1. Knowing that I am known by God ... and He still loves me anyway! Haha, in all honesty though, it's the coolest, most reassuring thing in the world to know that God sees my heart and calls me His.
2. The Church ... God's hands and feet on Earth today. While we may not always get things right, while we may wander around like sheep looking for the shepherd's direction, being a part of a global body of believers is a huge encouragement.
3. My family ... I am ridiculously, unbelievably blessed to have the family I have. Not only are they supportive, loving, and unconditional, they're also some of the funniest people I know. We always have a good time when we're together, and I love that we have our own secret brand of crazy
4. My friends ... HOLY COW. I don't have enough fingers and toes to count all of them, which definitely makes me feel blessed. My life is a revolving door of incredible people who not only challenge me to be my best, but walk beside me when I'm at my worst.
5. My students ... I'm not even kidding when I say they're the best group of kids ever. It's not a proud parent thing. They are unbelievably gifted, selfless, and joyful, and it's such an honor and a privilege to be allowed by God to spend time with these kids.
6. Bethel College ... Bethel provided me with an incredible education that allows me to do my best and give God all I've got. Beyond my education, Bethel professors and students challenged me to seek God first, above all else, and bring the Kingdom of God into the world. The longer I'm away from Bethel, the more grateful I am for the time I spent there.
7. The Internet ... I know this seems weird at first, but seriously guys, it keeps me connected with people I would otherwise lose touch with, allows me to learn things I'd never know, and challenges me daily when I read through the blogs of other youth leaders, ministers, and believers.
8. Music ... More often than not, I've found that music can say what I struggle to find the words for. Music can express what I stumble through. Music can comfort, transform, and make me smile, all at the same time. Lately I've started playing more and pushing myself to get better at playing guitar, even writing some stuff. It's an outlet and a blessing.
9. Art ... a continual love of my life. I'm a visual person- it's how I learn. Art, especially paintings, can challenge me to grow in my understanding of the world, it can take me to another place where brush strokes move me from one corner to another, and it can stretch me to see beyond the surface. It's part of my core- being creative. I can't imagine my life without its connection to the arts.
0 comments:
Post a Comment