Michelle and Brandon

Nate and I have recently joined a new small group with a few people from our church. Michelle and Brandon organized the small group and graciously host every other week. While none of us really knew each other very well before the group started, we have meshed incredibly well and all seem to be very comfortable with each other. Michelle and Brandon chose a study guide for 1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd John. Those are the books of the bible we are going to study for the next several weeks. While our group has only just gotten started and we have met three times, we have had some great discussions so far. We had an amazing discussion at our last meeting on Thursday about prayer, what it means for our “joy to be complete,” and we talked about the mystery and beauty of eternal life through Jesus. We are challenged this week to think about how we testify to the world about this gift of eternal life.

Michelle and Brandon have been such a blessing to all of us. They are wonderful hosts, making us feel comfortable, relaxed, and welcome. They help us stay on track so we discuss what we plan on discussing, and the insights they share from their own personal walks of faith are so wonderful to hear. I already feel like I have learned so much in just a few short weeks. Thank you so much Michelle and Brandon for inviting us to be a part of your group and for your leadership. You are truly a blessing to us!          

Love,

Andrea  

Natalie

Natalie is one of those special people who you remember after only meeting once. I think it’s her smile and the way she seems to relate to you right away. She has a natural way of making people feel comfortable and accepted. And besides that, she is always up for a good time, never wanting to miss the fun! She and I knew each other through out middle school and high school, but it was as college roommates that we really got to know each other. When you live together for 2 years, you share all kinds of experiences… going to class together, cooking meals together, staying up late watching Food Network, studying for finals (or distracting each other from studying is more like it! lol), and of course, talking!! Natalie and I have had some of the most intriguing, thought-provoking, and challenging conversations, which I love! There’s nothing better than getting past the surface and diving in to talk about real life.

Natalie, you are one of my favorite people in the whole world! You are beautiful, intelligent, courageous, and fun… others just brighten up when they're around you. Never stop searching for the ultimate treasure this life has to offer. I know you will find it, and it will change your world.

Love you!

Sil

Janice

Janice is a fellow high school youth group leader at our church. Nate and I have had the privilege of working with her over the past 2 years, and she continues to bless us with her wisdom, guidance, and fun personality. 

At our last youth group meeting, Janice led a discussion with several students who have traveled to Kenya on a mission trip with the church. Janice also went to Kenya with the church, and has so many interesting stories from her time there. It was such a joy to see Janice lead the students the other night. She has a passion for Jesus and helping students find their way to Him. She never hesitates to jump in on the icebreakers and games we play with the students. She even came to JumpStreet with us for our Christmas party. I love the way Janice always helps us bring our plans for youth group back to the heart of the matter - Jesus and prayer. Janice, I truly love you and the way you interact with people. (I know the students love you too!) Youth group just wouldn't be the same without you! 

Looking forward to our prayer series with the students!

Love, Andrea