Ambassador's Academy #12

Wow! First let me thank you. I know I haven't written in a bit with it being summer and all. Life has been hectic and I have let too many things distract me. That has changed. A lot of things have changed.

To say that the Ambassador's Academy is a life-changing experience is almost too cliche. Yet, I cannot find better words to express it. It is awesome! I left last Wednesday with much trepidation and came home so refreshed, with more zeal and passion than I have had for a long time and ready to get back in the battle. It was such a wonderful experience. Words truly cannot do it justice. I can tell you this though ... I want to go back and I want others from the ministry I am apart of, to go with me. That is my constant prayer.

I miss the fellowship of the academy already. I have never had the pleasure of serving with such a supportive and loving group of believers in my whole life. It was wonderful to step out of the political arena that our churches can become and hit the streets with brothers and sisters who just want to see you be the best you can be in Christ. There was no jockeying for position, no who is better than who or even who is the most spiritual ... it was all about encouraging you to step out of your comfort zone and be the person Christ wants you to be. I loved every minute of it.

Yes, I have handed out tracts before. And, yes ... I have had one-on-one witnessing conversations. But, I had never done so with complete strangers and I had never stop-light preached. I cannot say that now. :) I had hoped to do a bit more preaching, but a few things came up and I was not able to ... but I know that does not prevent me from doing so in the future.

I did become somewhat discouraged a couple of times. I have self-esteem issues and the enemy knows it. So he did jump up and bite me once or twice. But, just as quickly, I was encouraged and I have a greater desire to witness now than I did before. I also know that I can get up there and preach the Gospel of our Lord and Savior with confidence ... even if I don't feel so confident.

I just pray that if you have ever considered going to the Ambassador's Academy that you do so. Wow! I keep saying that but it was definitely a "wow" experience for me. I loved every single minute of it and wish it could have lasted a couple days longer.

I want to take a moment to personally thank Tony Miano for his encouragement. You and your family are such an inspiration to me. You challenge me to be the best me that I can be in Christ and to get out there. Brother, you are serving the Lord in a mighty way. Thank you!

I also want to thank Brett and Connie Coronado. You two are awesome! I love you and appreciate you! Brett, you challenged me and never let me shy away from the challenge at hand. Thank you! Sherry Pierce ... I wasn't talking just to be talking, sister! Your boldness just makes me want to say more, do more, and be more. I do want to be just like you when I grow up. :) Mark Mackey, you are such an encouragement and I felt I could do anything because of you. You were always there to push me in the right direction. Steve Sanchez ... words cannot express what an inspiration you are to me. Thank you for being who you are! I have learned so much from you.

I also want to thank Ray Comfort and the rest of the Living Waters staff. Your ministry changed my life. I was a false convert and now I am saved by the grace of God. Thank you for teaching the hard lessons and saying the things the world would not have you say. May God continue to bless you and keep you for His Glory alone.