Turning 26

This summer I will finish my Systematic Theology concentration with a 30-page paper detailing my beliefs on just about every theological topic. It will cover everything from what I believe about the beginning of the universe to what I believe happens to us when we die. It also includes my thoughts about the Bible, the Trinity, and what it means to be “saved.” If, like me, you have never had to articulate your thoughts on these topics I would highly recommend writing up some kind of “Statement of Faith.” Needless to say, I am learning a lot about myself in the process.

This month I also celebrated my 26th birthday. The only thing special about turning 26 is that you have to leave your parents healthcare, so… a huge thank you to everyone who reached out! I felt very loved and healthy. Blaire went above and beyond to throw me an amazing party and like everything else in her busy life, she completely crushed it.

I wanted to end this update with a benediction that has been particularly challenging for me this month. I didn’t know what a benediction was before coming to seminary so if you don’t know, a benediction is a blessing usually pronounced by a pastor at the end of a church service. This one comes from Indian Christians in Thailand.

“Now may the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ,
and the love of God the Father be with you;
and may the Holy Spirit come upon you…
and disturb you and trouble you,
and set before you an impossible task
and dare you to do it;
until in your desperation
you fall on your knees
and remain there until he fills you with his power
which alone will enable you to do it;
and then, but only then, may the Lord grant you his peace.
Amen”

Prayer Requests:
1.) Safety while we drive to Pennsylvania (12 hours).
2.) For discernment of where God is calling us after our final year at Gordon-Conwell.

Praise Reports:
1.) Alan Peviani and Anthony Colangelo are world class dads! (Happy Father’s Day!)
2.) Two families have already been commissioned to the mission field during Chris’ time on the Global Mission Team!
3.) Blaire is working full-time, studying part-time, and now she will be leading our small group! She is amazing!

Our Favorite Quotes Right Now…

“Unless there is an element of risk in your exploits for God, there is no need for faith.”
– J. Hudson Taylor, 19th c. missionary to China

“If we ignore the world, we betray the Word of God which sends us out to serve the world. If we ignore the Word of God, we have nothing to bring to the world.”
– John Stott