I just wanted to write a bit of an update about the summer so far. I'm having some technology issues, so I have not been able to get out an update email in the last couple of weeks. Hence, a blog update. This last Saturday, by God's grace, I completed something that most of my middle school and high school teachers never would have guessed. I completed my master's degree from Bethel Seminary. When I was a kid I hated doing homework. I ended up graduating high school 6 months late with a 1.5 GPA. My last trimester of HS I had 2 A's and 5 F's. Being able to complete this degree is proof that God loves to take silly things and do something with them for His glory.
While finishing three papers and studying for a final exam I welcomed my summer team of interns. We spent our first couple of days running the 3rd annual JV amazing race. It's a bonding event we put on for the interns every year to give the leaders a glimpse into their teams' personalities under stress. This year it was more of glimpse into my personality under stress. While racing my phone stopped working, I lost $500 and two train tickets, found an unknown naked woman occupying our hotel room, missed numerous buses and trains, all while studying for my last final exam and preparing for a seminar. God stripped me of every form of control on my life: technology, money, and the ability to care for my team. I'm still sorting through what God is teaching me through this event.
For the rest of this week we are at Josiah Venture's training center/hotel in the mountains of eastern Czech getting ready for our summer of ministry together. I have no homework for the first time in 5 years. The program is not my responsibility. I only need to get to know my team. Pray for Julie, Bethany, Bonnie, Andy, and me as we prepare for a summer filled with English camps, school visits, youth group parties and discipleship.
Greg,
I don't think your teachers would be so surprised. They, and we, knew you had it in you, but much to our dismay and concern, you weren't ready to let it shine through. Keep up the good work. We are so very happy for you!
Love you - Mom
Posted by: Mom and Dad | June 02, 2008 at 06:55 PM
Wow!!! A big congratulations on graduating. That is a big accomplishment. . . and relief. Another exciting summer, wish I could go!
Posted by: steve | June 05, 2008 at 06:54 PM
Congratulations Greg! What an accomplishment! Don't you just love the "ahhhh" feeling of being done with a degree? It was good to study...but it's good to be done too!
Posted by: Lauren | June 06, 2008 at 10:53 AM
Wow Gregg, what a start to the summer. You weren't kidding when it comes to stress. You've got some GREAT pictures on here. Did you have a slow shutter speed for that yellow flower picture?
I must admit when Greg comes to mind it's always along with you yelling "cake walk!"
Posted by: Jon & Erin Woodard | June 07, 2008 at 04:18 AM