Day 2

So here I am again... day 2 of official blogging - I'm not sure what to think but I was actually a little excited to just write today! I had church this morning it was a little sad that this is the last Sunday our students will be here for EPIC project and next week, most of them will be on a plane back home. I am and have been so blessed by each and everyone of them and to see them learn and grow this summer has been unforgettable.

One high for my Sundays the past month or so has been able to spend a few hours with one of my best friends, Chris. It's been good to hear how project has been going for her and to just see how the Lord has been working in and through her and the team. I know that there have been frustrating and difficult times, but to hear stories of meeting random people, getting into spiritual conversations, and being able to share the gospel and see people come to know Jesus reminds me of the life that we are called to live. Hearing about their outreach at Ward Warehouse and weekly interactions on campus with people they are meeting was a needed reminder for me of why I am here and what God has called me here to do. Especially being off project now, I so value our times together and time to connect and catch up, share and just be real with where we're at.

As I've processed through moving to Hawaii, I didn't anticipate how alone I would feel and definitely having this community this summer with one of my best friends being a part of that has definitely been a blessing! There have been times of doubt and uncertainty with being here, and going into a time of having to say goodbye to familiar faces and people whom I've spent every minute of everyday for 4 weeks doesn't excite me much. To be honest, there are times lately when I feel like I don't know what I'm doing out here and sometimes it would just be easier to go back to what is normal, comfortable, and enjoyable BUT I know that this is where the Lord wants me. As I spent time praying, reading, and journaling today, I was reminded of these simple lyrics:

All of my life

In every season

You are still God

I have a reason to sing

I have a reason to worship

I know that although the familiarity of faces will soon be leaving, no matter where and what season I am in, I have a Father who knows me and is worthy of my worship and life. I trust whole-heartedly that this is where He has called me to be at this time and that all I can do is be obedient to that calling even when it gets hard. I know that He will provide and take care of me and no matter where I am, He is still God. I realize too that through this past month, as my friendships have strengthened, they will continue and grow even more deeply, just from different places. 

Chris, thank you for taking steps of faith to be here in Hawaii this summer. I love seeing your heart for people who don't know Jesus and the steps of faith you have taken in ministry but even stepping out in your own life. You have blessed me beyond anything I can write on a blog. Your friendship has helped me grow so much and has encouraged me to continue pursuing God with 110% of who I am. Thank you for accepting me with my faults and loving me unconditionally and for truly being one of my best friends! Your words of affirmation and encouragement speak so much to me and I know that even in the next 2 short weeks we have here on the island, our time will be unforgettable! I love you and am blessed to call you sister!