But, for some reason, when January came, I heard nothing back from them. In some small stroke of fate, or God's grace, my youth pastor called me and told me he had suggested me to a friend to be an intern for the summer at a church in St. Louis. From then, I felt like I had little to worry about. I got a call from Charles, the youth pastor in St. Louis, and he sent me an application. After he received it and gave me a call for an interview, I was by another stroke of fate, in St. Louis for spring break. Everything in my life kept pointing to St. Louis. We went there for our spring break mission trip. A friend was going for a conference there. One of my youth kids at Redeemer had a competition there. Literally, everything was in St. Louis. And I felt like I should be, or would be as well.
I was luckily able to meet Charles for an interview while I was in St. Louis for spring break. We met at the free zoo (of course, where else?), and he asked me some really tough questions. But nonetheless, he seemed to like me and gave me some good advice on the current work I was doing with the youth in Waco. From then I finished my mission trip and went back to Waco, eagerly awaiting the call. Sometime during class the next week he called me to offer me the internship (along with the other applicant he was trying to decide between). So we both got the job! Which I think is a blessing from God. If I were entering this all alone, I would be much more nervous than I currently am, but because I know someone else is just as new as me, it makes me feel like it's all ok.
My mom and I drove up Monday, and spent the night with the family who has graciously opened up their home to me. Yesterday I got a tour around the church and a little glimpse at what I would be doing this summer. I got to tour some of downtown Kirkwood, and feel like I'm really independent for the first time in my life. Which is daunting, and freeing. It's kind-of a strange feeling. But, nonetheless, I've started what I expect to be the most life-giving summer of my life. I'm incredibly grateful for all the people who helped me get here and are helping me stay here. They have no idea how much they mean to me.
I can't wait for all the experiences this summer that will lead me to know more fully what God's plan is in my life. I'm excited for how He will teach and pursue me this summer. I hope I am receptive and understanding in His workings, but there is always beauty in the mystery. I pray for peace and energy as I start an amazing summer.
