Forgotten Graffiti

Sunday-----1/7

I was struck by something today. For some reason, even though I have reflected on these thoughts, I believe God really placed an impression on my heart.

After spending my day at Bent Tree, I went by the High School small group kickoff at a park in Carrollton. I was introducing my sister to one of our staff members and enjoying a hotdog on the side.

About 200 students between 9-12 grade showed up. I have had the privilege to serve in a ministry that has allowed me to get to know a lot of students. Walking around the picnic pavillion seeing faces, exchanging hand shakes, and greeting friends caused the full impact of what I had only previously considered to hit me.

I can remember outdoor picnics and pool parties as a freshman under Saunders at Bent Tree. I dropped release forms off at the desk that has forever been the hub of administration for youth programs. I even purpled a little bit at Pine Cove.

I never considered that I would have a place to call "my desk" at Bent Tree. I never imagined that I would teach jr. high students Crowder and Tomlin on the same stage that I learned Delirious and Sonic Flood. I never invisioned that my spiritual walk would dramatically increase due to my relationships with those who forever intimidated me. I never dreamed that I would be blessed with such an amazing opportunity of serving on such a loving, caring, wise staff that would pour into me as I learned to pour into others. I never have understood the love of my mom and dad, who have supported me as long as I can remember and have pushed me and challenged me to pursue God's heart. I am more blessed and fortunate than I can ever comprehend. Words cannot express how deeply humbled I am to know that Tom E., Steve P., and Paul D. saw in me something worth pursuing. As drama-free as I can be, tears come to my eyes.

All this to say, God has allowed me to grow in more ways than I could have ever thought possible. For that I am so humbly grateful. Through my inabilities, faults, and many failures, God in his grace has and most definitely is still teaching me so much more than my inadequate self could ever do without the love and grace found in Jesus Christ.

To end, one of my favorite verses and songs:

"Not to us, O LORD, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness"
-Psalm 115:1

posted by Seth @ 9:25 PM