Hey everyone, it’s been a while so I’m back with another blog. Yay! Thus far, I am still missing Brazil terribly, but I leave the dream of returning one day in God’s hands. He knows the desires of my heart. What is, not worse, but saddening is that on top of that I am missing Mexico. Goodness, too many places to go, people to visit and not enough time to do either. I know some day, I will return to both places, if the Lord allows. Also, fundraising has been going so well. God has gone above and beyond, and I am continually blown away by His provision. He is so faithful. All of you have contributed in some way, shape, or form, whether it be prayer, finances or providing side jobs for me. I am so blessed. I have my first and second down payment paid off. Only, $5,000 to go. Praise be to God. Thank you!
Recently, my family and I went on a road trip to different areas in Colorado. Dang, Colorado you are beautiful. As the towering trees, rugged road and breathtaking scenery fell behind our tire tracks, I gazed upon the mighty mountains that jutted up from the ground. The clouds were scattered throughout the deep blue sky and the sun peaked through them giving off a summer vibe and spring fragrance. I was reminded of how powerful and creative our God is. He is the Creator and Maker of everything. He created you and me to serve and glorify Him in our own unique ways. He created all the beauty we see around us and those huge jaw dropping mountains. I was reminded that God is capable of anything and everything.
My family really likes to listen to audio books on long road trips. One of the audio books we listened to this time was The Pineapple Story by Otto Koning. His stories were encouraging, funny and showed me that God, though He is already in control of everything, wants control of everything I think I possess. Cause really, everything is His. Even if it means giving Him my silverware (you will have to read the book if you want to know what I mean by that, I highly recommend it). It truly encouraged me to give everything to God, every situation, every belonging, every thought and feeling, every little detail of my life. Surprisingly (but not actually), It’s really, really, hard.
Training camp keeps coming closer I am nervous yet expectant. I know it’s going to be tough but I’m ready. It’s going to prepare me for what lies ahead, whatever that may be. I am excited to meet my team/squad and get to know each person for who they are as we spend nine months together.
T-SHIRT UPDATE: Have no fear. The t-shirts are still being worked on. There have been multiple malfunctions but hopefully, I will have them by this weekend (God willing). If you are interested, please let me know and I can get you more details.
My prayer requests for these coming weeks are; 1. That I get through the craziness of graduation with my head on straight. 2. I can sort out if I want to get a second job over the summer and maybe even a third one. 3. That I can fit in all my plans and visit the people I would like to see this summer. and 4. That I continue to follow and honor God in all I say and do.
I cannot wait to see how God revels himself to me as I continue on. Yes, I am slightly terrified of what is in front of me. Yes, there are a lot of unknown aspects on this adventure. Yes, I am going to trust God with everything I have (even though it will not be easy). Yes, in the end its all for God’s glory and not mine. Therefore, I am bubbling over with excitement for what God has in store. Lastly, I want to thank you again for being a part of my journey, you are a blessing!
Matthew 7:7 – “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.
Matthew 21:22 – If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.”
2 Timothy 1:7 – “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”
Isaiah 43:1-5a -“But now, this is what the Lord says—he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior; I give Egypt for your ransom, Cush and Seba in your stead. Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you, I will give people in exchange for you, nations in exchange for your life. Do not be afraid, for I am with you;”
