three years at Mercer: a recap
My time at Mercer was full of many things — growth, learning, finding community, and so much more. Here are just a few of the ways that I saw the Lord at work during my time at Mercer . . .
My time at Mercer has been many things. It’s been difficult, in ways, but it has also been one of the biggest seasons of growth. The Lord has used this time to teach me more about myself, those around me, and the community that He has placed me in. One of the ministries that has most marked my time at Mercer is Reformed University Fellowship (RUF). RUF has shown me the beauty of community, and I’ve learned how to see and live the gospel more in everyday life. Classes have been . . . well, they’ve been classes. But the Lord has shown me the beauty of leaning on Him, even in the lectures and the homework and the tests. I’m thankful for the last three years at Mercer. While they haven’t quite been “the best years of my life,” I wouldn’t trade them for anything.
I’ve worked a few different jobs throughout my time in Macon. A couple, though, have been significant in my walk with the Lord. I worked in the nursery at First Presbyterian Church for about a year and the nursery at Macon Community Bible Study for this spring semester. Two years ago, I wouldn’t have said that I “like” working with kids. But working with kids (mostly 2-3 year olds) has taught me SO much about life & the Lord. I might not like it at times, but I love it in the end. Every time one of my kids blatantly disobeys me, tries to sneak around me, or intentionally acts out, I am reminded of how I sometimes treat the Lord. I’m humbled every time I walk into the classroom when I begin to see my own heart in the heart and actions of a 2 year old. I’m then brought to remember the grace that the Father has so kindly given me, and I have no alternative but to do my best to show that same grace and kindness to the kids I’m teaching. Kids are also some of the sweetest, most selfless people I know. They continue to love me, even though they are blissfully unaware of how stressed I am from classes, work, etc…. kids are always ready to have fun, and that is such a joy!
Another place where I’ve found community and mentorship is my internship at First Presbyterian Day School (FPD). The past year and a half that I’ve spent in the communications department has been such a joy! The Lord has graciously given me so many connections through this school, and both of my supervisors have poured into me with a wealth of knowledge and encouragement. Everyone I’ve met at this school has been so kind and welcoming, and it truly does feel like a family. I’m so thankful the Lord brought me to FPD during this season!
In a week, I will be moving back to Statesboro, Georgia, where I grew up. The Lord has led me to an administrative role with Fostering Families Georgia and Camp7, two nonprofit efforts that seek to share the love of Christ with children and families in crisis situations in real, tactile ways. While the job itself is not a huge transition from much of the work that I already do (I have been helping in small ways with these two efforts for years now), the shift in location is going to be impactful. To be honest, it’s scary to move to a new place. Even though I grew up in Statesboro, almost all of my friends are in the Middle Georgia area. I know that the Father is pulling me into this season to grow my relationship with Him, but I will still miss much of my community in Macon! I’m so thankful for my time there and all of the wonderful, lifelong friendships I made.
The main takeaways I have from my three years are Mercer are 1) community is so important and 2) sanctification is nonnegotiable.
1) Community! The Christian life is not lived fully if it is not lived in community. We are a people made to be with others, learn from others, and grow with others. Finding a group of people that will grow with you is of utmost importance!
2) Sanctification. The Christian life is not a one-time decision with an add-on option of sanctification. A heart that is truly hungry for the Lord will continually desire his refining, shaping, and molding, even when it’s scary or it hurts. Sanctification can be scary, but it is oh-so-beautiful! Let the Father mold you! His vision for you is far greater than anything you could dream of for yourself.
I’m sure there are many more lessons and stories that I could share, but these are some of the ones that stick out the most to me. I hope they bless you and encourage you!
- Kate
