Kristen Uppendahl
Why are you at MTS–Michigan?
I never planned on Seminary. In fact, I grew up wanting to be a Pediatric Medical Missionary and live in India. Well...after several chemestry classes, and endless hours of trying to figure molecular structures when really I just wanted to get coffee with others, or play with children, it became apparent, my original plan was not going to pan out. Thus, I went on a seven year College journey that ended with me at University of Nebraska-Omaha and wanting to graduate so badly that I chose the shortest major in the book: Religion. Funny thing is that I liked it. Rather, I loved it. Taking Islam or Buddhist classes while sitting next to the people who follow that religion opened my eyes to understand the lost in a way I never had before. Which also opened my heart to feel a burden for them heavier than I ever had before either. Thus, when I graduated college and moved back home to Michigan, I was praying about what direction to take next and Seminary kept popping in my head. Yet - a women in the M.Div program...is that legal? I talked a lot with my father about the call I felt God was placing on my life, and at first he was rather hesitant. But as he kept praying for me and we kept praying together, he felt sure that God was calling me to recieve an M.Div and affirmed my call. Therefore, I am at MTS–Michigan earning and M.Div. Where to next, only God knows....but the adventure is worth the ride!
What are the top 5 most influential books you have read?
There are so many books that I adore so this will be a tough choice for me. First of course is the Word of God - because everything is nothing without it. Secondly - To Kill a Mockingbird, it was the first book I remember crying at and thinking about the cruelity of humanity and how lost people actually are. Third - Crime and Punishment, a book the continues to remind me of the burden of sin and the way in which the world chooses to deal with it. Fourth - Picture of Dorian Grey, a book that reminds me it is the inner beauty that counts. Lastly - Worship that Changes Lives, a book that reminds me that everything we do is an act of worship and that all things from movies to dance to art can be claimed for God's glory.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Hmm....I love Pizza and could eat that 24/7. I also love pie. I love College Football...and well...all sports! But I would have to say reading. I have to ban myself from bookstores because I will be tempted to buy a book, which I have no time to read.
What are you thankful for in your life right now?
That I am alive. God's grace is suffiecient and each day is gift.
Who is an influential person/hero in your life?
Again, a category in which I have been blessed by so many wonderful people that could hold this role. I would have to say my family. My older brother Jeffrey, was my hero. I looked up to him and admired him for his faith, his determination, and his zeal for all that God had to offer in this life! Can't wait to see you again on the other side bro! Also, my parents. They just plain rock! Their faith is genuine and their integrity is real.
With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. James 3:9-10