Summer Update
This has been one of the most AMAZING summers of my life! From the highest of highs to the lowest of lows I have continued to seek God's face and learn from each experience.
The beginning of summer started out with a Chrysalis flight in which I had the opportunity to share my testimony and reach out to some amazing young women. Not only did God show me that He will use me in the way He wants, but I learned to really open up and have faith in the power of prayer.
Excitement and a nervousness took over when I began work at the Bethlehem Centers of Nashville. It has turned out to be completely different than what I have expected, but it has been one of the best learning experiences that I could ever ask for. My realization of poverty and need in Nashville has increased in so many ways. Honestly, I cannot walk into work without someone approaching me in need, and I have been able to embrace my passion by addressing one on one needs with seniors, children, and families. There is no better feeling than seeing someone so greatful for receiving something that we take for granted every day and knowing that I had a part in making that person smile...how GREAT is the Love of God!!!
My family has also had the opportunty to reach out to another family member who is in the process of getting back up on her feet. But, unfortunately we were struck with bad luck when she had an accident in my car and she ended up with broken ribs and my car ended up being totaled. She has healed quite well thankfully and I'm in the process of finding another car. I have to laugh a little at the situation though b/c this will be my 4th car in 4 years...every year I've been at Martin I've had to get a new car cause some car trouble has happened every summer. What a coincidence.
God has blessed me so much this summer b/c of the friends I have come closer to and through the experiences we have had together. Lindsey and I have continued to have our fun times... especially when hey baby cousin was born. Melia, Ellie, Gloria, and I have started a reunion group to maintain accountability and provide support. The best part about everything is how we all participated in the prayer walk and prayer at "The Call Nashville." It was one of the most powerful revivals I have participated in. God really used this experience to continue to show me the power of His prayer and the power and beauty in having a relationship with Him. This experience was followed by a worship service I atteded this past Friday in which a group prophesied over me. It was astonishing to hear what God needed to tell me. They spoke of things that I hadn't realized I held on to...and they spoke of what I really needed to hear from God.
I just praise God for how He has used me this summer...and I look forward to starting school back since it's my senior year. I can't wait to get out into the world and "make my mark." Only 16 days left of work, then school meetings, followed by my 21st b-day on August 18th...then back to school.
God, I praise you for this incredible summer. I pray that you will open my eyes to the needs of the people, and that you will use me in the way you will to help them. I pray that the passions you've given me will shine through and that I will answer to your call! God give me discernment in the times of question, give me strength and courage to do YOUR WILL, and help me to always have compassion. I pray for Nashville God...that you would reign in our midst and that our people will turn back to YOU! I pray for the youth of this Nation...that they will find peace in you, that they will turn from their current idols and seek your face. I pray that we would realize our brokenness and turn to you. I pray that we would have humility and rely on you and you alone. God, I love you!
Amen.