The Snyders in Germany

God finally brought together youth from seven different churches across Lippstadt and it was a really cool time.  We had young moderators, awesome testimonies from youth who God has been moving powerfully, fantastic music from the God Fearing Youth Crew from Koinania Hannover, and a solid preaching on the Calling of the Disciples. Then after more worship we forced everybody to mingle by charging them three signatures from new aquaintances in order to score a free bratwurst or two.  Then they pulled couches together around a big bomb fire with marshmallows.  Lots of people stayed until midnight or later and spirits were high.  Many said they want to do it again and we plan on doing exactly that.  We'll be looking for a date in the late summer/fall and you can be praying with us that God multiplies his work as these youth share with their friends "you really missed out last time."  May many come expecting to hear from God and may their expectations be exceeded as they were by one youth who said "I've never felt such a nearness to God like that in my life!  The feeling was incredible."
Thanks to God for the God Fearing Youth Crew for coming out, showing up and leading us in true worship.

Earlier this year as I wrote about a city-wide youth rally I seemed to be the only one who believed that it could happen.  Yet in two weeks God is going to make it happen.  Young Catholics, Lutherans, Pentecostals, Charismatics, Baptists and others are coming together to praise God with one voice and in one spirit.

A few months ago even an elder thought that the Bible study at the High School would fall apart or be stopped.  Now God has opened the door that I should have the honor of preaching at the graduation service in a Catholic Church.  The church is supposed to be "crazy full" and it is going to be happening this Saturday.  I've also been selected to be the main preacher at the Youth Rally.  It reminds me of the verse:

"And no one takes this honor on himself, but he receives it when called by God, just as Aaron was."
- Hebrews 5:4

Two excellent oppertunities in the next eight days to tell hundreds about the glories of Christ.  Great oppertunities but also the weight of resonsiblity is hanging somewhat heavily on me.  I am not afraid because I have nothing to lose but I do concern myself hoping that Christ would be glorified in all my speech and confirmed in the hearts of the hearers through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Beyond all this there is the great blessing of our third child Elijah.  I am so happy to welcome him to our family but I know my thoughts are divided and that we are also suffering attacks on our thoughts and our relationships so as to discourage us from taking full advantange of the good things God has laid before us.  At the moment my inlaws are also living with us to help with the baby which is not always so simple.  So as I have been praying that words might be given me and that we might be relieved of our anxiety.  To these ends and beyond I decided to write this update and reminder to you our faithful family in Christ that you might aid us in a great victory for the name and glory of God in Lippstadt.

What greater battle can there be than for the hearts and minds of the next generation?  These next two weeks could prove to be a decisive battle in the ongoing struggle.  Therefore I ask for a few minutes of intercession on our behalf and on behalf of the city that hearts would be opened to hear the word and that many disciples would be made who would make more disciples.  Also please ask for an easing of the language barrier and that the right words would be spoken.  We thank you and love you.

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirits,
- Aaron

    But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR God’s OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; for you once were NOT A PEOPLE, but now you are THE PEOPLE OF GOD; you had NOT RECEIVED MERCY, but now you have RECEIVED MERCY.  Beloved, I urge you as pilgrims and strangers to abstain from fleshly lusts which wage war against the soul.