So, my last day of work is May 20th. That’s like… 12 days away. *gulp* But who’s counting?
The thought of living for a year with no income is absolutely shattering whatever semblance of independence I thought I had. Have I blogged lately about how God provides for this ministry in absolutely insane ways? Let me just tell you: He does.
It’s incredible.
But I’m still sitting here, 12 days away from unemployment, with a pencil, paper, and a calculator, trying to figure out how God’s planning to make this work. And I have absolutely no clue. Bills come in the mail, supplies lay in a pile on the store counter, vaccines and medications are prepped and packed, and I just take a deep breath, close my eyes, and swipe my debit card. My heart literally leaps each time the screen blinks “APPROVED.” I’m incredibly detailed with my budget and money, but, praise the Lord, God is bigger than math.
I do not have the money that I need– there are more vaccines, more medications, and more supplies to purchase– but by your prayers, God’s faithfulness, and your donations, I have enough for each day. Below is a list of supplies I’ve purchased already. These purchases, along with vaccines and an emergency fund, are all additional expenses (above and beyond the $16,270 I am raising to go on the trip). If you have been praying about giving towards this ministry, please consider donating the money to cover supply & vaccine costs. They’re pretty steep. Here are a few examples:
Sleeping bag: $209.95
Insect repellent sleeping bag liner: $62.95
Sleeping pad: $89.95
Travel pillow: $39.95
Water purifier: $69.95
Multi-tool: $64.50
Pack towel: $32.95
Airporter: $39.00
Water bottle: $10.99
Headlamp: $59.95
Daypack: $59.00
Cookware/dishes: $49.95
Tent: $389.95
Footprint: $39.95
Do the quick math. That’s a whopping $1,219 for only 14 items from my packing list. Are you cringing yet?
I am.
Each day I am humbled.
I find myself in this situation often these days- sitting here with a pencil, paper, and a calculator, trying to figure out how God’s planning to make this work- and I can’t figure it out. Jesus begs me to trust him and I do- I will. He turns my worry into expectancy and my insecurity in myself into confidence in him. He will come through. He always does. He can use you to do that.
Supporters, I have said this so many times but I will say it again: I CAN NOT DO THIS WITHOUT YOU and I CAN’T THANK YOU ENOUGH. You have been the hands and feet of Jesus in my life so that I can be the hands and feet of Jesus in the lives of others.
Please keep praying for peace and wisdom– I need them both right now.
