CHRISTINE YUN
sent by SYMPHONY CHURCH to Over-the-rhine, ohio.
Christine graduated from Boston University in 2013 and now lives in Cincinnati, OH. She came on staff after two years of interning with OTR Living Water Church. She does not yet love Skyline Chili, but loves the Midwest.
1. When did you go on your 1-yr internship?
2014-2015
2. Where do you currently attend church?
OTR Living Water Church
3. How did you decide to devote one year to serving as an intern?
The short version: I actually wanted to go on one-year after graduating, but God led me to join InterVarsity at BU, so I thought that was a closed door. But during my year with InterVarsity, I was trying to figure out next steps and had a couple of options in mind. But God kept waking me up in the middle of the night for about a week. It was in a Samuel-like moment and I felt like God was re-opening that door, specifically to OTR. He led me to Isaiah 55 and one thing led to another, and God brought me here. 🙂
4. During your time as an intern, what roles did you play?
My main role was to help and support the leaders here in any capacity. I spent a majority of my time with renovating the church building, which was an amazing experience with four other interns. I also helped with babysitting, house visits, women’s bible study, street evangelism, Chinese Scholar dinners, planning for summer missions, and Sunday school. We also held an after school program in one of the ministry houses because we were not yet able to get into the local public schools.
5. What is one realization or revelation that God showed you about Himself, people, or His kingdom as a result of your internship?
One of my biggest hurdles in going on one-year was feeling guilty and worried about leaving my family behind. There was a lot going on at the time and I felt like I was sacrificing a lot, which in hindsight, is ridiculous, I know! What I realized was that what we sacrifice for God really pales in comparison to how He richly blesses us!! Sometimes we don’t see or experience the immediate blessing or joy, but we must walk by faith and not by sight — because He is so kind and so good to us.
6. How has your experience while interning influenced what you are doing now and what you hope to do in the future?
I’m still here! I don’t know what the Lord has in mind, but I’ll be here until He calls me elsewhere.
7. How would you advise interns to maximize their experience while they are on the field?
I feel like a lot of interns go on one-year wanting to serve God in an extravagant kind of way and they end up being discouraged because you end up cleaning and babysitting most of the time or you fall short and heart issues get exposed. I think the year is really about molding your character and deepening your relationship with Him. My advice would be to expect exposure and go with humility and a teachable heart. Let God shape you and keep fighting for His kingdom!