Blessings for Two

Things I learned or was reminded of today at Intervarsity

• Sometimes controversial issues come up and people will disagree with you. This does not make it okay for you to use the words "ignorant", "stupid", "racist", or "evil". Those are words of hate. And Christians are not people of hate.
• It is my job as a Christian to try and understand other people. If I am to change someone's heart, I must use the gifts God placed in my heart to understand what is in theirs.
• The people of God were joined. The term Christian comes from us not fitting into the mold of isolation. Instead of staying segregated in our nationalities, we came together and were bound by a common love of Jesus Christ.
• Jesus wants us to continue to join others in love. He loves every single one of us. We should spread that love and unite people in it.
• Our center, the source of our power, should be God. When we want to change the heart of someone else, it cannot come from us. We rely on things like our stubbornness and pride to argue. But in reality, we should use God to motivate us in our beliefs. And if He is on our side, we are unstoppable.
• God creates some incredible things. Marvel in the beauty of His creations. Look at all the amazing people around you. Look at the person you are. God created you. He worked on every detail. And you are AMAZING. You are a masterpiece, created by an Almighty God.
• God is good. Repeat that. God is good. Say it louder. God is good. Tell someone. Tell everyone."Shout it out loud. You are GLORIOUS".

Tonight was a very strong message that is hard to remember in this day and age, especially when there is darkness around us. But it's important to remember. I'm glad I was able to witness someone with the courage to say the words the youth of America needs to hear. I'm also super thrilled that my Little came to Intervarsity with me. It was her first time and I am happy to hear that it was a blessing for her as well. She posted this today on her blog (her own version of Smilation) and I could not feel more joy in my heart. I hope this is the first of many Wednesday evenings together :)