Celebrating and Being Stretched

Orientation!

 Isn't it funny how challenges and celebrations often come hand in hand? This week we are celebrating much, but also being stretched in different directions and forced to grow. 

Last weekend all but one of the interns arrived to begin their summer with Reach Global Crisis Response! Woohoo! I am very thankful to have these interns here and have the opportunity to pour into their lives. They have been going through the orientation process this week which has included an introduction to staff members, learning about the operations of the ministry, icebreaker activities, going out to a work site as a team, and learning about each other. It has been amazing to see how quickly God is working in their lives to bring them into one team/family unit and enable them to do life together. I praise the Lord for that! 

Workin hard

This has been a very challenging week for me. Though I am excited to be serving the interns and staff, going out on site, helping Mallory (the Intern Coordinator) with her job, and living life in Louisiana, I am still very new at being a leader. And not just a leader, but a servant leader. My focus this summer is to become a servant; someone who lives on behalf of others and arranges their life on behalf of others. But how do I live with others in mind, put Christ first, help out when needed, and still have time to take care of myself? These are all questions I am still working out the answer to. Thankfully, I have been blessed with a group of people here who are committed to making sure that our team stays healthy and focused on Christ. 

Basically it all comes down to one concept. I cannot do this without Jesus Christ. It is seriously impossible. No matter what anyone says, I do not have the talent, energy, focus, or mental aptitude to serve in this position. And God knows that. He called me here, provided for every need and has shown me ways to serve Him. He has and will continue to equip me. Because He is faithful, and I have surrendered to His authority. 

I found another Victoria!

As the summer continues I would greatly appreciate prayer for: 

...my relationship with God to be priority #1
...the focus to take care of myself and manage my time well so I don't burn out
...continued growth amongst the interns so they become a unified team.
...the teams of volunteers coming next week-openness, strength, conversations.

Thank you so much for being a part of my family and praying for me. 

Till next time!

The Lakefront

Icebreaker! You want your t-shirt? Better break the ice!