God is good, all the time, all the time, God is good.
As I look back on my life, I see how God has been at work and continues to be. One of my favorite Bible verses is Psalm 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God.”
Throughout my life, I have had the opportunity to serve in many areas of ministry involving youth. God has had a hand in all of these. Serving young people has strengthened my faith and allowed me to help them grow. To me, there is nothing better than seeing the youth of today pray and study the word of God.
It has created a yearning for me to continue growing myself, as I listen to what God is calling me to do.
Several years ago I was asked to join our youth group leadership team at church. God was at work again, and I didn’t hesitate. Working in youth ministry has changed my life. I long to continue to grow in my faith and know that God has a purpose for me.
That ministry led me to begin taking college courses online. At 39, I know that God has brought me into a journey that has and will change my life.
God has provided for my needs financially to attend college. At my pastor’s recommendations, I applied for and received a scholarship through the Women of the ELCA.
[bctt tweet=”Serving God in our church is my passion. This scholarship helps that happen.” username=”womenoftheelca”]
Romans 8:28 says, “We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.”
Serving on the youth group leadership team has allowed me to participate in many mission opportunities. These trips are life-changing for the young people and the adults. Through this work, I have had the opportunity to serve missions in Chicago and West Virginia.
I have also acted as a leader for our local mission called Transformation Zone. I’ve attended two ELCA youth gatherings, one in San Antonio and the other in Detroit. Both have allowed me to see God at work among our young people and to feel God at work in my heart.
Serving God in our church is my passion. This scholarship helps that happen.
“For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
I have faith in God’s plans for me now and after graduation. With God’s leading, I hope to continue to work in ministry within the church. Thank you for supporting Women of the ELCA with your gifts.
Tara M. Gilbert is completing her associates in Christian ministry at Indiana Wesleyan University, Marion, and will graduate in April. She received a Scholarship for Lutheran Laywomen in 2016. This scholarship provides assistance to Lutheran women studying for a career other than ordained ministry. She is a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Marysville, Ohio, and is married with a 9-year-old daughter.
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Photo of Tara’s youth group on a West Virginia Youthworks mission trip. She is in the center in pink.