At times I feel as though I am living in a dream-like state. I stopped working just over 2 weeks ago, and I have 20 days until launch. Is this real life?! I told myself that I would take December off from work to prepare and become ready for the World Race. And yet I find myself procrastinating. “I’ll get my malaria meds filled…eventually. I will figure out financial responsibilities, eventually. And now, my team has received our first assignment. From January 11-31st you will find Team: Awakened Warriors serving in Quito, Ecuador. We will be ministering with a ministry called Inca Link Ecuador. It’s a program designed for teenagers and young women who have fallen victims to sexual abuse, violence, and prostitution. While aiding through a time of rehabilitation, bible studies are offered to these brave souls, to guide them towards a promising hope: Jesus Christ. And to share that no sin is too great, that they can experience freedom. “For freedom Christ has set us free;” Galatians 5:1a
John 8:11- God and sin no more. I will not condemn you.
Please pray with me for these women and teens. Pray that the Holy Spirit would begin to soften their hearts, and break down any walls they have learned to put up. Also pray with me that we would love them well. I am reading a book called, “When Helping Hurts: Alleviating Poverty without hurting the poor or yourself”. It’s very convicting. I have seen evidence of improper ways of helping the “poor” as well as wonderful ways, and I have been involved in each.
Also, tomorrow at 5:00PM EST, we arrive our second deadline of $7500. Prayerfully consider supporting a teammate of mine, as well as a few others on my Squad. P-Squad is currently at the beginning of a 24 hour prayer watch (much like we had at training camp). There is at least one squad-mate praying every hour for our squad, as well as our friends who have not reached the deadline yet. We are praying and believing that the Lord will provide, even it is up to the last minute at 5:00PM EST tomorrow. Please join us in prayer, and if you feel lead, help one of my brothers and/or sisters out.
Bailey Balenti (Team Awakened Warriors- Leader)
Alicia Decker (Team Joyous Light)
Nick Cummings (Team Awaken- Leader)
Vanessa Martinez (Team Aslan)
Laura Spence (Team Awaken)
