’ll never forget when my oldest daughter was born. It was a beautiful moment of rejoicing and giving thanks to God. I also remember being at the hospital as a new dad, thinking: “Why did I choose to begin a master’s degree right when I was becoming a dad?” It seemed like an extraordinarily difficult thing to do.
I started school with a sense of excitement and adventure. After all, I enjoyed learning God’s word. I eventually found myself struggling to enjoy my journey, though. There were several instances where education felt more like a chore than anything. I questioned myself as to why I was going through the process. Why was I sacrificing time with the family? Then, I remember the conviction of my heart. I had to remember I was doing this because I believed God was guiding me not only to complete my schooling but to finish it well. God gave me the strength to continue trusting in Him.
By God’s grace, after seven years, I finally graduated from Dallas Theological Seminary with a Master of Arts in Christian Studies. I look back at my journey now, and all I see is God’s faithfulness, goodness, and provision. Everything I learned, the relationships I gained, how I was applying what I was learning at the ministry every day, and the people who prayed for me and supported me financially all displayed God’s love for me and my family. I wouldn’t have done it without the support of my family or God. This accomplishment is theirs.
I had the opportunity to attend the graduation ceremony in the company of my family and friends. It was a beautiful moment that I will cherish for the rest of my life. I was in awe as I looked around the room and saw all the men and women who took a step of faith and trusted God with their studies. As I meditate in the past and look forward to the future, I am excited to see how God might continue to use this for His Glory and His Kingdom.
-Enrique Garcia, Director of Spanish Ministries