Lately I haven’t been able to stop smiling… and it is simply because no matter how imperfect life is, Jesus loves me and I am incredibly blessed. My life is absolutely beautiful and I don’t deserve any of it.
In the last year I have experienced more then I ever thought possible. I lived in Australia and Asia, I got escorted by police officers in a village in Thailand, I met monks, saw god encounter people in radical ways, taught English camps to over 150 Thai kids, and that is just the beginning.
Yet this is one of those moments that I wish I could freeze forever, even though it might seem quite ordinary.
Sitting on Sean’s roof, relying on each other for warmth, because despite the sunshine and the way it taunts us of spring, it is still February and the wind wraps around us adding to the cool night weather. Despite being in the middle of the city, the stars are shining brightly and it is fairly quiet out. I take a deep breath, filling my lungs with the cool but refreshing air. I am so content. This is my life and I wouldn’t change it for the world. Because it is in these quiet moments that God reminds me of a few things.
No matter where you go or what you do, it is all about the people. It is about loving those around you, learning to trust people, learning to let them in. It is about pouring into others, encouraging the good you see in them and loving this beautiful and imperfectly wonderful life.
Right now I am surrounded by four of my favorite people, who not only push me towards Jesus, but they love me for who I am. They are the ones I know I can count on when I need a shoulder to cry on, the ones who put up with my endless talking and wait patiently when I blow up their phone with texts because I’m excited about life and don’t know how to remain calm. I’m so thankful for each and every one of them and they each represent Jesus in their own way.
First there is Grace, a timeless soul who only knows how to love with all she’s got. Passionate about life, love and Jesus. She portrays Gods love and kindness in a way I’ve never seen before. She inspires me to complain less and to love deeper. She constantly reminds me that there is no non-passionate pursuit of Jesus, it is all or nothing.
Then there is Sean. Kind hearted and funny, he is usually outnumbered by at least 6 girls. He genuinely loves life and seeks to see the best in people. He has a heart to change lives and to serve and love people. He reminds me of the impact we can have by simply being available and willing to invest in people’s lives.
Brandi is one of the sweetest people I know. She is soft spoken and everywhere she goes she shines for Jesus. In the short amount of time I’ve known her, she has reminded me to live authentically and to show kindness to everybody. Her heart to love people is so sincere and beautiful.
Last but not least, Evan is one of the biggest blessings in my life. Most of our friendship has occurred over long distance, yet she always pursues and loves me. I can always count on her to lift my spirits; she truly shows me so much about walking out your identity in Christ. When I think of her, I think of freedom and boldness, no longer a slave to fear but a child of God.
When I’m with them, I’m reminded of the beauty in letting people in, because love goes both ways and every person you meet is so unique and wonderful in their own way. Being open and vulnerable is scary, but it is also the very thing your heart needs in order to truly grow and thrive. God didn’t make us to live in isolation; He made us to love people and to let others love us.
Sometimes the small moments, sitting on a roof, your toes going numb as you pull the blanket up to your chin to keep warm, are the ones that become significant. The memories you know will be engraved in your mind for a long time to come.
Because it is then that God whispers His love to you, and reminds you ever so gently that this life is simply about love. He reminds you that as His child He will take care of you and walk through life with you. It is about showing kindness, celebrating the friendships that He has blessed you with and simply learning to say yes.
Saying yes to Him, saying yes to the love that He so generously poured out. Saying yes to pursuing His heart no matter the cost.
God is reminding me in the joy of simply loving today. Not taking things for granted and enjoying the beauty He places in front of us. There is so much beauty to be found in simplicity. If you open your eyes to Gods blessings you will realize how little you have to complain about.
To love always is a life long pursuit… a grand adventure
Speaking of which, I am excited to share a little about what God has planned next for me! In April, I will be embarking on another missions trip to…
Cape town, South Africa! Be watching for my next blog to hear more.
Rose and Thorn 