Response to Tyler's #1

RE: Lesson Plan: Using someone else's lesson or program is not a bad thing. However great that pre-made lesson may be by the best author out there, but if it is irrelevant to your group or not true to your heart, you won't reap the same fruit as you would teaching something you are passionate about. Regardless of what you chose, make sure it is something that is close to your heart, something you get excited about. Teach something you are passionate enough about that you want more than anything for your students to really get it and be formed by it. Also, as in everything, be sure you are praying and seeking the Spirit's guidance and wisdom on it as you decide and plan.

RE: Getting to know the students better: I had the exact same question. How do I relate to my students? In your case it is "drinkers" and "gamers" and in mine it was "basketball" players and, as you know, I stand at a whopping 5'9" - not so ideal against these 6'0" jr. high students. But the fact is just being with them develops relationship. Sure they'll remember the things you really connect with them on but that comes in time. Your best initial impression and impact will be simply getting to know them and joining in on the things they love to do. (This is not to say go get sloshed with them on Friday night, but I'm sure you can find other things they enjoy.) The fact of the matter is, we like everything to happen quick. But relating to your students isn't an overnight deal. It takes time. Quantity makes quality.