7 months later...

I can hardly believe that it has been 7 months since I experienced a life-changing summer in San Diego. When I say "life-changing" I mean it. God grabbed a hold of my heart and is continuing to do so in ways I cannot adequately explain. This summer effected my eternity. It was the start of being consumed by Jesus and laying my life down to him. Surrendering and putting on the "new self" is something I have to do daily.

Summer project opened my eyes to a lot. When I boarded the plane back to Indiana I had this horrible inclination that how I changed in San Diego was going to stay in the beautiful place of Cali. I am joyful to say that this fear was nowhere near accurate. The same God who transformed my heart this summer still remains as the author and perfecter of my faith. I have been fighting the good fight of faith when the spiritual battles come, and they come.  I'd be lying if I said it's been easy. It has been terribly hard to make all these changes coming back to Ball State, but the "old self" is dead. I am no longer held captive to living a double life. I am able to enjoy a life completely enveloped in Christ.

So, the Lord has been teaching me a lot. I fall in love with Him more and more each day. It's funny because the tough and trying situations have constantly been growing me closer to Him. I do not live  it perfectly but I'm learning to give myself grace as He so freely gives it to me.

Since being back at Ball State I have been able to take steps of sharing my faith on a normal basis, experience solid Christian community, experience God's presence, clearly see His hand at work in the lives of others along with my own. On a weekly basis I get to do Date Night with Jesus with some fun friends to dig into the deeper parts of life. I am blessed with a great discipler who keeps me accountable in my walk with the Lord. I am surrounded by people who are pursuing and loving Jesus (and also pursuing me.) I thank God that I chose to take a leap of faith to trust Him, it has honestly been the best thing I've ever done. Experiencing a satisfying life in Christ Jesus is SO WORTH IT, I don't have to search anymore. :)

"What are your plans for this summer?" is a question that has been frequently asked even if we are just now reaching Winter Break. Here's the thing: I don't know. Options include: another summer project, study abroad in Argentina, or staying at home working. We'll see where the Lord leads me... no matter what, I'm sure it will be another grand adventure!