Things are tying in very well with my current bible studies for fellowship. We just went through the story of Joseph, and I guess the message that was clearest to me is God's providence and plan. I was thinking about things that happened during the past school year, which I guess started nearing the end of 3rd year. My first two years at Western had been party happy, but I didn't spend much time with everyone in ACF or with God. Things started to change at the end of 3rd year. I guess there were a series of tests that made me more aware of my current standing in my faith and well, personal struggles. So during 4th year, I started getting more involved in ACF, and this is also when Pris suggested a bunch of us apply for TC Rec. Now it had been 8 years since my first/last TC and I never would've guessed that I would have the opportunity to be a part of the Rec team as a way of coming back to the conference. But before I was ready to serve, my heart and focus had to be in the right place (we're all ADD kids right? XD). Over the previous years, my focus had shifted from God to raising myself up (pride?) and well finding another relationship, a dating relationship to be precise (I don't wanna be a 'lonely driver' ='( ! - someone might get that reference...). But over the following months through to final exams, God has sent me hints and nudges in the right direction and understanding that I'm probably not ready yet, especially since it's much more important to strengthen my relationship with God right now. One great video series (that apparently everyone knows about) is the one on love and marriage. What stuck with me is the responsibility of the man in the household and well in all other relationships as well. To be able to lead the partner/kids to understanding God's will. When thinking about my participation in TC, if my focus had been in the wrong place, I think I wouldn't have had as much fun! It will be an experience I look back on that won't be forgotten. Everything from the cheers of the participants, being the ninja in skits and performances, to the epic worship sessions (with REC only / with the rest of the conference) and times of prayer. One memory I'm reminded of was the time of prayer REC had for the individuals who became ill on the last day. It was a powerful moment that stood out to me, probably because I had never experienced anything along those lines before! I definitely was blessed for being able to be a part of this year's TC and to meet all the brothers and sisters on Rec that I have had the opportunity to hang out and have fun with even months after meeting them.
The funning thing about God's plans is that you may never know how big the picture can get! In my case, it's all these nudges that I thought were for TC, have now become the foundation for something else that is also amazing! That something is having a weekly bible study and bonding time with my parents. To be honest, I don't think my family has ever really been close with one another. It felt more like a business contract rather than a real, warm family. How it happened or why, I know all too well, but the important thing is that we're slowly coming together as a family with God in the center. PTL!
Well that's all for now, eventually I hope to have a more regular posting habit and turn this blog into a journal =)
