Setting the Pace

"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not giving up meeting together as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching."
Hebrews 10:24-25 has been our theme for the week, as we focused on strengthening the community of women God has given us for the summer through life-giving and encouragement. I am grateful for all the ways this has happened, even from the first day of project. Time spent catching up on our workdays over tea, washing dishes for one another, being in awe of God's creation together, sharing meals, serving Juneau, and praying for each other have all contributed to a strong sense of fellowship among the girls here on project. They continue to be an encouragement to me.
This was my first full week of work here in Juneau. I now have a pretty good sense of what my routine will look like for the next seven weeks. Although stocking shelves from 8 to 5 can make for a long day, I am thoroughly enjoying the job God has provided. I have enjoyed getting to know my co-workers and have already begun to have good conversations with them about who God is, the sinfulness of humans, and why the lifestyle of a Christian is so different from what the world says is normal. Although most of my co-workers are living lives apart from God, the interest that they have shown in spiritual topics and their eagerness to ask questions has been encouraging and gets me excited about spending time with them. It is also cool to see the ways that God used my job back at school (at the Hill Grill) to prepare me for interacting with people from other backgrounds and who are living dramatically different lives than me.
Now that we have been in Juneau for a few weeks, seeing relationships form with people we have encountered, whether downtown, on the bus, or at a local coffee shop, has been fantastic. God has brought a handful of girls, for us to minister to, all at different points in their relationship with Him. Each week we have opportunities to invite these girls and others that we have met to spend time with us. A couple Saturdays ago we had an Open Mic night at Waffle Co., this past Friday we did a Lock-In where we played games, enjoyed a late night pancake breakfast, had break-out sessions, a dating forum, and relied on God as we took time to worship Him through our exhaustion. Yesterday we had a dodgeball tournament, despite the rain and 40 degree weather. Three of my co-workers, Ben, Kate and Ray, joined us and had a great time hanging out. Please be praying that God will be at work in their heart. Also, you can pray for continued fellowship among the girls here as we try to live out Christ and point others to Him. "By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." -John 13:35
Thanks for your prayers and for wanting to stay updated on happenings here in Juneau. I am so encouraged by your support!