January-February Newsletter
"For what is it we live for, that gives us hope and joy and is our proud reward and crown? It is you! Yes, you will bring us much joy as we stand together before our Lord Jesus Christ when he comes back again. For you are our trophy and joy." 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20
Saying Goodbye
The past 8 months have been saturated with goodbyes. In May, I cleaned out my apartment in Auburn, and drove away from a place that was monumental to my spiritual identity and growth. I had (and still have) friends there that led me to the foot of the cross, carried my cross when I couldn't, and showed me what it meant to live in communion with the Holy Spirit together. The Lord was persistent with me, even when I didn't want him to be!
At the end of the summer I said some more goodbyes to my fellow summer staffers. I never imagined I would love them as much as I did after just a few short months. This was the first time I served alongside people that shared my heart for service, justice, and youth. I laughed and cried A LOT this summer...both good for my soul.
My family has kept me sane during these past months. They have been my consistency and my stronghold. They have continued to encourage me, even though I know it is hard to be so far away.
I can look back on the past year and become overwhelmed with sadness at all of the people I have had to walk away from. I can easily get depressed at the thought of not seeing these people for months (or honestly years). BUT I WON'T. I will look at Scripture and see that Jesus was constantly coming and leaving, so much so that he was sometimes homeless. His purpose and his hope remained in the love of God. Both his words and actions reflected this.
Yes, God desires for us to have community and yes, God wants what is best for us. But how can we appreciate something if it's all we've ever known? How are we going to grow without growing pains? God is calling us out of our comfort zones and He wants us to walk in the truth of what we claim to believe in.
I can look at my friends and family and see how they have helped me grow. I could selfishly say that I want them all to myself, but I couldn't say that in Jesus' name. IN JESUS' NAME I WANT THEM TO BE SENT OUT TO PLANT SEEDS IN OTHER PEOPLE'S LIVES. I want them to be scattered around the globe, bringing glory to God. I want them to use the gifts that God has given them...and find their joy there. We have eternity to stand beside each other. I can let go of them for a little while.
Looking Forward
There is a lot to look forward to this spring. I get to see one of my best friends get married. I've moved into Fuller St. with Melissa (I'm excited about making her be my friend). LOST is starting soon (enough said). A few of my friends are coming up here to do a weekend retreat with The Boston Project. There is much to be thankful for and much to look forward to. I continue to pray that I would not forget the word HALLELUJAH. And that it would constantly be on my tongue.
Thanks for reading!
Emily
