Focus

And thus I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone else's foundation, but as it is written, "Those who have never been told of him will see, and those who have never heard will understand."

Romans 15:20-21 (ESV)

After I typed that verse, I began to search for a quote to put after it. Something deep and inspiring, with words like 'vision' and 'perseverance'; something that would set the tone for my update and bring to mind life's big picture. As I looked, I found some uplifting, "never give up" quotes, and some stern, "no distractions" quotes. I even found several "stop and smell the roses" quotes, and wondered if those might be better. So many different perspectives on life--all from great people--but which to choose? Which was right? Then, I began to realize what I was really asking: What is the truth? What does it mean to have focus, and where should mine be? Immediately, another quote came to mind, this time from a truly unquestionable source. It was the perfect quote, providing the truth about focus and a big-picture view of real life. And you'll never guess where I found it. (:

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith^, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.

Hebrews 12:1-2 (ESV)

The Romans passage defines my race. It is the terrain, the twists and turns, the course I am running. If I know the terrain, I can run...but nothing more. It is in the Hebrews verses I find my goal. Fixing my eyes on Christ--the goal, the example--puts the rest of life in clear perspective. That's something I definitely need. I have many strengths, but single-minded focus is NOT one of them. Fortunately, I have a God who is bigger than that and a Bible to bring things back into focus.

I especially appreciate that perspective right now; there are so many exciting things happening! If you've been following my updates, you know that my plan after NTBI was to work toward my Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Friends University here in Wichita, KS. First, though, I  was planning to complete my undergraduate studies at a community college, where my financial aid would be able to cover all of the (much lower) costs. It seems, though, that God has a different plan.

A few days ago, I met with admissions and financial aid at Friends University, and discovered that I was eligible for scholarships that would cover more than two thirds of my tuition! This means it is actually possible for me to attend Friends this fall, and I'm moving full speed in that direction. I will be also be checking into some departmental scholarships (in addition to the scholarships I've already received) to bring down my cost in any way I can.

When I returned from Wisconsin at the beginning of the summer, I got a job at a Hampton Inn just two miles from the apartment I am renting with several friends. The job in itself has been a huge blessing; the management is Christian, and the best I have ever worked under. They are also willing to work with my schedule, giving me full-time hours in the summer and less during the school year. Once again, God has proven Himself more faithful, caring, wise, and powerful than I could have ever imagined!

I am so thankful for your faithful prayer support, and I ask for it now more than ever. It seems like everything is happening at once, and it's so easy to get distracted by the little things. Pray that I will keep my focus true. School and work are not the only things happening in my life--Pray for me as I reconnect with my home church. I want that relationship to be something that grows deep and strong over the next few years, and I want to be involved with what God is doing there. Finally, pray that God will continue to provide, as He has in the past, for my schooling. I've projected my budget for this coming semester, figuring up my living expenses and estimated income. I'll be able to put a significant amount toward my tuition, but I'll still come up short. I don't know where that extra is going to come from, but I truly believe that this is where God has me, and if that is true, then He WILL provide. Our God never fails.

If you feel God leading you to get more involved with this next step just reply to this email and let me know.

As always, I'd love to hear from you for any reason! I really enjoy praying for you guys and hearing what's going on in your lives. Feel free to shoot me an email anytime at this address.

In Christ Alone,

Deborah Burnham