You all have been such an incredible support system to me through your prayers, words of encouragement, and donations. I seriously would not be who I am today had it not been for you! The Lord used you to help me grow in trust, patience, love, and knowing more of who I am in Him. Back in Swaziland He gave me new name – Joyful Prayer Warrior. It’s not been the easiest to walk in, but it sure has been life-changing.
A couple months ago I wrote a blog wondering about what the Lord’s next steps for my life are. A few days later He reminded me of a program called Beauty for Ashes. It’s another program through Adventures in Missions, the organization that I’m partnered with for the World Race. Beauty for Ashes is a ministry aimed at helping women that have gone through sex trafficking, drug and alcohol abuse, and other traumas begin the healing and restoration processes with Abba. After much prayer and seeking counsel, I have decided to follow the Lord into yet another unfamiliar land.
Guess what?! I’M GOING TO COLUMBIA, SOUTH AMERICA!!!!
On August 6th I will travel to the city of Medellin, Columbia to help facilitate the women’s retreat, and will return on August 13th or 14th. I am so excited and humbled to be able to be a part of the incredible work the Lord is doing in Medellin. “Beauty for Ashes is a movement that invites women into the freedom that God designed for them. We spread the good news that in Jesus and as a part of his body, freedom is possible. We create safe places where stories can be shared, connections made, and grace given. Beauty for Ashes is both a program and an event where we will walk women through their story, using the Holy Spirit and community to bring healing to the areas that haven’t yet been brought to the light. Drawing from past experiences we encourage women to hear from the Holy Spirit about how God wants to redeem the dark parts of their past and give them a hope and a plan for the future. Beauty for Ashes works to create a safe place in which women can share their burdens with one another, without shame. This “safe place” is created at a retreat where they are showered with sisterly love and shown what true vulnerability looks like. They are walked through the beginning stages of healing wounds and they experience God’s power in speaking out their hurts — ultimately finding release from bitterness and shame.” I look forward to experiencing more freedom in my own life and gaining new skills to bring home to my clients in the States as a result of this 8 days long assignment from God.
This is yet another opportunity for my trust and faith in the Lord to grow. In order to go on this journey, I need to raise $2,500. The cost of transportation, lodging, and food in Medellin is $1,000. I will also need to purchase a plane ticket and from what I’ve seen the minimum price is $800. The remaining $700 I’m asking for will cover any outstanding fees (including international medical insurance) that may come up and the purchase of items necessary for the journey.
The first $500 is due Sunday, May 15th. If you would like to help me get to Medellin, you can make a donation of any amount at www.Paypal.Me/ShondaF
*To learn more about the Beauty for Ashes ministry, please visit www.adventures.org/beautyforashes
