I'm here!

So I’m not really sure how a blog is suppose to work, but I’m going to treat it as a journal for the weeks I am here in Church Hill.

I flew into Richmond and my good friend Mackenzie Mumey and the father of my host family, Matt, picked me up from the airport. The flight was a time devoted to prayer and that prayer being interrupted by the man sitting next to me. I also read, on the flight, “What Good Is God?” (for the second time), which was a great spiritual tool for me in the past and I think it is a great resource for me at this time. I prayed for an open mind and for the Lord to use me in any way He sees fit.

During the flight, I kept coming back to the word grace. I here this word tossed around a lot and I understand the meaning behind it, but while reading I got another aspect of grace.

The Lord has forgiven me of my sins through his amazing grace, but do I walk and live in that grace? Do I live my life as if I were washed clean of all unrighteousness? Am I free of my prior sins and walk in confidence in what Jesus did for me?

I’m not really sure. I hope so. Guilt and prior scars are things we all deal with, but more and more, I am realizing that the Lord’s grace is not only for my eternal security after I die, but something I can be confident in, in the midst of trials and tribulations here on earth. I think the Lord is revealing things to me so that I am prepared for whatever I encounter. I am here in Richmond and have no expectations and have put no stranglehold on God’s direction for me. I know He is limitless and will direct me in any way He pleases.

I experienced my first drive through Church Hill and I got to see the housing projects and “rough” parts of the neighborhood. I think my favorite part of CHAT will be actually living in the community that I will serve. The house that I am staying at is right in Church Hill and is a historic and beautiful house. I have not met the entire family yet because I arrived late at night, but I am excited to meet the wife and the two young kids, Jack and Clark, in the morning. I am thrilled to be here and my first real day starts tomorrow!

Peace and Love,

Tyler