Thanksgiving is a wonderful holiday. How refreshing it is to spend time reflecting on the many things in our lives for which we can be grateful.
This month I have really been reflecting on how God brought things together to allow me to go on this mission. I have been thinking about the many people who gave of themselves to enable me to go where the Lord has led me.
I think about my very first donation, which I received the day after I had officially been accepted to the World Race by some long-time family friends. It was such a huge confirmation for me that God would provide.
I think about the airporter, Kindle, and iPod that were given to me for free to use this year. It’s not easy giving up our material possessions for someone else to use, not knowing if they will be returned safely or not.
I think about the dear friend of my family who had already donated to my World Race account but stopped by my house one day to give an extra donation for my personal account. She wanted to be sure I was able to get a new article of clothing or something “fun” without feeling guilty about it.
I think about the spiritual mentors in my life who spent time pouring into me and teaching me throughout my life, preparing me for my time in the mission field without even realizing it.
I think about the kind friend who gave me a unique gift of ribbon, to tie in the hair of little girls, or top off a gift for a ministry contact, or to just spread a little cheer to people who need it around the world.
I think about the many wrists bearing Threads of Hope bracelets, bought by friends and family and members of my church to raise support. I think about my sister and the girl I used to babysit (who I now consider a friend), who willingly added the stress of selling those bracelets to their already busy schedules.
I think about the anonymous donations in my World Race account. It takes such humility to give knowing you will receive no earthly gratification whatsoever for your gift.
I think about all the prayers that have been said for me – prayers that have strengthened me in moments of weakness, comforted me in times of homesickness, and even protected me in the face of a hurricane.
If you have given a penny to my cause, if you have said a single prayer for me, if you have guided my spiritual walk with the Lord, if you are reading this blog – Thank you. Thank you so much for being a part of God’s plan to get me here. Thank you for supporting a program that is reaching out to people who need Jesus. Thank you for your faith and for your part in growing mine. To quote Ray Boltz, “Thank you for giving to the Lord. I am so glad you gave.”
I am $920 away from being completely, 100%, fully funded. My final deadline is January 1st, and I have full confidence that the Father will provide a few more donations to reach the total funds. I am undeserving of such incredible blessing. Praise God from whom all blessings flow, and to Him be all the glory!
