What a busy week and a half I've had so far here in Houston! I feel like ever since I got here its been almost non-stop community, conversations about intense topics, team work and intentionality (yes, I know that intentionality isn't a real word). All of this can be especially exhausting if you aren't used to it, but I already feel so much growth and nourishment happening in my soul.
I honestly don't have much to say. We've all been so stretched and challenged these past several days that I haven't been able to completely process my experience thus far. I do, however, want all of you to know that I'm thankful that I'm here. I wake up every morning knowing that I am in a place that God has called me to be. I'm thankful for all of my roommates and the unique blessings that they bring to our house, our adventures thus far and our community (that includes our house, as well as our neighbors, other Mission Year teams in Houston, the entire Mission Year family that is spread throughout the nation, and our friends and family at our original homes that are faithfully encouraging and supporting us).
This morning I led a devotional where I shared about the alter that I've set up in my heart in remembrance of what the Lord has done for me thus far. It's incredible to look back and reflect on where I was compared to where I am now. I remember not too long ago, I was on my face in over-whelming sorrow before the Lord begging to be healed and brought back to life. I wanted true, intentional community, to be apart of a united body where I could seek the face of God while learning to love people. I can honestly say that God has come through. Praise be to God!
Here are some photos of my experiences thus far. There's all sorts of pictures of our trip downtown to get to know the area, my new finds, my housemates and the most beautiful coffee mug that I've ever had the pleasure of sipping from (pictured right below!).
I hope that these will bless you as much as they've blessed me! Enjoy!
If you feel led to come alongside us and help out financially with our journey's please feel free to donate here. Whether you donate a dollar or one hundred dollars, every single one of your contributions count and are appreciated. Your prayers, encouragement, letters, etc are also incredibly welcomed and appreciated. We need you all as well!
P.S. Just so it is known, we have all made the choice to commit to a six week technology fast. We will access the internet and use our phones only once a week (which will be Fridays). This is an intentional choice that we've made in order to not be distracted by technology while getting to know our surroundings and one another, to learn to lean on people rather than our phones and to learn some self-control! Technology seems to get in the way of our "real-life", face to face relationships and we are choosing to manage our phones and computers rather than them managing us.
If you are seeking to get in touch with me, please know that the only days that I will be contactable for the next six weeks will be Fridays! Blessings and much love to you all.
