I want to dedicate this blog post, to my small town. To my church family, the community and the everyday people who make up this small, Southern Manitoba, Mennonite town.
For those that really know me, will know of my love/hate relationship with my small town. However, these last three years of being 'stationary' at home- have strengthened, and encouraged me in a way I never dreamed they would. I have 'fallen in love' with my community and the people who make it up…and I am sad to realize that I have only…
8 days left in a small town that I have called 'home' for 25 years, for a year
8 days left to reach out, bless, encourage and to BE encouraged by the people (and community) whom I have grown to love.
The love and support that I have received from local people, continues to rock my little Mennonite world. Dare I say that there is almost nothing more powerful, then a community of believers of BELIEVE in the power of prayer. The power of the Holy Spirit and the Power of God. God has shown me this love, this power of a praying Mennonite, in so many ways over the last few weeks. He has done this through 'everyday people'…through store owners, people in the mall, church family, close friends, a hairdresser , a coffee shop owner, parents of my youth, and co workers.
Little things like a local shop owner 'throwing in' two free bottles of Black Walnut pills with specific instructions to "take in Africa to help your body fight against Malaria" along with saying she would follow my blog and be praying, to a local hair dresser who just happens to be from Albania-the first country on our list of 11. Seeing her light up as she talks about her home, the people and the country/culture of Albania- got me so excited to head there in less then 2 weeks to simply love the people. To a dear friend of mine who blesses me with her presence and love, by simply letting me spend time with her kids and praying a mighty powerful prayer over me! Lisa, you WILL be missed greatly! Thank you SO much for everything!
The list could go on and on but I just wanted to end with saying "Thank you Altona. Thank you for being the blessing you have been to me over the last few years and especially, the last month. I pray that you (as a community) will not let the current struggles and debates going on, cause a division, but instead-draw the community closer together and unify it more. Be BOLD in what you believe, yet LOVE the way Christ loves. Friends, you do NOT have to leave to do missions… everyday is a chance to 'do missions' right here at home. Love the people who make up this town-depsite their background, belief, past, or history. Stand firm, love and support.
I will miss you Altona. Thank you for your love and support and especially, your prayers!!
