August 2, 2006

• Final Class

  It is a little sad that it took so long to get to this point, however- I can now happily say that I am finished with all but my final three credit hour course! As of last night, I have turned in all my work for my Faculty Directed Study (a one credit course)- and I now have only my three credit Theology 2 between me and my graduation from college this August. As for Theology 2- all that I have left to finish in that class is my doctrnial statement, discussion questions at the end of every chapter from the half of the Theology teskbook in our course that covers Sin and Salvation, and a one page personal letter regarding some theological concept covered. I say “all” because- it is a lot of content work, but I CAN do it! And it is pretty much step-by-step. I can hit two birds with one stone on the bulk of the work. Since the doctrinal statement is basically “I believe *insert position/belief* about *insert topic* because *insert reasoning* based on *insert at least two Bible verses*.” That is the general format- it ends up being a minimum of four pages (usually more for me). And since it is covering ever topic we go over in the semester- and answering the reading questions will go over every topic- yes, that’s it. I just make up the doctrinal statement while I answer my discussion questions.

  It will take longer- but when I’m done, I’m DONE. The personal letter will then be really easy- I just take something that I felt interested in sharing with someone while I did my previous work, and then write them about it.

  Pray for Me

  Please, pray that I would have a special gift of focus, endurance, energy, and determination whilst I finish this final class. The class time is done, the exams done, everything but this last bit of work- and then my entire college education is DONE. And this, and the FDS, have hovered like this for two entire years. The end is in sight- pray that I will “run to win” as Paul said in one of his letters in the Bible. Let us run the race to the end, with the end in sight!

  And the reward is a worthy one! Not only will I be done college, but next week we have a week long vacation with my family! Jay and his children will all be there- and my nephew, Michael, whom I have become very close with over the last year. We literally talk weekly (sometimes daily, depending on what is going on- especially recently), and I will really enjoy getting to spend time with him. I see Michael, and I see a picture of a relationship I may get to one day have with my own son- different, of course, since I will be a Father and a source of discipline and not just friendship/guidance.

  The vacation will truly be a reward worthy of my highest effort! My work is not due until later in August, however- my own deadline is before vacation! Who wants to experience a vacation with that kind of work (and pressure!) over their head?

  Pray that God will do His powerful work in me! This is such a BIG deal in my life, if you feel lead to- please pray for me, maybe even fast on my behalf (it would encourage me if you share that you are doing so- I feel the encouragement really helps me to discipline myself and move forwards). I cannot fast for myself, because of health reasons- and I know the past times that I have fasted in times like this God HAS acted. I would be honoured if someone would feel lead to do so on my behalf.

  The enemy loves to taunt us with things we know we can do, but by our own fault fail to do- the easier, the more painful it is. I covet your prayers.

  -Patrick

  • 10:50 am
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