Thankful and Merry

The second half of the first semester was powerful as students encountered God in new ways and with all-new intensity. The books we read (“After God’s Own Heart” by Mike Bickle and “Forgotten God” by Francis Chan) stirred hearts toward deeper intimacy with God. Students remarked how their families noticed dramatic changes in them, when they returned from their restful trips back home.

Jodie and I, as well, have been stirred by some of the books we’re reading and conversations we’re having. “Abba’s Child” by Brennan Manning, “Strengthening the Soul of Your Leadership” by Ruth Haley Barton and “The Return of the Prodigal Son” by Henri J. M. Nouwen were some of the recent reads that have been steering us on our journey, and I also recommend “God in my Everything” by Ken Shigematsu, which is helpful for developing healthy living patterns for those who struggle with non-stop busyness and achievement.

Friends and family joined us this winter. We love having people out to see us and now that we’re in a 3 bedroom house next door to Rev5, we can comfortably accommodate guests. So book your trip now! (I’ve seen some very cheap flights advertised on Kayak.com and TripAdvisor.com)

We were deeply encouraged by an impromptu get-together with Rev5 Class of 2013 students during a visit from one of our international students. As we shared dinner and highlights of the last couple years, it was clear that the time and energy invested in these students had not gone to waste. They were living our their mission statements and each on paths of faithful obedience to Jesus.

Camdyn is healthy and walking all over the place. She’s perfected her first word, “more” and just said her second word yesterday, “nana” — which is short for “banana”. Yes folks, we have a food-lover on our hands.

By the time that I write this, we’ve already been on our first retreat of the new year with Revolution5 Class of 2015. We called it “Simply Jesus” and took a look at some of the qualities of Christ, with each of the Rev5 staff getting a chance to teach. We also read through the entire book of Matthew and spent two days snowshoeing in the mountains. It was a beautiful time of rest, recreation and rejuvenation.

If you have been thinking about jumping on board and being a part of the Rev5 mission through financial support, now is a great time! We encountered a few extra unforeseen payroll costs and are still raising funds for staff salaries and student scholarships. Click here to make a one-time or monthly donation to Revolution5 Leadership Institute.