Guest Blog from Laurie!

Last month we picked names from a bowl to write a blog and answer these questions. Laurie had me and this is what she wrote:

We were first on a team together in: Romania 

Favorite memory with them/of them: our one on one at the restaurant in Kampala, Uganda . This was when I got to know her heart the most.  Just sitting and talking with each other about how the Lord has worked in our hearts this year and the dreams we both have. 

Best personality trait: Kelly is one of the most grounded women that I know. I mean this in a way , that her faith, her gentleness, her kindness , is always constant. Like I’ve never seen her not operate in this. I don’t know how she does it honestly. She is patient , and carries a sense of peace with her. A very calming presence to be around. She is always willing to listen and actually intentionally listens to you. She doesn’t initiate conversations just to talk about a bunch of fluff, but she truly desires to know more of other peoples’s hearts and have deep meaningful conversations. I love this about her ! 

Animal that best describes her & why: An owl – watchful , observant and wise. 

Color that describes her: I keep think of a deep ocean blue. It’s bold yet calming . Fierce yet passionate. Roars as the ocean waves crash but harmonizing and somehow tranquil. It’s constant and steady ; even in the midst of storms, moving with the currents , at its center and core , it’s deep and strong. 

Disney princess she would be: Mulan – fearless , strong, bold, putting others before herself , protective , selfless, committed to doing what’s best for others despite what it may cost her. 

Reality TV she should try out for: survivor – she has patience like no other so I don’t think the community party would get to her and I could totally see her making it on a deserted island somewhere. 

The growth I have seen since Month 1 of the race is: I haven’t spent much time with Kelly this year so it’s hard for me to exactly answer this question but one thing I know for sure is that Kelly is consistent . Whether it’s in the way she pursues our squad , ministry host or people in ministry she engages in conversations and is intentional about it. She is also consistent and firm in her faith and her convictions , not being swayed by others around her , something I admire about her.  

What gifts or fruit of the spirit you see her walking in: kindness , gentleness (this is who she is to the core and she walks in this DAILY), faithful to the Father , has a true servant heart. 

Bible verse that reminds you of her:

“He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the Lord is the key to this treasure.” – Isaiah? ?33:6? ?NIV??

If you could give any advice to her for after the race it would be:

Kelly, you always go above and beyond for others. You always do what is expected of you and more. Is God asking you to do what isn’t expected of you? Maybe it’s out of your comfort zone , if it is — chase it ! You always do for others but it’s okay to follow your dreams (in the will of God) if that means having to choose your (which is also hopefully Gods dreams too) over others. God is asking something wild and crazy from you , I can feel it , say yes to more adventures with Him. It is only the beginning for you dear ! I love you !