Did that really happen???

My week got off to a rough and unexpected start as my car was impounded during the wee hours of Monday morning. Without realizing it, I had parked in front of a driveway Sunday night, so when the people I blocked needed to leave at 2:30 a.m., they had my car towed. Imagine my surprise to not find my car where I parked it! After much stress, a ride from my kind roommate and a pricey ransom, I was reunited with my car in time to go to work. Even in the midst of such a wretched situation, there were many things to thank God for:

1. I was able to get to work on time.
2. I had the funds to cover the cost.
3. The impound place was only a few miles from where I lived.
4. My car wasn't stolen (my first thought when I realized it was missing)
5. My sanctification (spiritual growth)

Furthermore, as I was reflecting on the event, I was reminded of God's grace. I broke the law in ignorance and suffered the consequences (paying a fine). Even though I didn't realize I had broken the law, I was still guilty. The same is true with God's Law. Even when I don't realize when I break His Law, I am still guilty. As a result, I deserve the consequences - hell. BUT there is good news. Unlike the impound place, there is Someone who paid the penalty for me (because I could never pay it on my own): Jesus Christ. He came and lived a perfect life (without sin) and then was brutally tortured and nailed to a cross where He died - bearing God's full wrath for sin (my sin and your's). God raised Him from the dead three days later and now He lives forevermore. For those who repent of their sins and trust in Christ, they are no longer guilty before God. Their fine has been paid. This is Good News for ALL peoples!

On a different note: I had a nice visit in Missouri. I was once again back in the kitchen where I made baked mostaccioli and a cheap version of Tiramusi (chocolate and coffee, I mean, can you go wrong?). My mom had this recipe for Twinkie Tiramusi. I admit I was very skeptical because I am not a snack-cake fan, but it was actually really good and tasted a lot like the real thing (but cost way less). I will definitely make again.

Next Stop: MO

Last weekend I went to visit Sarah in AL for Labor Day. It was a quick trip but we made the most of it. We went to a drive-through safari and the science center (which pales in comparison to the FREE one in St. Louis). Next weekend I will be heading to MO as is my custom around my sister's birthday. I am really looking forward to hanging out with her on Friday. I told her to clear her calender for me. :) I have really been missing her lately.

I met my language partner last night. She is a doll and I absolutely adore her. She is from China and is working on her Master's in Biostatistics at the University of Louisville. We spent several hours getting to know one another and I even got to tell her about the Way. I am really looking forward to see what God has in store for our friendship.

I got a bed last weekend for $20! Probably the best $20 I have ever spent. :) My good friends (and former house-parents) are going to give me a desk they no longer want. These are both gifts from the Lord for which I am very thankful.

I already have packed boxes to take home next weekend as I think about moving again in December. Next semester (Lord willing), I will be in South Asia. I am scheduled to leave in January and will be gone for six months. This is for sure the biggest thing the Father has ever called me to do, but I know that He will be with me and I am very excited to be about His work. Please keep me in mind as I raise pr support and financial support in the coming weeks. Eph 3:20