Well this week is going to be crazy awesome/bittersweet.  This week I get to preach in our Sunday Services, but before that something crazy cool is going to happen.

Julia Smith, pictured above, is heading out to Ohio for Operation Barnabas.  Operation Barnabas (also known as OB) is a 7-weekish ministry training trip for Juniors and Seniors in High School.  I have seen incredible changes in students through this trip and am excited that Julia is taking the step to do this.

So, since my handwriting sucks and I can get away with poor grammar on this blog, here is my letter to Julia:

Dear Julia,

I’m so excited for you to go on OB this year.  I  have seen so much life change in other students and cannot wait to see what God does in your heart and life through serving people and other churches.

You have such a servant’s heart and I have always appreciated that about you!  You are always willing to pick up and help wherever needed and that’s the kind of people that OB supports and loves.

I have no doubt that you will have a great experience and grow closer to God through this experience.  My prayer is that God will stretch you and challenge you so much that you lean on Him and by His grace have endurance to complete the tasks given to you.

In the past 2 years of working at the church I have seen so much spiritual growth come out of you.  You are truly a leader in our youth group’s eyes.  We all admire your maturity and your patience with many things.

May God bless you these next 7 or so weeks as you travel to different states and churches and come into contact with people.  I know you will succeed and go very far and am excited to hear all of the stories when you get back!

We’ll all be praying for you!

In Christ,

Pastor Chris