There are moments in life when you pause and simply ask, “God, what are You doing?”
Not because things are difficult.
But because His blessings begin stacking up so quickly that you realize something extraordinary is happening.
That is the season our family is in right now.
Eian is doing well in Jacksonville. Watching him continue to grow into the young man God is shaping him to be brings so much joy to my heart.
Jarrod is deep into writing his doctoral dissertation. I cannot say enough how grateful I am to be married to a military veteran who leads our family with strength and integrity. One unexpected blessing in this season is that because of his service, my spousal benefits increase while I am in school full time. That support provides about $1,500 a month, which allows me to continue raising ministry support for campus outreach without financial panic.
God truly knows how to provide for His children.
Then something happened that completely surprised me.
My degree from Southeastern University was originally scheduled to finish in January 2027. But after doubling up on courses and reviewing the schedule, I realized something incredible.
My graduation date moved up to May.
Yes, May.
What I thought would take much longer is suddenly accelerating. I will now graduate twice, once through Bayside College and once through Southeastern University. (Master’s in Ministerial Leadership)
Only God could orchestrate that kind of timing.
And when I step back and look at our whole family, the picture becomes even more amazing.
Our household is full of students right now.
• I am finishing my degree
• Jarrod is completing his doctoral dissertation
• Maya is graduating from Armwood High School and Hillsborough Community College
• Eithan is finishing his Associate’s degree in Business at my alma mater, HCC
Sometimes I sit back and laugh and ask God, “What is happening right now?”
But it is a beautiful thing to watch.
A Very Full Season
The next few months will be intense, but they are filled with purpose.
In March I will be speaking at our church on leadership.
Just a few days later I will travel to Texas to participate in Black Campus Ministries, then return home in time to help Maya prepare for prom.
April brings even more.
I will be teaching Sunday School, continuing my work as Connection Pastor at Brandon Chapel, and preparing for a very meaningful milestone.
On April 10 we will celebrate one year of ministry with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. That first year on campus has been filled with conversations, discipleship, and the beginning of relationships with students and faculty. I hope that you will join me for a one year celebration at the BodyBar Pilates in Wesley Chapel.
In the middle of all this I am also continuing my work with BNI, building connections and partnerships.
And there is still more.
Jarrod and I are both applying for our ministerial license together.
That moment alone carries deep meaning for me.
I first looked at that application twenty years ago. At that time, after having a child outside of marriage, I convinced myself that I was no longer qualified. Shame tried to silence the calling God placed in my life.
But the enemy is a liar.
God never revoked the call.
Twenty years later, without perfection, here my husband and I are here completing the application together as husband and wife.
Redemption is real.
A Life of Ministry and Mission
This season also includes several opportunities to serve beyond our local church.
My brother is preparing for his annual ENG Sports fundraiser, which continues to impact young athletes and families.
Jarrod and I have been invited to attend the CUFI Summit in Washington DC, where leaders gather to grow in faith, combat antisemitism, and stand in support of Israel. Maya has been active with this organization for several years and this will be first time attending.
Then in May I will attend the National Graduate Faculty Ministries Conference in Arizona, where campus ministers gather to strengthen the work happening at universities across the country.
When I step back and look at all of this, one thing becomes very clear.
God is orchestrating something far bigger than anything I could have planned.
And I love this life of ministry.
Kharma Rainey created this amazing graphic. Thank you!
One Prayer Request
As many of you know, part of my work with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship involves raising ministry partnership so I can serve students on campus full time.
Right now I am praying for 14 more partners who can give $100 per month.
Some people give $10.
Some give $25, $50, or $75.
Others give $200.
Every gift matters.
I simply add them together until we reach the next $100/month step closer to full time campus ministry.
Your prayers, encouragement, and support mean more than you know.
Resting in God’s Promises
In the middle of all the travel, classes, ministry, family celebrations, and deadlines, I am learning something very important.
I do not have to strive.
I can simply rest in the promises of God.
When He calls you to something, He also provides the strength, the favor, and the people to help carry the vision forward.
And I cannot wait to see what He does next.
With gratitude and joy,
Jorgie
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