April 21, 2011. I finished reading the book Radical by David Platt (Check it out if you haven't- it's worth the read), and started on my "one year experiment" of living radically for God. If you're curious as to what it entailed, I wrote a blog post outlining what I had planned to do and everything like that. As I sit here on a bright Saturday morning, I can't help but ponder all the things I've seen change in my life and to wonder if it was the experiment that changed it. Here's just a snapshot of things I've seen happen this past year that I believe were due to daily living in Him, praying for his people, and sacrifice of time and money.
As I end this year I'm gearing up to go on a Summer Project with CRU. I had planned on doing this- but I do believe I might not have followed through if I hadn't daily been in God's word and seeing the nudges he put in front of me to actually apply and GO.
Through giving up a portion of my year to go on a missions trip, I was able to go to Guatemala for the 3rd time and meet new people and see new things that opened up my eyes to true need and true faith. I was able to deepen my relationship with my friends already there, and was able to solidify in my mind that someday I will return for longer than a week... I think I've said this before, but I truly know that half of my heart was left in Guatemala with the kids I met, the things I've seen, and the country I love. My parents were able to see where I love and experience that with me which I don't think would've happened apart from this Radical year.
My heart for the lost and broken in the rest of the world would not have formed had I not daily gotten emails about a different group of people who haven't had an opportunity to hear and follow Christ for themselves. I believe my heart got bigger for the people of the world and I now see each country not as just a place on a map, but of people who need you desperately.
Sophomore year has been a year of growth in me in more ways than one. I grew socially and in my leadership ability being an RA and a bible study leader through CRU. I grew spiritually through my church, my own bible study, CRU, and being in God's word daily. I've noticed growth with my friends and I as our friendship made it through a few rough patches and now we're closer than ever. This year I've noticed how much deeper our conversations have gotten and how often we feel free to share all the things Christ has done in our lives. I know that I would not be this open about my faith and I wouldn't have come to this point in my walk where I realize it's either be hot for Christ or be cold- there is no more lukewarm living for him.
I didn't buy a car with the money I earned, instead I put it away and was able to support some friends instead. I was able to continue supporting my compassion child, Peter, by myself through that. And in turn, God blessed me beyond my belief in giving me a car. My parents knew how much I wanted one, but I don't know if they knew how hard it was for me to let it go and trust in provision from other places.
I'm suer there's tons of stuff I missed but those are some of the main things I think have come out of my Radical year. I don't know what I'm going to start next, but until then, I'll continue in the word daily and in prayer. It's a lifestyle change I want to embrace.
Till I write again,
Jacks.
P.S. If you've seen anything noticeably change in me over this year- I'd so appreciate hearing about it (good or bad changes, I always need improvement!). Comment, or message me, or just talk to me in person. :)
No comments:
Post a Comment