I sent out support letters last week, and it was probably the first time I’ve done so in 4 years.
Before I had even written the letter there was this churning in my gut. I do not like asking people for money.
When I was younger and obviously without a job I would rely on my parents. Movies, dinner, presents for other people… They were my source of income. I was jokingly called “the black hole” when it came to money. And even though this playful label was never meant in malice I couldn’t help but develop this sense of dread whenever I would need money for something. And this dread has stuck with me ever since.
By the time I was able to and found a job I made it my goal to never have to ask for money again. Since then I have only asked for money from other people for 1 of my mission trips (and even then I felt bad doing so). I didn’t want to seem like a burden or a “black hole”.
So when we were required to go through the series of 10 videos and quizzes about fundraising I started off already feeling that guilt. This was an area that I was not comfortable with and that I was nervous about pursuing. Then as the series progressed I began to realize that asking for money for missions is something I am called to do, and something that I need to invite people to do along side me. It is an opportunity for them to further God’s kingdom even if they cannot physically do it with me.
Which is why even in my discomfort I have added a second way people can invest in me for this trip. A really dear family friend of mine who has been connected to Royal Servants for many years recommended I create a registry for individuals who may not want to just give money to a general fund. They instead want to give something meaningful. So I created a registry at REI for those individuals, and it can be found here:
http://www.rei.com/GiftRegistryDetails/GR88128610
It’s taken time and I know I will still have to work on it, but I am doing my best to break the mindset of guilt when I have to ask for financial help.
I am so grateful for each and every person who will support me on this trip. I am as grateful to the individual who gives $10 as I am to the one who give $500.
I know God will provide and I am trusting in Him. He knows what is on people’s hearts and what is on mine when it comes to raising support.
Have a blessed day!
