It’s Sunday morning and I should be studying. Instead I’m sitting here at my small desk thinking of all my friends and family back home patiently waiting for the next college update. Since I last wrote I’ve sat through 6 classes, been overwhelmed by my syllabi, finished settling into my room, trekked the beautiful Greenway, been to a department party, a student dedication, a dinner for any kids who did not attend an Adventist academy, my first Convocation, all before getting to the weekend. To put it simply, I’ve been busy. Just as things were getting extremely crazy… God gave me the Sabbath.
Friday, after several hours of study, MJ and I stashed our books in their weekend hiding spots, threw on some tennis shoes, and headed for the Greenway. Located by the campus duck pond, the Greenway is a paved walking trail approximately 2 miles (one-way) long that winds through a wood. With each bend of the trail more and more stress melted away as we approached the Sabbath hours. A refreshing shower immediately followed and then we were off to our first SAU vespers.
Sabbath was the best day of my week. Much needed sleep was gotten preparing me for a blessing-packed day. First off, Sabbath school and church at North River SDA Church in downtown Chattanooga. The Sabbath school was packed and the topic was very inspiring. Song service was great and the sermon was incredibly thought provoking. After a yummy potluck my car load of ladies (and a gentleman) headed for the school.
At 3:00 a few of us re-loaded and jumped in line behind the school van on our way to the nursing home. Talk about blessings! The people there were so appreciative. We split into 2’s and 3’s and went room to room singing, talking, and praying with the residents. As I gazed upon these dear people, children of God, stuck in a hospital bed or, at best, a wheelchair, my heart was touched. Once again I was struck with the realization that, until Jesus comes, each and every human being is subject to the life I was witnessing. Bringing a smile to their faces or a thank-you from their lips was as simple as singing a hymn, listening to them, or praying with them. I left that building with a new outlook on life and a determination to visit again soon.
Nearly as soon as my car pulled into the school parking lot it was re-loaded with new people and our caravan of over 40 people made it’s way to Red Clay State Park for a hike and vespers. Testimonies were shared, nature was experienced, and a worship thought shared. We mingled with new people and visited with friends. Driving back to the school once again, we were blessed with a breath-taking view of the setting Tennessee sun. God is so good.
And now for a few pictures. Enjoy!
Our very cozy room at sunrise
MJ attempting to study A&P
The affect it had on her (she’ll probably kill me for posting this)
My amazing suitemate, Temple, and I before church
MJ and I in front of our lovely dorm before church
