Off I go!

I'm leaving today! I'm pretty excited to finally be getting out of here, since I've been counting for more than 90 days! My flight leaves at 10:28am and I'll arrive in Anacortes by 6:00pm.

I'll post some updates and pictures when I get to Anacortes, but for now, a few thoughts...

I've been doing a devotion about characteristics/descriptions of God. this morning, the three words were Author, Afflicter, and Blessed. I was reading through the corresponding verses and I was reminded once again of the fact that God's Word truly is alive. The verse for Author was the well-known Hebrews 12:1-2. The second I read the first phrase ("surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses"), I became acutely aware of something that I was subconsciously neverous about. Though I didn't realize it, I am concerned that I will not be the best Christian that I can be while in Anacortes. I realize that there will be people around me that may not know the Lord and I realized this morning that I am nervous that I wont be strong and steadfast in my faith. I want to be an encouraging example of Christ, even in a scientific setting, and hopefully sway someone towards His love. I quickly prayed that He will give me strength to remain faithful to Him and that others will notice there is something different about me. I also prayed that if someone asked me about that difference, I would be given the words and wisdom to witness to them. I am encouraged by the second part of this verse that tells us to persevere through the trial with strength, like Jesus did.

So, if you would, please pray for this in particular, that would be much appreciated. I am a bit nervous, but I have faith that He will give me all the strength and resources that I need to be His witness this summer.

-Alannah

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." -Hebrews 12:1-2