated into an outright brawl involving parents and kids. We were lucky and should think this through more with prayer. I should have been better prepared and as I said, I/we were fortunate. Turnout. Rarely did we get everyone to practice. Sometimes we barely had 5-6. One practice we had one player.

What I hope “my kids” received or learned during the season: Unconditional love. While there were times I felt I had to keep them accountable for their actions by enforcing consequences or repercussions, I made sure that any kids called out were also encouraged/loved afterwards. Expressions like, “I/we need you to be a leader and you’re great at…” While it’s a team sport, I tried to individually address every single player each week with some words of encouragement.

Attitude and Effort. I was and

always will be happy to see kids win and make shots. I did the Griddy (aka victory dance) more than once when someone made a 3-pointer in practice. I was careful to make sure nobody was watching. I chastised them when scrimmaging the 4th- graders (which they always wanted to do), “Don’t crush the spirit of the 4th-graders.” They played hard and competed. Sometimes their attitudes were difficult to rein in and I had to look skyward (to the Lord) for help to not just grab kids by the collar at times to let them know what I thought of their attitude.

For the Coach – What it meant: God loves team sports. The Apostles were sent out in pairs. I will gladly coach by myself again. But, it’d be fun to have another person to help and offer ideas.

I love sports and I think I’ll get better at coaching the important aspects beyond winning. Loving your teammate, respecting all involved (other team, coaches, referees, parents). I’ll do my best to be available to help. It’s far easier to serve in a capacity where there is some passion. While not gifted, I am passionate about sports and I feel the good Lord nudging me.

I was blessed beyond belief. At no point was it a struggle to show.

Kids are kids. I hope they felt love; I definitely felt their love. It’s what we’re called to do and kids are so vulnerable, especially with most not having both parents living under one roof. We are all God’s children.

He took to the TansAmerica Bike Trail pedaling 4,427 miles across the United States beginning in Yorktown, Va to Astoria, Or.

“It was an exhilarating and life changing experience,” Scott, executive director of FOCAS/Lord’s Gym Ministries, said. “The scenic views, the people met, and the life lessons (also known as my take-a-ways) made for some great memories.”

Scott relives those memories and the many “God moments,” he experienced in a new feature-length documentary “Don’t Wait,” recorded and produced by Cincinnati documentary film maker Shane Reinert.

“The documentary beautifully captures the entire experience,” Scott said. “It is wonderful to be able to relive the journey and ‘take others along with me.’”

In this documentary, Scott shares intimate details of the challenging and faith-strengthening completion of the 4,427-mile trek. Several advisors for his trip share their role, and how Scott’s trip inspired them personally and spiritually. “Don’t Wait” can be viewed at www.LordsGymMinistries.org.

Film maker Shane Reinert said that Scott’s resiliency to go on and complete the trip is an inspiration.

“When I first learned about Scott’s trip, I knew this was a story I wanted to share,” Shane said. “It was incredible to listen to Scott recount his journey. I felt like I was there. You could really draw on the enthusiasm and energy. It’s the story of a lifetime.”

Scott’s ability to recover from setbacks, adapt well to change and keep going in the face of adversity is also an inspiration to the staff, volunteers, investors and those served through Lord’s Gym Ministries.

“Resiliency is an essential part of life for all of us and that’s what we’re working to instill in our youth through our Youth Resiliency Adventure programming,” Scott said.

These programs include cycling (which Scott is heavily involved in), football, flag football, basketball, soccer, wrestling and our Learning Center. For more information, visit www.YRAdventure.com.

Some shots from our last Lord’s Gym Ministries Panther Soccer after school program in Price Hill. Thank you Chris McNutt and Olivia Perkins for creating an awesome experience for the youth. Help support our Summer Youth Activities at www.LordsGymMinistries.org. Stay tuned for further developments as our Family Activity Center nears an 8 month renovation process. We will need more volunteers for sure.

When I read the gospels I see over and over that Jesus would see a need then be moved with compassion and do something about it. Jesus saw the sick and being moved with compassion, He healed them. Jesus saw the blind and being moved with compassion, He gave sight to the blind. Jesus saw the hungry and being moved with compassion, He fed them.

Jesus is still at work in the body of Christ and when we set our differences/denominations aside to come together we can see the “signs and wonders” that follow those who believe. I appreciate the partnership with churches like Parkside Christian Church, All Church, Madison Place Community Church just to name a few who understand faith without works is DEAD so they put their faith into action by serving the Price Hill community.

We believe that as we’re moved with compassion Jesus will continue to show up through us and we’ll see His kingdom come and His will be done on earth as it is in heaven. We’ll see the lost being found, hearts being healed, hope being restored, souls being saved and delivered. “JESUS will SHOW UP and SHOW OUT” as we remain steadfast and immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord!

As Kelly mentions, there will be challenges on the Resiliency Ride, but that’s what resiliency is all about. And challenges build character…

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love Him.” James 1:12

It’s often said a person’s true character is revealed in the face of adversity. Their attitude toward the trial and their response, or how they handle it, reveals who they truly are. Strong character and resilience are closely intertwined. Those who possess both know how to deal with adversity and maintain a positive disposition. They don’t complain. They don’t give up. They push. They succeed.

As we learned in our first devotion, Resiliency is defined as the ability to cope with whatever life throws at you. When knocked down and out by challenges, those resilient return stronger and more steadfast than ever. Their character – the mental and moral qualities distinctive to an individual – is the key to their strength.

Paul’s approach to preaching the gospel is one of many examples of resiliency in the Bible. After his life-altering encounter with Jesus in Acts 9, the popular Jewish religious leader became a radical Christian to the disenchantment of many. Unhappy with his message, his enemies beat, stoned, criticized, jailed and nearly killed him several times.

One great example of his resiliency is when he was in Lystra, in Asia Minor, he was stoned, dragged out of the city, and left for dead. Once his enemies disbanded, Paul simply got up and returned to the city. His work to tell others about Jesus continued unabated. Godly resilience produces character that enables us to be undeterred, regardless of the opposition. Paul wrote in Romans 5:4: “endurance produces character, and character produces hope.” 

Another who demonstrated great character in his resiliency is Job. Job lost everything – his wealth, health and even his family. Job experienced great agony deep within in his body and soul. Yet, he refused to turn His back on God or give up. Despite his relentless suffering, he knew that God was in control. This allowed Job to endure. His endurance produced character and his character hope. He held tight to his faith. In the end, his faith was met with great reward.

Our character will influence our resilience and our resilience will influence our character. Work your character and resilience to your advantage. Be positive. Approach adversity head on. Don’t complain. Don’t give up. Push.

To learn more about the Resiliency Ride and how you can take part in the journey, visit www.YRAdventure.com.

For more information, please email mreinert@lordsgymministries.org.