NAME: Tomina (Tuh-mee-nuh) 
BIRTHDATE: 7/14/82
HOMETOWN: Roseau, MN
DEGREE: B.A. Religion
I have grown in relationship with Christ more with each passing year but cannot look back and say there has been only a single “aha” moment. My life has been made up of many moments. My walk with Christ is similar to the pattern/cycle of the Israelite peopel. The Bible narrates the story of God’s people as they cycle form exile, to redemption, to identity, and then back into exile.
My life up through High School reflects the Genesis portion of this cycle-it sets up the story. I grew up in a Christian home. I attended church services, Sunday school, and church youth programs.
With my set foundation, I left home and started college. Like the Israelites, instead of the Promised Land I ended up in exile. In addition to going to school full-time, I worked two jobs. I soon lost intimacy with God. I had become a slave to a life crammed full of busyness. I was emotionally exhausted. I felt alone. I needed to be rescued and I cried out.
God head my cries. I got a summer job as a Bible Camp counselor. Through prayer, scripture, and community, my relationship with God was restored. I had been redeemed. At camp I realized my identity. My mission is to help teach others about God and listen to, as well as serve their needs. I finished my college career with a different attitude. I made time for God and through him found the emotional rest that I needed to complete my daily tasks.
After college, I joined Americorps. Americorps presented me with many challenges. I doubted the effectiveness of my time and the usefullness of some of my tasks. Instead of relying on God, I looked to myself for strength. My questions made the first five months very difficult. I recognized this fall into exile and called out. God helped restore me daily and I was able to approach each day with a new heart and a clear mind.
Each day, I try to remember the promise I have in God and focus on who he wants me to be. I know that life won’t always be lived in my identity; I will forget. I will find a time back in exile. But I hold steadfast to the promise that Jesus is my redeemer and I will be restored.
