Welcome! Well, the new class is here and are getting acclimated to life at McLean Bible Church. We’ll be doing a series of blogs to help you better get to know the Future Leader Class of 2010. Today we’re highlighting Rachel Thomas, who works with The Rock, McLean Bible Church’s Youth Ministry.

I knew I wanted to go into full-time ministry since high school. I was involved with student leadership within my home church and eventually became an intern within the Student Ministries after graduation. While taking undergrad classes at Moody for a Bible degree, I discovered my calling into Youth Ministry. I had godly men and women pour into me and help me grow as a disciple of Christ. It was because of their example and encouragement that I began to pursue a Youth Ministry degree full-time at Moody.

I was a Resident Assistant of a floor on campus and a leader in the college ministry within the church I attended downtown Chicago. Through these experiences I learned a lot of administrative responsibilities, gained leadership training, developed deep relationships with those in the ministry, and saw God’s hand at work. I was humbled that He would chose to use me as part of advancing His Kingdom. These stretching opportunities affirmed my calling into ministry.

As graduation was approaching, I had sent my resume to dozens of churches, organizations, and ministries with no interest. I became discouraged and thought, “I NEED A JOB!” I began to pursue more secular careers, only to find a Bible and Youth Ministry degree from a Christian college doesn’t get much attention in the world’s eyes!

Then the Future Leaders Program had a booth to recruit at Moody. I walked by without giving it a second glance because it was only a year long internship. I was determined to not job hunt after one year out of college! My academic adviser asked, “Are you looking for a job or a ministry?” and encouraged me to talk with the recruiters. I was so consumed with finding a job and having an answer to the question of “what are you doing after graduation?” that I forgot my purpose and calling. After applying without much hope that anything would come from it, I received an email to set-up a phone interview. Several weeks later I hesitantly came for Preview Weekend where I interviewed in person with several different ministries and was able to observe what the Lord is doing through McLean Bible Church. I knew I wanted to be here and was determined this was what I was supposed to do, even if only for a year. I spent the next several days in great anticipation and on my knees waiting for the call back to hear if I made it…and what ministry I would be placed in. When Lauren Allgood called to offer me a position with The Rock Student Ministries I was overwhelmed with joy and peace.

After being at MBC for over two months, I have not regretted a day of committing my life to ministry for the Lord and serving at McLean. I have been able to travel on retreats, camps, and over seas mission trips with junior and senior high students since arriving in June. It is a humbling to think that God would use someone like me to be His hands and feet. But I am so thankful for the opportunities He has given me, like being a Future Leader at McLean.