I am amazed at how quickly time has flown by, and now, two months since my last post, I am looking into an unknown but promising New Year, thankful for what God has done and full of anticipation for more good things to come. As of now, I have been a leader in this church for a full year. I can not even begin to describe the wonderful things God has done, how he has shaped and changed me through this challenging and rewarding experience. I have cried, I have rejoiced, I have seen kids walk away from faith and the church, and I have seen kids come to God in repentance and yearn for the marvelous life He has for them. I am a stronger person today because of these wonderful people God has put in my life. I am simply astounded by His Faithfulness in every detail. One more semester left....
Re-cap since November: The Retreat was phenomenal. We had a large group of students, some new and some old. It was a blessed time of learning about defending the Gospel out in God's creation. In retrospect, I realized there was so much more I could have done to make the weekend even more of a success. The retreat showed me how desperately our youth leaders need to band together as a team, how I need to be a more intentional communicator, and how I need to adapt my teaching style and be more consciously aware of the needs of my students. I am prayerfully seeking how I can implement these aspects of ministry in the coming year. A parent/staff meeting scheduled for the 20th should be instrumental refining our direction.
Best Praise Report: God has provided a leader to take over from me in May!! I am still overwhelmed with joy and thankfulness. I am so excited that Nick is on board with us. He will be shadowing me through the semester so we have lots of time to multiply the ministry before my departure. He's already spent some time hanging out with the youth group and establishing relationship with the boys; I am confident that God will use him in marvelous ways to expand this ministry.
Our group has swelled and shrunk in size in the past two months. Sadly, we've lost some members due to rough family situations, but others have been coming as well. But God is reminding me to be faithful to what he has called me to do; no more, no less. I have seen growth and passion in the group, I am so proud of my students! As long as God is praised in their hearts, I know I am doing my job. I look forward to beginning a new chapter in May, but in the mean time, I am so happy to be serving in this small community where God has called me to serve.
Prayer requests: Parent meeting on the 20th! May be it be a time where adults come together and are unified in prayer and passion. May we clearly communicate our needs and be met with encouragement as the congregation steps up to claim and disciple their youth. May God set our course for the next semester and glorify His name.
