We’re in the business of saving souls.

“Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.” Matthew‬ ‭9‬:‭37‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Angie-

July(ish) 2023

I found myself wrestling with a big decision—whether or not to go back to school. I was convinced I wanted to study biology. Mason and I have always been fascinated by the natural world—how everything is intricately connected and beautifully designed. We’ve always shared a deep sense of wonder and curiosity about creation, and biology felt like the natural path.

But around that same time, our Connections Pastor, at Your Venture shared an opportunity with the congregation: a two-year Christian Leadership and Ministry Training residency through Highlands College. As soon as I heard about it, I felt the Holy Spirit nudging me. It was clear—God was calling me in a new direction. Even though my heart was set on biology, I couldn’t ignore His voice.

Still, the decision wasn’t easy. I asking God, “Why not both?” And so, for a season, I did both. I enrolled in the residency classes on Mondays and took my biology courses on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. It was a full schedule, but I felt energized, eager to learn, and grateful that I could pursue both passions—at least for a while.

Our church began a 21-day season of prayer. Every evening, for three weeks, we gathered to seek God together. Our class was encouraged to attend as often as we could. During one of those quiet prayer nights, I asked the Lord a simple but bold question: “What would it look like if we moved into a travel trailer?” I sat in stillness, waiting for His answer.

Then it came—clear and unexpected: A Christian Ministry in the National Parks. I had come across their posting on coolworks.com before during the time we were researching, and it immediately came to mind again. My heart got so excited. It was a beautiful merging of the things we care most deeply about—serving God and experiencing His creation.

But even with that clarity, I hesitated. Fear crept in. What would my parents say? What would my employer think? What would others think of this path? Still, I knew in my spirit that this opportunity, ACMNP, was an intersection—where our love for the Lord and our love for His creation meet in purpose. It was no longer just a good idea; it was a calling.

October 2024

My brother and I received an invitation to attend the ARC Gather conference, and we drove to Ohio to Rock City Church, to meet some of our church family there. It was at this conference that I finally felt the push to apply for the Christian Ministry opportunity.

Throughout the event, there were powerful speakers and an overwhelming sense of encouragement. “Never stop building Gods house.” “You will never do anything significant for the Kingdom of God without being discouraged or opposed.” "Who are you trying to please—people or God?" There was a sharp conviction in my heart when hearing this.

That’s when I made the decision. Enough was enough. I was done trying to please others and trying to fit into their expectations. I was going to choose to please God, no matter the cost. I knew and know Gods plans are perfect and good. I could expect opposition, but I was ready to face it. So on the road home from that Arc Gather, I applied. Mason applied shortly after.

We were eagerly waiting our placement offer. It came in December. We were overwhelmed with excitement, we would be spending our summer in Grand Teton National Park.

Lets make heaven crowded. Let’s do the Work to build the kingdom of God and save the lost. Small seeds we can deposit. God will make them grow.

Previous
Previous

The Wheels Began to Turn