National Student Leadership Forum Application

A piece of my National Student Leadership Forum Application.  

In Washington DC  Nov. 2-4

I thought this was appropriate for this blog. 

Discuss great leaders of History: 

As Albert Einstein once stated, “learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning”. I am grateful to live in a nation where interrogation is acceptable, criticism is allowed, questions are encouraged. When I ponder great leaders in our world’s history, I immediately think of the courage and determination of Nelson Mandela. Standing for anti-apartheid, Nelson Mandela devoted the entirety of his life to freedom, unity, and tolerance. Although he stood for uplifting ideals, his life was centered around persistence and vigor. Amazingly, Nelson Mandela’s will for South Africa did not cease when in prison, and he displays resilience in every facet of his life.  Nelson Mandela asked questions-even when the questions seemed to have no peaceful answer. In addition to Nelson Mandela, I begin to think about a woman who is my role model, and in a sense, my mentor. I have never met Mother Teresa, but I feel as though I have. Mother Teresa’s journals are real. They are authentic. Mother Teresa, often considered the moving force for humanitarian aid in the past century, struggled with her faith and often asked questions. She knew that even when her faith felt like it was failing or confusing her, she continued to love. She understood that God was love, and she was determined to bring the Joy of her Savior to the world. Nelson Mandela and Mother Teresa both asked the hard questions, and sought the answers of peace and love.

Discuss a leader who has personally impacted you:

I am grateful to attend High Point University, a small liberal arts school in North Carolina. The faculty is phenomenal, the classes are rigorous and challenging, and the atmosphere n campus is unrivaled. I am a believer in top-down leadership and top-down culture. The culture of a place is determined by it’s movers and its shakers. Recently I heard this quote, “Positive self-esteem can give you the character to face any obstacle that stands in your way. With high self-esteem, you can meet the most disappointing and discouraging situations with faith, hope, and courage. The primary difference between winners and losers is attitude. Winners make their goals; losers make excuses.” This quote comes from our president, Dr. Nido Qubein. Dr. Qubein moved from Lebanon to the United States when he was seventeen years of age, and fifty dollars in his pocket. In addition, he did not know the language. Dr. Qubein now sits on the board of numerous Fortune 500 companies, is a widely- sought after business consultant and the President of my school. I have been grateful to learn from this man, and have the ability to know him personally. I aspire to have the courage this man has. He not only understands hard work, but understands compassion. Dr. Qubein displays hope in the midst of uncertainly, and his charismatic presence defines the culture of High Point University. I am a believer in top-down operations. I aspire to lead as Dr. Qubein-not simply in the process, but in the philosophy, in the culture and through values.

What is a leader? 

A leader is the encapsulation and execution of two values: integrity and consistency. A leader must be a person of authenticity. Leadership is a transparent role. One cannot lead their peers through words alone, but through transparent motives. In addition, a leader must be consistent in their actions, consistent in their values, and consistent in their approach to those they serve. When one blends consistency and integrity, a winning combination surfaces. The reason it is a winning combination, is because it is rare.  With the presidential election swiftly approaching, it is obvious that clarity, consistency, integrity, and values-based leadership is rare and becoming less and less. I understand though, that when all is said and done, many can be executers and doers. Nevertheless, few individuals can be leaders. Leadership requires the individual to be the same person in the pulpit, in the public’s eye, in their homes, and in the office.  I desire to be, and will be this type of leader. Consistent living is not often a sought-after trait, yet it certainly makes life easier to live. Once values are defined the entirety of the leader must center themselves on those, and those alone.

Why do you desire to attend the National Student Leadership Forum? 

As a California native, I knew that to expand my potential, I would need to change my environment: get out of the west coast fast-paced lifestyle and immerse myself in completely new surroundings. I cherish my home of San Francisco/ Sacramento Valley but I knew that a school in a different part of the country would not only open up new doors for me but also expand my narrow perspective and outlook.  Sometimes, change is beneficial. And, more often than not, change inspires discussion. Change makes people ask questions as to why you chose a different way of living. When I was invited to the National Student Leadership Forum, I became elated at the prospect of genuine discussion, with fellow peers, who share a like-minded passion for change. Our generation is a cohort of social media interaction and fast paced discussion. We desire to get things done. But, we also desire to achieve goals through integrity. NSLF will allow the opportunity for genuine discussion, in the midst of an election year of change. Outlooks will be expanded, and new ideas will be shared. I am grateful for this nomination, and am looking forward to the inspiration awaiting me in D.C. Thank you for this opportunity, and I will continue to serve my peers, and eventually, my nation.

His Kind of Perfect.

If something is "too good to be true", it probably is. Let us remember that "there is a way that seems right to man, but in the end is the way to death"- Proverbs 14:12. 

The path to hell may look romantic, beautiful, light, airy, perfect, or even Godly. So, how do we even know if our choices are of His Kingdom? Instead of asking if something is perfect or pure, ask: does it look like Jesus?  Does it require sacrifice?  I often think about the fact that Jesus was not who the Jews thought would be their Savior. Poor, born in a manger, no esteemed social status. Many men performed "magic", and the miracles of Jesus did not send them to conversion. Jesus was not King, he was not a "Wise Man", but He was a wise man. He would have never worked on the Sabbath, He would have kept the law in its entirety. Jesus was not condemning the prostitute and beggars-he sat down with them...and heard their story! The parades for Jesus were not the "King's parade" the Jews expected and Jesus was not constructing marvelous temples to form an Earthly Kingdom, not stroring treasures in Heaven for a Heavenly Kingdom.

So, why did I just unpack this piece of history? We are so often the Jews. We are so often forming our own reality, searching for our Jesus. We search for "Jesus" (our destiny, our future, even His plan for our life), yet ignore Jesus. By searching for Jesus without focusing on Jesus, we set ourselves up for a great trap. Earthly beauty disguises itself as "Jesus", but often it is not Jesus.


Here is an example. If a church must pour money into the architecture, decoration, or aesthetic appeal for any other reason than accomodate additional church attendance, I become nervous.  The earth approves, but where is Jesus?  If the goal of our lives is anything but loving Jesus and loving his people, it becomes shaky. As I have grown in my faith, I realize that avoiding the "negative" in society should not be our greatest concern. It is not intensely difficult to avoid drugs, abuse, stealing, or cheating. We see the effects of this quickly. We get caught, we are found out, or we become sick. But the conditions that the earth applauds-pride, arrogance, hoarding of money, or sex- there is no obvious discipline for these conditions or actions.

I heard something very interesting from my step-father a few weeks back. He is one of the most wise people I know. He told me, "Alexa, here is the thing. God is going to use me whether I am sitting in a jail cell, or if I am living in this beautiful home with my wife and children. God will never give up on you. Often it is up to you where you submit to Him-because He will use you no matter how much you fall to the earth."  Interesting, huh?  Even if we begin to buy into the world's lie of greediness, pride, or jealousy, God will still use you. Now isn't that unbelievably comforting and utterly frightening?

^{Ecclesiastes 7:20} Surely there is not a righteous man on earth who does good and never sins.

The Earth looks great. Really, it does. And often, it looks so good because there is a hint of truth wrapped in sin. But, even if we decide to go after the truth within it, we must remember sin always lies, and idols always lie. We will become trapped. In addition, we were formed to live on this earth. We are comfortable living here because it was the original intention. BUT, we were formed to live on a perfect earth. We have no business engaging in this world now that it has been steeped in sin and we are in bondage to it.  Yet, we ARE here. We must remember that the only freedom we have is in Jesus-and Jesus is not found in the Earth. He is found in His Father and in His word. Let us bring His word to the Earth. When we shine His light against a dark world (or a world that only appears light and beautiful), Truth will rise to the surface.

Finally, ask yourself-what do you consider the most pleasing things on this earth? For me, a beautiful family, a healthy body, and caring for those who do not have a role model or parent make my heart filled with joy.  But, I must remind myself every single day, that even these relationships or "ideals" cause me to stumble. They cause me to not appreciate my current life and where the Lord has taken me thus far. It allows me to become discouraged with my body and have a negative self-image. And, it can even lead to pride or selfish thought. Even the beautiful can be manipulated by the earth.

This is why, we must meditate on the word. And, we must use extreme caution when we talk about the things in which we are the most passionate. The devil will manipulate the good for his will. Let us give our passions to Jesus so that He can perfect them for us. If we turn to the earth to find the perfect family, form the perfect body, or foster His children we pull away from our God and give them to the earth. He placed these desires in us to be released back to Him....not to the earth!

^{James 1:4} And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

Be wary of the perfect, and be wary of the beautiful. It may be of God, or it may not. In either case reflect your daily life against the Truths of scripture, and the Truth of the Messiah. Jesus is honest. Jesus is perfect. Jesus the the one we will meet one day. Let us live in His perfect light, and His alone.

Application to a Summer Missionary Internship in Cambodia

Dear General Board of Global Ministries, 

I write to you with excitement, anticipation, and an eager heart. Two months ago I returned from the beautiful land of Cambodia, after a two week long mission with my grandmother. We joined a Louisiana Volunteer in Mission team, with the leaders from Mandeville, LA. You see, my grandmother and I were tired…exhausted actually. We had just returned from another mission to Honduras, also under the United Methodist Church and a LAVIM team. Our summer was filled with the joy of missions. Yet, I did not anticipate that this mission to Cambodia would be just as life changing.  I knew nothing about the country, culture, or the language. I was familiar with all three of these traits on all former missions to Mexico, Honduras or city ministries in the states. But with Cambodia, I knew nothing.  I find it amazing how the grace of our God crosses all earthly boundaries, and with relentless love, allows connections to be made between His creation. The Holy Spirit was present in every aspect of our mission. I saw the Spirit in conversations with fellow team members, and through the broken conversations I carried on with the local people. The "Koinonia" was present and fellowship was of Him.  

The missionary "spark" has been with me ever since I found the Lord (and the Lord found me) at the age of 15. After being diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer, I knew that my life would never look the same, and that every single day was a blessing from our Father. I knew that I would never be able to have children of my own-yet I must with every ounce of my being, become a mother to those who do not know Jesus. The word for "Parent" and "Teacher" in the Old Testament Hebrew is the same definition. in the Hebrew language, the very root for "parent" is the word yarah. This word means, "to shoot an arrow" or "to direct" something or someone. I know that although in the earthly realm, I may not be able to bear children, I will and have been called to teach and to guide. Also, I learned that life was to be filled with peace, but that life was also short, and we must be people of action and of love. I know that all are called to be missioners, yet I know a specific missionary calling on one's life is something special and cannot be ignored. I am a rising Junior in college at High Point University in North Carolina. I pray that next summer, the summer of 2013, I can spend it in the Kingdom of Cambodia introducing them to the love and saving power of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

I recently heard a life-changing message on the difference between gifts and talents. Being raised in a home where my father is a motivational speaker and author, and my mother is an outgoing business woman, I found myself with the drive to be "successful" (however one is to define it). I soon began to realize though, that an earthly talent may signal, but it not indicative of a Spiritual Gift.  I know my talents are rooted in entrepreneurial ability and hard work, but my Spiritual Gift has been found clearly in teaching. The Lord has used this gift to build up the body and community surrounding me. A gift must build up the body of Christ- and I am willing to embrace and fulfill a calling on my life in regards to the gifts God has so graciously given me. 

I am passionate about teaching the Word of God to youth, adults, and my peers. I have a strong desire in my heart to aid women and serve them as well. We will be called before God on the things that we know.  And, I have clearly seen the condition of Cambodia. This is a land where Bibles are scarce, and teachers are even fewer. There is a need, and there is a calling. When 95% of the nation has either not been introduced to, or is rejecting the power of Our Savior, something must be done. And now that the Lord has convicted my soul to move, I am in His hands. 

As a college student my summer calendar is open and I am ready and willing to serve as an individual volunteer for the summer of 2013 between May 15th, and August 10th. I worked with Ms. Irene for two days in Cambodia under the CHAD program, and saw a great need. In addition, I spent time with Clara and witnessed a vast calling. I am willing to be placed wherever the greatest need arises. 

Thank you for this opportunity, and I look forward to continuing to serve the Kingdom of God! 

Alexa Crawford

alexamcrawford@gmail.com

916.380.2599

Parable of the Sower

We are but seeds being planted on earth for Him, and on the same token, we are the planters. How will be grow and plant in perfect synchronization? Is it possible for us to simultaneously do both?

Amazingly, as we grow, we will also become greater planters. Through growth and maturity we gain discernement on key issues, and find ways to present the Word to (or plant seeds in) seekers in our community.

Here is the parable:

4 Again Jesus began to teach by the lake. The crowd that gathered around him was so large that he got into a boat and sat in it out on the lake, while all the people were along the shore at the water’s edge. ² He taught them many things by parables, and in his teaching said: ³ “Listen! A farmer went out to sow his seed. ⁴ As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. ⁵ Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. ⁶ But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. ⁷ Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants, so that they did not bear grain. ⁸ Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up, grew and produced a crop, some multiplying thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times.”

⁹ Then Jesus said, “Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear.”

First off, we see that Jesus teaching His disciples had become a regular routine. And, this was an issue that certainly needed clarification as it was at the root of (pun intended) the Christian walk.  I recently learned that the reason we often see Jesus standing next to bodies of water when He taught was for the simple reason of voice projection. His voice could bounce off of the water, and could reach more humans in His short ministry.

I believe this parable is for two different people. It is directed towards the growing Christian. With the Holy spirit inside of them, the seed is planted and growth begins to occur. At the same time, we see lanuage directed to the planter. We are all called to be "fishers of men", and use our feet to bring the Gospel (Matthew 4:19, Romans 10:14-15).

As a growing Christian, we must be sure that the seed of truth is planted firmly in our hearts.

So, to be a follower of Jesus Christ we must :
Be on the Path, and not stray from it
avoid those who will not allow you to Study the scriptures.
Must be certain that our manner of study is in sync with our learning soil. It must be fertile and healthy.
Must be rooted, and find our identity in Jesus-Only Jesus.
Allow ourselves to be in the mission field but not consumed by it.


And, the parable makes it clear, that to be a growing Christian, we must continually plant seeds. A dying plant cannot bear seeds to plant in others. It is a cycle that we as Christians have been called to uphold.


To Share the Gospel and plant seeds we must:
Listen to His commandments and direction
Share the Good News...with ALL.
Realize that seeds will fall as they may.


Let us become both the grower and the planter. One cannot live without the other. And, they both depend upon one another for the growing of the Kingdom.