So, this blog is definitely going to be a tad bit all over the place but bear with me as I begin!
We are finally here in the last country of our race…what what!!!! Insane in the membrane…INSANE IN THE BRAIN :-). What I’ve learned about the Philippines so far is that the food is cooked with EXTRA oil but boy it’s some of my favorite food, our ministry host is one of the most laid back, relaxed human beings ever (thanks God, seriously), jeepneys are the public transportation and if you don’t hang out of the back standing on the tiny ledge you’re riding it wrong, and last but not least, Jesus is already working so hard in my life & we’ve only been here 3 days!
We are currently living with 8 girls from two different teams and then my lovely team here in the mountains of the Philippines about an hour from Manila (s/o to manistry month)! It’s beyond beautiful and the humidity is actually not that bad after all.
Tonight at dinner we were describing all the teams in one or two words that was essentially how others saw our teams. My team, team vessel, was described as jubilant and joyous. what spectacular words. I love it so much. It really got me thinking about the incredible journey the 6 of us have been on for the past 7 months together. Here’s what I came up with.
Emily; a heart of servant hood. always willing to step up and help whenever and wherever possible. She’s taught me what it looks like to live as a servant to others expecting nothing in return.
Thyme; powerful energy. Let me tell you about this gal, I swear she never runs out of energy. She is always up to do the random (sometimes strange) -est of things. Her love for life has taught me what it means to live in constant joy.
Ashley; quality over quantity. One thing I have been learning the most through Ash is what it means to have quality friendships with people who seek you and care about you. Ashley is someone who says what needs to be said, looks for the greatness in others, and chooses her words wisely. She exemplifies Colossians 4:6
Emma; beauty within perfection. Emma Koestner, her heart for others would absolutely positively blow you away. Her attention to detail, her desire to uniquely understand the people she is around is truly a gift. One thing I love about this girl is how completely opposite we are. I learn something new from her everyday and it is truly an honor and a joy to learn from her.
Kaylin; creative delight. This woman is incredible (they all are really). The way Kaylin takes on anything thrown her way is so encouraging. Her delight in waiting for the Father’s will is incredible. I used the words creative delight because Kaylin embodies what it means to delight in the small victories in life and celebrate them to the best of her ability.
These are the gals of team vessel. A team that I pray continues to represent the words that have been spoken over us. These are not only the people I’ve been living with for the past 7 months but they are people who I choose to find the cheerful moments in life and celebrate them with. And these are the last 3 months of our race. I’m choosing to live in the moment, rejoice in small victories, and radiate Jesus’ love to everyone I meet.
