whoops! :: If you sent any funds to support my trip you may know by now that the address was wrong and all letters were returned. I am so sorry! If you would like to resend your donation I have updated the address below. Thank you so much for your support, and I am so sorry for the confusion! ******
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While in Israel, the team and I served at a local prayer center in Jerusalem. We cleared out their back lot which will soon be used as a family friendly prayer garden, as well as put together furniture for an office. During our time there I fell completely in love with Jerusalem. At first I thought that maybe it was just because of where I was. I walked down streets that Jesus walked down. I passed the Damascus Gate almost every day. I was in the same air space as my Savior was; it was pretty incredible and would be for any Christian, but after a few days I realized there was something else going on. Something was different.
I have been many places this year. The hashtag for the World Race is #11n11, eleven countries in eleven months. I have already been to 14 countries to be exact. I have seen many people and experienced many new cultures, but nothing like this.
I could feel it in my gut. My heart was breaking for the women at the Wall, for the Muslim men who sold me falafel, for the Israeli guards posted at the Jordan River, for the people living, every day, where Jesus had lived, and yet are so far from Him.
While serving at this Prayer Center I also fell in love with the couple that runs it. They welcomed us in, loved us as their own kids, and really set the tone for our month in the Holy Land. I left there feeling like it would not be the last time I saw them. With that being said, I have some really exciting news!
I am going back to Israel!
(*excited squeals and happy dances!*)
After returning home and spending the month of December in Sweet Home Alabama with family and friends, I am headed back to Israel in January and will be serving at the Prayer Center for 2 months. I am extremely humbled to have this opportunity. I cannot believe God’s faithfulness. He sent me on one journey, only to lead me to my next one. Israel was not even close to being on the list of countries for my squad, but nothing is impossible for our Father. (obviously!!)
The Jerusalem Prayer Center exists to provide a place where believers are encouraged to have a personal encounter with God. A place where anyone, believers, pilgrims, and tourists alike, can intercede for the peoples of Israel and the world. The central feature of the Jerusalem Prayer Center is the Upper Room, an interactive prayer room designed for meeting with God on a personal level. I will be helping take care of day to day tasks at the center (maintenance, cleaning, office work, welcoming groups to the center) as well as serving at any events related to the center and encouraging the locals serving in the city!
With all of that being said, I would like to invite you into joining this ongoing journey with me. You all have supported me and prayed for me. You have gotten me to where I am. Now, the Father is opening another door and I am going to step through it!
If you would like to support my 2 month trip to serve in Jerusalem in January and February 2017, please send cash or check to First Baptist Church Gulf Shores (address below) with “Jerusalem Prayer Center Mission” in the subject line for checks or a note with the same with cash. Checks made out to First Baptist Church Gulf Shores.
First Baptist Church
Attn: Debbie Tillman
P.O. Box 394
Gulf Shores, AL 36547
I need a total of $3030 to leave in January. This will cover my flight to and from Israel, local transportation in the city, food, travel insurance, and my storage unit back in Birmingham, AL. This church has been an incredible prayer covering for me during my Race and they have been so gracious to accept funds for me for this trip. I am so thankful!! All funds given will be put towards my trip.
Man, this life with God just gets better and better and I cannot wait to continue to serve abroad in Israel after my Race. His people are yearning to know Him as their true savior. The Jews and the Muslims will know Jesus as their God! His heart is breaking for them, and I can’t believe that I get to be a part of His beautiful, mighty plan!
If you have any questions, would like to support me through my Prayer Team, or would like to chat about this upcoming adventure please feel free to email me ([email protected]).
