Free.

Hey everyone!

I'm not even sure where to start. This week has been totally different than last week's - in a good way! It was definitely busier with responsibilities. At my internship we began working on creating a theme for Cru's local winter conference (it's called IndyCC - you can see last year's site/theme here) and we've been researching and brainstorming like crazy all week. The office is covered with names and phrases... and we're still not done yet. On top of that, we started individual projects and I am on the leadership team for our weekly outreach meeting... whew. Like I said, lots of stuff all over the place, but I like it :) it's such a blessing to be able to serve in this capacity. Oh, and I'm going to be emcee (the announcer) for all of our weekly meetings! Crazy, right?!

Ministry-wise, this week was SO encouraging! My discipler Whitney and I went on UIC's campus on Wednesday and were able to share the gospel with a Chinese exchange student named Fay - so cool! She didn't accept Christ, but she is interested in meeting again, so pray for that :) we also met a local Christian group on campus, which is further evidence that God has a heart for this city and is moving and breathing here. Many of my fellow teammates have had similar experiences and a few have led others to Christ! So much to be happy for.

I think the "theme" of this week (if you want to label it that) is to be joyful. Christ died and set me free to live in that freedom, and not carry around the weight of the world. It's an ongoing struggle, but day by day He is freeing me of the chains I have built around myself. Living in this freedom changes everything. I am full of life, joy, the presence of the Creator - instead of doubt, fear, and sadness. This world doesn't need more darkness; it needs the light of the God.

This isn't to say that every day is perfect and that everything will be great from here on out. To walk with Christ is a daily choice, and I'll be the first to admit that when I'm tired, I'm cranky. I'm not perfect, but He gives grace.

This weekend was "2nd Friday" in the Chicago Art District and a few of us went to go see some awesome artwork in a bunch of eclectic galleries. So fun! I love this city and these people more each day.

Art District:

Cool art:

 

Navy Pier: 

Being silly on the beach: 

 Reflection: