“This time has allowed me to be intentional about many aspects of my faith, character, and community…”
Jon Daley is currently in the Production ministry track at VillageU. We asked him a few questions to find out more about the program and what he’s learned so far.
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Q: What has been your favourite thing about the intern program?
JD: It is honestly hard to say just one thing! The program is well rounded, and I really have enjoyed everything that it offers! The biggest excitement for me though is coming in every day and experiencing what it is to be a part of a staff that is doing something far greater than themselves, being on mission. It has been stellar to participate, serve, and grow with a close and exciting team, and being able to serve and see what God is doing in this church and city.
As the program comes to a close, I’m excited for the upcoming short-term mission trip that I’ll be going on with the rest of the interns.
Q: What is your biggest takeaway so far?
JD: This year has been a major year of growth in my life, the internship has grown me in not only new knowledge of theology, the bible, and Christian living, but also through the application of these things – being doers of the word and really learning to take steps to live out what I hold dear in Christ. This time has allowed me to be intentional about many aspects of my faith, character, and community with those around me.
Q: What is your favourite class you’ve taken?
JD: For this semester at least, putting to use the systematic theology and biblical interpretation classes that Victor Maynard teaches and applying them to the epistles class that Pastor Mark, Chris de Monye, and Pastor Jeremy teach. These classes have unlocked my ability to read and understand the bible in such a way that will forever change how I approach reading scripture. Overall though I have had major takeaways from all the classes this year!
Q: How has God challenged you in this program?
JD: The question that I wanted to be answered at the beginning of this year was ‘what it means to live out a gospel and Christ-driven life’. The question was answered, and the challenges did come, but facing them was a joy because of how much I have grown out of them. The biggest challenge that I encountered this year was facing convictions in different situations and circumstances, and responding to them in a way, as Jonathan Edwards puts it, that is “contrary to the natural bias of the flesh,” which reveals my pride and selfishness. And, making hard choices to live less out of the self and more in the image of Christ, and then ultimately finding freedom in it!
If you’re interested in the 2017/2018 Intern Program, click here to learn more about it.