Students Summer 2010

MEGAN | Alaska

IF YOU COULD TRAVEL TO ANY PLACE IN THE WORLD, WHERE WOULD YOU GO AND WHAT WOULD YOU DO THERE? I would go somewhere that I can become a mother to children who need one. For a visit though: Scotland or Israel!

WHAT’S SOMETHING THAT GIVES YOU JOY? This doesn’t sound like a 20 year old, but my mother; she’s hilarious. Also helping making children feel seen and heard.

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: nurturer. protector. contemplative.

I DESIRE TO BE KNOWN FOR BEING: valiant.

JAMES | Wisconsin

WHAT SCRIPTURE VERSE COULD HALLMARK THIS PAST YEAR OF YOUR LIFE? Matthew 16:24-25, "Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it." I have come to realize that it’s not enough to just say you are a Christian and go through the cliche motions of modern day Christianity. In a world where we are pulled every direction there is no greater call than that of Christ saying "follow me." To do this though, it is a daily death to our own worldly desires and in exchange, a life of surrender and obedience to Christ. We have the honor and privilege of serving our Lord and Savior everyday for His glory; I can't think of a better life.

I tend to turn into a really big little kid when I'm around children, so for me I FIND SO MUCH JOY in spending time with kids! There is so much to be valued in the lives of children as life seems so simple to them. Kids will tell you how it is, they wear their hearts on their sleeves, and they find joy in running around with anyone willing to play with them. The funny thing is I find just as much joy when I find a little kid who wants to run around and play with me! But nothing is better than the faith of a child. I love it.

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: joyful. protector. servant.

I DESIRE TO BE KNOWN AS A: servant.

KATY | Texas

WHAT SCRIPTURE VERSE COULD HALLMARK THIS PAST YEAR OF YOUR LIFE? 2 Corinthians 1:2-7 “Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. The God of all comfort. Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. And our hope for you is firm, because we know that jsuta s you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.”

WHAT’S SOMETHING THAT GIVES YOU JOY? Jesus and also my family, friends, puppies, kids, and cotton candy!

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: optimistic. servant. thinker.

I DESIRE TO BE KNOWN FOR BEING: valiant.

LEAH | Colorado

WHAT’S SOMETHING THAT GIVES ME JOY? Precious babies and young children, seeing people using the gifts God has given them for His glory, seeing the body of Christ working together, worshipping with fellow believers, and seeing people’s lives healed.

IF I HAD 3 HOURS TO FILL ON A SATURDAY AFTERNOON... I would take a walk in the beautiful countryside surrounding my home, read a book, or hang out and fellowship with my siblings and friends.

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: nurturer. faithful. servant.

I DESIRE TO BE KNOWN AS BEING: joyful.

NIKOLAI ‘NIK‘ | Georgia

SOMETHING THAT GIVES ME JOY...Really inspiring, epic music. I love great soundtracks from movies such as Lord of the Rings, Chronicles of Narnia, etc. No worry for bad lyrics or a messed up message, just melody.

THE SCRIPTURE THAT CAN BEST HALLMARK THIS LAST YEAR FOR ME is Luke 7:41-43, “There was a certain creditor who had two debtors, One owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. And when they had nothing with which to repay, he freely forgave them both. Tell me, therefore, which of them will love him more?” Simon answered and said, “I suppose the one whom he forgave more.” And he said to him, “You have rightly judged.” 2009 was a huge year for me and my relationship with God. I have been forgiven much and through that, I have come to love Jesus all the more. Praise Him for who I am now.

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: artist. reader. optimistic.

I DESIRE TO BE MORE: determined.

THAYSSE | Brazil

WHO FROM CHRISTIAN HISTORY HAS HAD THE GREATEST IMPACT ON MY LIFE? The apostle Paul and Amy Carmichael. They greatly impact my life not because of the great works the Lord accomplished through them, but because of their passionate love and full surrender for the Person of Jesus Christ. As I read about their lives, I am rekindled anew to love Jesus with all of me.

A SCRIPTURE THAT BEST HALLMARKS THIS LAST YEAR IS Deuteronomy 6:5 “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.”

IF I HAD 3 HOURS TO FILL ON A SATURDAY AFTERNOON, I would spend them immersed in God’s Word.

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: adventurer. contemplative. nurturer.

I DESIRE TO BE MORE: faithful.

KALA | Tennessee

WHAT’S SOMETHING THAT GIVES ME JOY? Well, besides Jesus and all He has done and is doing and will do in me, it’s basically a tie between music and writing. God’s given me a passion for communicating with people through both of these.

A SCRIPTURE THAT BEST HALLMARKS THIS LAST YEAR IS Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” And His plans - at least what I have glimpsed of them - are so much greater than anything I could’ve come up with!

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: artist. dreamer. loyal.

I DESIRE TO BE MORE: faithful.

BEN | South Carolina

IF I COULD TRAVEL TO ANY PLACE IN THE WORLD, I would go home, to spend time with my family.

IF I HAD 3 HOURS TO FILL ON A SATURDAY AFTERNOON, I would hang out with friends, watch a movie, or read a book.

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: artist. dreamer. determined.

I DESIRE TO BE MORE: faithful.

CHELSEA | Wisconsin

WHAT’S SOMETHING THAT GIVES ME JOY? My family - my loving and encouraging and quirky parents who are both Christians. My silly and sweet siblings. I love them!

IF I COULD TRAVEL TO ANY PLACE IN THE WORLD... There are so many places I want to go (Europe, Tennessee, New Zealand, Alaska, Ecuador, Vermont, Africa, Australia...) I don’t know if I can narrow it down. I want to observe the ways of life, the state of being of the people in these places. I want to expand my knowledge of what our world looks like, I want to know where there is plenty and where there just isn’t. I would be toting my camera for sure.

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: loyal. thinker. nurturer.

I DESIRE TO BE KNOWN AS BEING A: servant.

KELSEY | New Mexico

Jackie Pullinger has probably had the GREATEST IMPACT OF A CHRISTIAN IN HISTORY upon my life. It was through her testimony and her passion and love for Christ, serving as His hands and feet, that I felt the first tug on my heart to be completely surrendered to our Lord and serve wherever He calls me.

A SCRIPTURE THAT BEST HALLMARKS THIS LAST YEAR IS Romans 6:7b-8, “ ‘Now that this has touched your lips, your guilt has departed and your sin is blotted out.’ Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here I am; send me.’ “

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: nurturer. servant. joyful.

I DESIRE TO BE MORE: wholehearted.

KOURTNEY | Oklahoma

IF I COULD GO ANY PLACE IN THE WORLD...There are so many places that I don’t know if I could narrow it down to one. I know God has a place for me and a work for me to do. I only have to follow Him. Whatever I do and wherever I go, I want to be a light shining for His glory. I want to help others and share with them the awesome grace and love that Christ has given to me!

SOMETHING THAT GIVES ME JOY... My family. I love them very much and I know that they will always love me!

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: optimistic. nurturer. reader.

I DESIRE TO BE MORE: faithful.

ERIKA | Arizona

WHO FROM CHRISTIAN HISTORY HAS HAD THE GREATEST IMPACT ON MY LIFE? This is a challenging question because there are several heroes in the faith who have greatly impacted my life. It’s sort of a tie between Amy Carmichael and Lilias Trotter, but I think I’ll go with Amy.

A SCRIPTURE THAT BEST HALLMARKS THIS LAST YEAR IS Most definitely, Psalm 73:25-26, “Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” I never understood or could truly say these words with clear meaning and a sincere heart until the Lord brought me to a place of complete soul-destitution this past year. I was in a place of total grief when my heart and flesh did fail me. But it was in that very painful place that He brough me life, strength, joy, and complete soul-satisfaction in Christ alone.

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: artist. reader. contemplative.

I DESIRE TO BE MORE: faithful.

AMANDA “MANDY” | Pennsylvania

A SCRIPTURE THAT BEST HALLMARKS THIS LAST YEAR IS Psalm 73:24-28 “You will guide me with your counsel, and afterward receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but You? And there is non upon earth that I desire besides You. My flesh and my heart fail; but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. For indeed, those who are far from You shall perish; You have destroyed all those who desert You for harlotry. But it is good for me to draw near to God, that I may declare all Your works.”

WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT GIVES ME JOY? I LOVE when my whole family is home! I cherish the times when we are together, simply enjoying each other! Whether we are quiet, talking or laughing, my heart is so happy to be with them!

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: joyful. optimistic. contemplative.

I DESIRE TO BE KNOWN FOR BEING A: servant.

KELSEY | New Mexico

IF I COULD TRAVEL TO ANY PLACE IN THE WORLD, I would travel to Paris, to be a tool that God might use to reach the lonely hearts of some of the wealthy of this world.

A SCRIPTURE THAT BEST HALLMARKS THIS LAST YEAR IS Jeremiah 29:11-14 It has been priceless for me to realize that God has a plan for me specifically, and that as I seek Him with all of my heart, He will be faithful to reveal Himself to me.

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: dreamer. thinker. serious

I DESIRE TO BE KNOWN FOR BEING: faithful.

MADISON | Florida

WHAT’S SOMETHING THAT GIVES ME JOY? Music gives me great joy, singing unto my King, I am struch sometimes by the music I hear and can’t help but picture bowing before the throne of God praising His name and worshipping Him.

A SCRIPTURE THAT BEST HALLMARKS THIS LAST YEAR IS... Well, over the past year the passage in scripture that could most describe what God was doing in my life was Psalm 139: 23-24, “Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me and know my thoughts and see if there be any wicked way in me and lead me in the way everlasting.” My God is faithful and through the past year He has drawn me so much closer to Him, calling me to be clean of the things of this world.

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: loyal. contemplative. joyful.

I DESIRE TO BE MORE: adventurous, or really, just bold for the Lord.

BRONWYN | British Columbia - Canada

SOMETHING IN MY LIFE THAT GIVES ME JOY? JESUS, my exceeding joy (Ps.43), sharing the gospel, songwriting, hiking, being a part of the Church - Jesus’ Bride, and hearing and seeing how lives are changed!

A SCRIPTURE THAT BEST HALLMARKS THIS LAST YEAR FOR ME Jeremiah 29:13- "And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart." The Lord is so incredibly precious to me; as an old married couple, I long to know and love HIM more and more every day. It's been painful, and very difficult at times, but He has been so gracious and patient. I am so excited when I ponder His power to mold and use someone as unworthy as me. Blessed be the Rock, may the God of my salvation be exalted!

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: adventurer. joyful. reader.

I DESIRE TO BE MORE: faithful.

TESSA | Ohio

Quality, one-on-one conversation with either a family member or a close friend BRING ME JOY. I especially love when God has done something exciting or answered a prayer in one or both of our lives and we are able to share the excitement with each other.

A SCRIPTURE THAT BEST HALLMARKS THIS LAST YEAR IS Psalm 27:13-14, “I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.” I am walking through a season of “Wait, Tessa, Wait.” in many areas in my life. Wait is a tough word to take from God sometimes, but God has been building my faith to bring me to this place of confidence that “I will see ‘the goodness of the Lord’ “ come to pass.

IF I COULD TRAVEL TO ANY PLACE IN THE WORLD... I would return to Thailand for long term missions and either work with deaf Thai girls or just Thai girls in general.

SUSANNA | Michigan

IF I COULD TRAVEL ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD? The place that actually comes to mind is America - exactly where I am. There are so many things that I have a passion to do, that it’s difficult to narrow it down. I want to somehow work with children, particularly orphans, foster care children, or just children who need Jesus. I also would love to cheer girls on in their relationship with Christ and walk shoulder to shoulder to advance His Kingdom, being dependent upon Him alone...

THE SCRIPTURE THAT CAN BEST HALLMARK THIS LAST YEAR FOR ME is II Corinthians 1:3-5, 9, & 10. Last Christmas we discovered that my daddy had esophageal cancer and that apart from a miracle he only had 6 months to a year to life. I remember sitting in the hospital the day we found out and my mom picking up the Bible to read to my dad and I. It was this passage. All of us became teary eyed as we saw God’s promises to us. This past summer, July 17th, my daddy went to see Jesus. It was probably the hardest thing I ever went through. Jesus had to teach me a lot about surrendering to Him when I wanted to hang on tight to my ‘right’ to having a father, but it has been awesome to see how those truths we heard from Jesus in His Word have actually worked out and are continuing to in my life. Jesus has become a Father to me in ways that I never thought possible...He is the best that anyone could have...

A Million things GIVE ME JOY. But in summing them up, the One thing that does is JESUS! I love spending time in His Word, letting Him speak to me especially long periods of time where I can just fully enjoy His presence. I love talking to Him and getting to know Him. I love singing to Him... He is my source of joy!

SARAH | New Hampshire

A SCRIPTURE THAT BEST HALLMARKS THIS PAST YEAR OF MY LIFE IS Exodus 14:14, “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”

Watching people’s interactions GIVES ME JOY. I love the gestures, emotions, and expressions that they portray. When I watch them it reminds me of how we are made in God’s image.

IF I HAD 3 HOURS TO FILL ON A SATURDAY AFTERNOON, I WOULD do one or more of the following: get out my Bible or another good book and read, journal, sit listening to music, or take a nap.

CARRIE | Iowa

IF I COULD GO ANY PLACE IN THE WORLD... Well, my heart longs to go to Haiti and serve at the Danita’s Children orphanage there. So right now, that is the place I want to go the most. Other places that I have dreamed about going are Prince Edward Island and Ireland. I would love to travel more.

Singing songs of praise to my Lord and Savior BRINGS ME JOY! I love singing about how amazing our God is and how good He is to us! Also seeing prayers answered brings me joy. God deserves so much praise and adoration!

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: loyal. optimistic. adaptable.

I DESIRE TO BE MORE: joyful.

CAMILLE | Pennsylvania

THE SCRIPTURE THAT BEST HALLMARKS THIS LAST YEAR FOR ME? This is hard to choose, but I’d have to say 2 Corinthians 5:7 “For we walk by faith, not by sight”. That has constantly been my verse since I was 15 and I always say it is my lifelong verse.

SOMETHING THAT BRINGS ME JOY - I could go on and on, but I will keep it short! Besides Jesus and who He is and what He’s done, I would say my family brings me so much joy. Whether that’s talking with my parents or sisters, playing and lovin’ on my little sibs, being weird with them or singing and dancing in the kitchen or shooting nerf guns and having rat tail fights: just being with them. Children bring me joy

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: nurturer. loyal. joyful.

I DESIRE TO BE DESCRIBED AS: patient.

AMY | Illinois

IF I COULD TRAVEL TO ANY PLACE IN THE WORLD, I would go, without a doubt, to Romania to rescue precious children from the jaws of corrupt orphanages. Romanian orphans are treated with contempt, often being tied to their beds for hours on end without proper nourishment or sanitation. They need help and they need to know the One who will, not only bind their wounds, but completely restore their broken past.

A SCRIPTURE THAT BEST HALLMARKS THIS LAST YEAR IS Psalm 34 - then entire chapter has really been my prayer this year. But I think the verse that really speaks to my heart is verse 9, “Oh, fear the Lord you His saints! There is no want for those who fear Him.”

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: artist. determined. joyful.

I DESIRE TO BE KNOWN AS BEING A: servant.

GRACE | Philippines

A SCRIPTURE THAT BEST HALLMARKS THIS LAST YEAR IS “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” Galatians 2:20

Jesus Christ is my ULTIMATE SOURCE OF JOY. The joy of knowing Him, walking with Him, being loved and taught by Him is unspeakable joy! He is sufficient, His Word perfect and His teachings profitable. His gifts, the many blessings of family, friends, community, food, etc. give me so much joy but they are incomparable to gift of knowing the Giver.

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: dreamer. adventurer. determined.

I DESIRE TO BE MORE: faithful.

LEAH | New Mexico

Gladys Aylward has got to be one of the MOST INSPIRING WOMAN IN CHRISTIAN HISTORY! She was an example that God really used in my life to give me courage and a passion for the impossible. Be a single, female missionary? Not a problem. Rescue and care for orphans? That's possible too. Learn a new language? Difficult, but doable. What makes all of this possible? Our God who will go to all lengths in order to bring glory to His name.

SOMETHING IN MY LIFE THAT GIVES ME JOY? Babies. Children. Their sweet little faces, their adorable cuddles, their precious innocence, their unhindered joy... there is just something about holding and loving them that gives me extreme amounts of joy! In addition to that... the presence of God fills me with greater joy than can be found anywhere else!

WHAT SCRIPTURE VERSE COULD HALLMARK THIS PAST YEAR OF MY LIFE? "If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow Me." (Luke 9:23) This past year God has been teaching me all about surrender and self-denial. It has been quite a journey thus far!

CHELSEA | California

IF I HAD 3 HOURS TO FILL ON A SATURDAY AFTERNOON I would go on a prayer walk, spend some time worshipping God, do something with my family, or maybe read a good book.

SOMETHING THAT BRINGS ME JOY - Jesus gives me joy! Also, being with my family and playing with kids!

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: determined. adaptable. contemplative.

I DESIRE TO BE DESCRIBED AS: joyful.

MARLENE | South Africa

IF I HAD 3 HOURS TO FILL ON A SATURDAY AFTERNOON, I WOULD Lay flat on the grass and watch the clouds drift by. No clouds? Hmm... that means no rain either. Time to get out the hose and water the garden and, of course, my dog - she loves it!

SOMETHING THAT BRINGS ME JOY - A very tight hug from one of my sister’s precious little children.

THE PASSAGE THAT CAN BEST HALLMARK THIS PAST YEAR OF MY LIFE IS Psalm 23:4b “I will not be afraid ‘cause You’re right here with me, to comfort and protect me.” (rhymed version)

BROOKE | Colorado

IF I COULD TRAVEL ANY PLACE IN THE WORLD, it would either be to Hawaii (to bask in the beauty of God’s tropical canvas), Europe (to see all the deep culture), or to Israel (to walk where my precious Redeemer, Jesus walked.)

To me JOY IS serving. giving. To see the expressions on others faces when they feel God’s love for them through me. Being His willing vessel and seeing the glory of God working through my life. How masterfully He has planned my Life! Also to have the honor to see how all the pieces fit together as I follow His will for my life - what an awesome opportunity! To think that He loves me so much that He sent His only Son to die on the cross for me makes my heart overflow with thankfulness and JOY! When I hear little children’s laughter and funny sayings and see their innocent faces...

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: artistic. determined. joyful.

I DESIRE TO BE KNOWN FOR BEING A: servant.

ELISA | French Caribbean

WHAT SCRIPTURE VERSE COULD HALLMARK THIS PAST YEAR OF YOUR LIFE? “Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship.” Romans 12:1 This year has been so intense. The Lord wants me to surrender my whole being to Him and seek Him first and with all my heart. He alone can satisfy my thirsty soul.

I have so much JOY when I see people truly satisfied in Christ. I think it is so attractive and a great source of joy when Christ is at the center.

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: artist. thinker. nurturer

I DESIRE TO BE KNOWN AS: faithful.

LEROY | Wisconsin

A SCRIPTURE THAT BEST HALLMARKS THIS PAST YEAR OF MY LIFE IS Romans 1:16, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek." As the world seemingly turns away from the true gospel of Jesus Christ, I have learned what it means to stand firm on the truths that are in His word. Fully knowing that the true gospel will be hated by the masses, and that we will be hated for His namesake, this last year has forged a fire in me to proclaim His name at any cost.

SOMETHING THAT GIVES ME JOY? It brings me great joy to be able to help someone who is in need. Knowing that throughout my walk following Christ I have had many great men and women of God come up along side of me in times of need, I strive to emulate those same characteristics for those around me. To be able to be the hands and the feet of Christ in this broken world is a great privilege.

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: protector. determined. thinker.

I DESIRE TO BE KNOWN AS: faithful.

GABRIELLA | California

WHAT SCRIPTURE VERSE COULD HALLMARK THIS PAST YEAR OF YOUR LIFE? “Your ears will hear a word behind you, “This is the way, walk in it,’ whenever you turn to the right of to the left.” Isaiah 30:21 God has directed my every step the past year and a half. I would never have thought I would be at the place I am at now, but praise the Lord, He has directed me! This year has been one grand adventure as God put me in different situations and placed new friends in my life. It has made me all the more excited for what is ahead!

Dancing around the living room with the two littles in my family, Ellie and Ben, GIVES ME JOY!

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: thinker. determined. adventurer

I DESIRE TO BE KNOWN AS A: servant.

MARANDA | California

IF I HAD 3 HOURS TO FILL ON A SATURDAY AFTERNOON I would definitely be in Barnes and Nobles. There is just so much goodness in there! Biographies, cookbooks, music, etc.

SOMETHING IN MY LIFE THAT BRINGS ME JOY IS my family. Especially being one on one with each person, learning their desires, passions, and dreams.

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: dreamer. loyal. servant.

I DESIRE TO BE KNOWN FOR BEING: determined.

JOSH | California

WHAT SCRIPTURE VERSE COULD HALLMARK THIS PAST YEAR OF YOUR LIFE? Proverbs 3:5-6 - “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” This past year, I’ve learned to trust God more than I ever had before. For example, I lost my cousin Landon in a car accident late last year, and throughout the entire ordeal, God was telling me to trust Him, and that He had a plan for all of this. He did, and it’s amazing to see what happens when us humans step down and let God take over. That was just one example of God asking me to trust in Him... Okay, Lord. I trust in You alone.

Making people laugh GIVES ME JOY! I consider it a privilege to make someone laugh, whether they laugh at my personality and what I do (this happens the most), or laugh at a joke that I’ve told. Laughter is the best medicine. Proverbs 17:22 - “A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.”

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: contemplative. protector. dreamer.

I DESIRE TO BE KNOWN AS A: servant.

STEVE | Minnesota

WHAT SCRIPTURE VERSE COULD HALLMARK THIS PAST YEAR OF YOUR LIFE? Isaiah 58:13-14 & Psalm 37:23-24, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and He delighteth in His way. Though he fall he shall not be utterly cast down; for the Lord upholdeth Him with His hand.” We know He leads us into green pastures, but I’ve learned He smiles (delights) upon the ordering of our footsteps down the path of Shadow as well. All of life is to form Christ in us!

Being poured out GIVES ME JOY! Feeding those who are hungry. One-on-one Father/Son and Father/Daughter time with my two girls and two boys. Seeing others grow in Christ.

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: artist. dreamer. contemplative.

I DESIRE TO BE KNOWN AS A: servant.

MELISSA | Tennessee

IF YOU COULD TRAVEL TO ANY PLACE IN THE WORLD, WHERE WOULD YOU GO AND WHAT WOULD YOU DO THERE? I would definitely go to Indonesia! It is such a beautiful country, and as the most populated Muslim country in the world, there is a dire need for the Gospel. If I could do anything while I'm there, I would work with an organization that rescues children from the streets and provides a home, an education, and most importantly: love.

WHAT SCRIPTURE VERSE COULD HALLMARK THIS PAST YEAR OF YOUR LIFE? Romans 5:3-5: "More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us."

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: nurturer. determined. loyal.

I DESIRE TO BE KNOWN FOR BEING A: servant.

MIKE & COURTNEY | Georgia

MIKE:

WHAT SCRIPTURE VERSE COULD HALLMARK THIS PAST YEAR OF YOUR LIFE? In the year of King Uzziah’s death I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, lofty and exalted, with the train of His robe filling the temple. Seraphim stood above Him, each having six wings: with two he covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. And one called out to another and said, “Holy, Holy, Holy, is the LORD of hosts,The whole earth is full of His glory.” And the foundations of the thresholds trembled at the voice of him who called out, while the temple was filling with smoke. Then I said, “Woe is me, for I am ruined! Because I am a man of unclean lips, And I live among a people of unclean lips; For my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.” Then one of the seraphim flew to me with a burning coal in his hand, which he had taken from the altar with tongs. He touched my mouth with it and said, “Behold, this has touched your lips; and your iniquity is taken away and your sin is forgiven.”Then I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?” Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!” He said, “Go, and tell this people:‘Keep on listening, but do not perceive; Keep on looking, but do not understand.’ “Render the hearts of this people insensitive, Their ears dull, And their eyes dim, Otherwise they might see with their eyes,Hear with their ears,Understand with their hearts, And return and be healed.” Isaiah 6:1-10

Seeing Jesus Christ cherished and loved above all things BRINGS ME GREAT JOY or just really when He is glorified in any way shape or form. I also love to preach and teach the Word of God. Not just behind a pulpit but in the car, on the phone, at the dinner table, everywhere I go, I love to talk about things of the Lord and dwell on Biblical truths. And of course my amazing wife-to-be Courtney is the greatest gift that the Lord has ever given me, she brings me inexpressible joy. She comes before any and every ministry or job that I have or ever will have and my greatest desire is to love her as Christ loved the Church and gave Himself up for it.

WHO FROM CHRISTIAN HISTORY HAS HAD THE GREATEST IMPACT ON MY LIFE? Although this may be just one step away from the Sunday school answer of "JESUS" I have to say that the Church in Acts has greatly impacted my life. I believe that Acts is not about men and women that we should know about but I believe that it is a map of what the true bride of Christ should look like. It is not just the supernatural abilities of this Church or the pouring out of the Spirit that I admire, it is the sacrifice, compassion and absolute surrender of each and every man and woman who claimed Christ. They knew the cost of discipleship, they knew what it truly meant to forsake all, take up their cross and follow the Lord Jesus Christ and they did not compromise as nearly all of the modern day Church does. I have met very few men in my life who resemble this type of discipleship and I myself certainly do not but I desire to follow the Lord like this Church, I desire to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ and no other.

COURTNEY:

Jesus Christ is my first love and He BRINGS ME MORE JOY than anything else could ever come close to. He is my life, my joy, my everything. After Him, I absolutely love spending time with my soon-to-be husband Michael.

WHAT SCRIPTURE VERSE COULD HALLMARK THIS PAST YEAR OF YOUR LIFE? “But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ. More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ.” (Phillipians 3:7-8)

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: faithful. joyful. optimistic.

I DESIRE TO BE KNOWN FOR BEING A: servant.

BRIANNA | California

WHAT SCRIPTURE VERSE COULD HALLMARK THIS PAST YEAR OF YOUR LIFE? Matthew 25:40 - “The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.”

IF I HAD 3 HOURS TO FILL ON A SATURDAY AFTERNOON I would go for a run on the cliffs above the ocean, go surfing, read, or spend time with friends.

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: adventurer. servant. joyful.

I DESIRE TO BE MORE: artistic.

ERIN | Arkansas

There are so many things that GIVE ME JOY! A few of my favorites are: my family, the giggles and laughter of children, God working in a friends life, serving others, God opened my eyes to more of Him, and flowers.

WHO FROM CHRISTIAN HISTORY HAS HAD THE GREATEST IMPACT ON MY LIFE? Amy Carmichael, Because of her selflessness and complete abandonment of her life to the will of God challenges me and encourages me! Amy's surrender and full abandonment is something I admire and am challenged by daily as I think about her story. She walked into the enemy's camp of evil and darkness, to snatch those little girls and boys from the his hold and brought them into the glorious light of Christ. Every time I hear a quote from her or read about her life, it challenges me and presses me forward in my relationship with Christ. This is one of my favorite quotes and has been my prayer many times: "Give me the Love that leads the way.The Faith that nothing can dismay.The Hope no disappointments tire. The Passion that'll burn like fire.Let me not sink to be a clod.Make me Thy fuel, Flame of God"

WHAT SCRIPTURE VERSE COULD HALLMARK THIS PAST YEAR OF YOUR LIFE? "A man's steps are directed by the LORD. How then can anyone understand his own way?" Proverbs 20: 24 and "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him,and He will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6 . Both these verses could sum up my entire life but especially this past year. God showed me Proverbs 20:24 last week and I just sat in an silence of amazement of the Lord because this was the verse that was a reminder of how the whole year had been and that He was control through it all. This past year has had its ups, downs, turns and zig-zags but its all brought me so much closer to Him than ever before! Even when I don't understand a direction, He does. So I'm to trust and have faith in my Heavenly Father, for He is directing my path and making it straight. What a great God we serve!

RACHEL | New Hampshire

Something that GIVES ME JOY is seeing people, especially children walking in God's way. I love teaching and caring for children. It so special to see them understand something new about God, and to know that has used me to teach it to them is amazing.

WHAT SCRIPTURE VERSE COULD HALLMARK THIS PAST YEAR OF YOUR LIFE? This verse really came to my attention as the theme of my high-school graduation. Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths.” It was hard not knowing what God had for me to. He has called me to give Him all of my desires and to allow Him to simply unfold His plan in His timing. God's direction in my life has been clearly evident. One example is He literally directed my steps to bring to where I work waitressing right now, then He has tested me through my work hours being reduced. He has revealed places where I doubted Him and tried to figure things out, or cope with difficulties on my own. Most of all He is instilling in me that He will never let me down. Even though I do not know the future, I know my God will tenderly walk with me through everything.

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: thinker. protector. servant.

I DESIRE TO BE KNOWN FOR BEING: faithful.

HANNAH | Virginia

I find NO GREATER JOY than seeing and hearing Jesus Christ glorified. I love seeing a sparkle of Jesus in another's eyes, that unspoken and understood adoration for Him. To watch the power of Christ redeem and save a lost and dying soul brings me inexpressible joy.

WHO FROM CHRISTIAN HISTORY HAS HAD THE GREATEST IMPACT ON MY LIFE? The greatest influence in my life is Jesus Christ alone. To hear His beckon call, to learn of His desire for me, to be led into repentance by His gentle guide, and to find life abundant in His victory is the inspiration of my life. His endless grace and mercy are a daily inspiration. His relentless love and faithfulness drives me into esteeming nothing more than to live poured out at His feet. I live inspired not only by what He has done, but in the hope of what He will do in future grace.

WHAT SCRIPTURE VERSE COULD HALLMARK THIS PAST YEAR OF YOUR LIFE? "Let us then in confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need" Hebrews 4:16 "...let us draw near with a true heart in FULL assurance of faith, with out hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful." Hebrews 10:22-23 "And the vessel he was making of clay was spoiled in the potter's hand, and he reworked it into another vessel, as it seemed good to the potter to do." Jeremiah 18:4

ALYSSA | South Carolina

IF I COULD TRAVEL TO ANY PLACE IN THE WORLD... Oh the many places I would go (and do hope to go), but if I had to pick one it would be Egypt. I have always wanted to see those monumental pyramids, visit the Valley of the Kings, see the Sphinx and Alexandria, gaze upon miles and miles of endless desert, and most of all sail along the Nile. Egypt has a culture and a history that intrigues me. But, even with all my tourist ideas, I really don't want to tour Egypt, I want to experience it--the land and the people who dwell in it.

I can truly say that I FIND JOY IN prayer. Even when I am not happy or when I am just downright distressed, all I have to do is talk to the Lord. It is sweet communion with Him that makes my heart smile even when my face can't.

THE PASSAGE THAT CAN BEST HALLMARK THIS PAST YEAR OF MY LIFE IS "Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there is any hurtful way in me; and lead me in the everlasting way." Psalm 139: 23-24 This has been the cry of my heart this past year. This season of life has been a time of uncertainty. The Lord has really been stretching my concept of Himself and my trust in Him. Constantly, I feel Him prodding, "Do you trust me Alyssa?" And my answer is, "Yes...but..." This past year has been about searching out those "but"s and surrendering every anxiety to the omnipotent Prince of Peace. I desire to walk in the everlasting way, and it is panful, but I want it more than anything.

ELIZABETH | New York

First and foremost, learning about Jesus BRINGS ME THE MOST JOY ever! I also really enjoy being active, whether it be running, biking, dancing, or any other athletic activity. I love that God made our bodies for motion and I get so much joy out of using my body the way God designed it. It's pretty neat that the same things which bring me pleasure also keep my body, the temple of the Holy Spirit, healthy and vibrant! It's a privilege to have the ability to bring Him glory by using my body in the way He intended.

WHAT SCRIPTURE VERSE COULD HALLMARK THIS PAST YEAR OF YOUR LIFE? "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" 2 Corinthians 5:17. I am thankful the Lord made me a new creation when I accepted Him as my Savior this past year. He continues to show me that sanctification is not a one-time event, but a daily process of letting go of the old and believing the new truth He is showing me. It's a painful process sometimes, but I'm encouraged by God's promise to complete the good work He has started in me (Philippians 1:6).

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: thinker. adventure. serious.

I DESIRE TO BE KNOWN FOR BEING: faithful.

ESTHERLINE | Haiti

I am from Cayes in the south of haiti. I am an education specialist and I have a bachelors degree in law. I am a LDP graduate of Compassion International. I’m very excited to participate at this training - this a big, a good opportunity for me to know and make much of this experience with God.

WHAT IS A FAVORITE SCRIPTURE OF YOUR LIFE? "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 I found many blessings in these words because I have a big responsibility with this training - I represent Haiti and will be going back to share this training with my local church and the LDP students of Compassion International. I believe God and know that He has many things to do for my country and wants to use me to make impact in it.

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME: honest. altruistic. adventurist. courageous.

I have faith in God and love my family and my country very much.