Hi All –
This month we have been in the Northern Territory of Australia working with a local Aboriginal community doing relational ministry. It has been a huge month for growth personally and for my team. We have had our first taste of third world living. We have been living in what they call “contractors quarters.” It is hot, dirty, with lots of crickets, bugs, and lizards living with us. With that being said we have a shower, a kitchen, and one huge picnic table to gather as a team for meals, devotionals, and naps (yes, we nap on at the picnic table.) We have what we need and more. Our days look like this: morning devotionals over oatmeal and coffee, singing and playing in the filed with the children who didn’t make it to school, and visiting people in their homes because it is too hot to be outside in the direct sun. Also, while we have been here we have been able to help out with children’s, women’s, and men’s ministries. We have what is called “fellowship” on Friday and Saturday nights. It starts around 9 or 10pm and can last up to 4 hours. “Fellowship” is just like church we sing, encourage one another, have a few people share stories and verses. We have made some amazing connections here in a short period of time. Here we are in month 2 already gearing up to say goodbye. It is difficult. We just got here. We are seeing God use us and now it is time to go. I have come to the realization that this year is going to be saying hello then waving goodbye sometimes before we are ready to leave. You see we arrived less than 3 weeks ago on a bus and were welcomed into this community by kids running up to the bus. They instantly were drawn to us. The kids now yell our names from what seems like a mile away and ask what we are doing and if they can hang out with us. They love attention, affection, and being held. After hanging out with 3 school aged girls for an afternoon we heard about 4 times”one more hug please” as they reach out their arms. They struggle with Goodbyes as do we. They desire love; they need touch that is comforting. We were able to provide that for a few weeks, but Jesus provides that every moment of every day.
So, as I prepare to wave Goodbye. I must trust that “the children are safe in HIS arms.” God brought us here for a reason. We made connections, we encouraged, we loved. But, now it is time to trust in the Lord that HE will take care of them and protect them.
I’m headed to the Philippines on Saturday where we will meet up with the rest of our squad, squad leaders, and coaches for a time called “debrief.” We will be there for about five days before heading out to do ministry. It is a time to process and get re-fueled. I cannot believe I will be starting month 3 of The World Race. It blows my mind! Thank you for helping me get here. My next deadline is April 1st…I am in need of about$1,500 to reach that goal and am only about $3,000 away from being fully supported! I am so blessed! If you are interested in donating please click “support me” on the left hand column. Love and miss you all!
