December 2023 - Reflecting on the First Semester

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Happy New Year!! 2024 is here!

I hope this holiday season you have been able to find peace and rest, reflecting on the arrival of our Savior - Emmanuel.

December marks the end of my first semester being a minister at Dallas College! As I reflect on this semester, I am astonished at all that God has done. Before my eyes, I have seen the students in our ministry mature in their faith and grow in love for God and each other. Several of them have faced challenges, but have persevered and sought to remain steadfast through it all. I am so proud of them and thankful to God!

As a first-year minister / pastoral apprentice, I have often found myself (metaphorically) waddling around in shoes a few sizes too big for me. I have been given the task to shepherd students toward God, to be a peacemaker in our community when conflict arises, to speak truth even when it is difficult to say, and to care for the various spiritual, emotional, and physical needs that come up. At the age of 23, I feel so young and unsure of myself at times. I lack the wisdom that is born of time. In so many situations, I have had no choice but to depend on God and the more experienced campus pastors for wisdom. I find myself wondering what Jesus would do in some of the circumstances we are presented. How do we best show the students the love of Jesus?

I find hope in the words of Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:9 -
"But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me."

I have worked hard, asked a lot of questions, sought advice from mentors, and grown a lot this semester. Yet, at the end of the day, I cannot take credit for any of it. It is the grace of God that makes any of this possible. I am just so grateful that He allows me to partner in Him in this beautiful work of buiding His kingdom on earth!

I love you guys! Please reach out if there is any way I can be praying for you :)

Veronica


Here is Kaitlyn, Freyesus, Jincy, and Samy! They have been such a joy to study scripture with throughout this past semester!


Here are some photos from Christmas! On the top left, our family friends the Akinpelus; on the top right, a picture from church (Kazayet and I got to participate in the choir! Can you spot that tall man? :) ); on the bottom left, my immediate family (the Seders!), and the bottom right with my extended family (the Tirones). It was a special and memorable holiday!


 

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