my story...

My life has always been encompassed by God, but I never realized how awesome He really is until I began my studies in biology. There was one specific time in highschool when I was on a bus next to my biology teacher heading on a field trip, and we had some test the next day on the human immune system, so I was studying. During that time I cant remember what I was specifically studying, but what I do remember is looking up and exclaiming to my teacher, How can any rational person believe in the intricacies of the immune system and not believe in God? From then on I saw how awesome God is in every element of science; however I didnt make the connection between Gods hand in science and the importance of helping your neighbor until God called my family to begin hosting refugees from around the world. Our first family was during the Kosovo Crisis. We hosted a Mom and Dad, two sisters, and one brother for a two months. During those months I acquired a wealth of information about cultural and religious differences, but the most valuable lesson was one of compassion and beneficence. I believe that is when God saw an opportunity to open my eyes and make the connection between science and humanity. The body became more than a well oiled grandfather clock, but the foundation on how all society should be run and how we as individuals should help and act upon the stressors which affect our neighbor.In 2005 I was blessed with an opportunity to travel to Israel on a mission trip in order to paint a messianic childrens school. There I was amazed yet again by Gods awesomeness. Places such as Masada, Hebron, Jerusalem, and Galilee, drenched in history, are awe inspiring, the food is amazing, and the people are extremely warm and inviting. Upon leaving, I was sad to return, but hopeful that God would lay on my heart and place another opportunity to return. I am excited that time has come and to begin this new chapter in my life returning to Israel. I feel blessed to have another chance to return in order to work with the Russian Jewish immigrants and cannot wait to see what God has in store for me with Light to Israel. Advocating on behalf of others and learning about their struggles in order to facilitate a better future for them is a calling I am thrilled God has laid on my heart. It is my prayer and my passion for this trip to shed light on a group of people many do not know even exist. As enthused as I am to share their stories, I am just as enthused to be returning to Israel and the culture which had such a profound impact on me during the short time I was previously there. I am eager to get involved in all areas of the organization, including English second language classes, and working with the youth men and women who struggle with job discrimination and being treated as second-class citizens in their homeland. I would love and immensely appreciate for you all to pray for me so that God may continue to unveil his plan for me while Im there, and please pray for the Russian Jews; may God give them strength and courage to overcome these obstacles as they fight for their place in the Promised Land.