That's where the Holy Spirit comes in!!! Well, technically He's already in me, but He is powerful! He is stronger than Satan and his minions. He has already won. NO ONE can snatch me out of the Father's hands. I am convinced-- fully persuaded-- that nothing can separate me from the love of Christ. I will cling to God's truth! I will take captive every thought, to make it obedient to Christ! I will not look back, only press forward.
Now, if only I could just use my time well. :) This semester especially, I have a feeling God will be teaching me self-discipline. With only 13 units currently (and a few CLEP's to study for), time is a valuable commodity, in which my activities expand to fill the available time. It comes down to choices. And I don't always choose wisely, but God teaches even in mistakes.
Tonight was busy and wonderful-- I went to the home of a couple in my Sunday School class for a dinner-party-thing. It was really cool, especially cause Prof Horner and his wife were there, as were Gordie and Joan Waldock. Joan cracks me up. She's so spunky, and she cracks herself up all the time! She's not afraid to speak her mind, or poke fun at people in a loving way. She and Gordie are pillars, married 30 years and still going strong! Such an encouragement to me. And I discovered there are a couple people with full Jewish blood in our class as well. Extremely interesting to me! The conversation topics were pretty funny... aches and slipped disks and surgery... hey, what can I say? I was the youngest one there, but it was still amazing fun. I amend the previous statement: there were kids there, so I wasn't the youngest, but they were of the elementary school variety. The couples were about 30's to 50's. Something I appreciate about my church: people some age besides 17-23. I get tired of being around all college students all the time. I miss old people and kids, so church is a great way to relieve that hankerin'.
Oh, and since it was a full moon tonight, we played ULTIMATE, starting at 9 pm. It wasn't too bad actually, playing two days in a row. Time will tell-- the achy joints and stiff/sore muscles are sure to make an appearance. I was so pleased at the turnout!! Almost 20 people came... and I only got hit in the face with the frisbee once (one of the hazards of playing at night). It's intense in a different way than morning games, and the lit-up disc is fun. All in all, a great night.
And tomorrow will be great too, because I'm practicing rejoicing always. And blessing the Lord at all times. He has been showing me I need to do that, because I don't, and it's sin.
I got to talk to Robby on the phone last night!!! I miss him so much, he who calls me "Moreesa." That whole thing is kind of hard to explain, but I am so grateful we were on the worship team together. I loved his frank answer to my "howya doin'?"-- "I'm not gonna lie, I'm pretty much a horrible sinner, but God saved me, so it's all good." Yeah. He's amazing and I miss him. But God has us each where we are for a purpose, praise His name. I can trust Him!
Different friends have taught me different things.
Philippe's mantra is "Rejoice!" His excitement is contagious. Mary tells it straight up, strengthening me in what is true with bold love. Robby is... Robby. :) As amillenial as you can get, and genuinely caring and knows his convictions. Shane listens well, and displays a willing heart. Erin gives good hugs, and despite some bumpy times, we are true sisters now. Kate brings a great perspective. David helps me look at the bright side... Christian reminds me there is subtlety in the world, somewhere. At Joe's story, my hope is renewed, that God works miracles in our hearts. Chris and Mindy are great for adventures. Emily reminds me to chill out and laugh. Meg shows me God is my Father... and that even 'littlest ones' can be worthy hikers. ;) Salome prompts me to speak clearly and explain idiomatic language. Jenny displays a perpetual positive attitude, in the face of uncommon illness. Kai reminds me to study (grrr) and be super. Hannah is open and kind.
Holly lives up to her middle name-- Joy-- and enjoys absurdly hilarious things. Lester's sense of humor still unsettles me, but I'm getting over it. Heather reminds me of the world out there, and of the people groups yet to be reached. Rosie's hard-earned wisdom strengthens me. Katy is sweet and genuine. Krissa is my dear heart, a fellow tender-heart-er. Micah encourages in so many ways, being a beyond-thoughtful brother.
Jen pursues God with sincerity.
I missed a couple of people in that list, but I love them all. Most of us who are still in CA got to hang out last night; it was awesome-- even Krissa was able to come. We met up at In N Out (food joint of choice, I guess) and ate, then went to Kate's condo for a game (Four on the Couch) and brownies... and a visit to the complex's hot tub. We had a blast. We reminisced and got all sentimental at one point. But neither Krissa nor I cried! An accomplishment! We prayed for the Spring IBEX group. And I couldn't help but think how we are all so different, yet because of our shared experience, we go together. And it's nice that everyone knows everyone else. As Holly is fond of saying, "I know you!" To know and be known is just about sublime. The only thing that would have made it better: a memory card in my camera. Yes, I had my camera. But no card. Oh well. Here's an "old" picture that will have to suffice.
And that makes me happy.
M
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