Preparing for Seminary

Preparing for seminary is quite a task. I have purchased all the books for the first semester and have begun reading them. There is simply no way I can read all the books before the semester starts, given my current work load, but I am making as large of a dent as I can manage. A couple of the books have audio books so I can listen to the books while I work but most of them do not. I am dedicating many hours a week to reading before the semester starts.

Once the semester does start, I will be spending all my week reading, writing, listening to lectures, and collaborating with classmates. I'm quite excited about it. The gospel message is a simply inexhaustible subject with more meaning than any other.

For now though, just digesting as much of the curriculum as I can before the semester starts is quite fun. I have read the book, "Let Justice Roll Down" by John Perkins and I am quite impressed with it. John Perkins was a black man who grew up in rural Mississippi and faced racist oppression from the time he was born. A strong man with an appetite for learning and excellence, the book tells the story of his journey that leads to him starting bible learning based ministries, community co-ops, and impacting the lives of thousands.

I've also began reading "Missional Imagination" by Jay Moon. It emphasizes the roll of creative imagination in bringing the gospel mission to people worldwide. The first few chapters showcase particular creativity in sharing the gospel in various communities and people groups all over the world. Culturally sensitive sharing of Christ can impact so many lives. This book has been very enjoyable.

"The Story of Christianity" by Justo L. Gonzalez tells the story of the early church, starting in the book of Acts, all the way to the reformation. I have been fortunate enough that this book is in audio book form so I can listen while I work. The audio book is 40 hours long and I am only about 6 or 7 hours in.

I am simply so excited to finally be able to attend seminary to pursue my calling to become a pastor. I'm honestly nervous about taking classes online because I have not been a college student for nearly 20 years. Can I make the grades? All the reading, writing, tests, quizes, lectures and collaboration is going to be a full-time experience.

Thank you for your prayers and partnership in this.