nowhere to hide

The last few weeks I've been studying Jonah. Everyone has heard the story over and over but the Lord has truly taught me to see Jonah from a new perspective. Jonah avoids Nineveh and "rose up to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord." He tried to put some space between him and God. I've started to ask myself- how am I running from the Lord? My first thought was, "I followed him to China! I'm definitely not running from him." But as I started to question my motives, I realized I still run from him...in less obvious ways. I often avoid having a face-to-face encounter with the Lord.


Whenever I feel like I am unworthy or "too sinful," I ultimately punish myself by fleeing from God's presence. His presence can be the most comforting or the most burdensome if I am avoiding his direction or correction.

Last semester I spent the majority of my time avoiding the Lord. My heart was hardened to him. I felt like he wasn't choosing to use me in China. I lost hope and faith. This year I am praying the Lord will change my mindset. I will choose to have hope. I will choose to believe in God's Word and I'll pursue God's presence. Even if that means he chooses to correct me or direct me to a new place.

the smoggy city has been kind of beautiful the last couple weeks

watching the Auburn Clemson game, war eagle anyways!

the boys decided to get hamsters

this one's name is Sam

proud parents

This one's name is Kelsey

Kelsey chewing on a sunflower seed