Dear Judah Christian School

Dear Judah Christian School,

It's finals week of my third semester of college! Graduation from our small, private high school literally feels like yesterday and an eternity ago all at the same time. Memories are starting to fade, but lessons learned are finally coming into clear view. In hindsight, my experience in this school was an excellent foundation before I launched out on my own. Take them or leave them, but here are four of the many things I wish I had truly realized in high school.

1. You won't be friends with very many of your high school classmates once you make a transition to college, so you can walk in freedom and step into your true identity in Christ without worrying what your classmates will think or say about you.

My parents would always remind me to not get wrapped up in what other people think about me in high school, because it's not likely that I'd continue many of those friendships after graduation. Yes, there are a few people I still stay in contact with, and there are others I grab lunch with on one of my three breaks of the year. It's kind of difficult to stay close friends with everyone in your graduating class when everyone moves to different states. For some reason, it seems that high school is a huge time of trivial thinking and worthless living for many. So let me ask you, if you aren't going to carry many of these friendships into years after graduation, why are you afraid to step out and be bold in your faith? Passion is often looked down upon, even in our Christian spheres. Stop caring what others think about you. Looking back, I wish I had stepped into greater intimacy with Christ. I hope that you will turn your eyes upon Jesus. The things of the earth will grow strangely dim, and it's so worth it.

2. Become friends with people who aren't your age.

We love to be friends with people who look and act like us. We are often comfortable with these people, and we rarely interact with those who aren't like us. Can I give you a challenge for your high school years? Become friends with adults. Become friends with seniors when you're a freshman. Become friends with freshmen when you're a senior. Spend time with those who will point you back to Christ--not only in their words, but the way they live their lives. It's amazing what God can teach you through people you'd normally never sit next to.

3. Stop making revival your God. 

In Christian spheres, we desire revival when people begin to worship things of this world rather than the Lord. This is a beautiful desire. We want to see the hearts of others turned to the Living God. But may I ask, are we making revival our God? Are we looking only to things that are seen? Are we worshipping the created rather than the Creator? Let's examine our hearts, and ask God to give us the grace to set our hearts on things above. If you tend to fall into this, like I have done many times, ask God to stir your personal affection and discipline in your walk with the Lord. Ask Him what intimacy even looks like in a walk with God. Trust me, walking with the Lord is NOT a set of rules. It is a full and incredibly beautiful journey of living abundant life. I feel like I am beginning to let that truth sink deeply into my soul as a sophomore in college. I believe God can move you to spiritual maturity even as a high school student...especially as a high school student. When others see the fruit of that intimate walk with the Lord, many will be drawn to that and begin to desire the Lord as well.

4. You are NO LONGER A SLAVE.

Jesus Christ has complete victory over sin, evil, and death. When you begin to walk with Christ, you can step into the truth that, because of His victory, you are no longer a slave to this world. You are no longer a slave to people's opinions. You are no longer a slave to fear. You are no longer a slave to that secret sin that you feel is killing you. You are no longer a slave, because you are a child of God. He has drowned that fear, sin, and darkness in his love that abounds. Keep this in mind as you walk through those hallways. The same God that rolled the stone away, that won the victory over death, lives inside of you. As you let that sink in each day, ask the Spirit to give you His eyes to see the world around you. Trust me, high school will begin to look quite different.


Yes, I could probably go on and share many other truths I wish I had deeply lived throughout high school, but I hope that some middle school or high school student will take one of these helpful truths to heart. I'm still praying for you, Judah. You've got two choices: waste these years, or let your Creator rock your world. Go Tribe!

Thank you, Levi.

I need to take a moment to thank Levi Lusko, the Pastor of Fresh Life Church in Montana. I've recently been listening to many sermons and podcasts from Levi. As kids these days say, he spits straight fire. His words just captivate me, and I'm confident that's because he speaks Truth from the Word of God. 

So, why am I thanking Levi? I recently heard a short snippet on the radio of his "59 Seconds of Hope," and he reminded his listeners of 2 Corinthians 5:7. It simply states, "For we walk by faith, and not by sight." Lusko went on to say that we cannot rely only on what we see. When we rely only on the naked eye, we see hopelessness, hurt, and pain. When we walk by faith, we see things through the eyes of hope. We see potential in people. We begin to see people how the Father sees people. Although we cannot rely on the eyes, we can rely on what we've heard. Faith comes through hearing, and hearing the Word of God. Levi boldly stated, "The battle for the eyes is won through the ears." We have two choices. We can walk by faith, or we can walk by sight. 

The day I heard this short segment on the radio, I was driving through town, wondering why I felt like the world was collapsing in on me. All I could see was brokenness, pain, and suffering around me. That's when I heard Levi's voice, speaking a Truth that would rock my world. It's okay to hurt, but in Christ I can hurt with great hope. Let this truth rock your world too. Are you walking by faith? Or are you walking by sight? Take this to heart, and I'm pretty sure you'll want to thank Levi too. 

My One Word for 2015

For the past three years, I have chosen one word to focus on in the new year. Read more about this idea of One Word in my blog post from December 31, 2013 (I hardly used this blog during the year so it shouldn't be too hard to find).

My 2014 One Word is PRAYER...and WOW has God taught me so much about prayer this year. My prayer life looks nothing like it did January 1, and all glory to Him for that! I filled up several prayer journals throughout the year which helped me become disciplined, read a book called the Circle Maker that rocked my idea of prayer (check it out...it will change your life), and experienced many things that allowed me to come to God in new and exciting ways. 

I grew so much this year through graduating from high school, going to Israel and Ethiopia, going to college in Virginia, and much more. God answered cries for help and smiled as I sincerely thanked Him for who He is. He showed me that I had such little faith. Although I constantly repeat Ephesians 3:20's claim that He is able to do more than I could imagine, I am only scratching the surface of what He is able to do. He revealed to me that I am to be a prayer warrior for the nation of Israel. He placed in my heart a desire to communicate His heart to His children. He held my hand as He lead me out to unchartered waters. 

One paragraph can't describe how much the Lord did through my One Word for 2014. That's why I'm so excited about my One Word for 2015! I wait in great expectation to see how He grows me, molds me, and makes me more like Him. More of you and less of me, Father!

And now...my One Word for 2015...*DRUM ROLL PLEASE*...

CULTIVATE. 

According to Google...

This year, my word was revealed to me in a new way. Usually I ask the Lord to place a word on my heart--and he does just that. This year, He did it before I even asked. About a month ago, I started hearing the word cultivate EVERYWHERE. People would use it often in conversation. I saw it on billboards. I even saw it last night on my mom's cup at Chipotle. It's everywhere. My God even works through Chipotle cups. Don't even try to tell me it's coincidence. Not possible considering how much I've heard that word over the past month. 

I can't wait to dive into the meaning of the word, what God's Word says about it, and how He can shape my life through it. I am CULTIVATING a hungry heart!

So what's your word for 2015? Comment below, Facebook me, Tweet me, Snapchat me, Insta me!

Life-Changing Words

Have you ever experienced a moment when God revealed something to you and everything seemed to click? I experienced a defining moment like this earlier this semester. I was thinking about different Scriptures which have shaped my life and molded my character. Three passages have stuck in my head like glue at different points in my life. As I reflect on my years as a Believer, I see God's mighty hand using those powerful words to shape me, break me, and move me.

The first verse is James 1:2-4.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

During my elementary school years, I would always answer the question, "What is your favorite verse?" with this powerful passage. I honestly have no idea how or why this verse pierced my heart at such a young age. How did I even understand the meaning of this verse? I didn't. Nevertheless, it shaped my mind. In life's greatest trials, I constantly reflect on this verse. God knew that I would need this verse as I entered junior high and high school. It's amazing how He works, eh?

Second verse? Ephesians 2:8-10.
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

During my junior high and early high school years, I reflected on this verse daily. It was always on my mind, and I dissected every word. I find it incredible that this passage is still transforming the way I live to this day. The Word is truly living and active, sharper than a double-edged sword. This was a crucial time for this verse to begin transforming my walk. I needed to learn (and still need to learn daily) that I am not saved by works, but by the sweet grace of God. It is not by anything I do or say. It is not by being a "perfect" teenager. During this time, I was accused of being a perfectionist constantly. No wonder I needed this verse to keep me humbled before the Father. I am so broken--the worst of sinners. Not a day goes by that I don't mess up, yet the Father WILLINGLY gives me the gift of grace every single day. He calls me his "handiwork," his masterpiece. He takes great delight in me, and has great things in store for me each day. I wish I could express this to every young teenager on this earth.

The current verse? Ephesians 3:20-21.
 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

I literally smile every time I hear or read this verse. This is the most powerful prayer I have ever heard. My world has been rocked by this passage over the past two years. I have become a dreamer, believing that dreams are God-given. We should embrace these dreams and lay them at the feet of Jesus. It is amazing what He can do with what little we have to give. My God is able to do immeasurably more than I could ever ask or imagine!! Lord, continue to amaze me! Here I am, Lord. Send me. 

My challenge to you? Be open to the life-changing words God has just for you. It will honestly change your life. It will be amazing to see how they fit like perfect puzzle pieces. Be sure to check back in twenty years for "Life Changing Words Blogpost Part 2." I'm more than confident that my world will have been turned upside down by then. 

One Word

I'll admit I am a big fan of New Year's Resolutions. I love journaling this time of year, reflecting on the past year and looking forward to a new one. I feel emotions of all sorts during this time of the year: excitement, inspiration, sadness, happiness, doubt, worry, fear, and many others. I look to the New Year as a new start, something I think God wants for us. Like Philippians 3:13-14 reminds us, we should forget what is behind and strain toward what is ahead.

Each New Year, I take out my journal and write down all the things I would love to accomplish or improve upon for the new year ahead of me. The other day, I looked back on my writing from last year on the 31st of December. I counted the number of things I had written and the grand total comes to 37. I narrowed it down to five for a clearer focus. These things are smaller "resolutions" such as reading more, finding a mentor, loving those who are hard to love, etc. I focused on this list throughout the year, but it was not my main focus.

Although I love to make New Years Resolutions, I mostly look forward to this time of the year to establish my One Word. One Word is an awesome opportunity to create a positive vision for the road ahead in 2014. Jon Gordon, an inspiration of mine and a key enforcer of this concept, describes it like a marathon. At what mile do you think a marathon runner would quit? It certainly would not be in the first mile because of the excitement and inspiration. They also wouldn't quit in the last mile because they can see the finish line. Many times, marathon runners quit in the 20th mile out of 26.2 miles. As you can see, when you have a vision or goal, it can be very easy in the beginning or the end, but the middle is so challenging. One Word is a great way to have a vision for your new year and to constantly reinforce it. Your One Word can help you reach the finish line, even if the race is tough. The power of the vision is so motivational.

As the New Year approaches, I am encouraging others to join with me in choosing one word that will be your driving force for the year. What word will help you to become more like the person God wants you to be? I encourage you to stop and reflect on your life, bring this to God, choose your one word, and finally live your word all year. It is clear to see that the only way this won't work is if you don't do it. So give it a try! Maybe this one word will change your life forever.

My One Word for 2014? PRAY.

2013: Commitment
2012: Relentless

I have brainstormed some possible words if you are looking for some inspiration and compiled them on Wordle.com. I'd encourage you to reflect and bring this to the Lord and then find your God-given word for 2014!:) Enjoy this journey. I certainly have. Please comment or message me to let me know if you have decided to take this journey with me!

Leslee's Person of the Year

"Person of the Year" is an annual issue in one of the world's best-known magazines-TIME. This issue profiles a person who has shaped and influenced our world in a large way throughout the year. The person has influenced important world events for better or for worse. TIME's often chooses important leaders and presidents to receive the honor. Fun fact: YOU were the "Person of the Year" in 2006! Yes, you!

After I heard this fun fact, I began reflecting on my own life. If I had the honor to give a "Person of the Year" award to someone in my little world, who would it be? Who has changed my life the most since January 1, 2013? Who has influenced my thinking, my actions, and my character? Who has made a visible difference in the lives of others around me? I think this honor would be a tad more difficult in past years, but this year, the decision was as easy as devouring a Hershey's chocolate bar. 

Let me introduce to you "Leslee's 2013 Person of the Year" recipient. The recipient is currently a freshman in high school. She is a 5'1", fiery ball of enthusiasm. She has a twin brother, an older sister, and two wonderful parents. She loves experiencing new things and staying out late with friends. She loves tumbling. You will always see her jumping on the trampoline, blowing us away with her fancy flips and tricks. She is an artist. Duck-tape is definitely one of her fun obsessions. She is a DOMINANT water-skiier. Simply looking at her smiling on the boat displays her love for God's creation. She loves music (a bass guitarist who is smaller than the bass itself!). She can do pretty much anything she wants to do. Needless to say, she is an all-around talented girl. She is a Duck Dynasty girl! Sadie Robertson is retweeted constantly by this year's recipient. A few other people she clearly admires are her beautiful mother, Doug Nix, and Britt Nicole. 

The attribute that stands out to me the most about this year's recipient is her sincerity. She is completely genuine. She is sincere about her faith in the True King. Her heart for the Lord is contagious. She loves the Lord with her heart, her soul, and her mind. Yes, she is human. Yes, she fails all the time. Yes, she is a sinner like the rest of us. The thing that strikes me is that she is consistently "forgetting what is behind and straining toward what lies ahead." She comes before the Lord daily as His humble servant. 

She is willing to do hard things for the Kingdom. A major event in the recipient's year was her decision to raise the necessary funds to build a water well for a community in India. She partnered with Missions.Me and Angel House to build a water well by herself. Yes, you read that correctly. BY HERSELF. She knew that she had been called to take this leap of faith. She did not ignore the call. Although she had no idea where the money would come from, she trusted the Lord to help her raise $3,000 in a little less than two months. She has until December 31st to complete this goal. I am more than confident that the recipient will complete the task ahead of her. 

She is a DREAMER. My aunt recently reminded me of an inspiring quote by T.E. Lawrence: "All men dream: but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds wake up to find in that day it was vanity, but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act their dreams with open eyes, to make it possible." Upon hearing these wise words, my my flew straight to one of the best dreamers I know. She dreams of opportunities to make a difference in the world. She dreams of lives being changed. She is genuine in her dreams. She believes with all her heart that God is able to above and beyond all she could ever ask or imagine. It is my hope that she never stops dreaming....ever. 

I could go on for days and days with stories and qualities I admire in this year's "Person of the Year." Lastly, I would like to thank her for inspiring me personally. She challenges me to live more like Christ each and every day. She brightens every moment with her encouraging words, sweet smile, and precious hugs. She has changed my life this year. She has taught me more than she may ever realize. She may be younger than me, but she is mature beyond her years. She has taught me what it means to give of yourself. She has taught me how to trust when darkness surrounds. She has taught me what it looks like to be genuine. She has taught me how to love the Lord even more. I will forever hold her in my heart as one of my life-long sisters. 

Allison Conway, all I can say is thank you. Thank you for changing my life. 

Above picture: Allison changing the world, as usual. (Photo Creds: Jenna Clark) 

**Several people have asked how they can become involved with Allison's Water Well. If you would like to help with Allison's Water Well, please send me a message on Facebook or comment below. Thanks!

Thanksgiving to Thanks-LIVING

            Thanksgiving. This time of year is filled with excitement, stress, family, food, busyness, friends, food, thankful words, remembrance, and food. To some, it may be easy to become narrow-minded and caught up in too much worthless living on this day. To some, another normal day to get things done. To others, a day that hurts because of the loss of loved ones. To many, the one and only day out of the year to truly give thanks. What if we changed the way we thought about Thanksgiving? What if Thanksgiving became something entirely different? What if we ignored Thanksgiving Day altogether? What if we tried something new? Imagine a world of thanks-LIVING.

            I am challenging myself to begin a journey of thanks-living. I once heard someone say that the art of thanksgiving is thanks-living. Thanks-living is thankfulness in action every single day. What does thanks-living look like in your life? In my life, I hope to thank God for the gift of my family by being the first to serve them. I hope to thank God for the gift of life by living it victoriously. I hope to thank God for inspiration and encouragement by living a life that inspires and encourages others.

            This Thanksgiving, let’s begin a journey together. Maybe we could flip the cycle altogether. Thanksgiving Day could become a normal day, and we could celebrate true Thanksgiving the 364 days that remain in a year. Maybe we should spend Thanksgiving Day to complain and complain. We should simply get it all out of the way on one day, so the rest of our days will be filled with nothing but thankfulness. Let’s add to our prayers and words of thankfulness. Let’s act on it.

And now.....a funny, yet precious reminder for our Thanksgiving celebration.