Preparing to follow Jesus feels like saying yes to getting into a boat when a storm is about to happen, and still choosing to go into the boat because you know God will be with you, and he promised you will be safe. Following Jesus and preparing to do so requires picking up your cross daily and submitting your words and actions to him. It is not easy, by any means. And, it heavily requires us as God’s kids to be filled with faith, and trust that the work we are doing, is going to change the lives of those around us.
Going on a regular school trip requires a packing list, a budget and a plane ticket to wherever you are going. But, it does not require the same vigor that Jesus requires of his disciples, who are preparing for mission. He spent time with them, hours upon hours of bible study, and nights spent praying with fever for the mission God gave to him. Jesus dedicated his days to service, to preaching Gods word and transforming communities through that life giving word. We, as Gods kids, and institute students, have to be different than the rest of the world. We have to be people who are constant in prayer, who stay present during Bible studies, who submit our thoughts, words and actions to God’s word and try our best to be more and more like him everyday.
I already feel the Lord pressing it up on my heart to try my best to serve. Not just in the moments of worship or when its required of me with my given SLAM roles, but when its not required. I hope to grow in my ability to be proactive and discerning of the needs of those around me, to be quick to volunteer and give of my time through whatever need presents itself. I hope to grow in my ability to love others the way Jesus told us to love. To see others in their moment and be quick to lift others up in prayer. I know that God wants me to advance his kingdom here on earth, and all I want is for the Lord to use me this summer as a vessel for what he wants to be done on earth.