Friday, January 28, 2011

the journey begins..

Well yesterday I finished my time following the footsteps of Paul. I learned so much through my time in Greece and Italy. It opened my eyes to see the Bible as real and not just a story. I loved going to Philippi and being able to see what was being said in the Bible (Acts 16). For me it really showed how Paul was as a missionary and a witness for God.  Traveling all around Greece and Italy with our long bus drives and a overnight ferry, we all were able to get close to one another. I had many deep conversations with girls and new friendships came about. I'm bummed that I will not be at Taylor this semester for that reason. One thing that I got from this trip is that I am not doing my job as a Christian very well. Paul went out and witnessed to all everyday. He was put in jail and beaten often for spreading the word. He was mocked by many, but still continued to live through God and praise God for what he was doing. I want to be mocked for sharing the word of God with others. That is our reason to be here and our job as Christians: to share the faith. It was never easy for Paul, a great missionary of God and it wont be easy for me. My goal now is to be more like Paul, to grow more in my faith and stand firm in it to share to others the Love of Jesus Christ. I am so thankful that I was able to have this experience and learn so much information.

The next chapter in my life is living in Ireland for the semester! I arrived in Ireland January 27th. When I flew in, it was cloudy and cold. What's new for Ireland? I met up with the directors for the semester Kyle and Laura at the airport and we started our way to Greystones. It was about a 40 minute drive. Greystones is 20 miles south of Dublin and right on the coast! I was a little scared at first because they drive on the opposite side as Americans do, but I got used to the view. I was able to get to my room and unpack. It is going to be nice not to live out of a suitcase! For the rest of the night I just chilled and took a load off my feet. It was nice to just be in a place where nothing was planned. I was able to Skype some friends and talk to my family. Today I was able to go around the town and get a few things I needed. But again just a nice chill day. The rest of the students get here tomorrow morning. I'm excited to get this semester started and experience Ireland!

Just a side note: I'm not sure how well I'll keep up with this blog, but I'll try my hardest :)