This summer has been jam-packed! (With good things, but packed nevertheless):
- Moved out of my apartment
- Cleaned my room at home to make space for the things from said apartment
- Cabin-led Mt. Hermon Jr. High Camp
- Had shoulder surgery
- Recovered from surgery
- Going through physical therapy
- Hosting my friend from Japan (We're going to Disneyland!)
- Seeing off friends who are leaving the area for various reasons
- Will go to Mammoth for family vacation
- Will cabin-lead at my church's retreat
- Am looking for a job for the fall
…amidst all of this, I've been striving to "not be anxious about anything"–about fundraising, sending out letters, keeping in touch with people, finding a job, getting medical stuff done, etc. And considering my life history…I've been doing pretty well!
But that's definitely not something I can attribute to my own efforts. Trust me–I have been on the verge of freaking out over all the things I need to do to prepare for the Race; but everytime I get close, something or someone has always been there to encourage me and spur me on (THANK YOU!). And with this upcoming deadline, I've been in need of all of it.
The next deadline for my fundraising is September 29th–I need to have raised $3,500 by then. Currently, I am at $1,059.50, which really isn't too shabby at all. The issue is that my first instinct concerning deadlines is to just get stuff done, check something off the list, and move forward. But with support-raising, I need to get used to not being in control of the "work" that needs to be completed. I cannot make people support me financially, and writing more emails/notifications/blog posts does not necessarily equal progress.
No, this "work" can only really be completed by God–in His timing, with faith, earnestness, and willingness to do what He has called me to do. Working at a fast-pace with quick results isn't the way to go for this season of my life. I am not in control.
This verse has helped bring me through many things, and it's as relevant now as it ever was:
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Phillipians 4:6-7).
So for now, slow and steady wins will get me to the Race.
