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The first stress of a new semester comes on the first week when you get a glimpse of your projected work load. I was hit hard the first two days of my new semester here at BCF. As I looked through my syllabi and listened to my professors review the required assignments for the courses, my eye brows dropped and my posture weakened. In my first class on Monday morning, my professor assigned a 20 page thesis on my knowledge of models of biblical leadership in Christian ministry. This assignment was placed on top of the estimated 4 hours of reading per week required for tests and reports. The final exam grade will be taken from a 15 page portfolio, a personal evaluation of my knowledge of leadership in ministry. This is a 2 credit hour class out of my 18 hours total. :D
The work loads for my other classes are similar, but there are a couple that require no work outside of the class room besides tests and exams on reading and lectures. Only today have I started to calm down and pray for the right attitude about my work load.
I am so grateful for these learning opportunities and preparations for ministry. Though the work load is definately intimidating, I trust that I will leave these classes with new insight and an inspiring vision.
My days in this school are numbered. I graduate in 11 months. There is so much joy and opportunity waiting for me at the finish line. I have an amazing future wife, who loves and supports me. She is the most encouraging force in my life, and takes every opportunity to put my interests before her own. The day I graduate is the day that I will be ready to make a stronger commitment to her in marriage.
I have an opportunity for full time youth ministry. God knows the desires of my heart, and knows where I want to be, but I will follow wherever he leads me.
I am apart of a church family that has been commited to my success. I have a great cloud of Christian leaders and influential friends that have been commited to my spiritual growth and have done their best to prepare me for ministry.
I have a family at home that has given me the emotional spiniach to keep me going and make me stronger. Who has supported me financially because of their love and commitment to my future. I would be no where without their love and support.
But most importantly, I have an eternal God that has a purpose and path for me, who has ordained my steps, and guided my heart. He has made my paths strait, and has given me the desires of my heart. I have a Savior who gave it all for me, and in return, I am committed to a life of service and worship, for his honor and glory on this planet.
I have so many to thank, but not enough words to see it through. I am deeply grateful for you all. My light shines a little brighter because of each of you.
