Friends and Family!

      This last week, we have been studying through a book called "Across the Spectrum" It gives views on many topics that christians struggle with, with debates on adam and eve, heaven and hell, inerrancy of the bible, women in ministry, and so on. It has been so interesting, and yet very frusterating to have these discussions. However, it doesnt matter what my stance is, God is bigger than all of it. He has consistantly shown our group that our views of him  dont fit with how huge he is! We try to end in a state of worship, rather than anger, because our disputes wont further the kingdom of God, our hearts will.

      Last night, we had our debate on women in ministry, which in turn, became a marriage based inspiring discussion. If the men in America, (or the world), would be encouraged to step up as men of God, revering his name, and loving their wives as Christ loved the church, then what would be the problem? I hope this sentence doesnt come off harsh, our debate lasted 2 hours so summing it up in one sentance can be hard! However, all the young women agreed that when they look for a spouse, they want the man to be the spiritual leader, and in turn, they would have the priveledge to submit to their husbands, just as Jesus submitted to Gods will. Its so beautiful. Also, from a new point of view, God calls others to singleness, which the bible states is such a strong and honorable calling.

      Overall, it is evident that God has been working in the lives of the young men on this trip, and as a young women, it is so encouraging to see my generation of boys being encouraged to step up as strong, kingdom driven, wise, men of God. Again, I hope my words are worthy of what I am trying to say, I'd love to get your feedback!

      These past weeks have been filled with travel. Among many childrens places, we visited a prison, where I was able to speak with some women. In these prison cells, (roughly 8x8 ft.) Four women live, and if they have children, they live there also. One of the women that I spoke wiith gave birth to her son  in her time in prison. These tiny prison cells gave me such a dead feeling. These women were lonely, hungry, tired, and emotionally drained from their lives in these cells. One women we met, however, had made the best of her stay in the prison, and had become a leader in the church services they hold daily. Although these cells seemed to represent years of bondage, Christ had set them free. Praise God.

As most of you know, my time on the computer is limited, so I have to go, but thank you so much for your prayers, love, and support. I encourage you to read Colossians 3, it has been speaking worlds to me. This isn't a call to only missionaries, but how we should live each and every day. God Bless!

Alison Hebeisen