The end of the semester always seems to present a bit of a paradox: while classes are winding down and everything is coming to a close, my schedule always seems to pick up and I always have a thousand things to do, on top of a ton of assignments to turn in. When everything gets loaded up and I have to face the weighty challenge of trying to get everything done, I know that tiredness, and ultimately exhaustion, is not far off. The last couple of weeks I've been at this point - not at all in a place where I'm completely discouraged and want to give up, but simply in a place where I'm weary and am trying to push through to the end with motivation, perseverance, and a good attitude. Although there are sometimes brief moments when I don't think I have the strength to make it, God always brings encouragement and vigor at the right time. This week, Cornerstone Baptist Church provided that refreshment and revitalization for me. At a time when I was completely weary and almost empty, God allowed me to be encouraged and filled by the people and life at Cornerstone. Even though we were there to minister to the congregation and lead them in worship, their joy, vitality, and excitement about their faith completely blessed and encouraged me. Praising God with a responsive, animated, and passionate group of people was an experience that greatly nourished my fatigued soul.

They helped remind me that even when I am tired and worn out, I have a salvation that is worth celebrating. Through their genuine worship and enthusiastic hearts, God allowed me to be filled by using these zealous people to help me remember the greatness of the God I serve and by having them remind me of the blessings that He has given us - the blessings of knowing Him, being able to freely worship Him, and being offered a life-changing and exciting salvation through Jesus Christ. I am so thankful for our time at Cornerstone and for the loving and cheerful attitudes of the people that helped refresh me in a time when I needed it most.

That's Mikey up there ... flying around.

Debriefing in Henry's sister's house.

              Sean is a great mic stand.