I think I was always meant to cross paths with Kristi McLelland.

And meeting her in a year where my word…my anchor… my focus is PURPOSE only affirms that more.

Who is Kristi McLelland?

Back in April of this year, I was invited to participate in a Bible study called Jesus & Women. I had no clue what the study was about. I’d never heard of it. I didn’t know the teacher. I just knew I’d been searching for 1) a group of women who would hold me accountable in Bible teachings and 2) content that would help me understand the Bible (…I was totally gonna say “a little more,” but let’s be real…I really mean “at all.”)

So I said yes.

Man, just writing that last sentence gives me the chills because I had NO IDEA how instrumental that “yes” would be in the next 4 months. And I truly have no idea how vital it will EVER be.

How life changing that first study would be for me.

How much it would highlight the ways in which I dim my own light, throw in the towel on myself and diminish my power as a woman…ON A DAILY.

Kristi McLelland, on paper, is a “Biblical Culturalist.” What the heck does that mean? She’s a speaker, a teacher, and a college professor who has dedicated her life to teaching people how to study the Bible for themselves. She is passionate about helping people understand the Bible in its original cultural context, explaining the Bible through a Middle Eastern lens.

Well, this Biblical Culturalist is changing my whole life. 

Today’s Life MOments is brief. I’ve just returned from five days in Tennessee – five days that are a direct result of this “yes” and this study under Kristi McLelland.

A couple of those days WITH Kristi McLelland herself.

And I just haven’t processed. Not even in the slightest.

But I will leave you with one invitation and one question.

INVITATION:

I don’t know where you are in your faith – or if you even have one – but I’m leaving my door (read: email inbox) open. If you have ANY questions about my walk, about your own, about this study, maybe interest in joining a group, prayer requests, ANYTHING AT ALL, would you pleeease reach out to me? Sometimes that first bold step is all you need to take. Consider that your first “yes.”

QUESTION:

Think about the things you give your NO to that maybe you feel a nudging that God really wants you to say YES. → That could include yourself.

In what areas are you limiting yourself?

What parts of life are you counting yourself out on?

I’ve never advocated for journaling or contemplation more than I am right now. I’m becoming more and more passionate about women stepping into the power that they truly own, and taking up their space in this world. And much of that passion comes from…ya know….Kristi.

Own your space, ladies!