God wants our lives to be JOYFUL!

Just as many others have expressed, I was hesitant to take the $20. However, after looking at scripture and reaffirming God's movement as an active movement, I came to realize: how could I not take the $20? I talked with my friend Jess and we put our two $20 together to have $40.

Recently, in class, I have noticed that one of my professors really enjoys good Expo markers. A simple joy for her, but a joy nonetheless. By the time our lecture begins, it seems that the ink is gone in many of the markers available and it's diffiicult to see what is put on the white board. Anytime this professor finds a really good marker, she gets so excited and has a big smile on her face. Jess had noticed this for one of her professors too, and so we got an idea.

We went to Walmart and bought some really nice packs of Expo markers. Jess took some for her professor and I took some for mine, and we went to work. For my professor's markers, I wrote her name around the bottom of them, so that she knew they were all hers and on a little space along the sides, I wrote different Bible verses down. She make take notice to these, she may not. God will work in whatever way He plans... However, I pray she will find some interest =) I also bought a little marker box and wrote her name on it, so that she can keep all of her personal markers in there and take them to class with her. Finally, a couple of minutes ago, with the help of another professor, I opened up her office and put the box on her desk so that it'll be there for her first thing tomorrow morning.

When we first decided on this idea, I questioned whether this act was going produce the change and spreading of God's kingdom that we were seeking. I questioned the significance of a random act of kindness. After all, action is not random, it is deliberate. BUT, I came to realize that God wants us to live joyful lives. Duh Justine, right? He did not put us on this earth to be unhappy. And for me, many times it's the little unexpected joys that can change a difficult day into one of thanksgiving. So, I hope that maybe in this way, my professor will see the love God has for her and how He wants her to be joyful.

Also, Jess and I have our second $20 remaining. We have decided to use it on another professor, who is from Chile and is in her first year teaching. I have already spent time talking with this professor before and she has expressed to me that while she feels very welcome at Central, she always falls back into feeling like an outsider because of her differences. So, the other day, we asked her to dinner and I think the surprised, thankful look on her face was enough to spread joy to all three of our hearts. Unfortunately, she was sick the night of our dinner, so we can't rescheduled until after break. However, I can't wait to see what conversation opens up at that time. If God makes an entrance, AWESOME! If God just fills us with good company, AWESOME! He knows His plan is great and I know that His plan is much greater than mine! I'll make sure to post again after Thanksgiving!

Blessings and safe travels for all of you!

Justine