Commissioning!

Well, I have been commissioned! I was called before the congregation of Red Mountain Church, PCA yesterday. I was asked to explain what my duties will be while at JAF, and what this means to me. I was asked why I chose JAF. I was asked what I hope to gain from this experience. My answer to all of that is really simple, really. Living with a disability myself, I understand the importance of mobility, and its aid to independence. I want to give every child the chance at a life of inclusion, and the first step to that is giving them "magic legs," as Forrest Gump would say, and a lot of times, those legs come in the form of wheels. I am so thankful for my wheelchair, and the freedom that it grants me. If I am being honest, I take it for granted sometimes. I pray that this experience helps me to truly count my blessings, to be thankful and NOT take my own "magic legs" for granted.

I hope that this internship opportunity will open doors for me to work in the non-profit sector, where children are the immediate beneficiary. I want children to have an advocate in their corner to help ensure they have the richest, fullest lives ever! If that comes in the form of sharing the love and faithfulness of Jesus, well, then, that makes it all the better!

Being commissioned was special for me. The elders of my church prayed over me, my brother included. After the prayer, he gave me a hug. Very special. Very sweet. I had an impressive cheering section, and while some of those closest to me could not be in attendance, they were there with me in spirit!

I had a few people snap just a few photos so that it could be documented here...

 My name is in print in the RMC bulletin...

 Speaking before the congregation.

 Being commissioned!

My precious family

 My pastor, Tom, his wife, Dawn, church administrator, Karen Sullivan, and me after the service.

Tom and me are looking positively goofy.

And there you have it! Six days and counting...