In just a little over two weeks, I will be setting out once again on this crazy journey only in a slightly different capacity.  My mind races as I try to prepare for what is ahead but at the end of the day, I realize, God has already prepared the way.  I am only to remain faithful to the calling that he has placed on my heart.  I could think of all of the things that I SHOULD or COULD have done better but honestly, I am as prepared as I am going to be.  All of the insecurities, all of the doubt I’ve felt over the past months in my ability to step into the role as a squad leader fade away when I realize that no matter how weak I feel in my natural abilities, it only proves that God is that much stronger.  I love that!  I cannot thwart God’s plans for this squad, I can only step into it knowing that I heard the whisper…
 
     That whisper.  I’ve heard about it.  It’s that moment, that voice that gently speaks and declares that there is something more.  It speaks to the core of who we are as believers.  It shapes us.  It guides, admonishes, and directs us as we head out into the seemingly unknown.  Most of us are traveling to areas that we have never visited.  We are only to listen.  May our ears be tuned and in step with that whisper.
 
     I wish I could put into words all of the things that I’ve been learning over the past month, but I realize that it is a nearly impossible task.  I can tell you that His purpose is clear.  I could tell you that he is refining me once more.  I could tell you that a vision has been placed in my heart for something bigger than what I could possibly imagine (more on that later).  I could tell you that raising support is not something that you can do in your natural abilities, there is tremendous faith involved.
 
     As I depart for a family vacation to Puerto Rico tomorrow, I will be resting.  I will find joy in the rest of being with my family.  I will trust that the Lord will meet my needs for support even while I am away (I am currently way behind the support deadlines and am short nearly $6000 that was agreed upon in my contract).  I am praying for my squad members.  For the team leaders and for my co-squad leader Caroline.  As I said before, it is easy to think about things that I could have done better (even with support-raising), but I realize that it is a calling.  It is me stepping out in faith and obedience, trusting that whisper.  These are the things that I am processing with only two weeks left before departure.  Please pray that God will supply ALL of my needs, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”  Matthew 11:28