Love Lives Here

This is my last morning waking up in my town home before I move. There is much to do, yet I'm going to spend a few moments savoring this time, for the last time, in this place, with God. During life's transitions, I enjoy reflecting on how I've grown in my faith, what the Lord has shown me during my time here. I begin my day with my quiet time, focusing on His faithfulness in carrying me through difficult times, and gratitude for times of great joy.

Friends & Faith

I have only been here a year and a half, but this place has represented so much to me. I finally have both the space and location to entertain. Some of my favorite memories are having friends for dinner, prayer time, and informal get togethers. I have hosted/led five small groups - three regular semesters and two mini-groups over the summer.

My friends and our faith have all grown together here. Recently, I did an eight session study of Louie Giglio's series on dating called Relatable with one single girlfriend, and we grew together so much during that study. I think back to the amazing times of prayer and sharing we had together. We continue to support and pray for one another during our journey of growing in our singleness to fulfill all God has for us. It's been really great to have a true sister come alongside me and encourage me.

One of my small group members told me yesterday, "Your home has been an incredible place of ministry." And it's really true, I've been careful about who and what I brought into my home because I wanted the holy spirit to always feel welcome here. I've had people tell me they feel the joy and presence of God here, and that's the best compliment I can receive about my home.

Reflection - In what ways has your home been a place of love, prayer and ministry?

Writing and Art

Probably the most profound thing that has personally happened to me here is that God has really helped guide me to hone in on HIS purpose and vision for my life. There is not enough space to list all the books I've read, messages I've watched, and conferences/training I've done while here. But the sum of all of it has been a profound impact on my life - God has made His direction in my life clear.

He has opened up my mind to expanding my creativity through writing and art. My writing has flourished in the past 13 months since leaving my job as a content writer. Somehow, some way, I've managed to survive as a freelance writer (supplemented by part time jobs on occasion). As soon as one job has ended, another has come along. I no longer question IF I'll get work, it's just a question of HOW God will meet my needs - and it's always exciting, interesting and powerful testimony!

The art I'm posting with this blog is one piece I loved doing. God opened up my mind through art, and through a technique I learned last summer called metacog that actually helps you to rewire your brain.

Also, not lost on me, is that I finished my book, Crazy Praise Club, in this place. For that reason alone, this place will always be special. The work on the book will continue in my new home. But those difficult parts to write that represented healing, those will always be attached to this place.

Reflection - In what areas of your life. maybe even some unexpected ones, is God growing you?

Proximity to Ministry

I love my location being so close to church, highways and ministry opportunities. As I searched for a place to move, I wanted to stay in this area. I'm grateful that God opened up that door. One thing I learned about myself in the past two years is that, because I'm single with no kids, it's important to me to be in a location where I can stay emotionally and spiritually plugged in to the people, places and ministries that matter.

God is indeed everywhere. I have no doubt that if He took me to the far reaches of the world, He would still be there. Yet my time spent at IHOP (the prayer place, not the pancake place!), going to different churches, and having access to prayer rooms and ministry has had a profound impact on my personal growth recently.

Reflection - What places and ministries have helped you to grow recently?

A Place Of Love

So, in a moment, I will turn off this laptop for the last time in this place. God willing, my writing will continue to flourish. In fact, God is opening up new opportunities even in the last 24 hours to use these gifts for His glory! I'm taking my art supplies to my new home and I hope to continue to grow that part of my life. I'm asking God to open up new opportunities to teach and to lead. When I make myself available to God, He always answers.

I remember vividly the day I moved it. It was a crazy, wonderful day! This moving day will be exciting as I'm surrounded by some great friends, new and old, who are an important part of my life. It will represent a wonderful transition for me.

I'm not leaving the way I thought I would. In my life, God loves to surprise me with the unexpected. I've learned to roll with whatever He brings along the way, it's one of my greatest strengths. What He always delivers is His promise to be present where invited.

My prayer is that the people who move in after me will feel His presence. They may not know specifically what life was like for me here, but they will somehow feel the joy, happiness and peace that resides in their home. My prayer is that they will nurture it. Because they will know for sure, love lives here.