"Thank you for explaining so clearly the difference between Paul's and James's views. It answered a question I've had for a long time. Now I understand the proper place for good works in salvation." (MDiv 2 Shan New Testament Theology student, all smiles)
"Amazing! I've never had that experience before!" (MDiv 1 Chin student, who heard God's voice in the prayer meditation exercise during Group Spiritual Direction. The Spirit told him that he needs to work for harmony in his broken relationships.)
"I heard a voice in my head say over and over again, 'Use your mind. Use your mind. Use your mind.' I am normally so controlled by my changing emotions. This was a very helpful word to me!" (MDiv. 2 Kayin student, filled with renewed hope and joy after Group Spiritual Direction)
"Now I realize for the first time that forgiving others is loving myself!" (MDiv 2 Lisu Christian Spirituality student after a class on loving others and forgiveness)
I've been back in Myanmar for just under two weeks and every day I see God blessing our ministries here in ways that fit with our mission to "teach, inspire, and encourage leaders, equipping them to serve Christ more effectively." Since returning, I'm now teaching four courses--my assigned three (New Testament Theology, Christian Spirituality, and Romans), plus giving special lectures for three weeks in Homiletics. It's not uncommon to hear students talk about new insight, greater understanding, and even life-changing experiences through the classes and meetings.
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MIT students working on assignments in class |
Outside the classes and groups, every day offers multiple opportunities to speak into the life of one or more students. For example, one evening a Karen student leader, who was troubled deeply after a student from another seminary was killed over the break on a mission trip, came to me searching for some answers. We spent over 90 minutes talking about disillusionment and appropriate expectations for those who put their trust in God. This was one of those timely Spirit-led conversations that can make a huge difference in the faith and ministry of this future pastor.
Thank you for helping to make this ministry happen and so fruitful. Please keep praying for me, especially over the coming weeks. The fall and the upcoming three months are the most concentrated times of ministry of the whole year.