The Excitement of it all!

Another reason I love the beginning of a new year at Moody is the renewed passion for the Lord's work not only in my life and the lives of my friends, but His work in the city as well. Tonight we had a meeting for the Big Brother Big Sister program that reaches out to kids living in the local low-income housing projects known as Cabrini Green. Not only am I a Big Sister, I'm doing my Practical Christian Ministry in the after school program offered in Cabrini Green.

I've always loved working with kids who live in rough circumstances. Last year, the Lord ignited a passion in my heart for the kids of Cabrini Green. Tears come to my eyes any time I think of the girls and boys living in a way no one should have to live. I've been in "homes" where the guardians actually yell and hit the children in front of me. I've experienced the anger, violence, and hatred steeping inside the kids because this is what has been engraved into their mind. I've seen the horrible way young women are treated, even at the young age of 11. Love is rare so these kids become so attached to anyone who will show them any form of friendship or care....it tears me up inside thinking about what goes on the six days of the week I don't see my little sister. I wish I could live right in the community, forget about school, and devote every fiber of my being to showing the kids and their families the love of Christ and the freedom He brings to those who trust in Him.

Last year, I was having a huge battle in my heart about whether or not God wanted me at Moody. I love Moody, but I don't want to teach in any old Christian school. God gave me a fiery passion to work with those who can't afford an education like that - those who need the love of Christ more than they need anything else. When I brought this concern before the Lord, He answered me. I found an organization that has established a Christian school in Watts, the Los Angeles projects. At some point in my life, I would love to teach there.

Right now, God has me studying at Moody. While I'm here, I want to become heavily involved in Cabrini Green and show His love to the people. Though I don't know exactly what God has for my future, He has given me a passion for inner-city children and I will give everything I am to honor Him through this gift!

Patiently pursuing God's plan,
Briana