a year ago, colorado was such a strange idea to me. i had no idea the impact God would have on me and how much He would show me His grace and love through these people. i had no idea how much the gospel could bring people from all different backgrounds together to pursue Jesus. i had no idea i would meet some of my best friends, and that from thousands of miles away, they would still love on me and continue to encourage me to live life out of the grace God has given me. 

last summer, i fell in love with colorado, with fort collins, and with adventure. but most of all, i fell in love with Jesus. and this year, God has not failed to pursue me. He was faithful to show me that He’s already forgiven me for all the times i’ve failed and will fail, and He’s already given me grace to be returned to unending joy.

Most people, if they look acutely into their own hearts, will know that they long for something this world can never give them.
Tim Keller (via heyymcg)

If you knew who God made you to be, you’d never want to be anyone else.
Bill Johnson  (via stefsjo)

To be a Christian is to be part of the Body of Christ. We are meant to help each other fight for joy.

- When I Don’t Desire God by John Piper, pg. 173

so thankful for authentic community in cru and for a future one in phoenix

joy

that comes from knowing that failure after failure, God’s grace is enough for me. He’s done it all, so that my failures won’t be counted against me.

…Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus…

-Romans 7:14-8:17 (NIV)

Going through the motions doesn’t please you, a flawless performance is nothing to you. I learned God-worship when my pride was shattered. Heart-shattered lives ready for love don’t for a moment escape God’s notice.

- Psalm 51:16-17 (Message)