Afrizo

     On wednesday, I attended chapel.  I thought it was going to be like any other day with a speaker.  I was sweetly surprised!  Bethel University invited Afriza to come and worship with all the students during chapel hours.  Afrizo is a Soul Worship Group comprised of students studying at the Daystar University in Nairobi, Kenya.  I have never really learned much about this University, but I can tell you that after 2 hours of worshipping with the students, I was ready to catch the first flight to Africa!

     God worked through me on that day.  I began to see Him in a whole new light and further realize my love for other cultures.  Over the past few months since submitting my application for the J-term trip to Cambodia, I have been wondering if what I want to do with my life is really God's plan.  After having my heart moved by wednesday's chapel, "I have decided to follow Jesus".  I have been a Christian since I was really young, however, now that I am older, I realize the great significance of God's Will for my life.  Even though He may not answer prayers right away, He is drawing me closer and closer to the path He has created for me.  I am so excited to see where He takes me in my life! :)

Mugs, Muffins and MONDAYS

     I am an RA at Bethel University and am blessed to be a part of the North Village team.  After knowing my co-RAs for only a few months, I feel like I have known them for years.  It is so much fun just to hang out with everyone and even get a little goofy :)

     I, along with 2 other RAs live in Danielson.  We decided that in order to get to know our residents even more, it would be fun to have a morning breakfast every Monday!  We concluded that this weekly event would be known as Mugs, Muffins and Mondays.  I have already noticed that I have gotten to chat with my residents briefly every Monday while sitting in the entrance way behind a table of goodies.
     I am thankful for the Danielson team, Mugs, Muffins and Mondays and the chance to get to know my residents better every day :)

Dream Come True...

     Since I have been at Bethel University, I have been waiting on an opportunity for me to use my God-given gifts for His good.  Fairly recently I have discovered a greater love for people than it used to be.  I am have been really interested in peoples of other cultures and finding ways to minister to them.  I have since been feeling God tug harder on my heart to go abroad.  Toward the beginning of my search for study abroad, I was looking into a semester-long trip, however, it would not coincide with my busy class schedule.  The events that followed proved that God has a plan for my life and knows what's best for me.

     About 5 months ago today, I attended the Study Abroad Fair at Bethel University.  This was a great opportunity in its self, because I was able to see where God would place my heart and self to serve Him this year.  After looking through information about trips to China, Europe, and many other countries, I was not sure if I would even end up going abroad.  Most of the trips I looked into would not provide me with the classes or the credits I would need to graduate on time.  I started walking away and noticed a sign that said "Cambodia".  I talked to the lead Professor, Christina Busman about this January trip, and she informed me of the gist of the whole ordeal.  She said this trip was a great opportunity, especially for education majors.  Being an Elementary Education major I was really excited.  I ended up meeting with Professor Busman and turning in my application.

     After a few weeks of figuring out money to pay for the trip, I received an email from Bethel saying that I was officially accepted into the program!  I feel truly blessed to have such a great opportunity.  This chance is starting to prove to me that God's Will for my live is much, much greater than my own.  Since I have been studying German for the past 6 years, I really wanted to travel to Europe.  Apparently, God had a better plan for my life.  Even though I will not be making it to Europe, I have become more confident in God and trusting that His Will for my life is far greater than any plans I could ever make.

Homecoming Cheer Competition 2011!!

     Last night was full of excitement.  As is tradition at Bethel University all of the dorms, including students living off-campus, participated in the cheer.  The cheer is the first impression the judges have on each dorm individually and is judged on three criteria.  The first is uniformity; each dorm is expected to be wearing their dorm shirts.  Second is uniform choreography; every person in the cheer must be in synch with everyone else to help it look fluid and well-rehearsed.  Finally, a team's win is dependent on the amount of spirit they show to the judges and the other dorms.  This is a great way to get to know each of the dorms and grow closer as a Bethel Community. :)
     Not only was it great to take part in the cheer, but there was also a great opportunity to get to know the staff more and hang out with them.  The North Village is a blessing in my life.  I am so thankful to have met each one of them and super happy to know that our friendships will last a lifetime.