Week two was better than week one. The relationships grew to a new level and the classes were less about administrative things (I know we need those classes but they are not my favorite).
By far, my favorite class (as far as information) was Missiology Theology with Prof. Paul York. He discussed the heart of God for missions throughout the bible. What has God said about missions throughout His word, His story for us. He in many ways reminds me of Pastor Chad Harvey of Raleigh First Assembly in Raleigh, NC. He has a way of taking a very complex subject and without reducing the depth of the information, he can make it so easy to understand. Both men could speak for hours and hours and I am captivated and hungry for every word.
Thursday was the big day. We still has a few classes in the morning and we took a group MA picture. (for now, I am going to refrain from posting it due to some going to sensitive countries) It was a fun day. I was able to spend some time with the Nelsons. That night, we had our commissioning ceremony. I am looking into getting the full audio or possibly even video. It was a special time for me to be there being commissioned with good friends and to also have both the Nelsons, who I will be serving under and the Penleys who have been incredible friends and spiritual mentors for me. That moment was a defining point in my life. The call to missions became a lot heavier. Not to say that the call wasn't weighty already, but something happened in the moments when John Bueno was giving the charge and it was like Paul was speaking to me. There is a greater level of fear and respect for what I have been called to do. I am excited about what the future holds for me.
Here is an edited version of the audio.
