This summer has been incredible in the way that the Lord truly has provided what I needed. From support, to providing a way to get here, great community, spiritual growth and more-He has indeed been here with me. All the clique saying of how "Summer Project will change your life!" is so true. It takes a step of faith to see what the Lord can do in your life for 10 weeks. Praise God for who He is and His mighty power!
I wish that this blog could contain all the wonderful and hard things that God has done, but there is only so much that you can verbally say. Last night in my Action Group, or better called bible study, the five of us realized that this is the one time during the week that we are all together, studying the Word, and encouraging each other in incredible ways, and letting God work through us. All of this gives me motivation and a desire to return to school and seek that relationship with the girls in my Junior bible study, as we live in the same way. In Action group, we are studying through 1 Thessalonians by the Cru.Comm curriculum. Paul's focus is showing the Thessalonians how much He cares and has tried to return for a visit. His love was not shallow, but paternal love that has had him pushing to return and see them after being removed from the city. He wanted to share life with the Thessalonians and did whatever he could to protect them. This is an amazing picture of discipleship, and makes me think of the "Everything Skit" by Lifehouse. The way that Christ fights to intercede in our lives shows great love and desire to see others walk in faith successfully with the Lord.
With that being said, I have a desire to push someone to Christ-and live life everyday with them. I was asked to lead a Freshman CRU bible study, but with my class schedule there would not be opportunity to fully pour into it. Yet, since being here for the summer, I have a desire to disciple, or even help lead my own Junior bible study. I do not know what this may look like and I am giving this to God to control. But I want to use my knowledge and wisdom to lead others in the same walk with Christ. And that is something that I will indeed pursue.
I do not know of anything else that could match this summer of growth, and even understanding. There has been so much that I have finally "fully" understand that I have been complacent with in the past. The tool that CRU uses to share the Gospel, Knowing God Personally booklet (KGP), has been an eye-opener to a way to concisely share the Good News of Christ and even allow open discussion throughout. It most certainly is not a way to shove theology in people's faces, but rather the key points into 4 laws and basically take the whole bible down to a mere 12-16 pages! The conversations that can be transitioned into this, and what can be understood is amazing.
This Saturday July 21, is a big day as we are bringing "Christmas in July" to Santa Cruz!! Of course-Santa is coming! ;) In the effort of time, we had decided that rather trying to fit two more events we could plan ahead and make this a huge outreach event! We have had 2 weeks to advertise, and decorations start in just a few hours. There will be Christmas dinner, and guess who is cooking?? Yep. I will be cooking a Christmas feast for what we are guessing, 120 people. We may have a lot left over, or it will be an awesome success! I am not preparing the meat, but all the side dishes and desserts-mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, sweet potatoes, pumpkin and pecan pie. Please be in prayer for this event but also for my strength as I serve in one of the important aspects of a party-food! :) Cooking in the kitchen has been a joy, and I pray that I can finish this summer strong in my service to my team in this way.
What more can I say, except to thank God for the things that He has taught me this summer? Among all things, God is to be praised and be given all the glory! These last few weeks until August 4th will be tough, busy, and enjoyable. Thanks for all your prayers and support!
Melinda
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