Happy New Year! I just wrapped up one of my favorite weeks of the year -- our annual winter conference here in Minneapolis. Over 1,000 college students from across the Midwest attended this regional conference. This was my third year serving as a conference director, and I'm getting more and more comfortable serving and leading others which is really fun to see. One highlight of the conference was a morning session when the main speaker talked about our identity in Christ. We often can be tempted to think that we need to build this "Christian" resume, just like a regular resume we would put together for a job. We can be tempted to rattle off our list of activities done and books read, but none of that matters in terms of our standing with God. With each passing year, I grow more rooted in my walk with God as I learn more about my identity as a child of God. Lately the theme of adoption has been jumping out at me as I read scripture and have conversations with friends- and it didn't surprise me that several times throughout the event the topic of adoption came up. What a wonderful reality that God has adopted us; he decided in advance to allow us to be part of his family, and our being adopted gives him great pleasure (Ephesians 1:5 nlt). Adoption is a legal status, one that can not be reversed. Once we're in the family of God, we're there no matter what happens. What security that brings! Another favorite session of mine was focused on the fact that following Christ is a privilge. There was a powerful drama presentation by students that portrayed a woman serving God and others in the "room of obligation" which I think resonated a lot with students who are leading parts of the ministry on campus. It resonated with me, as I can find myself slaving away in the "room of obligation" without much joy or gratitude. Following Jesus isn't always easy, but it's never a drag and it's not about duty- it's a great privilege. Throughout the week it was so fun to run into students from the North Myrtle Beach Summer Mission and catch up. It was so fun to see them, hear about how God has been at work in their lives, and to see their excitement and enjoyment in catching up with one another. Below are some of my favorite shots that a conference photographer took throughout the week. I hope you enjoy them!
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Amy WellnerEncouraging others to intentionally live out their God-given identity. Archives
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