Life in the city continues to be wonderful, if I was to describe it in one word. I love everything about it: the noise, the beauty, the diversity, the taxis, the busyness. I am continually fascinated by my surroundings, and yes, I desperately want to just pack my bags and live here for real! Last week I hopped on the train and traveled to Athens Café to meet K. First off, the drive was lovely. This city is huge. Gorgeous. Invigorating. Then I got to my destination: a lovely little Café nestled in Greece, if you would. K, L, and I sat and discussed faith. We discussed what it's like for her to be Muslim, and for me to be a follower of Jesus. We discussed common ground like prayer and belief in God. We discussed differences, and what has shaped us into the people we are today. I was inspired by her dedication and intellectual knowledge, and convicted of how many times I just float along without truly having an "answer for the hope that is within me" (1 Pt. 3:15). At the same time, I came away incredibly grateful for the gift of the Holy Spirit. He is faithful. So very faithful and gracious. And so I go out every day, trying to make a difference. I pray that through His power we, as a team, can reclaim at least part of the city for Him. A week and a half ago, I had the opportunity to lead out in a craft project at kids' club. I have always loved kids, and projects. So, this was like combining my favourite things and giving them to me on one plate. What a hoot, and what a blessing! Kids. Needs. Love. Hugs. So many aspects of glory. He is displayed in every one of their smiles, and I just want to pile love on them as much as is humanly possible. One short hour is not enough, but it is a glimpse. I leave you with a glimpse of life in the city. Thank you for praying; All is grace <3 p="">

 

to the ends of the earth

 

" Loud. Big. Diverse. Powerful. Busy. Overwhelming. Intriguing. Incredible. Full of Opportunities."

 

   Yesterday, one of my instructors asked us to describe what a city means to us. As you see, the excerpt about was taken from my notes. That pretty much sums up what the city of New York is to me. The more I explore and mingle, the more I love it. The more often I walk the streets, the less intimidating they feel. The more I talk to people and observe their unique styles and languages, the more my heart just smiles at the creativity of my Creator! I love diversity. I love the fact that as a Caucasian, I represent the minority in this city. I love walking down Broadway Street and seeing hundreds of people. I love absorbing the incredible collage of words, faces, accents, dress, and hairstyles.

   On the contrary, there is so much hurt in this sea of people. It saddens me to see hollow stares and empty gazes. I cry when I see a hurting child or a lost mother. I pause when I hear a siren for the tenth time that day, and pray for peace. My heart aches when I see people so busy they fail to notice the buds on the trees or the daffodils or the birds fearlessly flitting about at their feet. I pray. I pray for His glory to be revealed in this city. I pray as my team heads out into the streets to interact and be a witness. I beg Him to soften hearts, to open blinded eyes, to break chains of bondage. I dance for joy when I have the opportunity to pray with a lady new to the city. I praise Jesus when I leave a Hindu temple, having experienced the blood of Jesus that lifts oppression and scatters evil.

   Amidst it all, I marvel. I marvel at His incredible love for me that allows me to be part of His purpose. I marvel at the fact that He goes before me, beside me, behind me. I marvel at the fact that though my team is small, we can be mighty warriors and channels of love.

   So, day in and day out, as we gather in the early mornings to study and worship, He is there, with purpose. As we venture out in the afternoons for ministry, He is there, with vision. In the parks, on the streets, in the darkest corners of this city, He is there, with love. We are reclaiming the City for Him, one prayer at a time. All is Grace.