Some back to school thoughts

Classes begin tomorrow. The most popular question this past week has been, "Are you ready for school?" YES! Call me a nerd if you wish. I like going to classes. I love my studies at the seminary. I enjoy reading a lot (but because of my lazy nature, I appreciate the assigned readings in each class that keep me accountable). Once in a while I even enjoy writing papers. Seminary has been a tremendous experience. Southern Seminary has one of the best faculty in my opinion. When I think about my time here at Southern I'm always amazed by God's grace in leading me here.

At the beginning of each semester I'm always eager to see and learn what God will teach me and how He is going to mold me, not only through the academic training from the seminary, but also through ministry, relationships, work, and more. He's never failed to surprise me each semester with unexpected turns and sometimes trials in my personal life. And He's never failed to grant me more than sufficient grace to come out walking even more closely to Him. This semester will not be any different I suspect. Already there are new challenges and new responsibilities in ministry. And looking at my track record there will be issues that I'll struggle with. Somehow I am excited about those struggles and challenges. I've had some of the sweetest communion with God through difficult times.

By God's grace (I'm not taking this phrase lightly, I do recognize that it is God's grace alone) I've had one of the most amazing and fruitful summers. Having spent most of the first 24 years of my life with my grandparents and having seen them age and deteriorate rapidly these couple of years, I'm truly thankful for the 5 weeks I spent at home in Vancouver with them and my parents. I cannot express adequately with words how much I enjoyed and appreciate my trip home this summer. I also visited a Sovereign Grace church in Vancouver ( Crossway Community Church ). Although I didn't have time to establish any relationship at that church (Lord willing, someday I'd like to), I was encouraged and learned much from their Sunday services. Then I went to Indonesia. If you're interested in reading a bit about my trip you can go here . In a nutshell, it was a wonderful trip.

Now that I've recapped my summer I'm even more ready for the new semester!