For the Fort Mission

What an INCREDIBLE week I had. I got to serve the community in Fort Worth this spring break, with Christ loving friends... what a privilege.

Before we left I prayed that God would work on my heart; mend some broken pieces, and stir up affection for Him. As always, He delivered. I got to experience the Lord this week in a way that I never have before. I was truly joyful in Him. I learned so much this week and it was such a humbling experience; causing me to remember and be thankful for most of my physical, spiritual, and emotional needs are met everyday.

My team taught me so much and inspired me immensely. I strive to be bold like Colton, encouraging like Lizzy, focused like Claire, hardworking like Adam, a leader like Jasmin, and intentional like Megan. Together we not only worked well together, but more importantly for the glory of God. We all served a great purpose in God's plan.

I heard a humbling thing during one of our worship services this week... leading up to this trip I was fearful that I wouldn't have the right words to say, as I do not think of myself as the most eloquent speaker. However, I am "not big enough to ruin God's plan." Honestly what a weight lifted off my shoulders. I may not have the perfect thing to say all the time, but that does not make the gospel any less powerful. At the start of the week I was reserved, speaking and praying on my own accord; but by the end of the week my personality shined through and I was spitting out words that I knew came from Him. He gave me the words. How cool is that.

I learned the true imperativeness of spending quiet time with God everyday; doing so really changes your entire mood and outlook on your day. To add on, if we don't KNOW God, how can we lead others to Him? We should continually make ourselves a vessel for the Holy Spirit!

As a team, we read through Philippians this week and it's really hard for me to just pick one thing to focus on; but Philippians 2:12-13 really hit a chord with me. "Therefore my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and work for his good pleasure." When we understand the magnified importance of our salvation, the true weight of the gospel... it leads us to develop a passion to share the good news out of our love for others. To practically THROW our yes on the table for the Lord, going where He says go.

When I think about how I got to be where I am today; it wasn't by doing everything right, but rather practically doing everything wrong. If I could go back and do everything differently, I don't think I would. Because regardless of the the numerous times I have fallen, ran from what I knew was right, and felt stuck; He has picked up every broken piece and made me whole. It's unfortunate that sometimes it takes us hitting our rock bottom or having to hear the same thing a million times for us to make a change. However, it brings our Father GREAT joy to see His children run home, to humble ourselves before Him and see His goodness and grace. As represented in the parable of the prodigal son; Luke 15:24 "for this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost and is found. And they began to celebrate." When I look back on my life, I am not proud of who I was, but I am grateful for the things that have strengthened my relationship and love for God.

I really felt a change in my heart this week, and what a beautiful feeling that is. Though the majority of the work done this week for me was on the inside; we also did several cool things in the community. We served at Mission Arlington, sorting through things brought in; at a local elementary school aiding a church's relationship with the community; and the Tarrant County Food bank, feeding families. We also went on several prayer walks on campuses in Fort Worth, and in doing so makes me very thankful to go to Tarleton. Growing up in a small town and moving to another small town where the majority of people know Jesus, I guess has made me more sheltered than the average gal. Visiting some of those campuses there was such a weird feeling. This may sound crazy, and I don't know how to explain but it was almost as if I could feel the lack of people who knew Christ. I am understanding more and more just how many people need to hear truth.

Overall, it was an amazing trip. We laughed a lot, met new people, sparked friendships, and spent a large amount of time in prayer together. I will forever hold these memories close to my heart. I am thankful for my increased love for Jesus, for the call to not only inspire followers, but make disciples, and the friendships I have made along the way.