To my dear friends and family,
As some of you may be aware, I didn’t make it to Colombia at the beginning of January. Even though I am going through a time of wondering and asking God “why?,” I know that there are some things that aren’t revealed to us until later in life. I’m praying for continued wisdom and understanding.
Last fall I joined a small group and the book we are finishing is titled, “Unexpected.” This word pretty much sums up all of our lives today. I am a planner and I like to have my ducks in a row and be prepared for whatever I’m getting into. In her book, Christine Caine talks about many things that ring true for me about the unpredictability of life and how God meets us daily and gives us, perhaps not what we want, but maybe what we need. She shares that, “closed doors do not mean that God is not opening a way.” I am choosing to believe and trust in the Lord’s path, although it doesn’t look exactly as I imagined it.
“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” -Isaiah 43:19
Having prepared the last half year for this mission trip with the world race has been so exciting and I’ve been overwhelmed by all the love, generosity, and support from my family and friends. I was thinking at this time to be sharing news about my amazing “J squad” team and the mission work in Medellín, Colombia, but God had a different plan. As Christine puts it, “trials don’t mean we are out of the will of God. In fact, they often mean we are precisely in the center of Gods will— right where we’re suppose to be, doing exactly what we’re supposed to be doing. Fighting the good fight of faith. Standing. Believing. Because he is working in all things for our good.” I’m praying for each of you and that the Lord’s peace, health, joy, hope, courage, grace, and love would flood your hearts and families.
Your generous donations are being reserved for a future mission trip. Thank you again!
J squad, I’m praying for each of you and standing in faith that God will continue to bless each of you as you follow His promptings and grow in your faith and as a team. Wishing you all the best!
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” –Romans 8:28
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” –Joshua 1:9
With deep gratitude and love,
Celia Elizabeth
