When I signed up for this my first thought was “what have I done?” This felt like something so far beyond my grasp or understanding. But the truth is, it totally is beyond me. It’s beyond everyone on my squad. It’s only going to happen by the grace of God. So I told my parents about what I did. My mom was honestly just waiting for something like this for me. She loved me and smiled at me and said it was right up my alley. My dad, being the awesome old man that he is, told me to not get Ebola.
My mentor Tony said that this was something I was ready for as we sat and talked on his beautiful downtown patio on that cool quiet Christmas evening. He and I talked about ministry and how he’s watched me grow up these past few years. It was a humbling experience having someone of such experience honor me like he did that night.
I couldn’t believe how many people spoke encouragement over me. Then I started getting calls from the staff of adventures in missions asking me how as I was doing and how I was feeling. I feel pursued. The entire thing felt real. It didn’t just feel like a website I clicked on anymore. Im a part of something. But i felt pursued by God at the same time, not just by people.
Then I got introduced to my team through Facebook and google hangouts. We laughed and shared concerns and just enjoyed each other. They are all incredible people with huge hearts and I’m excited to share this year ahead. I can tell these friendships will last the rest of my time here in this life in this temporary tabernacle God has given me. This tent that my spirit lives in. I think thats cool because a lot of these friendships will be made in tents, as we camp out in the wild and pray for all the people we will share the Gospel of Jesus with.
I don’t feel so alone. I just want to say that I don’t feel so alone. I know people who’s hearts are in the same place as mine.
My first donation came as I was cleaning the dining room at my job. I started telling my friend, a girl who was in my 5th grade class,And her mother about my trip. Her mother handed me twenty dollars as we were talking.I couldn’t believe it.
Though I’ve only had one online donation so far it means the world to me.
My manager, an incredible encourager, motivator and born leader at work donated her pack to me for the trip.
That saved me so much money and took a bit of weight on my shoulders. Ironically it’s going to be strapped over my shoulders carrying everything i need for this journey.
There’s a lesson there somewhere. Hmmm.
Anyway.
Im grateful with all my heart for all of you. I pray You are strengthened with all power through Jesus. I am thankful that you are sharing in this journey with me. I pray you stand faithful and steadfast not shifting from the gospel, the good and great news of our hero Jesus, that you’ve heard. The Lord is with you wherever you are, He’s beckoning you to be with him.
Hes a good, good Father.
I feel like I am fighting for people I haven’t met yet. Like I’m working hard for people i haven’t met yet.I feel like I am going to be forced completely out of my comfort zone. I feel like I’m going to learn a different sort of fearlessness.
I feel like I’m being knit together into someone new. The things that used to matter to me don’t even come to my mind. It’s amazing how much Jesus has saved me from.
I know I AM, and who i am in Him.
I can’t believe how I used to spend and waste the time and gifts My Heavenly Father has given me. its all from Him and for Him. Ill give back what He has given me.
I can’t wait to go and to step forward on this adventure. So I need all the prayer and support I can get. I pray that the peace of God falls on you. I pray that you know you are loved.
I’m grateful for all that God is going to do.
Love you guys
