Baptism Party

Today was amazing. Jeanne, my dear girlfriend from Paris, got baptised. In Canada the 23rd of May is Victoria day, that means it's a holiday so we have a day off. Baptisms usually finding place in church but she had the desire to get baptised in nature. I can tell you this was a bold decision since the water temperature of the lake is barely 7 degrees C... and I talk about full immersion baptism. We got 5 cars packed with excited students, guitar and food, marching on to Mississauga, a 25 min. drive. A beautiful spot; white sand, birds, the sun shining through the clouds and freezing cold water haha. We started worshipping, no caring about other people who were hanging out in the park, it was just us and God. Jeanne had asked Anish and I to baptise her, which was a great honour to me! Baptism is a beautiful picture of fully surrendering your life to Jesus. Going under. A testimony of your love for Him. Symbol of the cleansing, the forgiveness of all your sins by Jesus death and resurrection. Knowing and receiving that you are unconditional accepted, loved, approved in this best ever relationship. Afterwards, on the shore, the group surrounded her, praying and prophesying over her life. So powerful. Such a joy.

Outreach

The course is almost ending for me, I'm graduating this Thursday 26. The other students, who are here for 4 months in person, are completing the training with an outreach. Reaching out to other people, sharing what they have received during this intens equipping. One group to the UK, one group heading USA. But practicing ministry doesn't happen only there, we do it here all the time. For example, last Sunday, I was on the ministry team in church. People who needed prayer were invited to come to the front and we prayed with them. Thankfully in pairs; the band was playing and I didn't always understand what they were telling. But it was a great time. And last week, we prepared a sort of testimony broadcast on the FB page of the school. I was asked to tell how I met Jesus. I love to tell, but on camera.., live...in a 2nd language... that's a real challenge. Fear of failure starts bothering me. Fear of being vulnerable joins the party in my head. Not fun. Debating with myself and God. But I did. Was it perfect? No. Was I nervous? Yes. But I believe that there will be someone who's blessed by it. It's worth it. If you like to watch: School of Ministry, see video's. Theme "Come as you are". Also on my FB page.

Fun

My jaws are hurting. Of laughing. We have so much fun. Every day is a surprise. Unexpected encounters. Like dinner with my other cousin. Didn't expect that it would work out in these busy weeks but it did! Or schedule changes.. which is still stretching;) because I love structure and to go by the plan. Nothing wrong with that, but actually life is much more adventurous if you can let go of the agenda. I was planning on joining Anish' birthday. But all the time no one could tell what time or how that would be celebrated. Even on the day itself, Anish seemed to be somewhere on a surprise party with old friends and I didn't hear anything so finally I decided to let it go and I went to Starbucks to work on my sermon for a few hours. I 'd skipped dinner, totally focussed, then suddenly, 8 pm my phone ringed: Anish. "Hey, where are you, we are going to an Indian restaurant, we are in de car, ready to go." I was like: "huh, what? O yes, sure, nice!" Dropped my homework, walked the 20 min. back, changed my shorts for something warmer and all the time 4 people were patiently waiting for me in the car.. Could this be done more efficient, yes. Did it matter, no. I had dinner at 10pm and cheesecake at 11pm. Not really my ideal daily rhythm, but did it matter? In fact, I enjoyed the spontaneity and the freedom. I enjoyed Anish' happiness.  

What's next?

I've yet 3 full packed days ahead at the school and Friday I'm flying out to Los Angeles. Although I feel sad for wrapping up this time at the school and to say goodbye, I'm looking forward to be with Lotte again, Ryan and hopefully this time I 'll meet my relatives as well. And do I miss Peter and Sanne and Jesse, of course I do. When I'm back, I'm going to enjoy them twice.

For all photos click on "photos" in the menu. That's a complete set.

Love, thanks so much for supporting my journey! Marieke