Getting a Feel for Things

September is finally in the bag, and I feel like I am really starting to dig deep into the Bible and ministering. In saying that, I don't mean that I haven't been growing, because I have already learned so much in just a couple of months. My classes (Old Testament, Body Stewardship, Evangelism, and Maturing) have taught me a lot about the Bible, God, and myself. I have had a couple of blind spots in my life turn up, but I am so glad they did now, rather than down the line. This is what I mean by learning now: I have found that I deal a lot with perfectionism. This was news to me because I never really realized this was a struggle I had. Through school I wasn't a straight A student, I didn't study long hours, and I only rarely went above and beyond on a project. Now all of a sudden I find that I place my self value on how I do at work and what I accomplish. Since I am still transitioning into a new role I should have grace for myself, but I have been struggling with growing in that area. I am learning though, and I know I am on my way to being better.

This last month we had our Fall Camp at UTD. During Fall Camp, we spend 22 hours at Mt. Lebanon Baptist Encampment, where we focus on getting a lot of personal time with our small group guys. I had the pleasure of being in charge of free time games with Rhett (one of my fellow ministers) and we had a blast running Shaving Cream Wiffle Ball (if you don't know what that is, it is just wiffle ball with balls full of shaving cream). It is a mess, but a very fun mess that the students who came seemed to have a lot of fun with. The students also did crafts, played other games, and had a lot of time dedicated to worship and a lesson. Our lessons where a few different approaches to our theme of "Steadfast" with some students sharing about how God has been steadfast in their lives. It was a really great experience! Getting a lot of time to spend with the guys in my small group was great, and I think the camp did a lot to help us grow closer as friends and brothers in Christ.

Apart from major things, we are still having Friday Night Focus every week. As the head of the setup team, I feel like I have finally gotten a feel for what it looks like to do this job "right". This comfort goes a long way in helping me feel effective as part of the team. My small group is also meeting weekly on Tuesday nights. The guys in my group have been growing very close, and Riley and I have been very blessed by getting to do group with these guys!

As I wrap up, I want to say thank you again to my donors and supporters! This job has been such a blessing to me, and I feel like this is a very unique and incredible opportunity. Next month will be very busy, and I am very grateful to get to do things like run Family Night, go to a preaching lab, and have the Leadership Conference. I can't wait to share about these events with you all.

(Rhett and I prepared to ref some Fall Camp games)