As much as I love me some Justin Bieber, this post is not a tribute to his wonderful film. I did indeed steal the title, but, this is in a completely different context.
I definitely did say never.
I told God (note the telling part...how silly I am) that I was NEVER EVER IN A MILLION GILLION YEARS moving back to Wichita. The Lord has a sense of humor because where am I located now?? Oh yeah, Wichita.
As many of you have read in my earlier postings, I know why I came home this summer, and it was one of the best summers I have had. It was full of growth and rest in the Lord, and I loved absolutely every minute of it.
Searching for a job (like for everyone else) has been a major challenge. Nothing seemed like it was the right job for me or like it was the right door.
In talking to one of our pastor's wives at my church (the wonderful Crystal), we were discussing my heart for inner-city ministry and working with kids and women. (Side-note, I also told the Lord I would NEVER EVER EVER be interested in working with teenagers. I bet you know what comes next!! Yeah, I'm now interested...Oh how funny God is!) She told me to talk to a guy at my church who worked in Kansas City for a long time and would maybe know of some opportunities for me. So, I contacted him.
Along with giving me information, he also told me of a need that the Assemblies of God district office here in Wichita had. They needed a receptionist. At first, I scoffed at the idea. Why in the world would I want to do that? It's not what I feel called to do. The Lord kindly reminded me that ministry is everywhere...not just behind a pulpit. On top of it, this office is full of on-fire people for Jesus who could teach me more than I could ever imagine about what it really means to serve.
God also gently reminded me that before He can be great in me, I have to let Him be great in the small.
So with that, I applied. Yesterday I interviewed and got called back with a job offer. I squealed. That office already feels like home. My interview was fantastic, and I cannot wait to work for these amazing people. I cannot wait to learn everything that God has for me being in that office.
No, it doesn't follow my plan. But, God's plan trumps all, and I cannot wait to see where He leads me from here.
I'm done telling God never (I hope). I'm in for the ride of my life.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
Friday, August 19, 2011
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Child-Like Faith
For my birthday this year, my parents were wonderful enough to buy me a new queen-size bed. YIPPEE!!!!! I cannot even BEGIN to express how excited I am for this bed. I'm receiving said bed tomorrow, and I needed to rearrange my room and move my current bed to where the new bed is going. Well, under my current bed was a lot of junk that I've had since I was like four, and I decided it was high time to go through it all and see what I wanted to keep. Of course there were things that my mom did not want to throw away (and with my brother going to college this weekend, life does not need to be more complicated for my poor mother.) So, I began to rifle and rummage through my childhood.
At first, I just laughed at old notes from elementary school friends. A lot of them contained, "let's be bff's FOREVER!!!! <3" I find it rather amusing that I do not even remember who half of these people were...I found old bracelets, rings, random pieces of paper, and my collector barbies (do not judge, they could make me millions one day!) ;) I even found old letters that I had written to my brother when we got into fights...we were very diplomatic children and talked through our feelings when one stole the other's toy or smacked the other for no apparent reason.
But then I found what life was like when I completely and utterly trusted God and believed in miracles - I found my old journals. When I was in the 4th grade, my grandmother got into an almost fatal car accident. I found the following statements that I had written at age 9: "I think God put his angels in my grandma's car," "I know by a miracle God kept her safe," "My life has been changed and so has my family's, still I know that God kept her alive and safe. I believe in miracles." As I read the pages that I had poured so much of my heart onto, God reminded me of child-like faith. At that age, my biggest concern was having too much homework that would keep me from going outside to play. When my grandma almost passed away, I knew that God had been there and that He was the reason she is still alive to this day.
Why do I find excuses to doubt?
13 years later, I am now a college graduate waiting to see where I am going to be employed. I have caught myself so many times going into freak-out mode because I am not quite sure of where my life is going to go. As I read those pages tonight, God so gently reminded me that He is and always will be there. He is the miracle worker, and I believe that He will always take care of me.
I am glad that I found those pages of my youthful innocence once again. My challenge to us all is to find that child-like faith once again where we know to believe in miracles and to know that God has us in the palm of His hand.
In the midst of the chaos that life throws your way, remember that the same God who brought you through bruised up and bloodied knees will be there to bring you through any stress, strain, or loss that plagues you now.
I have been reminded of my child-like faith. I hope this can be a reminder for all of you.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
At first, I just laughed at old notes from elementary school friends. A lot of them contained, "let's be bff's FOREVER!!!! <3" I find it rather amusing that I do not even remember who half of these people were...I found old bracelets, rings, random pieces of paper, and my collector barbies (do not judge, they could make me millions one day!) ;) I even found old letters that I had written to my brother when we got into fights...we were very diplomatic children and talked through our feelings when one stole the other's toy or smacked the other for no apparent reason.
But then I found what life was like when I completely and utterly trusted God and believed in miracles - I found my old journals. When I was in the 4th grade, my grandmother got into an almost fatal car accident. I found the following statements that I had written at age 9: "I think God put his angels in my grandma's car," "I know by a miracle God kept her safe," "My life has been changed and so has my family's, still I know that God kept her alive and safe. I believe in miracles." As I read the pages that I had poured so much of my heart onto, God reminded me of child-like faith. At that age, my biggest concern was having too much homework that would keep me from going outside to play. When my grandma almost passed away, I knew that God had been there and that He was the reason she is still alive to this day.
Why do I find excuses to doubt?
13 years later, I am now a college graduate waiting to see where I am going to be employed. I have caught myself so many times going into freak-out mode because I am not quite sure of where my life is going to go. As I read those pages tonight, God so gently reminded me that He is and always will be there. He is the miracle worker, and I believe that He will always take care of me.
I am glad that I found those pages of my youthful innocence once again. My challenge to us all is to find that child-like faith once again where we know to believe in miracles and to know that God has us in the palm of His hand.
In the midst of the chaos that life throws your way, remember that the same God who brought you through bruised up and bloodied knees will be there to bring you through any stress, strain, or loss that plagues you now.
I have been reminded of my child-like faith. I hope this can be a reminder for all of you.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
Monday, August 8, 2011
Waiting Part Two
God has taught me the meaning of patience...or I guess I might still be learning that lesson. This process of waiting just flat out stinks sometimes.
I have caught myself at several points "waiting for my life to start." God kindly reminds me that my life started 22 years ago, and it hasn't stopped. His timing is just far better than my own, and maybe one day I'll get over my stubborn resolve and actually listen to that truth the first time.
In this transition time I have experienced such great rest and joy. I have genuinely loved being home and realize time and time again why God brought me here. My life has still been going...
Since the start of senior year, I have been "waiting" to meet Mr. Right (since everyone else seems to be on that bandwagon, I didn't want to feel left out!!.....ha.), "waiting" to start doing ministry, "waiting."
As far as Mr. Right goes, I know again that God's timing far surpasses my own. To be completely honest, I could not be more excited for my friends who are getting married because I get to share in their special days (and I LOVE weddings...no seriously...love). I know that God will bring him when He's ready. Why rush the moment that God has me in? Why miss out wishing for what He's not ready to show?
Ministry. What I have felt called to do since I was 12. However, God kindly reminded me this week that ministry is not just behind a pulpit or in being a pastor (even though I love doing both). Ministry is in life, in how you live and how you love. I'm a plunge all in kinda kid, and God is showing me that this option is not always the best. He has shown me that in order for Him to be great in the big, I have to let Him show me how to be joyful in the small. I have always had big dreams, and I have also been kindly reminded to not give up on those dreams that God has so fervently placed in me. However, why would God throw me head first into something I'm not ready for? What makes me think I'm exempt from going through the steps it takes to reach those goals...to really appreciate the dreams He has given me? I am actually really genuinely excited to start in the small. He has molded my life so perfectly, and I am ready to continue discovering the puzzle one piece at a time.
No more waiting. This summer has been a chance to live, and I have loved living every minute of it. I have been reminded of some precious friendships and found joy in many already strong relationships. Though I'm not quite sure of where I'm going from here, God knows. As many of my friends prepare to go back to EU, I continue to embrace every precious moment and gift I've been given.
Life's too short. No more waiting. My life started a long time ago. God has already written some pretty awesome chapters...I'm PUMPED to watch Him show me my story.
No fear. No worry. No waiting.
Live.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
I have caught myself at several points "waiting for my life to start." God kindly reminds me that my life started 22 years ago, and it hasn't stopped. His timing is just far better than my own, and maybe one day I'll get over my stubborn resolve and actually listen to that truth the first time.
In this transition time I have experienced such great rest and joy. I have genuinely loved being home and realize time and time again why God brought me here. My life has still been going...
Since the start of senior year, I have been "waiting" to meet Mr. Right (since everyone else seems to be on that bandwagon, I didn't want to feel left out!!.....ha.), "waiting" to start doing ministry, "waiting."
As far as Mr. Right goes, I know again that God's timing far surpasses my own. To be completely honest, I could not be more excited for my friends who are getting married because I get to share in their special days (and I LOVE weddings...no seriously...love). I know that God will bring him when He's ready. Why rush the moment that God has me in? Why miss out wishing for what He's not ready to show?
Ministry. What I have felt called to do since I was 12. However, God kindly reminded me this week that ministry is not just behind a pulpit or in being a pastor (even though I love doing both). Ministry is in life, in how you live and how you love. I'm a plunge all in kinda kid, and God is showing me that this option is not always the best. He has shown me that in order for Him to be great in the big, I have to let Him show me how to be joyful in the small. I have always had big dreams, and I have also been kindly reminded to not give up on those dreams that God has so fervently placed in me. However, why would God throw me head first into something I'm not ready for? What makes me think I'm exempt from going through the steps it takes to reach those goals...to really appreciate the dreams He has given me? I am actually really genuinely excited to start in the small. He has molded my life so perfectly, and I am ready to continue discovering the puzzle one piece at a time.
No more waiting. This summer has been a chance to live, and I have loved living every minute of it. I have been reminded of some precious friendships and found joy in many already strong relationships. Though I'm not quite sure of where I'm going from here, God knows. As many of my friends prepare to go back to EU, I continue to embrace every precious moment and gift I've been given.
Life's too short. No more waiting. My life started a long time ago. God has already written some pretty awesome chapters...I'm PUMPED to watch Him show me my story.
No fear. No worry. No waiting.
Live.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Summer Thus Far...
We are half-way into July, folks. It never ceases to amaze me how quickly time seems to fly.
This summer has been NOTHING like I expected, and that is a great thing. I have realized something very important: attitude is everything.
I had in my head that after last summer, I was ready to just embark on the next part of my journey right after I graduated. It was time to jump full force into the ministry that I feel so called to go into (or so I thought). After God told me no about Memphis, I felt so lost and confused. I had never in my wildest dreams thought I would come back to Wichita, but let me just say how thankful I am for the time I have had here.
This summer has been a summer of restoration, healing, essential time, and rest. I had no idea what amazing things the Lord had in store for me, and there is still some time left to enjoy why He had me come home.
It has been absolutely wonderful to spend this time with my family. I have learned how precious and sacred that is, and I never wish to take advantage of that again. I have also gotten to spend time with a friend I have known for many, many years. She has always held a special place in my heart (as has her entire family), but I never fully appreciated our friendship until this summer. She is one of those people that will be a part of my life for the rest of it, and I am very thankful for that. It is amazing how God knows what we need way better than we know ourselves.
I needed this summer, and I didn't even know it.
My heart always aches for the friends that are far away. My friend from Romania told me today that she is getting ready to have a baby!!! I could not be more excited for her. It has been almost four months since I last hugged Roxana, and I do not know when I will get a chance to see her again or that beautiful child she is going to bring into the world. However, I could not be more thankful to have gotten the chance to meet her. Whenever I think of Romania, I also think back to the wonderful friendship I found in a team member from Valley Forge that was with us that week. She and I still get to talk often, and I am thankful for great connections even after only spending a week together. God is good.
And as always, I often think back fondly on Evangel. Even though it was only a couple months ago that I walked that line and received my degree, it feels like ages ago. I miss my friends from there terribly. However, it's amazing how much God has blessed and grown these friendships in spite of the distance and time apart. I could not feel more blessed or more thankful.
I just received news that I PASSED MY CREDENTIALING EXAM!!!! Wahoo!!! The next (and I do believe final) step is the interview. I cannot believe that this process in my life is finally happening. I have dreamed of being a pastor for so long that this feels almost surreal. This is a calling I take with the highest respect and responsibility and feel so unworthy of this great honor.
I also get to go to Bartlesville, OK this weekend to meet the church and staff of Abundant Life Church and discuss their children's pastor position! I am anxiously awaiting the Lord's direction and cannot wait to see where He leads.
So, in a nutshell, life is nothing like I expected it to be, but I am so thankful that I have a God who knows better than I what I need. I feel refreshed and charged after a very emotional last few months before school ended. Evangel and my friends are very much in my heart, and I cannot wait to see where God leads us all. I am thankful that distance does not have to determine the closeness and strength of a relationship. In fact, I am happy that it has made them stronger.
So here I am...blessed and thankful and continually reveling in the greatness of God's plan.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
This summer has been NOTHING like I expected, and that is a great thing. I have realized something very important: attitude is everything.
I had in my head that after last summer, I was ready to just embark on the next part of my journey right after I graduated. It was time to jump full force into the ministry that I feel so called to go into (or so I thought). After God told me no about Memphis, I felt so lost and confused. I had never in my wildest dreams thought I would come back to Wichita, but let me just say how thankful I am for the time I have had here.
This summer has been a summer of restoration, healing, essential time, and rest. I had no idea what amazing things the Lord had in store for me, and there is still some time left to enjoy why He had me come home.
It has been absolutely wonderful to spend this time with my family. I have learned how precious and sacred that is, and I never wish to take advantage of that again. I have also gotten to spend time with a friend I have known for many, many years. She has always held a special place in my heart (as has her entire family), but I never fully appreciated our friendship until this summer. She is one of those people that will be a part of my life for the rest of it, and I am very thankful for that. It is amazing how God knows what we need way better than we know ourselves.
I needed this summer, and I didn't even know it.
My heart always aches for the friends that are far away. My friend from Romania told me today that she is getting ready to have a baby!!! I could not be more excited for her. It has been almost four months since I last hugged Roxana, and I do not know when I will get a chance to see her again or that beautiful child she is going to bring into the world. However, I could not be more thankful to have gotten the chance to meet her. Whenever I think of Romania, I also think back to the wonderful friendship I found in a team member from Valley Forge that was with us that week. She and I still get to talk often, and I am thankful for great connections even after only spending a week together. God is good.
And as always, I often think back fondly on Evangel. Even though it was only a couple months ago that I walked that line and received my degree, it feels like ages ago. I miss my friends from there terribly. However, it's amazing how much God has blessed and grown these friendships in spite of the distance and time apart. I could not feel more blessed or more thankful.
I just received news that I PASSED MY CREDENTIALING EXAM!!!! Wahoo!!! The next (and I do believe final) step is the interview. I cannot believe that this process in my life is finally happening. I have dreamed of being a pastor for so long that this feels almost surreal. This is a calling I take with the highest respect and responsibility and feel so unworthy of this great honor.
I also get to go to Bartlesville, OK this weekend to meet the church and staff of Abundant Life Church and discuss their children's pastor position! I am anxiously awaiting the Lord's direction and cannot wait to see where He leads.
So, in a nutshell, life is nothing like I expected it to be, but I am so thankful that I have a God who knows better than I what I need. I feel refreshed and charged after a very emotional last few months before school ended. Evangel and my friends are very much in my heart, and I cannot wait to see where God leads us all. I am thankful that distance does not have to determine the closeness and strength of a relationship. In fact, I am happy that it has made them stronger.
So here I am...blessed and thankful and continually reveling in the greatness of God's plan.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
Saturday, June 11, 2011
To You
To You:
Who never quit believing in my potential in spite of all of my many flaws.
Who listens with open ears and open arms.
Who laughs with me and cries with me.
Who doesn't judge me based on who I was but is proud of who I am becoming.
Who laughs at every awkward and ridiculous moment I have ever had.
Who rejoices with me even in the little things.
Who understands me better than I sometimes understand myself.
Who has had a serious investment in my life.
Who has grown with me and watched me grow over the past several years.
Who has helped me overcome so many of my fears.
Who has been honest with me even if it was hard.
Who has not been afraid to challenge me to not settle or merely get by.
Who has taught me the importance of perseverance.
Who has listened to me talk about my heart for kids and women.
Who has taught me to be patient.
Who has taught me to love unconditionally.
Who has shown me the importance of God as my source and no one else.
Who has merely been.
Thank you. There are so many more that I could add to this list, but I think you get the gist. I have been blessed beyond measure with some of the most wonderful and Godly friends I could have ever imagined. This past week has really reminded me of that. I am thankful to each and every one of you who has walked this journey of life with me whether it be for a little part or large. God has shown me His love through so many of you, and you have been some of the greatest hands and feet I have ever known. Thank you for taking the time to believe in me. Know that I will always, always believe in you.
These past few weeks have also been exciting in that two of my dear friends have gotten engaged:
Alina is my best friend and sister even if not by blood. We have been through thick and thin together for the past 4 years, and her life is such a blessing. She just got engaged to a pretty awesome guy named Jonathan, and I cannot wait to see how God uses and blesses their marriage. I feel honored and privileged that I get to share in their special day. In all honesty, if Alina hadn't allowed God to use her in the way that she had, I would not be the young lady that I am today. I am thankful to the Lord for the incredible gift she is and am so excited to see the start of her and Jonathan's life together. Words cannot adequately express all that this wonderful person means to me.
Amy has been one of my closest friends in college. She laughs with me at anything and everything no matter how absolutely dumb it is. Her love of sweet tea and her appreciation of Elvis are two of the things we share in common (along with an unhealthy love of the caffeinated beverage known as coffee). She is getting ready to marry Daniel, and I could honestly not be more excited for them. The happiness she has is contagious, and I also cannot wait to share in their special day. I'm excited to give her one giant hug.
I encourage you to look around you (and not just in close proximity) to the people that God has blessed your life with. Relationships are gifts and gifts that should not be taken lightly. There are so many people in my life that have blessed me tremendously, and to you, know that you have made the difference. God used you in making me who I am today, and I want you to know that I will never forget that. Some of you I have only known for 6 months to a year, others a couple years or more, and others my whole life (love you family!). However, I am beyond thankful for the gift you have been in my life.
So to you, thank you. I appreciate and love you more than you will ever know.
Who never quit believing in my potential in spite of all of my many flaws.
Who listens with open ears and open arms.
Who laughs with me and cries with me.
Who doesn't judge me based on who I was but is proud of who I am becoming.
Who laughs at every awkward and ridiculous moment I have ever had.
Who rejoices with me even in the little things.
Who understands me better than I sometimes understand myself.
Who has had a serious investment in my life.
Who has grown with me and watched me grow over the past several years.
Who has helped me overcome so many of my fears.
Who has been honest with me even if it was hard.
Who has not been afraid to challenge me to not settle or merely get by.
Who has taught me the importance of perseverance.
Who has listened to me talk about my heart for kids and women.
Who has taught me to be patient.
Who has taught me to love unconditionally.
Who has shown me the importance of God as my source and no one else.
Who has merely been.
Thank you. There are so many more that I could add to this list, but I think you get the gist. I have been blessed beyond measure with some of the most wonderful and Godly friends I could have ever imagined. This past week has really reminded me of that. I am thankful to each and every one of you who has walked this journey of life with me whether it be for a little part or large. God has shown me His love through so many of you, and you have been some of the greatest hands and feet I have ever known. Thank you for taking the time to believe in me. Know that I will always, always believe in you.
These past few weeks have also been exciting in that two of my dear friends have gotten engaged:
Alina is my best friend and sister even if not by blood. We have been through thick and thin together for the past 4 years, and her life is such a blessing. She just got engaged to a pretty awesome guy named Jonathan, and I cannot wait to see how God uses and blesses their marriage. I feel honored and privileged that I get to share in their special day. In all honesty, if Alina hadn't allowed God to use her in the way that she had, I would not be the young lady that I am today. I am thankful to the Lord for the incredible gift she is and am so excited to see the start of her and Jonathan's life together. Words cannot adequately express all that this wonderful person means to me.
Amy has been one of my closest friends in college. She laughs with me at anything and everything no matter how absolutely dumb it is. Her love of sweet tea and her appreciation of Elvis are two of the things we share in common (along with an unhealthy love of the caffeinated beverage known as coffee). She is getting ready to marry Daniel, and I could honestly not be more excited for them. The happiness she has is contagious, and I also cannot wait to share in their special day. I'm excited to give her one giant hug.
I encourage you to look around you (and not just in close proximity) to the people that God has blessed your life with. Relationships are gifts and gifts that should not be taken lightly. There are so many people in my life that have blessed me tremendously, and to you, know that you have made the difference. God used you in making me who I am today, and I want you to know that I will never forget that. Some of you I have only known for 6 months to a year, others a couple years or more, and others my whole life (love you family!). However, I am beyond thankful for the gift you have been in my life.
So to you, thank you. I appreciate and love you more than you will ever know.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Waiting
Transition...waiting...stuff I am not necessarily very good at.
I'm in Wichita, KS for a reason, and I have discovered what part of this reason is. As I have been surrounded with some amazing people once again, I remember why I love them as much as I do. It's amazing how much God provides even when you're not expecting it.
My heart does miss my Evangel friends, and I know that it will. This was such a special time to me, but I am in eager anticipation of discovering the meaning in my transition. I know that many of these friendships will go with me for the rest of my life.
Kansas. The state that is flatter than flat. However, God has blessed us with some pretty remarkable sunsets. As I walk the neighborhoods at sunset, I feel as though God reminds me that His beauty is everywhere...in every moment. I have started going on walks at sunset, and it is one of the most calming and enjoyable experiences. As much as I pick on the good 'ol sunflower state, God's beauty isn't just limited to places like the East Coast or Europe...His beauty is surrounding. You just have to be open to seeing it.
I have begun sending out applications and resumes, and some doors have already been shut in my face. But one of the many things that I appreciate the most about my relationship with the Lord is He is always pretty quick to tell me when one decision isn't the best for me...however, on the flip side, He has absolutely no problem making me wait for the right one. ;)
In this period of waiting, I have learned the absolute necessity of rest. I am such a busy body. I like being everywhere all the time without stopping. Sleep gets in the way of my social time. However, God has revealed Himself to me in ways that I don't think I would've been so aware of walking around like a zombie. So as I sit in waiting, I get to enjoy the people that God has put around me here (while still getting to talk to so many of those that I love that are not) and marvel at His greatness and beauty in a state that many people just look over. No, I don't want to live here for the rest of my life, but I know that God has something for me while I'm here, and I don't want to miss out just because I'm getting antsy to get out there and go.
Waiting is a time for growth and a time for opportunity, and I pray that I always keep this mind set. God does not keep us in waiting to punish us but to teach us the beauty of His grace and that He is indeed faithful. So as I wait for my next step, I wait with an open heart. I will not just bide time while I am here, but I will make the most of every God-given moment. I will see His beauty in all that life has to offer. I will treasure my moments.
I'm thankful that the Lord is letting me travel some in the upcoming weeks. He's letting my itchy feet get a little road under them. :)
However, as I wait, I am excited to learn.
Don't put God in a box. It's rather fun to let Him surprise you.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
I'm in Wichita, KS for a reason, and I have discovered what part of this reason is. As I have been surrounded with some amazing people once again, I remember why I love them as much as I do. It's amazing how much God provides even when you're not expecting it.
My heart does miss my Evangel friends, and I know that it will. This was such a special time to me, but I am in eager anticipation of discovering the meaning in my transition. I know that many of these friendships will go with me for the rest of my life.
Kansas. The state that is flatter than flat. However, God has blessed us with some pretty remarkable sunsets. As I walk the neighborhoods at sunset, I feel as though God reminds me that His beauty is everywhere...in every moment. I have started going on walks at sunset, and it is one of the most calming and enjoyable experiences. As much as I pick on the good 'ol sunflower state, God's beauty isn't just limited to places like the East Coast or Europe...His beauty is surrounding. You just have to be open to seeing it.
I have begun sending out applications and resumes, and some doors have already been shut in my face. But one of the many things that I appreciate the most about my relationship with the Lord is He is always pretty quick to tell me when one decision isn't the best for me...however, on the flip side, He has absolutely no problem making me wait for the right one. ;)
In this period of waiting, I have learned the absolute necessity of rest. I am such a busy body. I like being everywhere all the time without stopping. Sleep gets in the way of my social time. However, God has revealed Himself to me in ways that I don't think I would've been so aware of walking around like a zombie. So as I sit in waiting, I get to enjoy the people that God has put around me here (while still getting to talk to so many of those that I love that are not) and marvel at His greatness and beauty in a state that many people just look over. No, I don't want to live here for the rest of my life, but I know that God has something for me while I'm here, and I don't want to miss out just because I'm getting antsy to get out there and go.
Waiting is a time for growth and a time for opportunity, and I pray that I always keep this mind set. God does not keep us in waiting to punish us but to teach us the beauty of His grace and that He is indeed faithful. So as I wait for my next step, I wait with an open heart. I will not just bide time while I am here, but I will make the most of every God-given moment. I will see His beauty in all that life has to offer. I will treasure my moments.
I'm thankful that the Lord is letting me travel some in the upcoming weeks. He's letting my itchy feet get a little road under them. :)
However, as I wait, I am excited to learn.
Don't put God in a box. It's rather fun to let Him surprise you.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
Friday, May 13, 2011
Surging Ahead
Graduation has come and gone. I am officially a graduate of Evangel University. Weird.
Last week was definitely one of the most emotional experiences of my life: joy, sadness, excitement, anxiousness, etc. The spectrum was absolutely insane. However, I wouldn't change a moment of it for anything.
In this process, God has taught me rest...and rest in Him. This week has proved to be a constant reminder of His love and mercy in my life. As I've been at home and reflecting, peace has been ever present.
The past four years at Evangel are four years that I will treasure for the rest of my life. The friendships I have made and the lessons learned are absolutely irreplaceable. I am humbled by all that Evangel meant and will continue to mean. However, as one of my good friends so wonderfully reminded me, this is a time to go out in peace because God has not forgotten about me. His plans are absolutely and 100% perfect, and I cannot wait to see what those may be.
This week is application week. As I send out my resume to ministries all over the country and begin the process to apply for my credentials (Ah!!!!!!), I continue to surrender any and all plan. This is the most recklessly abandoned I have ever felt in my entire life, and it is kind of exciting. I have such joy and such eager anticipation for what my future holds.
As I am still awake at almost 2 in the morning, my mind races with possibilities - with dreams. My dreams for inner-city, women's ministry, children, traveling and speaking, music, relationship building, being a wife and a mom, and so many others still burn a fire in my heart. As God continues to grow my passion for Him and His calling, I pray that I continually surrender my will to His. As I know He has made me a mega dreamer for a reason, it's kind of fun to sit and think about the puzzle pieces.
As I reflect on Evangel University, I am given a sense of hope. That was only a chapter, and what an amazing chapter it was. The rest of my story is full of so many more exciting adventures. I'm ready to start the rest of my life. Look out world. I'm ready to shake you up for Jesus.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
Last week was definitely one of the most emotional experiences of my life: joy, sadness, excitement, anxiousness, etc. The spectrum was absolutely insane. However, I wouldn't change a moment of it for anything.
In this process, God has taught me rest...and rest in Him. This week has proved to be a constant reminder of His love and mercy in my life. As I've been at home and reflecting, peace has been ever present.
The past four years at Evangel are four years that I will treasure for the rest of my life. The friendships I have made and the lessons learned are absolutely irreplaceable. I am humbled by all that Evangel meant and will continue to mean. However, as one of my good friends so wonderfully reminded me, this is a time to go out in peace because God has not forgotten about me. His plans are absolutely and 100% perfect, and I cannot wait to see what those may be.
This week is application week. As I send out my resume to ministries all over the country and begin the process to apply for my credentials (Ah!!!!!!), I continue to surrender any and all plan. This is the most recklessly abandoned I have ever felt in my entire life, and it is kind of exciting. I have such joy and such eager anticipation for what my future holds.
As I am still awake at almost 2 in the morning, my mind races with possibilities - with dreams. My dreams for inner-city, women's ministry, children, traveling and speaking, music, relationship building, being a wife and a mom, and so many others still burn a fire in my heart. As God continues to grow my passion for Him and His calling, I pray that I continually surrender my will to His. As I know He has made me a mega dreamer for a reason, it's kind of fun to sit and think about the puzzle pieces.
As I reflect on Evangel University, I am given a sense of hope. That was only a chapter, and what an amazing chapter it was. The rest of my story is full of so many more exciting adventures. I'm ready to start the rest of my life. Look out world. I'm ready to shake you up for Jesus.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
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