December

With many of our emerging leaders relocating around the state, nation, and world the Christmas holiday has allowed for an opportunity to analyze and regroup. I have been able to speak with some of our key people in Bellingham the past few weeks and really hash out a vision of what is necessary to see a Community Core (our version of a board) formed in Bellingham! There is still a drive to find more hosts and mentors that would directly engage the student population consistently over time. Basically there is a lot of work to be done, and I need to create a business plan!
So for the next two weeks that is my task, discerning where God is moving and how to see how I can align our mission and vision to that movement!

Some of the meetings that I have had include:

• Meeting with Johnny our resident Bible scholar who is passionate about surrounding and guiding the men at the Fort and around the area in discipleship! This guy is solid, knows Jesus, and sticks to what Jesus taught! One interesting thought that he shared last week was based on the idea that the writings of Paul are the best commentary to the gospel anyone can find. He doesn't devalue Paul's writing (still believing that they are inspired by the Spirit) but emphasizes the importance of knowing and understanding the words and actions of Jesus!
• Shared what we are doing with the Bellingham Integrity Group (BIG) and am hoping to get more face time with them over the next few months, creating a sustainable relationship that will enable emerging leaders to connect with incumbent leaders in the workplace.
• I met with three awesome men that are passionate about making an impact around the campus of Western and will hopefully make the time to interact with the emerging leaders around the area!
  

Overall, the past month has been encouraging and a lot of growth has happened!! I am excited for the next quarter and to see how Jesus impacts Bellingham and the entire state!

Hope y'all have a Merry Christmas!