Today, God was just showing off.
1 John 3:1 says See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!
This morning I went down to the church to set up the projector and screen for my presentation on Sunday about the Race and to finish up some last minute details. In the Episcopal church the weekly Gospel readings are on a set calendar, so when Joanie showed me this week's pre-determined reading I just had to laugh.
WOW, Jesus! That's just awesome! Of COURSE You would have the Gospel reading as the Great Commission right before I speak. Thank You, Daddy!
I am always thankful when my Abba reminds me of His plan and encourages me in my role in it. Preparing for this journey has been a constant reminder that I am not the author of this story, that the victory and the tale of love are already written and God is just graciously allowing me to play a part in HIS STORY.
So, after finishing up at the church I had a few errands to run downtown. My dad had come up with the idea that I should talk to the Lake Wales News about writing a short story to let everyone know what I'm up to. I was a little intimidated walking into the office thinking that I wouldn't know anyone…when, lo and behold, the Managing Editor happens to be the mom of one of my childhood friends! She remembered me and said she would look into allowing me to submit an update once a month telling about ministry and life in the different countries. Um, awesome!
Thanks again, Daddy! Time and time again You remind me that I can trust you even in the littlest things.
I'm walking out to my car joyfully and thanking Jesus for His provision this morning, when the store catty-corner (yep. I just said catty-corner.) catches my eye. Lake Wales is a pretty small place and I happen to know the own, so I figure what have I got to lose? I'll just go in, drop off a few business cards, and let the Spirit work out the rest. All they can say is no, right Mom? 🙂
Downtown Lake Wales, Fl…home sweet home!
Turns out God wasn't quite done providing just yet. I got to reconnect with the mother of an elementary school friend, catch up on life, and receive encouragement in this crazy calling I'm walking in!
My first thought? "Wow, how random!" but instantly the Holy Spirit said "No dear..that was Me."
Oh! Right! Of course! Thank You, Holy Spirit, for orchestrating each step this morning. Thank You for speaking in tiny whispers to my heart, for teaching me to lean in and listen to You. Thank You for providing in ways that I couldn't even begin to think of. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!
I am blown away time and time again as God reminds me how much this is NOT about me. How ALL of it is ALL about Him – HIS glory, HIS passion, HIS people, HIS KINGDOM! We are just the warriors who walk in the light and wait for His commands.
And all before 11:00am.
If you'll be in the Lake Wales, FL area this Sunday 6/19 I'd love for you to join me at Church of the Good Shepherd as I talk about the World Race! Service starts at 9:30am. I'll have Threads of Hope bracelets for sale too. See you there!
