Who knew a yard sale could depict such a beautiful picture of love. Three weeks ago a friend said, “Let’s have a yard sale to help support your 11 month mission trip.” I was thankful and excited, but before I knew it worry had set in. Who is going to help? How are we going to transport everything? Who will buy things? I began feeling overwhelmed at the thought of everything that needed to come together and my inability to make it all happen. Thankfully, I was surrounded by a group of young women who love and support me. They reminded me of all the things that God has already done to set things into place for the World Race. They encouraged me and prayed for me. I was reminded of Philippians 4:6-7.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your heart and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
God is so good. Not only were all the logistical concerns answered, but the weekend was such an amazing picture of love. People I have never met donated brand new items and other REALLY nice things. Friends sacrificed their Friday and Saturday to pick-up, sort, price, and sell items. People came, and some paid well above the asking price. More friends came specifically to help clean up and deliver homemade banana bread (my favorite!). Thank you for supporting and loving me so well. The yard sale brought in just over $1,100 which was almost exactly how much I needed to meet my May 15th goal of $5,000 raised. As I continue to raise support for my mission trip, I am overwhelmed by friends’ and family’s gracious and encouraging responses and generous partnerships. I am so thankful for the opportunity that I have been given to serve God and those He places in front of me.
The next financial deadlines that I have are $10,000 by July 1st and $14,500 by July 21st. The total to leave fully funded on August 3rd is $18,617.00. To receive updates or join my team, visit my site at catherineread.theworldrace.org.
