Beginning to Understand

This week has been one of the most amazing weeks of my life. Not only has it been eye opening experience, but it has been great getting to know Christians my age who have a passion for God. For all of you youth group people, it really is like a mission trip or a retreat. We sleep in rather close quarters in bunk beds, share showers, and have days full of God! Already I am thinking of ways to encourage youth to do a year of service because of how amazing this first week has been.

We have spent our days learning the ins and outs of Chicago. Since we live here, we were able to get Chicago Public Library cards. We also have spent lots of time learning to navigate the public transportation system. We visited the National Museum of Mexican Art (very cool!), the Garfield Park Conservatory (lots of plants and sculptures), and the Chicago Jazz Festival (featuring the Mingus Big Band).

Today was an incredibly taxing day. Although we have been living together for a week now, we just shared our life stories with each other. Everyone was vulnerable with the group and shared deep personal insights into their lives. I'm not sure if there are many people who know everything I told the group! It was that way all around, though, and God's presence was so evident. I'm feeling more and more like I've known these people for years, let alone a week, and I'm beginning to understand where everyone came from.

One thing I'm looking forward to is our Tuesday meeting with Brenda Matthews. She was a speaker at San Jose this year, and I am super excited to meet her. These meetings will continue throughout our time here to serve as an outside person to talk to (other than our RAD leaders). We will also be given our service assignments this week, and will spend three days each week working there. I pray that I will be able to do good service there and help many people.