I went on my first mission trip to Brazil in 2009 with Athletes in Action. It was amazing and I loved it. The only part I didn’t like about it was fundraising. I told myself I would never fundraise again but of course God had other plans. Last year God called me to the field once again but this time I was to raise $13,500 for The World Race (Adventures in Missions).
As I started the fundraising process I reluctantly asked people to support me. I still thought that asking for financial help was a burden for others. Despite my negative outlook, God still provided me with the full amount.
A few months ago I realized I had extra money in my personal account. I had saved it for extra expenses for my trip but I didn’t end up needing it after all. My mind was racing with all of the things I could do with it: go pack backing through Asia, go on a shopping spree, visit my family in Spain. As I thought of the possibilities I got a check in my spirit, that money was’t mine to spend. A little disappointed, I prayed God if the money isn’t mine then who’s is it? A month later he showed me who’s it was. The money went to three young missionaries.
Two days later I got to see the fruits from that obedience. God showed me the joy on those kids faces when they saw Him provide. I saw their faith increase as their dreams of being a missionary became a reality. God not only blessed them but He blessed me too!
I didn’t need to nor deserve to see the impact that money had made for the kingdom but I believe God did that for a reason. God has been trying to teach me that raising support is not a burden at all and neither is being a supporter.
It’s an honor. It’s another opportunity to praise Him. To see His provision as I walk through the support process is a blessing not only for me but also for my supporters. By not asking people for help, I am robing them of their blessings.
I’m realizing that the people in my community want to give! They are just looking for the opportunity. They want to hear about the wonderful God given plans that Adventures in Missions have already fulfilled and the visions that are yet to come to pass. Just like me they are yearning to be involved in something greater than themselves.
As I watched those young missionaries praise God for providing for them, I realized it wasn’t about me or about the money. It’s about God’s kingdom.
I’m now in the process of raising support but I can’t do it alone. I need you! As the body of believers we are called to help assist our brothers and sisters in Christ to enable them to do the work of the Lord.
Go to https://www.adventures.org/give/donate.asp?giveto=worldrace&desc=Megan%20Cherry to support my next mission to Guatemala.
For all missionaries going through this process take heart! Be encouraged because God is calling you into something great! Through your obedience He will provide. Within His will their is always provision.
