Katlyn asked me to post for her this month so here goes! The most questions her mom and I get is about her safety. We would rather she be at risk in the will of God than safe??? out of His will. Yeah, doesn’t make sense. Besides, faith in God means we trust Him to meet all our needs (Philippians 4: 19). Plus, AIM does a great job at looking ahead and taking steps to ensure the safety of teams as much as they can. Honestly, while we pray for safety, that has not been a concern throughout. Katlyn has been sick at least once and it is hard for a parent (regardless of how old your child is) not to be able to comfort them. I’m thankful for a God that heals and caring teammates!
More importantly is the work that is being accomplished by Katlyn and her teammates! Every country, group and individual present unique needs. I know Katlyn has enjoyed time with each person she has met and I hear in her a growth that is immeasurable. She talks more and more about her time in God’s word, what she is learning and then how she is using what she learns in a real world environment. There is really no way in words to capture all she is experiencing personally. I know that what she is seeing and doing will forever enhance her impact for The Kingdom!
Now in Eswatini and cresting the halfway point the teams/squads are gearing up for the second half of their year abroad! This month Katlyn is learning and participating in the operational/logistical side of mission work (in her words, ”its not always doing crafts with kids and teaching VBS or digging a ditch in a field.”) as lessons have to be written, schedules made and money accounted for. Nevertheless, she is still interacting with the Swazi’s and using these opportunities to share the Gospel and teach God’s word.
When this dream of the World Race began I personally questioned whether my daughter was mature enough, strong enough, bold enough. Her mom and I spent time discussing it and praying about it and then supported her 100%. We watched as she did what was necessary to make this year a reality. It wasn’t the easiest thing to say farewell in October but it was the right thing to do! She had to respond to God working in her life and this was how He chose to use her for this season. I am thankful that I wasn’t a stumbling block. I am thankful for the vision of AIM. I am thankful for God using all of us. I mentioned her growth earlier…I am thankful that the little girl, I’ve always known as my daughter is a woman that will forever be known as my sister!
