On the road again...

Since we've been back from Colorado, I think we've only spent about 10 days in our apartment in Sioux Falls. The other 2 and a half weeks has been on the road, driving through Minnesota and meeting up with some of our ministry partners. Matt and I have been so encouraged by you, our partners and your walks with the Lord. We've left every meeting feeling deep gratitude for you and deeply impressed by your faith and how you're serving the Lord right where you are. Thank you for what you do!

We've also gotten to reflect on the beauty of God's creation as we've driven through the plains and around the lakes of Minnesota. One night we sat out on the dock at Matt's family's home and looked at the countless stars in wonder and at the same time watched lightning continually flashing through the sky. Such awesome reminders of God's power and majesty.

We're grateful to serve our King and grateful that in his majesty, he still entrusted his kingdom's work to average people.

back in the sioux empire!

After spending 7 weeks living in dorms at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado, and driving 11 hours straight to get home, we were SUPER excited to be back in our little apartment.

Don't get me wrong...we had a great summer. We were both challenged through the courses that we got to take from excellent professors - Matt took Doctrine survey and Bible study methods while I took Old Testament survey. We also got to meet some great people who were going taking classes with Campus Crusade, as well as reconnecting with old friends. The picture above is from the night of Matt's commissioning as full time staff with Campus Crusade for Christ. All of the new staff said their vows in a commissioning ceremony and then went on to celebrate over dinner together.

The summer culminated with the national staff conference, a bi-annual event. Around 5,000 staff from all of Campus Crusade's various ministries in the U.S. flock to Fort Collins and literally take over the CSU campus for a week. The conference was visionary for both of us and we were refreshed to hear from CCC Pres. Steve Douglass as well as Pastors Tim Keller and Keith Battle. We also got to hear ministry stories and updates from all the ministries - it was SO encouraging to hear what the Lord has done just in the past year in the U.S. and all around the world through our various ministries.

As we re-adapt to lower altitude (ie, enjoy breathing normally), we're also transitioning into a phase of ministry partner development. When we reach 100% of our financial goals, we'll be leaving the Sioux Empire and heading to Mankato, Minnesota, where we'll work at Minnesota State University, Southwest Minnesota State, and other surrounding schools. We're looking forward to making this move together and are hopeful for what the Lord will do in and through us during this season of preparation.