Have you seen the Good News?
Our theme this year for the Summer Missions Program was "Have you seen the Good News?" from Luke 4. Every Sunday after youth groups arrived for a week at The Boston Project, Keith would ask, what has been the greatest news you received this month? In keeping with this theme, there is so much "good news" I want to share about how God showed up in my life this summer that I can't give just one answer. Each week our summer staff came up with a top ten list of ways God worked. I thought it fitting to share my good news in a top ten list since you served with me this summer through prayer and financial support.
1. Prior to the summer I was anxious and asked for a joy and excitement- and God answered!
2. This summer my role was about pouring into staff and it was amazing to see them use Scripture or words of encouragement with youth that I had spoken into their lives, like a ripple effect. God allowed me to see that He was using me.
3. Week five, I served as a staff counselor. To be honest, I wasn't looking forward to it, but it turned into one of my best weeks- though it meant sleeping on the church floor. Connections I made with youth and the burden God gave me for them were priceless. God knew best!
4. One nightly activity was centered on John 9, where Jesus spit on the ground and made mud with saliva, putting it on the blind man's eyes. Jesus used what can be seen as disgusting to bring healing. This summer, I saw God redeem areas in my life that I saw as shameful to minister to youth and staff. God can use anything if you allow Him to.
5. At a late night meeting, a staff person I'd been praying with shared an "aha" moment. In the midst of her frustrations preparing for an activity that night, she cried out to God, and He revealed to her something we'd prayed about all summer. God brings healing.
6. In my second summer, I had the joy of seeing returning youth and leaders. I usually don't lead small groups, but both times I led one this summer, I had girls from my groups last year. God reconnects.
7. Praise that God sustained my relationship with Dan during the crazy long hours. I was truly blessed to have his support and understanding this summer. God is able.
8. In conversations with youth and staff, God is revealing new passions in me. God reveals.
9. One day interceding for my staff, I felt broken and needed someone to pour into me. God heard my cry and that day placed someone in my path. God hears my cries.
10. I received gift cards from supporters like you so I was able to bless staff by treating them to coffee or pizza as I extended my ears to listen to ways God was challenging them. Thank you! God equips us for His work.
