I am learning so much as I prepare to embark on this 11-month adventure. But the adventure has already begun! I am learning to invite God into every part of this whole “fundraising and asking-people-for-money thing.” I recently read a book called The Spirituality of Fundraising by Henri Nouwen which has changed my outlook quite a bit.
Nouwen says, “Only when we are free from money can we ask freely for others to give it.” This means that I do not find my self-worth or my security in money, but rather I find my worth in God alone. And then I can ask for money standing up, not bowing down, because I believe in what and Who I am about and I have something important to offer. I am not just asking people for money anymore. I am asking people to invest in a vision, in God’s story, and ultimately in God’s kingdom! Without apology, I am asking you to be a part of something bigger.
God has already provided about $2,400 for my trip through many of your generous hearts and I am excited to see Him move more as the trip draws near. My prayer is to be fully funded before I leave in July ($12,100 more to go! Woo!) I am so incredibly thankful for the community and family that God has given me as a foundation in this preparation process. I feel so emotionally, spiritually and financially supported and I still have six more months before I go. Thank you for partnering with me and for so tangibly showing me who Jesus is. I can’t wait to share the stories that come along the way that are made possible by YOUR investments! I pray 2 Corinthians 9:10- 12 for you:
“Now he who supplies sees to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. The service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God.”
