"Speak Lord, your servant is listening." What an amazing position to enter into. Freely and continually, He pours into us, but how often are we truly, really listening?
Putting the middle east into (a concise amount of!) words has been harder than expected, but it is by far one of the coolest experiences of my life. I experience such incredible heights in such a short amount of time. I still have visions of rich sunsets, the scent of Turkish coffee, and the smiles of kids juxtaposed the alarming noise coming from competing minarets that is a constant reminder of the 1.5 billion unreached Muslim people.
1/3 of the world does not know the truth simply because it is hard. Hard to reach, hard to enter in, hard to gain trust. But God, only God, continues to open doorways into the souls of His people around the world. What an honor to be a small part in that vision!
This past trip was incredible for so many different reasons. I love how God is constantly surprising us, and working in and on our hearts in the least expected ways. It's no surprise the spiritual transformation that takes place on short-term mission trips, but still every single time it astounds me to see how much more God pours into me than I could ever serve in the role intended or into the supposed school/people/environment the trip is targeted to reach and invest.
I found myself grappling with stereotypes I didn't even know that I held about people that I had never served. I delved into a culture I knew nothing about, and asked questions in the most honoring way I knew how. How often would you imagine yourself getting ready for bed in the West Bank wishing, "I wish I had a good Muslim book to read!" (true story). While so much has not been revealed, it is clear that God opened my eyes to my brothers and sisters on the other side of the world. Never did I think I would have a connection with people so far from what I centered my life on - the one true God.
Our time in Palestine was replete with ah-ha moments and beautiful revelation of God's character - again such irony.
Biblically speaking, I gained so much perspective as I traveled through the lands of our Fathers Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. From attending church in Bethlehem, driving through the Judean hills, hiking the Mount of Temptation, and walking through the lands where David wrote, "I look to the hills, where does my help come from?" each time I my heart rejoiced in such a gift to be able to see this amazing place.
Some of the places we went:
Bethlehem
-Church of the Nativity
-part of Nehemiah's wall
-Israel's current wall
Jericho
-Mount of Temptation
-Zaccheus' house
-Sycamore tree
-Herod's palace remains
Historical (vs. Biblical)
-Bet She'an
-Masaada
-Swimming, mud baths, and lunch on the Dead Sea
Galilee
-Mount of Beautitudes
-Jesus Boat
-worshipping on the Sea of Galilee
Golan Heights
Jerusalem:
-walking through the Old City (both the Jewish and the Muslim quarters)
-praying at the Wailing Wall
-Garden of Gethesmane
-Caiphas' house
-villa dollarosa
-Walking where Jesus journeyed and where the people gathered to listen to his teaching
-Mount of Olives
-Nehemiah's wall
-eating dinner overlooking the city at the Legacy hotel
I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to truly plant seeds. It's such a freeing perspective to know that I don't have to save the world and that I am not called to convert everyone I meet because we have a perfect savior that already did. Part of His gift is allowing us to be a part of His redemption story. And for this, I am grateful. I saw beauty, experienced friendship, adventure, grace, brotherhood and confirmed my true dependence on God.
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Reflections
You can read the same verse, quote or book a million times, and it never hits you the same twice. I've heard the quote, "We can never be satisfied with existence once we've tasted purpose" so many times, but tonight it hit me differently.
In reflecting on 2012 and praying about 2013, I've continued to ask God what and where next? I have dreams of orphanages and schools across Africa, a full-time ministry position, and a big family in the big picture, but ask with expectation for the Lord to lead me into the next year, one fully-dependent on the next. I don't want to direct my own steps or ask Him to bless my plan. I want to listen. I want to soak in His presence and hear Him in ways that only a father can relate to His daughter through true intimacy. And with great faithfulness, He reveals the next small step. I stare and listen with wide eyes, open ears and a willing heart. The scripture I've been pouring over centered around release of self and submission to Him: "Here I am Lord, send me!" (Isaiah 6:8) and "Behold, I am the servant of the Lord, let it be to me according to your word," (Like 1:38).
This year has been one of great beauty and growth. I've fallen in love with my career again. I've battled boundaries in and out of work. I've risked a lot for the Lord's will. I've seen more places then I ever dreamed. I've spoken more truth and honestly sought truth in order to grow. I've had hard conversations. I've also had some of the most encouraging, engaging conversations of my life. I've entered into new friendships and honored those that have paved the way. I witnessed the most enriching relationship begin to unfold: my mother entered into the most significant relationship ever with the lover and pursuer of our souls. I've seen things I wished I hadn't and walked alongside friends on the other side of the world who face great challenges each day, far beyond my typical struggles. Can't decide what to wear? A student didn't do their homework? My sweet mother is calling again?! Why is it taking so long to get to work. Will I have time to go to the gym between A, B, and C? Then I think for a moment, I am woman with civil freedoms beyond all compare, educated with an amazing career - a privilege and a calling. I drive in my car, along safe roads, with no real imminent threat to my life. I live with so much freedom and opportunity. I find myself thankful for perspective and quite frankly annoyed at my own forgetfulness and selfishness amid a Western world. It is then that I am reminded that I am loved with an eternal love but a Perfect One who is sufficient at all times, faithful in all things, and somehow still loves me beyond all compare.
I thank the Lord for it all. For what He has taught me, what He is doing, and for allowing me a small part in His grand story of redemption and love. I thank Him for my friends in Palestine, Kenya, and Haiti - for each of them so humbly and generously opening their hearts to me. For teaching me and giving me a small taste of His purpose. For opening my eyes through their stories. I thank the Lord for the fun - NYC, the Grand Canyon, the mountain retreats, the lake weekends, trips to Florida, a Chicago reunion, a lavish trip Paris and a whirlwind time in Israel. For a little girl in a big world, I am certainly being chauffeured around by the best tour guide ever - our Creator!
I fail often, fall short, and forget the radical grace bestowed upon me everyday. But this life is a journey and a gift I am willing to share. Follow along as He reveals my journey piece by piece.
How are you reflecting on 2012? What are you doing to intentionally seek His plan and listen to be able to discern His will? Are you willing to listen?
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Preparing for Israel!
Hi friends! As I prepare for our trip to Israel, I want to say thank you for your encouragement and prayer! I know for some, your initial instinct still brings fear and worry. By God's grace, I am not worried whatsoever. I have complete and total trust in the Lord for this trip. Each time a fear crosses your mind, please turn this into a prayer... let God transform you from a worrier to warrior! As Paul tells us in Phillipians, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
While I am traveling, I will have access to email, but it is monitored by the Palestinian Authority. Please do not mention the words missionary, missions, Muslim Outreach, conversion, etc. Please also be mindful of anything you post on facebook as well. Our trip is purely relational - we are going to continue to plant and nourish seeds of hope in the hearts of our Muslim brothers and sisters in Palestine. It is not our mission to try to convert the people of Jericho. Our only mission is to love extragantly and without boundaries. "For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them." - 1 Cor 9:19. and 2 Cor 12:15 have been guiding scripture, "I will most gladly spend and be spent for your souls. If I love you more, am I to be loved less?" God's word assures me no! "Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another... God abides in us and his love is perfected in us. By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit." 1 John 4:11-13. I will write more when I return, but for all intents and purposes now, I am a disciple of Christ traveling to tour the Holy sites Israel.
Please cover us in prayer as we leave on Friday, Oct. 19th and return on Sunday, Oct. 28th. Appropriate Gator-related emails are encouraged. :)
Be blessed, bold, and covered in truth and grace!
While I am traveling, I will have access to email, but it is monitored by the Palestinian Authority. Please do not mention the words missionary, missions, Muslim Outreach, conversion, etc. Please also be mindful of anything you post on facebook as well. Our trip is purely relational - we are going to continue to plant and nourish seeds of hope in the hearts of our Muslim brothers and sisters in Palestine. It is not our mission to try to convert the people of Jericho. Our only mission is to love extragantly and without boundaries. "For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them." - 1 Cor 9:19. and 2 Cor 12:15 have been guiding scripture, "I will most gladly spend and be spent for your souls. If I love you more, am I to be loved less?" God's word assures me no! "Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another... God abides in us and his love is perfected in us. By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit." 1 John 4:11-13. I will write more when I return, but for all intents and purposes now, I am a disciple of Christ traveling to tour the Holy sites Israel.
Please cover us in prayer as we leave on Friday, Oct. 19th and return on Sunday, Oct. 28th. Appropriate Gator-related emails are encouraged. :)
Be blessed, bold, and covered in truth and grace!
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
PRAISING HIM!
Yall know me best, and yall know my deepest desire is for my family to know and embrace the perfect Love of Christ. I battled, begged, and finally gave their salvation back to Him last summer. I had to let go - Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, would draw them in. I knew my Jesus was big enough. I've prayed and trusted, and grown deeper in my relationship as I entrusted Him to draw them in. I've cried and sought Him through the battle for their souls, finally resting in His timing.
4 years (the exact same weekend!!!) after I accepted Christ, my sweet mamma, who yall have been praying for over the last 4 years, accepted Jesus into her heart!!!!!!!!!!! I cannot praise Him, His perfect timing, or His word enough!!!!!! God has been so active in our lives lately, and it's been beautiful to hear my mom bring up God, to recognize His presence, to be seriously excited for me to go to Israel... She mentioned that God has been present, we just had no one to teach us. She also mentioned that as she was wishing our little church at home had Starting Point, then realized 14 new life groups are starting right now. So Cindi is going to bible study tomorrow morning. On her own. Without my prodding. She's facing her fears and trusting in the Almighty. The best part was she said, "I used to want this to be closer to you, but now I want this for me." My mom WANTS Jesus, desires Him and His word, and wants to understand. She came to Christ through James 5 on Sunday. So here is the praise - another soul saved! I'm so overwhelmed with joy, peace, and His love. Thank you for praying. Thank you for encouraging me, and reminding me during the times I forgot. And finally, thank you for celebrating this with me. Please pray that the enemy's lies would be blocked from her ears and heart, that she would be encouraged, and that she continues to seek God in ways that are relevant and meaningful to her.
Oh, and another praise: my dad received his biopsies back today - he is cancer-free as well!!
The Lord is always good, but today, I feel like His favorite. Thank you God for all that you do. May your name be exalted!!!!
Wrapped in His Perfect Embrace,
4 years (the exact same weekend!!!) after I accepted Christ, my sweet mamma, who yall have been praying for over the last 4 years, accepted Jesus into her heart!!!!!!!!!!! I cannot praise Him, His perfect timing, or His word enough!!!!!! God has been so active in our lives lately, and it's been beautiful to hear my mom bring up God, to recognize His presence, to be seriously excited for me to go to Israel... She mentioned that God has been present, we just had no one to teach us. She also mentioned that as she was wishing our little church at home had Starting Point, then realized 14 new life groups are starting right now. So Cindi is going to bible study tomorrow morning. On her own. Without my prodding. She's facing her fears and trusting in the Almighty. The best part was she said, "I used to want this to be closer to you, but now I want this for me." My mom WANTS Jesus, desires Him and His word, and wants to understand. She came to Christ through James 5 on Sunday. So here is the praise - another soul saved! I'm so overwhelmed with joy, peace, and His love. Thank you for praying. Thank you for encouraging me, and reminding me during the times I forgot. And finally, thank you for celebrating this with me. Please pray that the enemy's lies would be blocked from her ears and heart, that she would be encouraged, and that she continues to seek God in ways that are relevant and meaningful to her.
Oh, and another praise: my dad received his biopsies back today - he is cancer-free as well!!
The Lord is always good, but today, I feel like His favorite. Thank you God for all that you do. May your name be exalted!!!!
Wrapped in His Perfect Embrace,
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Celebrating 4 years in Jesus and asking is this for real? Israel 2012!
I write from a place of sheer awe and praise for our Creator. The Lord so intricately knows each of us, and desires to meet our deepest longings in ways beyond what we could each imagine –I fall on my face as I am humbled by the beautiful news I have to share with y’all!
It’s been such a journey to look back as well as pray for the future as this weekend is my “Spiritual Birthday.” I’m turning 4 in Jesus this weekend. If this is what God can make out of me – a sinner desiring desperately to be restored to His image to a disciple being sanctified daily. I love because He loved first. I submit because He first submitted, and I honored with the privilege to serve from a place of reverence and deep love. No more do I live in captivity to sin, the past, this world, my own criticism or the expectations of society, but I am alive in the freedom that comes from Christ alone!
God once again has amazed me with another opportunity to serve Him on the other side of the world! This adventure is bringing me to the Holy Land! I will be serving in Israel teaching alongside both Christian and Muslim educators, and consulting to bring innovative teaching methods to the educators in Jericho as well as teaching the women about physical fitness in the evenings! This trip also serves to help globalX determine future mission trip possibilities, which as many of yall know, globalX is very near to my heart (who I’ve travelled with to Haiti for the last two years)! Honestly, I couldn’t have dreamed up a better trip!
God has orchestrated it all so well - my sweet momma is excited for me, both of my administrators have given me their blessings to travel during the school year, the timing is literally one of the only weeks during the school year to travel with minimal loss of instructional time, and amazingly enough, the entire trip is paid for! I will take a week of unpaid leave, but that is nothing in comparison to raising almost $16,000 over the last 4 summers to serve abroad. Again, God is SO good.
As I begin to prepare for this journey, I am asking for your prayers, and to let out a shout of praise my friends, because Our God Reigns! I will be gone October 19-28, and we are traveling with Seeds of Hope, an organization that partners with communities in the West Bank to bring peace, partnership and hope! I could not be more excited – here is to Israel 2012!
In Him, For Him and Through Him alone,
Jen
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Decompressing
My heart is torn as I sit in my airconditioned home to write y’all to let you know that I am safe. This last monthhas truly been a whirlwind of missions; God has allowed me to experience amyriad of things, and along the way He has taught me so much! I am so trulyoverwhelmed by the privilege He gave me to travel to both Kenya and Haiti this summer.Simple things like sleeping in my own bed with my pillow and brushing my teethin the sink, with electricity, have been a very welcomed comfort. But the otherhalf of me looks around my home with contempt at all that I have as more thanhalf the world lives in such extreme poverty. I know that God has chosen thislife for me, and I am to best leverage every opportunity He has given me forHis kingdom, but my heart still hurts. I am incredibly thankful to have thenext month to process through the lifetime of experiences that I'veencountered.
Haiti was extraordinary, yetagain. God chose such a spectaculargroup of people to surround me with, both Haitian friends and other leadersfrom Buckhead Church. I am humbledcontinually when I examine all that He has planned for me to do. We were blessed with mild weather the firstthree days in Haiti as we labored then loved on the kids each day. The last two days were typical of Haiti –hot, hot, hot! As a team, we laughed,cried, sweat, shared 1 unisex bathroom (with four showers and two bathroomstalls) between 26 people, grew as friends, followers of Christ, anddisciples. Our hearts are filled to thebrim with love, grace, joy and pain as we process through the lives of ourloved ones in Haiti. One of the biggestthings we learned is of God’s sovereignty. He reigns. He reigns with mercy,love, faithfulness and justice. He is incontrol, even when we cannot understand it. We fervently pray for our brothers and sisters for their provision,protection, and love to grow in Him.
I am so grateful for all of yourprayers, encouragement and love that you shared with me throughout thisjourney. I plan to return to my blog ina few days as I decompress, but please read our team blog at http://globalxhaiti.tumblr.com/.
Haiti was extraordinary, yetagain. God chose such a spectaculargroup of people to surround me with, both Haitian friends and other leadersfrom Buckhead Church. I am humbledcontinually when I examine all that He has planned for me to do. We were blessed with mild weather the firstthree days in Haiti as we labored then loved on the kids each day. The last two days were typical of Haiti –hot, hot, hot! As a team, we laughed,cried, sweat, shared 1 unisex bathroom (with four showers and two bathroomstalls) between 26 people, grew as friends, followers of Christ, anddisciples. Our hearts are filled to thebrim with love, grace, joy and pain as we process through the lives of ourloved ones in Haiti. One of the biggestthings we learned is of God’s sovereignty. He reigns. He reigns with mercy,love, faithfulness and justice. He is incontrol, even when we cannot understand it. We fervently pray for our brothers and sisters for their provision,protection, and love to grow in Him.
I am so grateful for all of yourprayers, encouragement and love that you shared with me throughout thisjourney. I plan to return to my blog ina few days as I decompress, but please read our team blog at http://globalxhaiti.tumblr.com/.
Monday, June 18, 2012
Haiti!
Hello friends and family! If you are on this email, it's because one of your loved ones has the privilege of serving the Lord in Haiti this week.
As we close on our second full day here, the juxtaposition is deep; our hearts are filled with joy, yet are broken at the same time for our brothers and sisters in Haiti. We have had the honor of worshipping the Almighty God together, as well as serving alongside our friends. Both the men and women have labored hard, moving rocks, cinder blocks, cement and sand as we contribute to the building of pit latrines for two families as well as a guesthouse for 410Bridge that will generate jobs and a stronger platform to add capacity to the mission here in Bohoc. We have also had our hearts stolen by the sweet children of Matthew 28 orphanage and Youth in Action. Some of the best moments have come from genuine interaction with these precious souls. As we are loving on them, Christ is pouring into our spirits. We are awestruck with the blessings God has bestowed upon us at home, including the tremendous gift of your friendship, love and support. We are truly overwhelmed by His grace and mercy, certainly to a degree that we cannot quite convey in words. We look to the Lord with expectant eyes and hearts as we follow Him on our journey the rest of this week. Please continue to pray for us- that God would give us eyes to see and ears to hear and that He would let our hearts overflow with love for Him, one another, and our Haitian friends.
Follow our hearts and feet throughout our Haitian adventure at http://globalxhaiti.tumblr.com/.
As we close on our second full day here, the juxtaposition is deep; our hearts are filled with joy, yet are broken at the same time for our brothers and sisters in Haiti. We have had the honor of worshipping the Almighty God together, as well as serving alongside our friends. Both the men and women have labored hard, moving rocks, cinder blocks, cement and sand as we contribute to the building of pit latrines for two families as well as a guesthouse for 410Bridge that will generate jobs and a stronger platform to add capacity to the mission here in Bohoc. We have also had our hearts stolen by the sweet children of Matthew 28 orphanage and Youth in Action. Some of the best moments have come from genuine interaction with these precious souls. As we are loving on them, Christ is pouring into our spirits. We are awestruck with the blessings God has bestowed upon us at home, including the tremendous gift of your friendship, love and support. We are truly overwhelmed by His grace and mercy, certainly to a degree that we cannot quite convey in words. We look to the Lord with expectant eyes and hearts as we follow Him on our journey the rest of this week. Please continue to pray for us- that God would give us eyes to see and ears to hear and that He would let our hearts overflow with love for Him, one another, and our Haitian friends.
Follow our hearts and feet throughout our Haitian adventure at http://globalxhaiti.tumblr.com/.
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Reflections of a full heart
PS - my iPad does not recognize line breaks - very sorry it looks like one giant paragraph!
I am still in denial that my African adventure is over, and that I have to wait a year to return. My heart is brimming with emotion, encouragement, and excitement. God is tangibly at work, even in the worst conditions. I will continue to pray for the children, their families, and their community. Their village, Kinyago, is where we visited. It was in the most repulsive of conditions that God reminded me of the beauty, grace, and fullness that can only come from Him. He is our creator and sustainer; He delivered us from our deserved consequences through the author and perfecter of our faith, our Lord Jesus Christ. God is sovereign through it all, even in that one room "home" surrounded by crime, idleness, and extreme poverty. God has allowed me to experience this for His glory, and I praise Him because He will not allow me to forget it. To give you the smallest shred of perspective, Alice and her family moved into that room in a different location because the family could not afford the rent of 200ksh a month - which brings up an entirely different set of questions - rent in the midst of this shanty village - 200 Kenyan shillings is about $2.40. For the month...and they could not afford that. It really makes you question certain lifestyle choices.
During our finally debriefing, we answered these questions. I encourage you to answer them. If you can't answer them, spend more time with your Perfect creator - He delights in you, and deeply desires an intimate relationship with every one of His children.
I praise God for:
I thank God for:
One thing God reminded me or showed me:
One thing I will not complain about at home anymore: My goal is to not complain. There is grace in everything, and thankfulness abounding as we are surrounded by an abundance of peace. Traffic in Atlanta, you will not defeat me! (especially after surviving the roads of Nairobi in rush hour!)
I praise God for this experience! Ephesians 3:20 rings true every time - God has wildly exceeded my expectations. I learned to love Him more deeply, prayed for His word to burrow into places of my heart that I didn't realize, and for my understanding of Him to grow. His ways are higher than my ways, and His thoughts higher than mine. I find great comfort in this. God's plan, timing, and story of creation is in motion, regardless of my feeble attempts to make sense of my surroundings. I am blessed to take part in this moment that will extend into eternity. His grace is sufficient! Praise Him!
It's been such an emotional ride, but God has equipped me so beautifully and perfectly, as He always does. I read this article while waiting to depart for the next chapter in my travels - http://www.relevantmagazine.com/god/deeper-walk/features/29311-why-do-christians-need-to-make-it-all-better - and it was just another reminder that God is always at work, and it is ok to grieve for my Kenyan friends. I don't have to pretend it's all going to get better, and I don't have to pretend I'm ok. All I can do is lean confidently intp the One who created me and sustains me - He will do the same for His children in Kinyago. As it stands, it is better to love people than to know all the answers.
I thank God for unmerited grace, unending love, a desire to know me and the ability to know Him, for my amazing team, the children, the dedicated staff of KDS, and all of the amazing support I've had from friends and family while I've been gone. I thank God for the immense blessings He has provided me with, and I pray to be a good steward of them. I thank God for the stirring in my heart and the ability to provide for the newest members of my African family. My momma added precious Hannah, a fourth grader with a glowing smile, to her family. Together, our family grew from three to six - how awesome is that?? Evelyn in third grade, Samuel in sixth grade, Samson in seventh grade, Alvin in second grade, and Boniface in fourth grade. Another friend also began sponsoring to sweet boys in third grade, Jev and Martin. God is SO good.
Sharing gifts, as an overzealous muzungu was very special this year (just the same as those I quietly admonished for creating a sense of entitlement, dependency, and lack of respect for the authority in place at KDS....) Yes, I became that sponsor with a small toy store in tow. It was so beautiful to see Samson, the oldest boy, help moderate between the younger kids. It was also so beautiful to see that child-like spark ignite when simple toys were presented-it was such a gift! Simplicity is not lost! It was also a special moment to be passing out the child's items (bibles, toys, candy-hey! I am only there once a year!!) and bags for each - again Samson helped. I had two reusable baby tiger bags (very masculine, obviously) that I passed out last -again it special to see him serve the others first, then himself last. The first shall be last, and the last first!
I am thankful for visiting the form one students that I taught two and three years ago. I am thankful for the work God is doing through them and I am encouraged. They are the game-changers of this continent!!
I am thankful for my team. For their encouragement, challenge, support and love. I will miss them dearly! The exuberance of some, the calming spirits of others, the rich prayers, the hearts full of joy, for igniting a deeper will to want to know God better, to love better, and be more like the Perfect One. Yesu Kristu - Our example.
I am thankful that I had the privilege to see first-hand what God is doing in Kenya, and that I get to share it.
I thank Lin for my word from God - "zeal." May this fire in my heart never extinguish.
Africa, you have my heart. Sweet friends, Do justice, love kindness, and forever walk humbly with your God! This is not good bye, but see you soon! Nakupenda!
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
He knows us perfectly
As I was reflecting today, I was sent this prayer:
Saint Theresa's Prayer
May today there be peace within.
May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.
May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.
May you be content knowing you are a child of God.
Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love.
It is there for each and every one of us..
I am comforted by the Comforter. He heals us, and I trust He is at work for those children! Amidst the heart pain of today (and that knot that still will not go away in my throat), I do have some amazing praise to share though! I added 2 precious young men to my African family! The holy spirit has been nudging me and He has been creating opportunities for me to see the potential in these two amazing souls.
Samuel is covered with burn scars on half his face and body due to an accident 4 years ago that had him in the ICU for a long time. He used to hide his face and not make eye contact with me on purpose. But this trip was different... he was smiling and seemed to have more confidence. I shared his story and how I was uplifted by him the first night during debriefing, then got to know him more. It was so awesome to see him run up to me each day and greet me. I learned his name and made a big deal each time I saw him. To see such a change in a boy that has been through so much is really special. So when I decided to add a child two days ago, my heart reached for Samson first - an older boy - 14 and in class 7 - who did not have a sponsor. He is a strong, tall young man with a spectacular academic record, drive, and love for Jesus all while having a humble spirit. I was so surprised he didn't have a sponsor, so I decided it was him. The older kids never get sponsored, and this only increases their somewhat jaded hearts. They see visitors come and go, and wonder if either this will be the ticket out of there, or will they forget me too? So it was decided, Samson was my guy....
Until Samuel, the tender heart with the scars was right next to him on the website. My life is beyond blessed-these children live in a small rented room, with their entire family; and after seeing them today firsthand, I am much more sensitive to what this really means. So my sweet clan includes Evelyn, Samson, who is about a foot taller than me, Samuel, and my mom's sponsored child Alvin. I have one additional child to meet with, Boniface, as he is my stepdad's mother's sponsored child.
I had the privilege to share the best gift in the world with each of them - their very own bible!!! I am so excited to share the one thing that will never fail them! Alvin went in a told his teacher, "My muzungu gave me a bible! A nice own that is big and hardcover!" I am his muzungu. I mean seriously, I melt.
I also had the honor of reciting the Lord's prayer in Kiswahili to the second grade class - and I pronounced everything correctly! It was really special for them because they saw it as me taking more value in learning their language more than just a few simple phrases. I also learned I love you, which is pretty much my favorite phrase. Nakupenda - I'm seriously in love inside those walls. Praise him!
Saint Theresa's Prayer
May today there be peace within.
May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.
May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.
May you be content knowing you are a child of God.
Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love.
It is there for each and every one of us..
I am comforted by the Comforter. He heals us, and I trust He is at work for those children! Amidst the heart pain of today (and that knot that still will not go away in my throat), I do have some amazing praise to share though! I added 2 precious young men to my African family! The holy spirit has been nudging me and He has been creating opportunities for me to see the potential in these two amazing souls.
Samuel is covered with burn scars on half his face and body due to an accident 4 years ago that had him in the ICU for a long time. He used to hide his face and not make eye contact with me on purpose. But this trip was different... he was smiling and seemed to have more confidence. I shared his story and how I was uplifted by him the first night during debriefing, then got to know him more. It was so awesome to see him run up to me each day and greet me. I learned his name and made a big deal each time I saw him. To see such a change in a boy that has been through so much is really special. So when I decided to add a child two days ago, my heart reached for Samson first - an older boy - 14 and in class 7 - who did not have a sponsor. He is a strong, tall young man with a spectacular academic record, drive, and love for Jesus all while having a humble spirit. I was so surprised he didn't have a sponsor, so I decided it was him. The older kids never get sponsored, and this only increases their somewhat jaded hearts. They see visitors come and go, and wonder if either this will be the ticket out of there, or will they forget me too? So it was decided, Samson was my guy....
Until Samuel, the tender heart with the scars was right next to him on the website. My life is beyond blessed-these children live in a small rented room, with their entire family; and after seeing them today firsthand, I am much more sensitive to what this really means. So my sweet clan includes Evelyn, Samson, who is about a foot taller than me, Samuel, and my mom's sponsored child Alvin. I have one additional child to meet with, Boniface, as he is my stepdad's mother's sponsored child.
I had the privilege to share the best gift in the world with each of them - their very own bible!!! I am so excited to share the one thing that will never fail them! Alvin went in a told his teacher, "My muzungu gave me a bible! A nice own that is big and hardcover!" I am his muzungu. I mean seriously, I melt.
I also had the honor of reciting the Lord's prayer in Kiswahili to the second grade class - and I pronounced everything correctly! It was really special for them because they saw it as me taking more value in learning their language more than just a few simple phrases. I also learned I love you, which is pretty much my favorite phrase. Nakupenda - I'm seriously in love inside those walls. Praise him!
Evelyn and I - my first sponsored child
Alvin is to my right - he is my mom's sponsored child, although he calls me "his muzungu" (white person)
My newest sponsored children Samuel and Samson!
Sweet Joshua!
Reading about praying. Best lesson ever!
Beautiful hands. I love them.
Ginger, my mentor and I!
Heartbreak and hope
Today we made Home Visits:
We walked down into the village where the majority of the KDS students live. The smells, the sounds, the flies and other bugs swarming, the treacherous walking through sewage and trash to get there; today was like no other. As much as you think you can understand as you drive through the slums, you have no idea. It is worse than any thought you could ever conjure up in your mind.
First, we visit Alice. Alice and her husband provide for their family by collecting items from the dump to sell. If he does not sell, he does not come home. So far he's been gone for 36 hours. Alice and her family of six live in one room; small, dark, and crowded, where they eat, sleep, cook, and sustain themselves. The entire room and path to their home are swarming with bugs, covered with dirty water and sewage. Trash is piled in bags outside the room, as these are the items that the parents have collected from the dump to survive. Two of their children go to KDS.
The dump is a curse; 30 acres of land, brimming with trash piled, filling a quarry first then 2,000 tons of Nairobi's trash, toxic, medical, agricultural, and residential waste all are dumped daily in one place. The dump is run by gangs. It is dangerous, literally sickening (studies have been done as far away as Japan for the negative health effects produced from the burning of the trash at the dump.) Unfortunately this same toxic place is sustanence for so many. People fight for the newest trucks filled with trash; children are drawn away from school to scavenge through. They return with heavy chest coughs and other sicknesses as it is incredibly destructive to their growing bodies.
Anna lives down by the river in a nicer one room home that was provided by the Dandora health workers and the community. Her food to feed the 5 grandchildren she has comes from the same health workers, the community, and the Dandora Catholic church. Anna's daughter died in November 2011, leaving Anna to take of them. To make matters worse, Anna's grandson drowned in the river alongside their home during the heavy floods. They still cannot find his body. Two of Anna's grandchildren attend KDS.
An entire family shares one room with many children and animals; danger; idleness abound; shanties connected with metal, wood, uneven ground, as the ground slopes downward to the river. There is trash everywhere; livestock walk and defacate freely; the smell of rotten fish, feces, and overwhelming trash overpowers your senses. Unschooled children call out to us as we pass. Feelings of sadness, disappointment in a world that doesn't even know this exists, the children, the people of God, in such a place is beyond heart-breaking. Fear begins to creep in as we trudge through one of the most dangerous places in the world, rampant with gang activity; we walk cautiously as well know to well that desperate circumstances draw people to illegal, hazardous activities and crime.
Finally, in all the pain, reproach, disgust, and hurt, I find praise. I thank God that He allowed me to see the devastating poverty that more than half the world lives in. I thank God for breaking my heart and not letting this message die within me. I thank God for the hope that comes from Him alone. I know we talk a pretty great talk when it comes to loving God alone and not worrying about material possessions.... if you could only see and experience this, you would understand this in a whole new way. I thank God for the strength I have right now, and I am grateful that He has honored me with this privilege to take the message of Dandora elsewhere.
Today, be thankful, and most importantly, pray.
If this is how I feel, I can only imagine the pain God feels at his children suffering. Pray for protection, hope, trust, provision, and change in a dark place! Pray that the love of Christ would be received. Pray that the hearts that have experienced this would share the message. Today was the first time in three years that I cried in front of staff members. It was incredibly emotional; I am not impervious to the injustice. God has given me strength to endure, but today, today will be used for His glory.
We walked down into the village where the majority of the KDS students live. The smells, the sounds, the flies and other bugs swarming, the treacherous walking through sewage and trash to get there; today was like no other. As much as you think you can understand as you drive through the slums, you have no idea. It is worse than any thought you could ever conjure up in your mind.
First, we visit Alice. Alice and her husband provide for their family by collecting items from the dump to sell. If he does not sell, he does not come home. So far he's been gone for 36 hours. Alice and her family of six live in one room; small, dark, and crowded, where they eat, sleep, cook, and sustain themselves. The entire room and path to their home are swarming with bugs, covered with dirty water and sewage. Trash is piled in bags outside the room, as these are the items that the parents have collected from the dump to survive. Two of their children go to KDS.
The dump is a curse; 30 acres of land, brimming with trash piled, filling a quarry first then 2,000 tons of Nairobi's trash, toxic, medical, agricultural, and residential waste all are dumped daily in one place. The dump is run by gangs. It is dangerous, literally sickening (studies have been done as far away as Japan for the negative health effects produced from the burning of the trash at the dump.) Unfortunately this same toxic place is sustanence for so many. People fight for the newest trucks filled with trash; children are drawn away from school to scavenge through. They return with heavy chest coughs and other sicknesses as it is incredibly destructive to their growing bodies.
Anna lives down by the river in a nicer one room home that was provided by the Dandora health workers and the community. Her food to feed the 5 grandchildren she has comes from the same health workers, the community, and the Dandora Catholic church. Anna's daughter died in November 2011, leaving Anna to take of them. To make matters worse, Anna's grandson drowned in the river alongside their home during the heavy floods. They still cannot find his body. Two of Anna's grandchildren attend KDS.
An entire family shares one room with many children and animals; danger; idleness abound; shanties connected with metal, wood, uneven ground, as the ground slopes downward to the river. There is trash everywhere; livestock walk and defacate freely; the smell of rotten fish, feces, and overwhelming trash overpowers your senses. Unschooled children call out to us as we pass. Feelings of sadness, disappointment in a world that doesn't even know this exists, the children, the people of God, in such a place is beyond heart-breaking. Fear begins to creep in as we trudge through one of the most dangerous places in the world, rampant with gang activity; we walk cautiously as well know to well that desperate circumstances draw people to illegal, hazardous activities and crime.
Finally, in all the pain, reproach, disgust, and hurt, I find praise. I thank God that He allowed me to see the devastating poverty that more than half the world lives in. I thank God for breaking my heart and not letting this message die within me. I thank God for the hope that comes from Him alone. I know we talk a pretty great talk when it comes to loving God alone and not worrying about material possessions.... if you could only see and experience this, you would understand this in a whole new way. I thank God for the strength I have right now, and I am grateful that He has honored me with this privilege to take the message of Dandora elsewhere.
Today, be thankful, and most importantly, pray.
If this is how I feel, I can only imagine the pain God feels at his children suffering. Pray for protection, hope, trust, provision, and change in a dark place! Pray that the love of Christ would be received. Pray that the hearts that have experienced this would share the message. Today was the first time in three years that I cried in front of staff members. It was incredibly emotional; I am not impervious to the injustice. God has given me strength to endure, but today, today will be used for His glory.
Sunday, June 3, 2012
Joy
This trip has been such a beautiful gift from the Lord! I am overwhelmed by His love and grace, and feel so humbled to walk faithfully in His plan for me!
Yesterday we hosted the teachers at our guest house (about 75 minutes from the slum) for a seminar on music incorporation in the classroom, then had a beautiful lunch and fellowship. Afterwards I was able to have one of the most authentic conversations I've ever had with one of the staff members of KDS, Grace. We shared so much together - triumph, challenges, why I love Kenya, the community and the destructive environment the school is surrounded by, as well as the daily injustices the children face. So much of what I've been trying to convey to my Haiti team with is coming to fruition here - life is truly all about relationships. As an American culture, we want a product, visible progress, etc. and will sacrifice friendship, family, love and mercy for it. I am wildly guilty of forever being busy - something I am actively working on - and this trip has been such a tangible demonstration of what is really important.
I am so blessed to share genuine friendship with the teachers. God has absolutely been teaching me about slowing down to indulge and invest in this way. One of the songs we learned yesterday was a Kenyan proverb: haraka haraka haina baraka - there is no blessing in hurrying! So once my whirlwind world tour is over, yall have full permission to remind me of this!
I woke up this morning to the sweetest email of praise and encouragement from one of my students. She asked me what I have been teaching, so I thought I would share with all: I've taught addition with and without carrying and growing place values to the first graders, reading comprehension and writing (YAY!) to the third graders, Christian Religious Education to the fifth graders, perimeter and area to the fourth graders (I even taught them the perimeter song that we sing in the US!), story problems in math to the second graders, handwriting to the fifth graders, higher order thinking skills, incorporating multiple intelligences and learning styles into the classroom, and how to have two groups in one class (differentiated instruction) to the teachers!
Another sweet friend asked me about some of my most meaningful interactions with the kids so far, so I thought I would share that too: Some of my favorite moments with the kids are when I can see that lightbulb turn on! It might be for being praised - like Leonard, who had handwriting that was somewhat legible...on a good day. To see him smile, clap, and cheer for himself after he was finished working was amazing. Another student, Steven, and I connected as I was able to challenge him. That is where my strength is in the classroom - enriching, challenging, higher order thinking skills, etc. (not so much remediation) - so once the kids finished the classwork on the board, I would check their work, then give them harder problems. This continued with Steven, and I could see it was the first time where he really had to start "flexing" his brain muscles rather than always being done first, and getting a 100% every time. The look of pride and accomplishment on his face, as well as the excitement to continue with harder problems is a blessing and an inspiration for me. The same thing happened in another classroom, and it was awesome to see a whole group of kids being pushed rather than just playing, being a distraction, etc. because they were done and the work was too easy for them. The classes are around 45 kids each, and only have 1 teacher, so any time you have an extra set of hands to work with the kids, it is a huge help. It's in those moments when I am happiest - truly connecting with a child and helping him/her realize they are valued, talented and can succeed. It's what we all strive for as teachers!
Today we worshipped at KDS with Pastor Ochien and some of the community of Dandora. This is a shout out to all of my Passion City Church/Grace friends - you would have LOVED worship! Run the race with endurance? You know we were literally running. Hands in the air, dancing, praising the King of Kings in the same way 8,000 miles and an entire cultural boundary away. Ginger taught today on 1 Samuel, and two women accepted Christ - HOW amazing!!! I was also able to connect with some of the eighth graders, who at times, can be resistant to visitors. As the kids get older, the excitement of visitors wears off. It is also difficult to invest in a relationship with someone then he/she never returns. That was one of my fears this past year when I didn't return in 2011- I wanted them to know I am dedicated to them, love them dearly, and continue to pray for them.
This has been on my heart all week. It's for this reason that I am going to add another child, a 7th grade boy, Samson, to my African family. The small amount it takes to sponsor a child per month ($38) is pennies in comparison to the life he leads and the battles he faces each day. My conversation with Grace yesterday reignited a passion for me to fight the injustices that the children are unwillingly facing each day. Without God first, then an education, the vicious cycle of extreme poverty will never end. Samson lives in a rented room with no running water - it really makes you consider what our lives look like in America, and what we complain about daily.
Another gracious friend asked about it, so here is the link if you are interested as well: http://kenyachildrensfund.org/sponsorship/
Things I am thankful for today: waking up!, knowing Jesus, liberty, health (I have not been ill here at all except for headaches which come from the heavy fumes in traffic!), the freedom and accessibility to read the living word of God, my growing ability to kill flies, random acts of kindness, encouragement, sweet children, an amazing team, cake for dinner (not. even. kidding.), joy, family and friends that love and support me, a heavenly Father that is sovereign and has it all figured out, afternoon tea in the garden, worshipping God in Kiswahili and English, God's protection and provision, especially while we are traveling through some dangerous places, and curling up safely into bed.
Another praise: I memorized the Lord's prayer in Kiswahili, and actually can pronounce the words pretty well too! I love answering your questions, so feel free to ask!
What is the Holy Spirit showing you today?
Yesterday we hosted the teachers at our guest house (about 75 minutes from the slum) for a seminar on music incorporation in the classroom, then had a beautiful lunch and fellowship. Afterwards I was able to have one of the most authentic conversations I've ever had with one of the staff members of KDS, Grace. We shared so much together - triumph, challenges, why I love Kenya, the community and the destructive environment the school is surrounded by, as well as the daily injustices the children face. So much of what I've been trying to convey to my Haiti team with is coming to fruition here - life is truly all about relationships. As an American culture, we want a product, visible progress, etc. and will sacrifice friendship, family, love and mercy for it. I am wildly guilty of forever being busy - something I am actively working on - and this trip has been such a tangible demonstration of what is really important.
I am so blessed to share genuine friendship with the teachers. God has absolutely been teaching me about slowing down to indulge and invest in this way. One of the songs we learned yesterday was a Kenyan proverb: haraka haraka haina baraka - there is no blessing in hurrying! So once my whirlwind world tour is over, yall have full permission to remind me of this!
I woke up this morning to the sweetest email of praise and encouragement from one of my students. She asked me what I have been teaching, so I thought I would share with all: I've taught addition with and without carrying and growing place values to the first graders, reading comprehension and writing (YAY!) to the third graders, Christian Religious Education to the fifth graders, perimeter and area to the fourth graders (I even taught them the perimeter song that we sing in the US!), story problems in math to the second graders, handwriting to the fifth graders, higher order thinking skills, incorporating multiple intelligences and learning styles into the classroom, and how to have two groups in one class (differentiated instruction) to the teachers!
Another sweet friend asked me about some of my most meaningful interactions with the kids so far, so I thought I would share that too: Some of my favorite moments with the kids are when I can see that lightbulb turn on! It might be for being praised - like Leonard, who had handwriting that was somewhat legible...on a good day. To see him smile, clap, and cheer for himself after he was finished working was amazing. Another student, Steven, and I connected as I was able to challenge him. That is where my strength is in the classroom - enriching, challenging, higher order thinking skills, etc. (not so much remediation) - so once the kids finished the classwork on the board, I would check their work, then give them harder problems. This continued with Steven, and I could see it was the first time where he really had to start "flexing" his brain muscles rather than always being done first, and getting a 100% every time. The look of pride and accomplishment on his face, as well as the excitement to continue with harder problems is a blessing and an inspiration for me. The same thing happened in another classroom, and it was awesome to see a whole group of kids being pushed rather than just playing, being a distraction, etc. because they were done and the work was too easy for them. The classes are around 45 kids each, and only have 1 teacher, so any time you have an extra set of hands to work with the kids, it is a huge help. It's in those moments when I am happiest - truly connecting with a child and helping him/her realize they are valued, talented and can succeed. It's what we all strive for as teachers!
Today we worshipped at KDS with Pastor Ochien and some of the community of Dandora. This is a shout out to all of my Passion City Church/Grace friends - you would have LOVED worship! Run the race with endurance? You know we were literally running. Hands in the air, dancing, praising the King of Kings in the same way 8,000 miles and an entire cultural boundary away. Ginger taught today on 1 Samuel, and two women accepted Christ - HOW amazing!!! I was also able to connect with some of the eighth graders, who at times, can be resistant to visitors. As the kids get older, the excitement of visitors wears off. It is also difficult to invest in a relationship with someone then he/she never returns. That was one of my fears this past year when I didn't return in 2011- I wanted them to know I am dedicated to them, love them dearly, and continue to pray for them.
This has been on my heart all week. It's for this reason that I am going to add another child, a 7th grade boy, Samson, to my African family. The small amount it takes to sponsor a child per month ($38) is pennies in comparison to the life he leads and the battles he faces each day. My conversation with Grace yesterday reignited a passion for me to fight the injustices that the children are unwillingly facing each day. Without God first, then an education, the vicious cycle of extreme poverty will never end. Samson lives in a rented room with no running water - it really makes you consider what our lives look like in America, and what we complain about daily.
Another gracious friend asked about it, so here is the link if you are interested as well: http://kenyachildrensfund.org/sponsorship/
Things I am thankful for today: waking up!, knowing Jesus, liberty, health (I have not been ill here at all except for headaches which come from the heavy fumes in traffic!), the freedom and accessibility to read the living word of God, my growing ability to kill flies, random acts of kindness, encouragement, sweet children, an amazing team, cake for dinner (not. even. kidding.), joy, family and friends that love and support me, a heavenly Father that is sovereign and has it all figured out, afternoon tea in the garden, worshipping God in Kiswahili and English, God's protection and provision, especially while we are traveling through some dangerous places, and curling up safely into bed.
Another praise: I memorized the Lord's prayer in Kiswahili, and actually can pronounce the words pretty well too! I love answering your questions, so feel free to ask!
What is the Holy Spirit showing you today?
Saturday, June 2, 2012
KCF Academic Committee Refreshes the Saints
I serve as the Educational Consultant for Kenya Children's Fund and on the Academic Committee. It is such an honor to be able to serve in such an authentic ministry that is led by God and for His glory alone! I have been writing for KCF (www.kenyachildrensfund.org) since 2009 after God stole my heart and gave it to Africa then.
Currently I am assisting Ginger in her CEO blog. Today I wrote about the Academic Committee, a short blurb for our donors as to the mission of our trip and the vision for a collaborative future. You can read it here or see below! http://mawehai.blogspot.com/
May/June 2012: The Kenya Children's Fund Academic Committee has been collaborating with the teachers of the Kinyago Dandora Sschool to support them in the areas of special education and continued best practices including differentiated instruction and incorporating music into the classroom.
Teachers are called not only to teach, but to love, support, parent, gracefully discipline, encourage, comfort, and serve the kids with their whole beings. For the teachers to best serve the students, we know that the teachers themselves need to be poured into so that they can continue to pour out to their students. The teachers have welcomed the committee graciously, opened their hearts for cross-cultural relationships, exposing vulnerabilities and challenges while sharing the love of God which is exhibited through their dedication to the students and their continued learning.
Lin Peterson, a special education teacher from Minneapolis, joined the team this year to bring creative and effective teaching methods to reach students with special needs. She, alongside with other committee members, have been instrumental in delivering small group instruction to students as well as support and expertise in the area of student disabilities to the staff. The teachers are hungry for knowledge and so receptive as they engage in dialogue to better themselves as educators. Together, the staff and the academic committee have committed to an environment of mutual collaboration.
We all look forward to continuing the partnership based on love and dedication to the future of Africa! For I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you. (Philemon 1:7 ESV) He who refreshes others is also refreshed - Proverbs 11:25 - In my next post, I plan to share my heart's journey through our growing relationship with the teachers!
Currently I am assisting Ginger in her CEO blog. Today I wrote about the Academic Committee, a short blurb for our donors as to the mission of our trip and the vision for a collaborative future. You can read it here or see below! http://mawehai.blogspot.com/
May/June 2012: The Kenya Children's Fund Academic Committee has been collaborating with the teachers of the Kinyago Dandora Sschool to support them in the areas of special education and continued best practices including differentiated instruction and incorporating music into the classroom.
Teachers are called not only to teach, but to love, support, parent, gracefully discipline, encourage, comfort, and serve the kids with their whole beings. For the teachers to best serve the students, we know that the teachers themselves need to be poured into so that they can continue to pour out to their students. The teachers have welcomed the committee graciously, opened their hearts for cross-cultural relationships, exposing vulnerabilities and challenges while sharing the love of God which is exhibited through their dedication to the students and their continued learning.
Lin Peterson, a special education teacher from Minneapolis, joined the team this year to bring creative and effective teaching methods to reach students with special needs. She, alongside with other committee members, have been instrumental in delivering small group instruction to students as well as support and expertise in the area of student disabilities to the staff. The teachers are hungry for knowledge and so receptive as they engage in dialogue to better themselves as educators. Together, the staff and the academic committee have committed to an environment of mutual collaboration.
We all look forward to continuing the partnership based on love and dedication to the future of Africa! For I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you. (Philemon 1:7 ESV) He who refreshes others is also refreshed - Proverbs 11:25 - In my next post, I plan to share my heart's journey through our growing relationship with the teachers!
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Abundance
I have felt such an abundance of peace, joy, and appreciation over the last two days. Again, our perfect Heavenly Father knows exactly what we each need, and He continues to abundantly provide. I am in the presence of such spiritual beauty - it is almost overwhelming. I've had some of the most authentic conversations I've ever had as well as a sought-after growing intimacy with the Lord. Our team is complete now, 12 women, wholeheartedly seeking the Lord in all that we do to bring glory to Him. I've been able to connect with one of the woman, a college graduate fresh out of school, and it's been so amazing to see how God is developing a friendship that is so inspiring and encouraging.
Today I was able to spend longer periods of time teaching and sharing with the kids, which is amazing! I love sharing their pictures with them from 2009 and 2010. I felt like I had let the kids and teachers down last year by not returning. I didn't want to be just another Muzungu with a fleeting passion for what's right in front of me, but instead a vested friend, sister in Christ, and a teacher who loves them genuinely and is dedicated to them. My returning feels like redemption and a restored joy - I feel so selfish even sharing these thoughts, but my heart has been rejoicing as I have been able to reconnect with both the teachers and students. My staff position with Kenya Children's Fund is to advocate for the teachers, and best serve them, which is exactly what I have been able to do. Relationships have been built and are being nourished. How did He choose me to do this? I fall on my face in praise for Him.
Please continue to cover us in prayer. We appreciate it - they are absolutely felt! Spiritual, physical and emotional health are our top requests, as well as God's will to be done in Dandora! We pray that the children continue to be a light and to be game-changers!! I have to specific children that I am praying for - Kilbe and Peter - they both have severe special needs. It breaks my heart to see them not be able to read or write, but I trust God's plan for each of them. I know that school is serving as a light for them, a fortress of safety and protection that is constantly showering them in God's rich love.
I praise Him for strength, wisdom, the Spirit's overwhelming presence, the children, my rock and my Salvation - Jesus Christ, the amazing family and friends that are supporting me, provisions, protection, and your encouragement. Your words mean so much to me.
Here is the link for my facebook album if you can't see it/you are resisting facebook :)
Love you all!
In Him, Jen
Today I was able to spend longer periods of time teaching and sharing with the kids, which is amazing! I love sharing their pictures with them from 2009 and 2010. I felt like I had let the kids and teachers down last year by not returning. I didn't want to be just another Muzungu with a fleeting passion for what's right in front of me, but instead a vested friend, sister in Christ, and a teacher who loves them genuinely and is dedicated to them. My returning feels like redemption and a restored joy - I feel so selfish even sharing these thoughts, but my heart has been rejoicing as I have been able to reconnect with both the teachers and students. My staff position with Kenya Children's Fund is to advocate for the teachers, and best serve them, which is exactly what I have been able to do. Relationships have been built and are being nourished. How did He choose me to do this? I fall on my face in praise for Him.
Please continue to cover us in prayer. We appreciate it - they are absolutely felt! Spiritual, physical and emotional health are our top requests, as well as God's will to be done in Dandora! We pray that the children continue to be a light and to be game-changers!! I have to specific children that I am praying for - Kilbe and Peter - they both have severe special needs. It breaks my heart to see them not be able to read or write, but I trust God's plan for each of them. I know that school is serving as a light for them, a fortress of safety and protection that is constantly showering them in God's rich love.
I praise Him for strength, wisdom, the Spirit's overwhelming presence, the children, my rock and my Salvation - Jesus Christ, the amazing family and friends that are supporting me, provisions, protection, and your encouragement. Your words mean so much to me.
Here is the link for my facebook album if you can't see it/you are resisting facebook :)
Love you all!
In Him, Jen
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
My heart is alive
"I'll care for you, love you, and teach you, always. For you are my tenderheart." - excerpt from "Papa Do you Love me?" A Masai story by Barbara Jane Mosea
This is how we began our day in the simple office inside the school. We are constantly reminded that the Lord loves us wildly, loves these children, and that He will care for each of us, always. God has been at work in amazing ways since I have been here. I've become more and more dependent on the Holy Spirit and less and less on myself (John 3:30). It is such an honor to be a part of such an amazing ministry that is tangibly serving the last and the least. I cannot express how many times a day I find myself thanking the Lord for this opportunity. Last night in my quiet time, I was reminded, "He who trusts in His riches will wither." Prov. 11:28 - it is comforting to know that it is not what we have materially, but spiritually. The joy of the Lord is upon us; He is our strength and He is the leader of this trip, school, and community.
The children, like all children around the world, like to ask for things, and a phrase they use is, "Mark this face." That stuck with me, because I am marking those faces, not to bring them candy or balls, but as the future of Kenya, as change in a filthy, corrupt, world that seems to have left them behind. Today, my heart was awakened in a way in which only God could do. He knew what I needed, and gave me just that. My heart is for children. I know that I am gifted in the area to teach, and it was such a strong affirmation today of why I am called to this profession (and the scary reminder that part of me wanted to leave the profession just 7 months ago). The confidence, joy, and hope that a teacher has the gift to deliver is beautiful, and something we often times forget.
I spent time working with kindergarteners, first, second and third graders today. In each class, I am working with the teachers to help them best serve their children's needs, which means engaging the advanced students as well as spending extra time with the students who have difficulty. At times, I was working with smaller groups of students to reinforce skills as well as give that extra confidence boost. I am so humbled that the teachers are open, receptive, and asking for help. We may not realize it, but in essence it is saying that, "I am not succeeding at my job, and I need help." How many people really are willing to do so? How they can let me in so quickly, break down personal and cultural boundaries, and trust me to work with them and their children can only be a work of God. There is a mutual relationship of respect and admiration, and for this I am thankful.
The best part of my day was being able to work one on one with kids, and to see the joy in their faces when they were making progress. To see their confidence increase right in front of my eyes is another gift from God. Too often we forget how much words of kindness and encouragement mean to one another. He who refreshes is also refreshed! There are so many moments of God's glory throughout the day that I could not write them all to you. He is so tangibly present, and at work in the lives of the teachers, students and their families.
The holy spirit also tangibly answered two of my "immediate need" prayers - very awesome to be in tune with the spirit to experience His presence so clearly. Where/when is your heart most alive? Thank you for your prayers - again, they are absolutely felt, and still seriously coveted. Please continue to pray for God's love and glory to shine through us - "Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." (Matthew 5:16 ESV) Without God, I am nothing.
Pray that I would have the wisdom and understanding to best serve each teacher and student, the creativity and ingenuity to do so, and that he would restore and empower me each time I step into a room, only the way He can do. Please pray that our team is bonded in harmony, protected by Him, and our time is best spent meeting the needs of the school.
Our team verse(s) is Colossians 3:12-17 "Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." (Colossians 3:12-17 ESV)
Thank you for all that You do to encourage me, empower me with prayer, and protect me with the Holy Spirit. Wholly His, Jen PS I am learning the Lord's prayer in kiswahili, and my accent is starting to sound pretty legit for a muzungu. :) Asante sana Bebe!
This is how we began our day in the simple office inside the school. We are constantly reminded that the Lord loves us wildly, loves these children, and that He will care for each of us, always. God has been at work in amazing ways since I have been here. I've become more and more dependent on the Holy Spirit and less and less on myself (John 3:30). It is such an honor to be a part of such an amazing ministry that is tangibly serving the last and the least. I cannot express how many times a day I find myself thanking the Lord for this opportunity. Last night in my quiet time, I was reminded, "He who trusts in His riches will wither." Prov. 11:28 - it is comforting to know that it is not what we have materially, but spiritually. The joy of the Lord is upon us; He is our strength and He is the leader of this trip, school, and community.
The children, like all children around the world, like to ask for things, and a phrase they use is, "Mark this face." That stuck with me, because I am marking those faces, not to bring them candy or balls, but as the future of Kenya, as change in a filthy, corrupt, world that seems to have left them behind. Today, my heart was awakened in a way in which only God could do. He knew what I needed, and gave me just that. My heart is for children. I know that I am gifted in the area to teach, and it was such a strong affirmation today of why I am called to this profession (and the scary reminder that part of me wanted to leave the profession just 7 months ago). The confidence, joy, and hope that a teacher has the gift to deliver is beautiful, and something we often times forget.
I spent time working with kindergarteners, first, second and third graders today. In each class, I am working with the teachers to help them best serve their children's needs, which means engaging the advanced students as well as spending extra time with the students who have difficulty. At times, I was working with smaller groups of students to reinforce skills as well as give that extra confidence boost. I am so humbled that the teachers are open, receptive, and asking for help. We may not realize it, but in essence it is saying that, "I am not succeeding at my job, and I need help." How many people really are willing to do so? How they can let me in so quickly, break down personal and cultural boundaries, and trust me to work with them and their children can only be a work of God. There is a mutual relationship of respect and admiration, and for this I am thankful.
The best part of my day was being able to work one on one with kids, and to see the joy in their faces when they were making progress. To see their confidence increase right in front of my eyes is another gift from God. Too often we forget how much words of kindness and encouragement mean to one another. He who refreshes is also refreshed! There are so many moments of God's glory throughout the day that I could not write them all to you. He is so tangibly present, and at work in the lives of the teachers, students and their families.
The holy spirit also tangibly answered two of my "immediate need" prayers - very awesome to be in tune with the spirit to experience His presence so clearly. Where/when is your heart most alive? Thank you for your prayers - again, they are absolutely felt, and still seriously coveted. Please continue to pray for God's love and glory to shine through us - "Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." (Matthew 5:16 ESV) Without God, I am nothing.
Pray that I would have the wisdom and understanding to best serve each teacher and student, the creativity and ingenuity to do so, and that he would restore and empower me each time I step into a room, only the way He can do. Please pray that our team is bonded in harmony, protected by Him, and our time is best spent meeting the needs of the school.
Our team verse(s) is Colossians 3:12-17 "Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." (Colossians 3:12-17 ESV)
Thank you for all that You do to encourage me, empower me with prayer, and protect me with the Holy Spirit. Wholly His, Jen PS I am learning the Lord's prayer in kiswahili, and my accent is starting to sound pretty legit for a muzungu. :) Asante sana Bebe!
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
A city set on a hill cannot be hidden
"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. (Matthew 5:14 ESV)
My last two days at the school have been amazing-affirming, encouraging, challenging and joyful. I love being back at the school. I fallen in love all over again. There is such beauty penetrating the darkness. God is so tangibly at work at KDS! I am so incredibly humbled to be given the privilege in taking part of His story in Dandora. It's also so amazing to see - I don't know if it's because I have grown spiritually, have a deepened sense of appreciation, or sensitivity to the spirit...or all of the above, but God is everywhere. Listening to their songs, looking at the faded, hand-written posters of the Word of God, the lessons we walked in during Christian Religious Education, seeing the light in each of their faces, deepening the relationships with staff......... I. Love. It.
There is a lot on my heart to share, but I am emotionally spent for today. Please continue to cover us in prayer. That we would do everything out of love, that we trust in the Lord's sovereignty and deliverance at times when the enemy attacks us with the appalling poverty and destitution, and that these kids would continue to shine their light in the community.
I want to thank God for the invitation to follow His call, the privilege to invest and be invested in by such a wonderful, dedicated staff of teachers, and for the trust established as I do my best to serve each teacher and student. I am humbled and honored by the vulnerability, sincerity and receptivity of the teachers. I have 14 scheduled classroom visits/lessons/collaborations over the next few days, so I am seeking wisdom, creativity, rejuvenation, when necessary, and ingenuity. Above all, I seek to be empowered by the Holy Spirit and for God to use me in whatever way He chooses. Here I am God - I am available and willing to all that you have in store for me! I promise to expand on our journey in the coming days! PS I love and appreciate your personal comments, prayers and emails! I will do my best to get back to them as we have time. They are very encouraging, and bring a touch of home exactly when I need it! I cannot post pictures here, so check on facebook for that.
My last two days at the school have been amazing-affirming, encouraging, challenging and joyful. I love being back at the school. I fallen in love all over again. There is such beauty penetrating the darkness. God is so tangibly at work at KDS! I am so incredibly humbled to be given the privilege in taking part of His story in Dandora. It's also so amazing to see - I don't know if it's because I have grown spiritually, have a deepened sense of appreciation, or sensitivity to the spirit...or all of the above, but God is everywhere. Listening to their songs, looking at the faded, hand-written posters of the Word of God, the lessons we walked in during Christian Religious Education, seeing the light in each of their faces, deepening the relationships with staff......... I. Love. It.
There is a lot on my heart to share, but I am emotionally spent for today. Please continue to cover us in prayer. That we would do everything out of love, that we trust in the Lord's sovereignty and deliverance at times when the enemy attacks us with the appalling poverty and destitution, and that these kids would continue to shine their light in the community.
I want to thank God for the invitation to follow His call, the privilege to invest and be invested in by such a wonderful, dedicated staff of teachers, and for the trust established as I do my best to serve each teacher and student. I am humbled and honored by the vulnerability, sincerity and receptivity of the teachers. I have 14 scheduled classroom visits/lessons/collaborations over the next few days, so I am seeking wisdom, creativity, rejuvenation, when necessary, and ingenuity. Above all, I seek to be empowered by the Holy Spirit and for God to use me in whatever way He chooses. Here I am God - I am available and willing to all that you have in store for me! I promise to expand on our journey in the coming days! PS I love and appreciate your personal comments, prayers and emails! I will do my best to get back to them as we have time. They are very encouraging, and bring a touch of home exactly when I need it! I cannot post pictures here, so check on facebook for that.
Sunday, May 27, 2012
He is speaking, can you hear Him?
Today is the Sabbath, and our first full day in Kenya. After a tumultous 49 hours of traveling, we were welcomed last night by the fresh scent of rain and a beautiful rainbow stretching out over the countryside. Our bags made it - from ATL to Washington, DC to Zurich, then rerouted to Dubai and finally to Nairobi! It felt even better to wake up this morning, well-rested, safe, and greeted by the sounds of birds outside of my window. With late arrivals and a heavy rainy season thus far, we opted to do church together here at Gracia.
We spent our time worshipping the Lord and discussing communion with God - something that the Holy Spirit has consistently brought to the forefront. The phrase that keeps on coming back to me is "I am searching for my heart." It began two weeks ago during a "date" with God - extended meditation and quiet time - and it has continued through friends, Cornerstone's speaker, Sarah Ott and the message she shared, devotionals, and today, our message. It is still astounding that the Creator of the Universe, the One true God, desires an intimate relationship with me, an imperfect, broken sinner. But He does not see me this way. He sees me for all that He created me to be - His daughter created in His image - fearfully and wonderfully made, destined for greatness through a relationship with Jesus Christ. We owe it to ourselves and to God to cultivate this relationship He has designed us for - how else will we know Jesus and be able to become more like Him? That is God's desire for us. It is here in relationship that God speaks to us, teaches us, instructs, guides, and counsels us. Through this relationship, service, program and productivity flows. Let us fully abide in Him as He abides in us. This delights the Lord as we come to Him, humbly and hungry for His word.
"Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you. "I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Yet a little while and the world will see me no more, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you. Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me. And he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him." (John 14:12, 16-21 ESV)
As Ginger and all of the other messages the Holy Spirit has been sending me, listening to and communing with God is a lifestyle. It takes discipline and practice. You must set your heart and mind on His promises and rest in those. "Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10 Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord,and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday. Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him. (Psalm 37:3-7 ESV)
How is God speaking to you? What are you going to do if you cannot hear Him right now?
We spent our time worshipping the Lord and discussing communion with God - something that the Holy Spirit has consistently brought to the forefront. The phrase that keeps on coming back to me is "I am searching for my heart." It began two weeks ago during a "date" with God - extended meditation and quiet time - and it has continued through friends, Cornerstone's speaker, Sarah Ott and the message she shared, devotionals, and today, our message. It is still astounding that the Creator of the Universe, the One true God, desires an intimate relationship with me, an imperfect, broken sinner. But He does not see me this way. He sees me for all that He created me to be - His daughter created in His image - fearfully and wonderfully made, destined for greatness through a relationship with Jesus Christ. We owe it to ourselves and to God to cultivate this relationship He has designed us for - how else will we know Jesus and be able to become more like Him? That is God's desire for us. It is here in relationship that God speaks to us, teaches us, instructs, guides, and counsels us. Through this relationship, service, program and productivity flows. Let us fully abide in Him as He abides in us. This delights the Lord as we come to Him, humbly and hungry for His word.
"Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you. "I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Yet a little while and the world will see me no more, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you. Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me. And he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him." (John 14:12, 16-21 ESV)
As Ginger and all of the other messages the Holy Spirit has been sending me, listening to and communing with God is a lifestyle. It takes discipline and practice. You must set your heart and mind on His promises and rest in those. "Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10 Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord,and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday. Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him. (Psalm 37:3-7 ESV)
How is God speaking to you? What are you going to do if you cannot hear Him right now?
Sunrise over Basra
Today, as another day begins, I am reminded of the gift of new beginnings each day. To look out and see the sky illuminated with the sun rising and cascading colors from orange to blue, I am amazed. (God is definitely a Gator!)
He reminds me with this beauty, this undeserved luxury, and this re-energizes me. It inspires me all over again to see the beauty of the heart in each of God's people, regardless of the background, culture, differences or similarities. The irony is watching God's sunrise over Basra, and realizing there is an overwhelmingly large population of people right below us that do not know the love of Christ. I am thankful as well as inspired by my friend's courage to reach others in the Muslim community.
This vision of beauty in creation brings me back to of our first night in Haiti last year, sitting under the same stars, but in a completely different world, engulfed in the intoxicating environment of New Life orphanage in Port au Prince. The memory is almost tangible.. to see the stars, hold the children in my lap, worship the One true God, sing Chris Tomlin songs, and enjoy the abundance of life in that moment... it was such a gift.
My prayer is that God continue to liberate my thoughts and misconceptions, transform my heart, and continue to guide me to take the next leap of faith He has planned for me. I urge you to follow God's call and experience the greatness He has planned for you as well. In one of Craig Groeschel's sermons, he urges, "You will never know Great if you don't let go of good enough."
For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen. (Ephesians 3:14-21 ESV)
What good do you need to let go so that God can show you better?
He reminds me with this beauty, this undeserved luxury, and this re-energizes me. It inspires me all over again to see the beauty of the heart in each of God's people, regardless of the background, culture, differences or similarities. The irony is watching God's sunrise over Basra, and realizing there is an overwhelmingly large population of people right below us that do not know the love of Christ. I am thankful as well as inspired by my friend's courage to reach others in the Muslim community.
This vision of beauty in creation brings me back to of our first night in Haiti last year, sitting under the same stars, but in a completely different world, engulfed in the intoxicating environment of New Life orphanage in Port au Prince. The memory is almost tangible.. to see the stars, hold the children in my lap, worship the One true God, sing Chris Tomlin songs, and enjoy the abundance of life in that moment... it was such a gift.
My prayer is that God continue to liberate my thoughts and misconceptions, transform my heart, and continue to guide me to take the next leap of faith He has planned for me. I urge you to follow God's call and experience the greatness He has planned for you as well. In one of Craig Groeschel's sermons, he urges, "You will never know Great if you don't let go of good enough."
For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen. (Ephesians 3:14-21 ESV)
What good do you need to let go so that God can show you better?
Friday, May 25, 2012
Gratitude
Today is full of blessings, but not the kind you would imagine. We all have different perspectives and ideas that come to mind when you hear the word. A new baby, the marriage proposal, the dream job landed, whatever you've perceived as that "thing" that will make all the difference in your life.
But today I am reminded of the blessings that we overlook as we are busy "doing" rather than being. God's peace and abundant life are offered through Him. This in itself is enough. But God still chooses to bless us immensely beyond salvation-it's just whether or not you open your eyes and engage your senses to the world He has created and orchestrated for you. Today I chose to find what I am thankful for rather than the small trials that come with everyday life in our broken world. Until we meet our Maker again, we can fully expect trials, but the difference is in how we approach and handle life's circumstances.
Everyone knows the latter part of the scripture, but I find myself resting in the contentment that comes from Christ alone. God has really been showing me this lately.
For I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:11-13 ESV)
I am thankful for God rescuing and restoring me. The gift of grace is something that I will never wholly comprehend, but I pray that I would continue to extend grace and His love to others as He has done for me. Today begins the fourth journey God has planned for me to embark upon - journeys to places I never thought I would go to for reasons that I never conceived. I am grateful for the generosity of others. Both of my trips were fully funded because of people's generosity and ultimately the support and spread of His kingdom. To see others selflessly giving towards something so much bigger than ourselves is so inspiring. I am humbled by the call of God and the privilege to obey, the community He has surrounded me with, and I am honored to be the hands and feet of Christ in Kinyago-Dandora. I am privileged to sit around a table with godly women, to hear their stories, absorb their wisdom, and be invested and poured into as we sit in the various airports. I love discussing the same book with my Africa group as my Haiti team (Toxic Charity - a must read for nonprofits!) and hearing of budding ideas from the women of the community for microenterprise.
God in everything: For the glowing, beautiful sunset over Washington, DC as we departed for Zurich, the ability to reshuffle all of my belongings into 2 perfect 50 pound bags, Meghan driving me to the airport, the woman next to me trading seats (I love a good window seat!), soft, fuzzy socks that were practical but also brought me joy because one of my students gave them to me, facetime with my momma!, sincere encouragement from friends, Karen coming to lunch in Washington, DC, the empty seat next to me allowing me ample room to curl up on the plane, the afternoon latte after 20 hours of travel and the Dove dark chocolate reminding me to open my eyes to the love all around me. What are you thankful for today?
Logistical update: After a mechanical failure in DC, we departed for Zurich three hours later than expected and subsequently missed our connecting flight to Nairobi. We have been rebooked on the third flight to Dubai to then connect into Nairobi as our nearest flight. After some light cardio around the airport and pleading with staff, we finally found someone to take pity on our group since everyone had varying information. Once one person was helpful, the mercy continued! Our bags are located, we are fed, and if all goes to the (new) plan, we depart at 10:45 tonight and should arrive around 6am tomorrow morning. Our last flight connects to Nairobi bringing us in around 2pm on Saturday. I am thankful to be in good company during this wait and to share some deep belly laughs during our (mis)adventures in Zurich!
But today I am reminded of the blessings that we overlook as we are busy "doing" rather than being. God's peace and abundant life are offered through Him. This in itself is enough. But God still chooses to bless us immensely beyond salvation-it's just whether or not you open your eyes and engage your senses to the world He has created and orchestrated for you. Today I chose to find what I am thankful for rather than the small trials that come with everyday life in our broken world. Until we meet our Maker again, we can fully expect trials, but the difference is in how we approach and handle life's circumstances.
Everyone knows the latter part of the scripture, but I find myself resting in the contentment that comes from Christ alone. God has really been showing me this lately.
For I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:11-13 ESV)
I am thankful for God rescuing and restoring me. The gift of grace is something that I will never wholly comprehend, but I pray that I would continue to extend grace and His love to others as He has done for me. Today begins the fourth journey God has planned for me to embark upon - journeys to places I never thought I would go to for reasons that I never conceived. I am grateful for the generosity of others. Both of my trips were fully funded because of people's generosity and ultimately the support and spread of His kingdom. To see others selflessly giving towards something so much bigger than ourselves is so inspiring. I am humbled by the call of God and the privilege to obey, the community He has surrounded me with, and I am honored to be the hands and feet of Christ in Kinyago-Dandora. I am privileged to sit around a table with godly women, to hear their stories, absorb their wisdom, and be invested and poured into as we sit in the various airports. I love discussing the same book with my Africa group as my Haiti team (Toxic Charity - a must read for nonprofits!) and hearing of budding ideas from the women of the community for microenterprise.
God in everything: For the glowing, beautiful sunset over Washington, DC as we departed for Zurich, the ability to reshuffle all of my belongings into 2 perfect 50 pound bags, Meghan driving me to the airport, the woman next to me trading seats (I love a good window seat!), soft, fuzzy socks that were practical but also brought me joy because one of my students gave them to me, facetime with my momma!, sincere encouragement from friends, Karen coming to lunch in Washington, DC, the empty seat next to me allowing me ample room to curl up on the plane, the afternoon latte after 20 hours of travel and the Dove dark chocolate reminding me to open my eyes to the love all around me. What are you thankful for today?
Logistical update: After a mechanical failure in DC, we departed for Zurich three hours later than expected and subsequently missed our connecting flight to Nairobi. We have been rebooked on the third flight to Dubai to then connect into Nairobi as our nearest flight. After some light cardio around the airport and pleading with staff, we finally found someone to take pity on our group since everyone had varying information. Once one person was helpful, the mercy continued! Our bags are located, we are fed, and if all goes to the (new) plan, we depart at 10:45 tonight and should arrive around 6am tomorrow morning. Our last flight connects to Nairobi bringing us in around 2pm on Saturday. I am thankful to be in good company during this wait and to share some deep belly laughs during our (mis)adventures in Zurich!
Monday, May 21, 2012
Waiting with Expectation
"In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly." Psalm 5:3
I covet your prayers as I near my initial departure date! I'm excited and encouraged for Kenya, time with Ginger, my mentor and the CEO of Kenya Children's Fund, the opportunity to invest in the schools, staff and children who are ultimately the future of Africa, and the solitude that will continue to draw me closer to God. Through it all, I pray that the service would never impede the intimacy and encounters with God that He has planned for me.
I am traveling in Europe June 7-11 then I will be home for 2 days before babysitting, attending a training for school, then departing for Haiti. Please pray for my safe travels, and that we would be the salt and the light, that we would encourage others, and bring the fervent hope and confident joy of Christ to all we come in contact with.
"By God’s grace and mighty power, I have been given the privilege of serving him by spreading this Good News." Eph. 3:7 NLT
"He must become greater and greater, and [we] must become less and less." John 3:30
“Come to me with your ears wide open.Listen, and you will find life. I will make an everlasting covenant with you. I will give you all the unfailing love I promised to David. See how I used him to display my power among the peoples. I made him a leader among the nations. You also will command nations you do not know, and peoples unknown to you will come running to obey, because I, the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, have made you glorious.” Seek the Lord while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near. Let the wicked change their ways and banish the very thought of doing wrong. Let them turn to the Lord that he may have mercy on them. Yes, turn to our God, for he will forgive generously. “My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:3-9
"He must become greater and greater, and [we] must become less and less." John 3:30
“Come to me with your ears wide open.Listen, and you will find life. I will make an everlasting covenant with you. I will give you all the unfailing love I promised to David. See how I used him to display my power among the peoples. I made him a leader among the nations. You also will command nations you do not know, and peoples unknown to you will come running to obey, because I, the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, have made you glorious.” Seek the Lord while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near. Let the wicked change their ways and banish the very thought of doing wrong. Let them turn to the Lord that he may have mercy on them. Yes, turn to our God, for he will forgive generously. “My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:3-9
In Him,
Jen
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)