Quiz Nationals

We've been home from nationals for over a week so I thought it was high time I blogged about it. This decision has nothing, of course, to do with being shamed by my family today over my lack of blog updates. Nope, nothing at all to do with that.

We had a fantastic week at nationals. Our assistant pastor/coach was pretty confident that all three of our church's teams would bring home trophies. Instead, we were eliminated earlier than we've ever been eliminated before. Disappointing but, as Pastor Dale said, the scripture they have all hidden in their hearts is more important than any trophy. Plus, they still had a lot of fun!



Julianne's team during a bye.

Allison's team, waiting for the next round.

The "Quiz Band" sang Forever, a song recorded by Fireflight, at the talent show. I didn't know the song before they started practicing, but I really like it and the kids did a great job.

The theme for nationals this year was "I AM". At the first night's chapel service, the denominational quiz director spoke on the theme and one thing he said was simple, yet I found it to be so profound and continue to think on it.

He said "If God's name is I AM, then what does that make our name?
I am not."

He went on to say that for every cry of our heart, I AM is the answer.

"I'm not sure where my next meal is going to come from." "I AM."

"Who is going to love me?" "I AM"

"What's new?" "I AM."

"What's lasting?" "I AM"

"I'm not smart (strong, good, talented, etc.) enough." "I AM"

"No one's listening to me." "I AM"

There were many more, but I'm sure you get the picture.

We love our girls being in quizzing-they have learned so much each year as they study the Bible in such detail-but each year we've attended nationals, I come away so thankful that I get to attend with them and be a part of the week. The chapel messages are always so good-just think of preaching to a congregation where a majority of those listening might have your whole scripture text memorized. Then there's the testimony/communion service on Thursday-this year, with 3-minute limits, there were quizzers testifying for two-and-a-half hours.

Even if you don't count the opportunity to see so many young people having so much fun quizzing on the Bible, it's an incredible experience. I'm so glad we were able to attend.