I am going to include the letter that was read to me at my graduation. It sort of wraps up this past year from someone else's perspective. Graduation was a time where we celebrated the Lord and His work in our lives this year.
The letter was written by Amy Hobson, LeadTime Assistant Director (a.k.a.--one of the main people pouring into me last year).
"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God." Matthew 5:6-8
Amber,
I love these verses for you. I think they acknowledge your strengths and your desires. And I think they give insight into God's work in your life this year. He doesn't always work in typical ways, but He is always faithful and always loving. Over and over this year I have seen Him meet you and speak to you in personal and meaningful ways.
The first verse I read is an easy fit for you--you hunger and thirst for righteousness. Integrity is of utmost importance to you , and your character is a virtue. As I was praying for you, however, the words that stood out to me the most were "pure in heart." Even more than your desire for righteousness, I admire your purity of heart. Very early on I got a glimpse into your heart and I loved what I saw. As the year has continued, knowing you more has only affirmed what I noticed then--that you have a heart I can trust. There is such beauty and goodness there, such deep love for people and concern for their welfare. You long to know God and are willing to go through the fire for His namesake. You are bold and courageous, even when it's hard for you. And as this verse says, the pure in heart will see God. That is His promise. And He has been faithful. You have seen God time and time again. He has provided for you , comforted you, affirmed you, and strengthened you. He hasn't always taken away the tension or the struggle, but as you've walked through the fire, He has been with you, and you know Him more deeply and trust Him more fully. When our hearts are pure, our eyes aren't hindered from seeing His presence and work around us. You see His work, and I believe you'll continue to recognize Him in inspiring ways.
Finally, this verse speaks about a love for mercy. This year you've expressed a desire to "do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God." As you seek to love mercy, God continues to bring your strengths into balance. And you will know and experience His great mercy in deeper ways, as well. God has brought many Truths to the forefront of your mind this year. He has loved and refined you, and I know His work in your life will continue. Your committed and convinced that He is worth it. And your life speaks that Truth to me as I watch you.
Thank you for all the ways you have loved and served this year, Amber. I'm excited to see what good things the Lord has in store for your future.
Love,
Amy
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