(Unofficially) Started Training

Today I unofficially started training for a half marathon. I say unofficially because the training doesn't need to start until ten weeks before the race. The first race is October 10th in California. (Yes, I said the first race! I also want to run the half marathon in Vegas in December.) I started early for a couple reasons. First, I am ready to be disciplined and get into shape. I have been very lax the last few weeks about going to the gym, meaning that I haven't gone. I am disappointed that I haven't been to the gym because I was actually doing quiet well and starting to feel stronger. Oh well, I started again today.

I think having a reasonable goal, like a half marathon, will be helpful with being disciplined to go exercise. Secondly I'm scared that I wont be able to run 13.1 with only ten weeks of training. I figure I might as well get a head started since I have the time. I am pretty excited for the race. There are a handful of other staff that are running so it will be fun to train and run with them.

I haven't figured out if I even like running. Some people really like running. They enjoy the process and the run itself. I think I just like the sense of accomplishment at the end. I hope that in a few weeks that will change and I will enjoy the process of running. It would probably make running a half marathon a lot easier. :)

Today was a 2 mile run. I feel okay about it. It is going to take my body a few days to get use to working out again. Tomorrow is a cross-training day, not sure yet what I want to do but I don't think it will be running.

Calling to Ministry (Inspired by InterVarsity’s FD Manuel)

⁶ "I, the LORD, have called you in righteousness;
I will take hold of your hand.
I will keep you and will make you
to be a covenant for the people
and a light for the Gentiles,

⁷ to open eyes that are blind,
to free captives from prison
and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness.

Isaiah 42:6-7

I have always known that I wanted to be involved with ministry and specifically with missions. When I was 18 I went to Mexico for a soccer mission’s trip. Sharing the Good News and loving children as a reflection as the Father’s love was the most fulfilling thing I had ever experienced. I loved being able to use the gift and talent of soccer that God had given me and use it to glorify Him. I didn’t want to go to college but wanted to get involved with missions right away. God almost had to push me through the door to go to college. That is when I found InterVarsity. I immediately fell in love with IV missionary focus to reach the campus and thus the world. IV taught me about God’s heart for the poor and injustice issues. God’s heart for the poor is all over the Bible, yet I never heard about it growing up in church. I got involved with a great community that taught me what it means to love sacrificially. I learned how to pray. Not just talking to God, but listening to Him, intercede for others and to pray for healing. I had great friends and leaders who were my mentors. It felt very easy and natural to join IV staff. During my discernment process I had to make sure that I wasn’t choosing the safe option, by joining staff. I love being on staff. I can’t really explain the incredible peace and reassurance from the Holy Spirit that I am exactly where I am suppose to be. I love seeing students get deeper with God. I love it when God convicts them on an issue and they repent and rise to the challenge. I love seeing them take risks to be a light, if that means talking to a neighbor in class or going on a summer mission trip. Remembering my calling excites and encourages me. I am not sure how long I will be with IV. But for now I see the need at the UNLV, Nevada State and CSN and I am excited and humbled that God has chosen me to be a minister of the gospel to college students.

Thank you God for letting me have a role in your plan to reach college students in Las Vegas. Please remind me of the joys when times get hard. Let my heart reflect your heart for students and for the campuses. Let my ears continue to hear your voice for wisdom, direction and how to lead. May my actions bring you glory. Amen.

Why a blog?

I have been thinking that it would be great to have a journal. I am not sure why, I am not a journal-er but I have been feeling a need to write. I thought a blog could be a good way to get some thoughts out and "on paper," its a lot cooler than a journal, and it could let other people in on my life if they choose. Sometimes it is helpful to write out what you are feeling and thinking. I also am writing a letter, review, etc., for IV. It usually takes me forever to articulate a thought in my head and for it to make sense "on paper." I thought this could be a great place for me to simply practice writing. I'll admit, I'm a verbal processor. This blog may not always be pretty and the structure maybe confusing. Stories may not always make sense but hopefully over time the writings will be a lot better.