Hey!
My name is Jada!
I’m from Grand Rapids, Michigan, and I grew up loving all four seasons (I honestly don’t have a favorite). I love beach days at Holland State Park, going to Robinette’s in the fall, and drinking cider with friends. Skiing is one of my favorite things to do in the winter, and spring brings new life and a fresh scent to the earth.
I went to Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, where I studied Graphic Design, Creativity and Innovation, and minored in Digital Marketing while playing soccer. I loved my time at Cornerstone, learning design, competing in soccer, and building meaningful relationships. Even more, I grew a ton in my faith and drew closer to Jesus. During college, I found my home church, Berkley Hills, which completely shifted the trajectory of my walk with Christ. My very first time visiting Berkley, I was baptized and rededicated my life to Him. From that day on, I continued to grow in community and was pushed to know Jesus more deeply.
In my junior year, I went on a mission trip with Berkley Hills, my church, to Guatemala. That trip opened my eyes to the nations, to how much Jesus loves His children, and to how powerfully the Lord works through a group of people who simply say “yes” to furthering His Kingdom. On that trip, I sensed the Lord stirring my heart toward missions or ministry, though I wasn’t yet sure what that would look like.
By senior year, like most seniors, I still had no idea what I wanted to do with my degree. One day, while walking through campus, my friend and I saw a GoCorps interest meeting sign for seniors. She knew my heart for the Lord and for missions and encouraged me to go. I went and was so excited about the idea of using my degree in missions. At the time, I wasn’t sure if this was really where the Lord was leading me, so after a lot of prayer and conversations with family and friends, I ultimately decided not to move forward.
So what changed? Why am I here, writing this blog?
I decided to go on the same Guatemala trip again with my church. On that trip, the Lord met me with incredible grace and mercy. People intentionally spoke words over me like “full surrender,” “confirmation,” and “this next step is not going to be of this world.” After those conversations, I felt such a strong call that I couldn’t deny the Lord was leading me here.
So here I am, sitting at GoWeek, writing this story of how the Lord called me. I pray it encourages you to go, to step out in faith, and to be a disciple of Jesus who makes disciples of all nations. He is calling you to more, more of your heart, more of your gifts, more of your surrender. He longs to awaken His church, and you are part of that church. Step out of your bubble, out of the safe comfort zone, and into the next step that will draw you closer to Christ than you could ever imagine.
With love,
Jada