Philly cheesesteak is actually REALLY good.

I’m back from Philadelphia. I had a really good time! I got to know some fun people, laughed lots, acted completely silly, worked hard, and was able to be a part of what the Lord is already doing there. We did an after school program in a local park each afternoon and each morning we did random work projects. I helped tear out carpet, dry wall, and concrete- it was awesome!! I know I’m tiny and girly, but I like doing hardcore stuff sometimes. The church we worked with was in the middle of the ghetto. White people are the minority there. I loved it. We stayed in this little house next to the church. It was a sketchy place- we had to carry our purse with us everywhere. Still- I liked it. If I was born a different race, I would absolutely love to live there and minister to the people in that neighborhood. (I hope that isn’t completely wrong of me to say…) I think you could safely say my love for people came out. 

If I could do anything for the Lord- without time, money, education, family or friends factoring in- I would love to live among the poor, broken, completely lost people and help them find meaning/fulfillment/hope in Christ. This passion of mine kind of scares me- Lord only knows where this will take me. I only pray that if this passion is from the Lord, it will not die out but grow stronger, leading me where ever He wants. 

Anyways, although I had a good time in Philly, I am so glad to be back in Michigan! I’m surprised- and thankful, at how its become my home. I missed it! I hope everyone is doing very well! Thanks for the prayers and continued support.

 

much love,

julie

The best part is moving forward and not knowing where to go

I’m going to Philadelphia tomorrow! I am super excited! We’re going to do a Vacation Bible School and random mission projects throughout each day. Then, get this- Friday we are spending in New York! EEEEeeeeee!!! (thats my excited squeal) It will be so good to be back in the busy city for a day. Also, all the people going seem really fun and cool. I think I’m going to enjoy spending a week with them! I love my life. I love summer. I love being young too. 

Please pray for the mission trip. Pray the Lord would shine through us and that we would take the opportunities He gives us to share His love and hope. May He get all the glory, honor, and praise.

One more thing I have to share: I have tan lines. Thats right- for the first time in a few years, I am getting a tan. Whoa. 

Okay, I love you guys and hope you are all doing well! Thanks for the prayers!

Much love, julie

 

I am in MICHIGAN

I can’t tell you how many times people have asked me how Montana is or Minnesota. So I just wanted to remind everyone I’m in Michigan. I know- all the m-states makes it confusing. 

We did the S.H.A.P.E. (Spiritual gift, Heart, Abilities, Personality and Experiences) class last week. We meaning all the interns. I took the personality test again and everyone there quickly guessed I’m a golden retriever. Of course they were all right. My top spiritual gift is service/help, then hospitality and mercy. It was fun finding out my gifts and everyone else’s.  Funny thing is the next day, myself and another intern, who happened to have similar spiritual gifts, made dinner for everyone. The test is true! The class asked some difficult question too. I’m still trying to think them over. Here’s the hardest ones for me:

1. This is what I do for the Lord…

2. If money, time, family or education were not a factor and I knew I couldn’t fail, this is what I would do for God with my life:

How would you guys finish these sentences?

I’ve yet to come up with answers but I’ll let you know what I decide. We’re meeting with one of our bosses sometime soon to talk about our “SHAPE”. Hopefully I’ll have answers by then!

In other news, I’m hoping to go on a mission trip with the high schoolers next week to Philadelphia. I’ve barely told anyone this because the leader is only “thinking about” me going. I’m trying not to get my hopes up too much… but I can’t help it! Pray if God wants me to go, I’d be able to go. If not, thats okay too!

Lots of little stuff going on but I’d bore you to go into detail. Tomorrow is kick ball with the “rough” kids. Pray relationships would be built and Christ would be glorified. I’m excited!! Thanks, friends.

love you,

julie

Just a few tid-bits.

1. I’m falling in love with the weather here. (even though I turn on a space heater every night)

2. My nephew, Zachariah, doesn’t really like me too much. I don’t know if I’ve shared this fact yet but I’m working to change this. (I’m open to suggestions.) Today I drove him home from church and he screamed/cried and kicked my seat almost the entire way. 

3. I’m gaining mothering skills- and patiences.

4. I’m trying really hard to not miss anyone thats not here. (see previous post about being fully here)

5. The Lord is already challenging me in new ways and molding me into someone more like him.

6. I am overwhelmed with how good Christ is to me