Footsteps of Paul

So I just spent the past 2 1/2 weeks touring Greece and Italy and seeing both the biblical sites where Paul was and the popular tourist attractions. Let me tell you. It was the most wonderful European trip that I have ever been on. Not only did I get to visit places that I had never seen before but I also came out with a whole new perspective on the Bible and what Paul went through to give the message of Jesus Christ to the first century churches. I won't bore you with all the details, so, like I normally do, I will have a top 10 of the things I loved, enjoyed, and found most memorable.

1. My favorite ancient city that we visited was Philippi. While in Philippi we got to visit the baptismal site of Lydia. You can read about her in Acts 16:11-18. The story of Lydia was one that I had never looked at in detail before this trip. Boy I am glad that I did read the story of Lydia because I now think that she is one of the most inspiration woman of the Bible. While at the baptismal site, David, our tour guide, prof who didn't have to grade us, and friend, gave us the opportunity to get our own baptismal vows renewed. After some thinking I went ahead and was baptized. I have actually wanted to renew my baptismal vows and never had an opportunity to do so. Doing it in Philippi at the site where Lydia was baptized seemed like the perfect spot and time.

2. During our last day in Greece we took a day trip to the Ancient city of Corinth. The city itself was cool but, there was a castle on the top of a mountain where we had a picnic lunch. The weather was fantastic. The view was beautiful. The conversations had were unforgettable.

3. While in Corinth we also had the opportunity to share communion with one another. Once again I was overwhelmed by God's faithfulness in my life. Do take communion at the site where Paul preached brings so much more meaning and significance to the partaking of the body and the blood than it does when you are sitting in church.

4. During this trip we had the chance to go on a strenuous hike or a wimpy hike on Mt. Olympus. My whole class chose the strenuous hike and it was certainly worth the long 2 hours to get to the top. I brought home a rock from the top to remember the endeavor.

5. Greece used to have 24 monasteries that were built on the peaks of lone standing cliffs. It amazed me to think how they could have possibly made them considering that the monastery that we went to was only accessible by a rope basket that is being pulled by the person at the top. Now they have stairs to get to the top. The ladies got to fashion some very high end, top notch, fashionable, wrap around skirts.

6. While in Athens there were 8 girls that needed to stay in a different hotel than the rest of the group. I was 1 of the 8. We got to stay in a 4 star hotel with a view of the Parthenon from our rooftop patio and olive garden. The only downer to this hotel is that they charged for wifi. The question that week for wherever we ate at was, "Do you have free wifi?"

The following don't have pictures and are short and to the point.
7. Gelato in Rome. The best thing ever! We found a favorite gelateria right next to the Trevi Fountian. Note this gelateria is referenced in The Lizzie McGuire Movie. I just finished watching it!
8. There was a moment while watching the changing of the guards at the Greece Parliament where I had a pigeon land on my head. Needless to say I squealed and hope to never experience it ever again. Enjoy your laugh!
9. I love the Greek way of living for many reasons. A. they have amazing food! Feta cheese, souvlaki, bread and olive oil, moussaka, and baklava. B. they have a siesta every afternoon where they go home for naps. C. College education is FREE!!! D. They have cafe bars with couches and art designs in their hot chocolate as well as pop rocks!
10. My friend Katelyn and I had a moment in Thessaloniki. Our friends had gone in a chocolate shop. We stayed outside and looked in through the window. There was about 6 inches between. I turn to tell her something while she turns to tell me something. To our pleasant surprise a rather tall Greek man was standing between us peering through the window. After he walks half the block we burst into laughter at the incredibly awkward moment.

Well there you have! The top 10 things about my creeping on the Apostle Paul. Oh and I may have gotten a summer intern out of for my Junior Year practicum with the Sparks, they were our awesome guides.

4 days til take off...

4 days from now I will be getting on a plane to Greece and Italy with 41 other Taylor students and 1 prof and his wife.  Words cannot begin to explain how excited I am for this trip.  As prep for our journey through the footsteps of Paul we have been asked to read and journal about Acts, Romans, 1, 2 Corinthians, Philippians, and 1, 2 Thessalonians.  As well as some reading from a textbook and the Britannica articles about Italy and Greece.  I've really loved having to read and journal about the New Testament books.  It may be something that I incorporate into my future devos.  So for those of you who would like to keep track of what I am doing while I am there here is the itinerary for those who want to live vicariously through me.
 

1/8 & 1/9: Days 1 & 2 – Depart USA / Arrive Thessaloniki, Greece (D)

1/10:             Day 3 – Thessaloniki

Cultural orientation and introduction to the life of the Apostle Paul.  Basic Greek language lesson.  Tour of Thessaloniki including the White Tower, Arch of Galerius, Rotunda, Basilica of St. Demetrios, Roman Forum. (B/L/D)

1/11:             Day 4 – Philippi

Following breakfast we depart for Philippi.  We first visit the port of Philippi, the biblical city of Neapolis (today called Kavala) and tour the port, aqueduct, and mosaic of Paul before venturing on to Philippi.  At Philippi we visit the site of Lydia’s baptism followed by a tour of the archaeological site: Bema, Forum, Basilicas, Theater, City Walls, and traditional location of Paul’s imprisonment.  While on site we have our lunch.  After touring, we return to Thessaloniki for field preparation, dinner and overnight.  (B/L/D)

1/12:             Day 5 – Thessaloniki/Independent Study/Small Groups

Students will be studying Philippians and 1^st Thessalonians individually and in groups as they prepare for their onsite and small group presentations. (B/L)

1/13:             Day 6 – Berea/Vergina

After breakfast we travel to Vergina, site of the Royal Tombs and Palace of Philip II of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great.  We explore the museum and the Macedonian Tombs with their priceless artifacts, wall paintings, and edifices.  We continue our travel to Berea to see the Rostrum of Paul and the Jewish Quarter with its Synagogue.  Our emphasis is upon Paul and his Synagogue Sermon (Acts 13).  The afternoon allows us time for a hike on the Mt. Olympus range.  Dinner and overnight in the mountain village of Litohoro.  (B/L/D)  

1/14:             Day 7 – Meteora

Departing Litohoro we travel to Thessaly and central Greece.  We visit the monasteries of Meteora perched high atop towering rock formations.  We are introduced to Eastern Orthodoxy with an orientation to basic doctrine, beliefs, and practices. During the afternoon we continue to Delphi for dinner & overnight.  (B/L/D)

1/15:             Day 8 – Delphi

Morning field preparation then tour of archaeological site.  Delphi was the most important religious center of classical Greece.  There we see the sanctuary of Apollo, Delphic Pythia, Agora, Sacred Way, Theater, and Stadium.  We also tour this significant museum with its bronze Charioteer.  After lunch and free time we arrive late afternoon in Athens for dinner and overnight.  (B/L/D)

1/16:             Day 9 – Athens

Our tour of Athens includes a visit to the Theater of Dionysios, Acropolis, Parthenon, Erectheion, Temple of Athena Nike, Propylaia, and Acropolis Museum.  We also visit the Areopagus (Mar’s Hill) and examine the sermon of Paul to the Athenians.  We visit the Agora and museum.  The afternoon brings us into the Plaka for a walking orientation of this historic district.  Dinner and overnight in Athens.  (B/L/D)

1/17:             Day 10  – Optional Greek Island Cruise

Optional three island cruise to the picturesque islands of Hydra, Poros, and Aigina.  The cruise includes lunch and lasts the entire day.  Estimated cost per student: $100-$120.  Weather permitting.  (B)

1/18:             Day 11 – Athens 

We continue our tour of Athens with a visit to the Pan Athenian Stadium, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Temple of Zeus, Hadrian’s Arch, and the National Archaeological Museum of Athens.  Dinner & overnight.  (B/L/D)           

1/19:             Day 12 – Corinth

Crossing the Isthmian Canal we visit ancient Corinth where we see the Temple of Apollo, agora, bema, Peirene Fountain, and Stoa.  While in the agora we celebrate the Lord’s Supper (I Corinthians 11) and spend time in worship.  We also examine Paul’s cultural context in the urban centers of the Roman world.  (B/L)

1/20:             Day 13 – Athens Free Day

After a free day in Athens, we gather together for our final Greek meal at a local tavern.  We offer our concluding remarks on Greece and begin our preparations for travel to Rome /Paul’s Letter to the Romans. Overnight Athens.  (B/D)

1/21:             Day 14 – Rome: Renaissance and Modern

Morning flight to Rome, Italy. We begin with an orientation to Italy and an examination of Paul’s letter to the Romans, Paul’s crowning theological work.  A short subway ride takes us to the Piazza del Popolo where we trace Italy’s role in the renaissance and examine works by the Renaissance master Caravaggio.    Heading down the historic Corso we visit the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Column of Marcus Aurelius, Victor Emanuel Monument, and Imperial Fora.  Overnight at our hotel within the historic Old City of Rome.  (B/L/D)

1/22:             Day 15 –Rome: Classical

Tour of the ancient civilixation of Rome, focusing on the great civilization and its impact on the life and ministry of Paul.  We tour the Palatine Hill, home to the ancient emperors, before descending into the ancient Roman Forum, the very center of the empire.  In the forum we see the Arches of Constantine, Titus, and Septimius Severus, Temple of the Vestal Virgins, rostra, Temple of Caesar, Senate House, and much more. We continue to the world famous Coliseum where we examine Christian martyrdom.  We then head to the Pantheon, a masterpiece of Roman architecture that stands intact to this day.  (B/L/D)

1/23:             Day 16 – Vatican City, Vatican Museum, St. Peter’s Basilica

We visit the Vatican City, the nation-state home of the Catholic Church.  In St. Peter’s square we gaze up at the sculptures of Bernini before venturing into the Vatican Museum, home of numerous masterpieces by Raphael, Da Vinci, and Caravaggio.  We then enter the Sistine Chapel, world famous for Michelangelo’s ceiling paintings and the Last Judgment.  We end the day in St. Peter’s Basilica and Square and view Michelangelo's "Pieta."  (B/L)  

1/24:             Day 17 – Rome: Early Church Sites

We make our way to the Catacombs and explore these underground burial sites.   Continuing our studies in the life of Paul, we visit the church of St. Paul Outside the Walls, built over the site of Paul's tomb.  We conclude our tour with a summation lecture on Paul and a celebratory dinner.  (B/L/D)

1/25:             Day 18 – Departure Rome/USA

I will not be taking my laptop with me.  People who have been on the same trip in previous years have said that bringing a laptop just takes away from the cultural experience of a new country.  Please keep my team in your prayers and we travel and learn about Paul's Second Missionary Journey. Pray that we would bond as a team and that we would learn more about ourselves and what it means to have a relationship with Jesus Christ.

A Time of Reflection

I took some time today to think about everything that has happened in my life within the past year. So I'd like to share some key moments in my life this past year that have brought me to where I am now.
1. I got my first real paying job. Last spring I applied to one too many places. I was rejected from many, mostly because they either weren't currently in need of new employees or because they didn't think I was right for the job. Somehow though God put it on my heart to apply at Village Creek Bible Camp. I am sure glad that I did because it was one of the best experiences I have ever experienced in my 20 years of living.
2. I successfully finished my first year of college at Taylor University in Upland, IN. Proud to be a TU Trojan!
3. I got accepted into the Christian Educational Ministries major department at my school.
4. I survived my first Taylor winter. I never want to have to experience another j-term at Taylor campus ever again. IT WAS COLD!!!
5. I heard God's voice. This past year has certainly been a year of spiritual growth for me. When I got accepted to my job at camp I became very hesitant to go.  Shortly after I went to a BarlowGirl concert at my school. During this concert I had a special moment with God where I clearly heard God's voice telling me that I should go to camp and that amazing things would happen. He was right. Lots of great things happened.
6. I became a Co-Director for BASSYCS at Upland Community Church. I absolutely love what I do at BASSYCS. I couldn't have a better ministry to work with while at school.
7. I am a small group leader of 6 girls on my wing. I really love doing this as well. It has definitely been a challenge for me but I am grateful for those challenges. It has grown me as a leader and closer to Christ.
8. I have learned that I have a heart for kids with special needs. Within the past year (specifically at camp) I have had the opportunity to work with a few kids with special needs. I'm not sure where this will come into play later on in my life. But I know that God is definitely preparing me for something with the work that I have done with these precious kids.
9. I co-taught Bible lessons at Backyard Bible Club with Kristen Prebble. This was so much fun! I really enjoyed doing this. This too, was also way outside of my comfort zone. Somehow I feel that all this speaking in front of people thing is going to come into play more frequently in my future! ;)
10. Philippians 4:6 has become my verse of the year 2011 and may be the verse of 2012 as well. "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." This verse has really spoke to me this year. I have it engraved in the ring that I wear daily as a constant reminder to give everything to God. No matter what it is I know that God can help me through it. Otherwise He would not have done so.

Bringin' in the New Year... VCBC Style!

This past weekend I had the opportunity to go back to Village Creek for a staff retreat to bring in the new year.  You can only imagine my excitement to be back in the wonderful Valley! One thing I always enjoy about being with my camp staff friends is the amount of genuine fun and laughter that goes on.  I never have to worry about having inappropriate mess because most of us understand where to draw the line. 

Once greeted by all of my camp friends with screams and hugs the weekend adventure began. Katie and I as well as a few others embarked on an UNO adventure.  I'm pretty sure I've played more UNO this weekend than I have in my entire life. None the less it was lots of fun with lots of laughter.  As the weekend went on I continued to realize how blessed I am to have these wonderful camp people in my life.  I thoroughly enjoy being with them and going through life with them. 

Some other moments to mention about this weekend are the polar plunge. Consisting of camp crazies who jump into freezing water. I enjoyed watching it and laughing at them. Yes, at them.  Then there was our New Years Eve party. We played many fun team games and acted out skits to win prizes for our team. One of my favorite parts of this weekend was our goal setting TAG time. During this time of year we all think of a couple resolutions for the upcoming year. For the most part no one really follows through with them.  During this TAG time we spent time alone with God praying about SMART goals to achieve in the year to come.  I enjoyed having this time to personally reflect on what I really want to come out of this new year. We then put our goals in an envelope that will be mailed to us later on in the year to remind us to keep pursuing after our goals.

Once we got within a few minutes of midnight the party poppers started coming out. Daniel Paczok used his giant rubber band ball for our ball drop. Once the clock struck midnight we burst into excitement with lots of hugs. Then in groups we prayed over the new year and the ministry of VCBC.  After prayer we celebrated with a good ol' waffle bar. Delicious! Although not so nice to my tummy :/ Needless to say it was yummy.

After saying goodbyes today I realized that I will not see most of these camp friends until the summer.  I know that the time between now and then will fly by. So... I will live in the now. I will try not to get too sad that the end of May seems to be centuries away right now.

Philippians 4:4-7 ⁴ Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. ⁵ Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; ⁶ do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. ⁷ And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.