Looking back...looking forward

How many things can you remember in detail three years after they happen? Probably not that many. That is most definitely the case for me. But I remember the time I spent at Urbana between Christmas and New Years in 2006. It was an amazing experience that still has an effect on me. I remember some amazing seminars that changed me and my views and passions. I learned about people that are used and mistreated by our world. And those that aren't using them simply look the other way. I also heard unbelievable speakers that challenged me. Not only do I remember these speakers but I still often quote my favourite. (My family and friends just love it when I do that! lol) I talked to some organizations that made me think about what God might want me to do. I got closer to the group of people that I went with. God put us through an experience that brought us closer to Him and closer to each other. I believe that these relationships are still strong today because of the time we spent in St Louis. I remember bringing in the new year by singing praise songs with a stadium full of people that love God. Let me tell you that there is no better way to start a new year or end an old one. I remember sitting in that stadium in tears singing about having a calling and just wanting so badly to know what it is.

I remember a lot about Urbana 06 but how much did it change my life? Did the things that affected me then stay with me and change how I am living today and how I am planning my future? Probably not nearly as much as it should have. I was deeply affected by the people I heard about but I haven't done anything besides think. I often quote a speaker who told us all not to settle but to strive after God's will for our lives but I still have a tendency to settle for what is comfortable. I have not pursued any of the organizations that I talked with last time I went. When I really think about it a lot about my life has not changed since the last time I was in St Louis. But some things have. I am three years older and have had three years of God working on me and putting people and situations in my life to grow me and direct me.

I am so blessed because I have a second chance. I get to go to Urbana again this year. I get to go hear speakers and talk to missions and organizations and go to seminars. I get to get close to another amazing group of people. I get to sing and worship and paise God. But I am starting to realize that the important thing isn't that I get to go to Urbana again...it's that I get to come home from Urbana again. Please pray with me that it will change me forever this time.