“Wait for the LORD; be strong and let your heart take courage, wait for the LORD.” Psalm 27:14
Well, I made it safely home and have finally recovered from jet lag. I’ve been spending the past few days processing our trip and everything the Lord has taught me. I had forgotten about the above verse until recently. It’s so fitting, because now I must trust that Jesus will complete what he started in Sydney. I want to wait on Him and His perfect timing.
Our team was able to go to the Soup Kitchen one last time two Mondays ago. That day was difficult for me because I was in the kitchen the whole time washing dishes. I realized how sinful I am and the pride and selfishness of wanting to either interact with the homeless people or be recognized for my “good works.” God has really been chipping off parts of me like this that are ugly and not pleasing to Him.
We had a pancake night for the SOW students last Thursday before leaving. We ate and enjoyed some great music and company. The students are so talented. It was hard saying goodbye to all of our SOW friends. I’m excited to see how the LORD uses their lives in Sydney for His glory. One of our friends, Antonia, went to the USA soccer game with us. During the first half, I enjoyed talking with her about all the LORD’s taught me over the past few years. She was such an encouragement to me.
I also got to meet up with my friend Cassi from Harbour City Church Plant. She’s an ESL teacher and missionary to China who’s getting her PhD at Sydney Uni. It was so great to get together with her and see how God’s moving in the lives of international students. We also talked a lot about human trafficking. God was really breaking my heart for this area of injustice. I really want to commit to pray and support anyone who’s fighting the fight against modern-day slavery. Cassi reminded me that it’s so great that we would want to set the slaves free, but until the Holy Spirit works in their lives and sets them free in Christ, they are still enslaved. They will not experience freedom from guilt and shame (even if it is not their faults for being enslaved) until God moves mightily in their lives. This is my prayer.
We flew out of Sydney last Friday morning. It was a bitter sweet moment. I was realizing that there is so much work to be done, and our team simply scratched the surface. Yet, I also realized that Christ is the one who is going to change lives, not Rachel or the CCP team. As I looked out of the plane, I had a flashback of the past short-term mission trips I’ve been on to Latin American countries with extreme poverty. I would look down and feel such sadness and pity for them in their poverty and distress. This time when I looked out over the harbor of Sydney, I felt sadness, but I different kind. I thought about how each person is living for success, fame, and a comfortable life. They seem to be so great and affluent, yet so dead in their spirits. I just beg that God will move and begin a revival in this city beginning with SOW and HCC.
Our trip ended off in Fort Walton Beach where we shared our experiences with the Summer Beach Project crew. It was so great to see another group of people in our own nation seeking the Lord and sharing Christ. I stayed in my friend Kathryn’s room and the girls were so welcoming. I pray that the Lord builds up more laborers to go on future CCP’s from this group. The girls from the Sydney team were able to get together at McDonalds and pray for Beach Project and also for Sydney. It was such a different feel in this McDonalds than the ones in Sydney. I guess I didn’t feel as weird praying in a booth. Ha! Anyway, our team was able to get together one last time and say our goodbyes. It was difficult because we had become a family. I’m so thankful that the Lord has shown me what it’s like to truly have the body of Christ. Thanks for all your prayers, and please continue to pray as the Lord works in SOW, HCC, Sydney, and in our lives.
Friday, July 2, 2010
Saturday, June 19, 2010
His Kingdom
"He sits enthroned above the circle of the earth, and its people are like grasshoppers. He stretches out the heavens like a canopy, and spreads them out like a tent to live in. He brings princes to naught and reduces the rulers of this world to nothing."
Isaiah 40:22-23
I was reading this passage the other day while having my quiet time on the roof of our building. It really hit me that the kingdom I've been trying to building is nothing. The Lord's kingdom is so much higher than anything I can imagine. I was reading my "expectations" that I had written the other day and realized that many of them haven't come true. But I'm learning that God's timing is best. Just because he doesn't answer my prayers the way I want or in the timing I want doesn't mean He's not in charge. This verse made me realize that His plans are so much higher. I may never see the "results" of this CCP, but that's ok, because it's not about my recognition.
It's been quite a different week from the other weeks we've been here. It was so wonderful to have our friend Antonia join us to church. We also got to visit Hillsong Church on Sunday night. It was great music, but I realized how their music impacts me so much more more in my room in worship to Jesus. However, I'm really glad we got to experience the church.
We began our Mercy Ministries and on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday we helped out at a Soup Kitchen called Newtown Mission. It has been such a blessing to be a part of this ministry. Pastor Brian is in charge and has such a great heart for all of the people. Wednesday I talked/listened :) to an 80 year old Greek lady for 2 hours. She teared up when she started talking about praying to God the Father. My heart was broken for her sweet spirit. It was such a blessing to spend time with her. We got to go to their church service on Thursday night which totally busted down my stereotypes of the Body of Christ. All races, ages, and backgrounds gathered together.
Friday I went to a Chinese bible study with my friend, Cassie from church. The students were so sweet and welcoming to us "Americans." The man and his wife who led the ministry are 80 and still selflessly serving Jesus. I pray that I will be that faithful to the work of Christ my whole life. We split up into small groups, and the thought of it blows my mind. Here I was in a group of Christians led by an Indian man, with a Korean girl and a Chinese guy in Australia. The kingdom of God has no certain face to it! God is so wonderful. I'm so thankful for all I've been learning.
Be praying for our friend, Abbey, who's in ICU. We got to visit her today and she seems to be getting a little better. Also be praying for our last week here. It's going to be a hard transition going back to the states, so be praying for the Lord to sustain us. God is so Good! Love you all.
Isaiah 40:22-23
I was reading this passage the other day while having my quiet time on the roof of our building. It really hit me that the kingdom I've been trying to building is nothing. The Lord's kingdom is so much higher than anything I can imagine. I was reading my "expectations" that I had written the other day and realized that many of them haven't come true. But I'm learning that God's timing is best. Just because he doesn't answer my prayers the way I want or in the timing I want doesn't mean He's not in charge. This verse made me realize that His plans are so much higher. I may never see the "results" of this CCP, but that's ok, because it's not about my recognition.
It's been quite a different week from the other weeks we've been here. It was so wonderful to have our friend Antonia join us to church. We also got to visit Hillsong Church on Sunday night. It was great music, but I realized how their music impacts me so much more more in my room in worship to Jesus. However, I'm really glad we got to experience the church.
We began our Mercy Ministries and on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday we helped out at a Soup Kitchen called Newtown Mission. It has been such a blessing to be a part of this ministry. Pastor Brian is in charge and has such a great heart for all of the people. Wednesday I talked/listened :) to an 80 year old Greek lady for 2 hours. She teared up when she started talking about praying to God the Father. My heart was broken for her sweet spirit. It was such a blessing to spend time with her. We got to go to their church service on Thursday night which totally busted down my stereotypes of the Body of Christ. All races, ages, and backgrounds gathered together.
Friday I went to a Chinese bible study with my friend, Cassie from church. The students were so sweet and welcoming to us "Americans." The man and his wife who led the ministry are 80 and still selflessly serving Jesus. I pray that I will be that faithful to the work of Christ my whole life. We split up into small groups, and the thought of it blows my mind. Here I was in a group of Christians led by an Indian man, with a Korean girl and a Chinese guy in Australia. The kingdom of God has no certain face to it! God is so wonderful. I'm so thankful for all I've been learning.
Be praying for our friend, Abbey, who's in ICU. We got to visit her today and she seems to be getting a little better. Also be praying for our last week here. It's going to be a hard transition going back to the states, so be praying for the Lord to sustain us. God is so Good! Love you all.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
What's the Catch
"By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." John 13:35
Last Thursday my team decided to serve the students of University of New South Wales since it is their finals week. Our idea was to buy coffee and tea and hand it out for free in front of the Library. We went to buy the goods at the store and came across a protest on the way. It was such a great way to start a conversation with an Irish lady who was observing. I started telling her why I was here. She asked me if I was a born again Christian. She was Catholic and said that all that matters is doing good. I was able to tell her about how the Love of Christ is my motivation in "doing good." I praise God for an opportunity to talk to a random stranger on the streets about Christ. Anyway, we got the coffee and headed to UNSW. It was so awkward at first because no one wanted anything to do with us. We were yelling "free coffee, free tea." Yet no one came by for a while. I started getting more bold, yelling, "get your caffeine boost for exams." I even joked about giving away the whole coffee pot. :) We later found out that they all thought there was a "catch" to it. The students either thought that we were going to ask them to sign something or demand some charity donation. Yet after we told them that we were just some Christian students from the States who wanted to serve them as they studied, we got quite a great response. I talked with one girl about her Greek Orthodox beliefs and had many other convos with other students. My team was so energized and encouraged by the end of the quest. It made me realize how much we give with selfish motives. We say we're doing a great thing, but really expecting something in return. It was so great to just love on the students in such a simple way without a catch. We hope to be able to do this again sometime soon, so be praying for it.
That night all of the girls on my team went to our friend Cassie's (from church) house. She has been such a blessing to us. She is an American missionary who has been in China for quite a while teaching English. Right now she's getting her PhD at Sydney Uni. We love hearing her stories and it was such a great time finding out how God is using her.
Yesterday I was able to experience the Blue Mountains. It really did take my breath away. My team went on a 4 hour hike up and down the trails. Our God is so majestic and creative. At one point we reached a refreshing stream in which some of the boys drank out of. It was a reminder that Jesus is going to satisfy our every need. He restores our soul. I also was able to experience the wild life of Australia by going to the petting zoo today. God definitely has a sense of humor. Some of those birds were so crazy looking. But my friends and I were talking about how even though they look so strange, they were given each feature by God to help them survive. They were so intricately made. How much more does the Lord care about us! I'm so blown away by creation. It's so easy to forget about it, especially living in a big city for such a while. I pray that I never forget.
One of my teammates has been spending time with a student here and the student emailed him today to ask how to become a Christian. It's really shown me the greatness of spending time with others and asking them questions. I pray that the Lord continues to open the doors in conversations with students and anyone we come in contact with in the city.
Last Thursday my team decided to serve the students of University of New South Wales since it is their finals week. Our idea was to buy coffee and tea and hand it out for free in front of the Library. We went to buy the goods at the store and came across a protest on the way. It was such a great way to start a conversation with an Irish lady who was observing. I started telling her why I was here. She asked me if I was a born again Christian. She was Catholic and said that all that matters is doing good. I was able to tell her about how the Love of Christ is my motivation in "doing good." I praise God for an opportunity to talk to a random stranger on the streets about Christ. Anyway, we got the coffee and headed to UNSW. It was so awkward at first because no one wanted anything to do with us. We were yelling "free coffee, free tea." Yet no one came by for a while. I started getting more bold, yelling, "get your caffeine boost for exams." I even joked about giving away the whole coffee pot. :) We later found out that they all thought there was a "catch" to it. The students either thought that we were going to ask them to sign something or demand some charity donation. Yet after we told them that we were just some Christian students from the States who wanted to serve them as they studied, we got quite a great response. I talked with one girl about her Greek Orthodox beliefs and had many other convos with other students. My team was so energized and encouraged by the end of the quest. It made me realize how much we give with selfish motives. We say we're doing a great thing, but really expecting something in return. It was so great to just love on the students in such a simple way without a catch. We hope to be able to do this again sometime soon, so be praying for it.
That night all of the girls on my team went to our friend Cassie's (from church) house. She has been such a blessing to us. She is an American missionary who has been in China for quite a while teaching English. Right now she's getting her PhD at Sydney Uni. We love hearing her stories and it was such a great time finding out how God is using her.
Yesterday I was able to experience the Blue Mountains. It really did take my breath away. My team went on a 4 hour hike up and down the trails. Our God is so majestic and creative. At one point we reached a refreshing stream in which some of the boys drank out of. It was a reminder that Jesus is going to satisfy our every need. He restores our soul. I also was able to experience the wild life of Australia by going to the petting zoo today. God definitely has a sense of humor. Some of those birds were so crazy looking. But my friends and I were talking about how even though they look so strange, they were given each feature by God to help them survive. They were so intricately made. How much more does the Lord care about us! I'm so blown away by creation. It's so easy to forget about it, especially living in a big city for such a while. I pray that I never forget.
One of my teammates has been spending time with a student here and the student emailed him today to ask how to become a Christian. It's really shown me the greatness of spending time with others and asking them questions. I pray that the Lord continues to open the doors in conversations with students and anyone we come in contact with in the city.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Over All... LOVE
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience… And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity,” Col. 3:12 &14
Love should be our motivation. I’m so guilty for trying to please others, doing “good” things because they’re expected of me. This verse says that love is over all. I heard a very powerful sermon by our team leader on Sunday called “The Measure of Maturity.” If I’m simply doing good things to be seen, that makes me no different than any other moral person. It’s “self focus masked as love.” I’ve been so convicted of my motivations. One question that was asked was “do you love others in order to get love? That’s Idolatry.” I no longer want to mask my selfishness with so-called service or love for others. I want to love others because of the love that Christ has shown to me, even when I don’t deserve it. I pray that my love for Jesus will increase as well as a genuine love for others.
On another note, this week has been so wonderful. We had our Sabbath last Friday in which it poured rain. However, I was so thankful for a reason to be inside and rest. This Monday our friend from church, Sehna and her mom cooked us a Korean sushi feast. I felt so much love from them, as if I were a queen. My friend told me that it reminded her of Christ’s love for us. When we thought that we were finished, she brought more out. Christ will always be enough for us and he will satisfy our every need. Yesterday night we had all the girls who we had met over to our apartment for Taco Night. It was so wonderful. They are in the middle of StuVac (a week break from school before finals.) They’re such an encouragement to me in their love for one another and Jesus.
Next week we’ll be starting our Mercy Ministry to the city. This will include Soup Kitchens, Church Planting surveys, and helping the homeless around the city. Please pray that God opens doors for us to love on others and share Christ’s love with them. Love you all my friends. Thanks for all your encouragement.
Love should be our motivation. I’m so guilty for trying to please others, doing “good” things because they’re expected of me. This verse says that love is over all. I heard a very powerful sermon by our team leader on Sunday called “The Measure of Maturity.” If I’m simply doing good things to be seen, that makes me no different than any other moral person. It’s “self focus masked as love.” I’ve been so convicted of my motivations. One question that was asked was “do you love others in order to get love? That’s Idolatry.” I no longer want to mask my selfishness with so-called service or love for others. I want to love others because of the love that Christ has shown to me, even when I don’t deserve it. I pray that my love for Jesus will increase as well as a genuine love for others.
On another note, this week has been so wonderful. We had our Sabbath last Friday in which it poured rain. However, I was so thankful for a reason to be inside and rest. This Monday our friend from church, Sehna and her mom cooked us a Korean sushi feast. I felt so much love from them, as if I were a queen. My friend told me that it reminded her of Christ’s love for us. When we thought that we were finished, she brought more out. Christ will always be enough for us and he will satisfy our every need. Yesterday night we had all the girls who we had met over to our apartment for Taco Night. It was so wonderful. They are in the middle of StuVac (a week break from school before finals.) They’re such an encouragement to me in their love for one another and Jesus.
Next week we’ll be starting our Mercy Ministry to the city. This will include Soup Kitchens, Church Planting surveys, and helping the homeless around the city. Please pray that God opens doors for us to love on others and share Christ’s love with them. Love you all my friends. Thanks for all your encouragement.
Friday, June 4, 2010
G'day!
“I am the LORD, and there is no other; apart from me there is no God. I will strengthen you, though you have not acknowledged me, so that from the rising of the sun to the place of its setting men may know there is none besides me. I am the LORD, and there is no other.” Isaiah 45:5-6
G’day from Australia! I apologize for being so slow at blogging. To begin, I’ve been living in Sydney for the past two weeks. We arrived safely and were able to recover from jet lag rather quickly. Praise God! I’m so blessed to have such a wonderful team. Everyone has such a heart for the Lord. We split up into two different teams and I am on the University of New South Wales team.
We started off a week ago from Monday by going to campus and meeting people. We were able to get to know a pretty lot of folks here. Tuesday we met our new friend Abbey. We’ve had a lot of fun with her. We got to have a prayer walk that day. On Wednesdays we’ve been going to the University of Technology in Sydney. There are mostly guys in that ministry, but they’re great. A week from yesterday would probably have to be my favorite day so far. Our team listened to a sermon by Tim Keller on the Perfect Freedom we have in Christ. It was so wonderful to be reminded that because of the Cross, God looks at us and sees Christ. We are united with Him. We had our Student Outreach to the World (SOW) meeting that night at UNSW. We talked about the freedom of Christ and broke up into discussion groups. I was so encouraged by the girls in this ministry. They have taught me so much. Such sweet people! Last Friday we got to go to Bondi Beach and it didn’t rain for the first day all week, Praise the Lord. It was great being out of all of the city traffic and noise and experiencing the awesome creation of God. We have been able to go to the Harbour City Church Plant twice and I love it so much. The room is rather small, yet it fills up with worship to God. I’ve been so encouraged by the church’s enthusiasm for missions and to reach their city.
This has been such a great week. I’m learning a lot about God’s timing and continuing to claim Ps. 27:14. Matt (our team leader) gave a great message about evangelism on Sunday night. One of our problems with reaching the world is that we have weak worship. We should be in wonder and attraction to God. He also said, “If you’re pursuing comfort, then you’re missing out on the joy in Christ.” I struggle so much with trying to find the approval of man. I know that this talk really impacted not only our team, but also the SOW students. I’ve been encouraged to hear about them sharing their faith with their friends. We also have been learning about prayer and fully depending on the Lord. It’s been so good to pray together as a team and be thankful in all situations. God’s been doing a great work not only in these students, but also in my heart. He’s so good and so worthy of praise. Thanks for all your prayers!
G’day from Australia! I apologize for being so slow at blogging. To begin, I’ve been living in Sydney for the past two weeks. We arrived safely and were able to recover from jet lag rather quickly. Praise God! I’m so blessed to have such a wonderful team. Everyone has such a heart for the Lord. We split up into two different teams and I am on the University of New South Wales team.
We started off a week ago from Monday by going to campus and meeting people. We were able to get to know a pretty lot of folks here. Tuesday we met our new friend Abbey. We’ve had a lot of fun with her. We got to have a prayer walk that day. On Wednesdays we’ve been going to the University of Technology in Sydney. There are mostly guys in that ministry, but they’re great. A week from yesterday would probably have to be my favorite day so far. Our team listened to a sermon by Tim Keller on the Perfect Freedom we have in Christ. It was so wonderful to be reminded that because of the Cross, God looks at us and sees Christ. We are united with Him. We had our Student Outreach to the World (SOW) meeting that night at UNSW. We talked about the freedom of Christ and broke up into discussion groups. I was so encouraged by the girls in this ministry. They have taught me so much. Such sweet people! Last Friday we got to go to Bondi Beach and it didn’t rain for the first day all week, Praise the Lord. It was great being out of all of the city traffic and noise and experiencing the awesome creation of God. We have been able to go to the Harbour City Church Plant twice and I love it so much. The room is rather small, yet it fills up with worship to God. I’ve been so encouraged by the church’s enthusiasm for missions and to reach their city.
This has been such a great week. I’m learning a lot about God’s timing and continuing to claim Ps. 27:14. Matt (our team leader) gave a great message about evangelism on Sunday night. One of our problems with reaching the world is that we have weak worship. We should be in wonder and attraction to God. He also said, “If you’re pursuing comfort, then you’re missing out on the joy in Christ.” I struggle so much with trying to find the approval of man. I know that this talk really impacted not only our team, but also the SOW students. I’ve been encouraged to hear about them sharing their faith with their friends. We also have been learning about prayer and fully depending on the Lord. It’s been so good to pray together as a team and be thankful in all situations. God’s been doing a great work not only in these students, but also in my heart. He’s so good and so worthy of praise. Thanks for all your prayers!
Thursday, May 20, 2010
An Aussie to Everyone
"Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many people. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews... To the weak I became weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings." 1 Cor. 9:19-23
After 36 hours of traveling and by God's grace, we are here in Sydney. Thank you all for your prayers. It still hasn't hit me that I'm on the other side of the world. Hopefully most of you are sleeping right now. :) We were met at the airport by the sweet Korean missionaries. They showed us around the city (to the Opra House and Harbor City Bridge) a little before our jet lag hit too hard. Sydney is such a pretty city and so very diverse. I was talking to Theresa, one of the missionaries, and she said that Australia is actually Asian country. The pastor of the church told us today about his vision for more diversity in the church here. It was so convicting when he said that the most segregated time is Sunday morning for church. The kingdom of God is for people of all tribes, tongues, and nations.
Today we had ministry training with Jim Jung, the pastor of Harbour Community Church in Sydney and Rich, the Campus Outreach director in Brisbane, Sydney. There are not any Campus Outreach ministries in Sydney Uni's (Colleges), but we are hoping to plant one in the next few years. I learned so much about the culture today. One thing I learned is that the Aussies like to "pay out" (make fun of) people they like. I need to get comfortable with laughing at myself. I know that this will definitely a learning experience. Of course, you cannot blanket stereotype all people, but this is how many people think. Pray that the students will see their need for Christ. Pray that my love for the Aussies will grow abundantly and they will be open. God is so good! Love you all.
After 36 hours of traveling and by God's grace, we are here in Sydney. Thank you all for your prayers. It still hasn't hit me that I'm on the other side of the world. Hopefully most of you are sleeping right now. :) We were met at the airport by the sweet Korean missionaries. They showed us around the city (to the Opra House and Harbor City Bridge) a little before our jet lag hit too hard. Sydney is such a pretty city and so very diverse. I was talking to Theresa, one of the missionaries, and she said that Australia is actually Asian country. The pastor of the church told us today about his vision for more diversity in the church here. It was so convicting when he said that the most segregated time is Sunday morning for church. The kingdom of God is for people of all tribes, tongues, and nations.
Today we had ministry training with Jim Jung, the pastor of Harbour Community Church in Sydney and Rich, the Campus Outreach director in Brisbane, Sydney. There are not any Campus Outreach ministries in Sydney Uni's (Colleges), but we are hoping to plant one in the next few years. I learned so much about the culture today. One thing I learned is that the Aussies like to "pay out" (make fun of) people they like. I need to get comfortable with laughing at myself. I know that this will definitely a learning experience. Of course, you cannot blanket stereotype all people, but this is how many people think. Pray that the students will see their need for Christ. Pray that my love for the Aussies will grow abundantly and they will be open. God is so good! Love you all.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Their Nets Were Breaking
4When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch."
5Simon answered, "Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets."
6When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. 7So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink.
8When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus' knees and said, "Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!" 9For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken, 10and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon's partners.
Then Jesus said to Simon, "Don't be afraid; from now on you will catch men." 11So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.
Luke 5:4-11
When I read this passage this morning, I was reminded of my support raising process. Two months ago when we went on our CCP retreat, I was beginning to doubt if the Lord wanted me in Sydney this summer because I had not raised much support. My faith was so weak. Well, yesterday I got a call from my church saying that they would cover the rest of the expenses for the trip. I actually had to tell them that I needed less than what they were offering to give! I never would have thought that I would be asking this. God is so faithful to provide in His timing. This story about the fish shows that Jesus knew all along that there would be a miracle.
I feel so much like Peter, doubting as I "put out my net." He was obedient, but hesitant. Then suddenly the nets began to break, because of the catch! Notice Peter's reaction... he doesn't say, "Dude, that was awesome!" He falls at the feet of Jesus, realizing his sin. I'm so unworthy of the Love that Jesus has for me. I have realized my sin throughout the whole support raising process. I was hesitant to believe that He would provide for me this summer, and He has provided more than I need!
I pray that as I leave in 4 days, that I would have the same reaction as Peter: see my sin, and follow Christ. I want to be a fisher of men! I covet your prayers and praise God for His provision.
5Simon answered, "Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets."
6When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. 7So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink.
8When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus' knees and said, "Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!" 9For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken, 10and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon's partners.
Then Jesus said to Simon, "Don't be afraid; from now on you will catch men." 11So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.
Luke 5:4-11
When I read this passage this morning, I was reminded of my support raising process. Two months ago when we went on our CCP retreat, I was beginning to doubt if the Lord wanted me in Sydney this summer because I had not raised much support. My faith was so weak. Well, yesterday I got a call from my church saying that they would cover the rest of the expenses for the trip. I actually had to tell them that I needed less than what they were offering to give! I never would have thought that I would be asking this. God is so faithful to provide in His timing. This story about the fish shows that Jesus knew all along that there would be a miracle.
I feel so much like Peter, doubting as I "put out my net." He was obedient, but hesitant. Then suddenly the nets began to break, because of the catch! Notice Peter's reaction... he doesn't say, "Dude, that was awesome!" He falls at the feet of Jesus, realizing his sin. I'm so unworthy of the Love that Jesus has for me. I have realized my sin throughout the whole support raising process. I was hesitant to believe that He would provide for me this summer, and He has provided more than I need!
I pray that as I leave in 4 days, that I would have the same reaction as Peter: see my sin, and follow Christ. I want to be a fisher of men! I covet your prayers and praise God for His provision.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Towel to the Feet
First of all, I would like to say, Happy Mother's Day to all the moms and future moms out there. Today was a special day, because I was able to spend it with both of my grandmothers and my mom. God has blessed me beyond what I deserve with mothers who love me and care for me.
I got to go to church with my sweet sister and brother-in-law in Nashville today. The sermon was from Mark 10:35-45 when the disciples are arguing about who is the greatest. Just imagine the God of the universe in human skin looking at them bicker back in forth! Finally Jesus tells them that whoever wants to be great must be a servant and whoever wants to be first needs to be last. This is so opposite to our world today. We are told to climb the ladder of success and look out for number one. Yet even Christ did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many (Mk. 10:45). What a great example to us! I pray that as I get ready to leave for Sydney, that the Lord will ingrain in me this servant attitude.
The pastor talked about how we pick and choose which Bible stories we want to read. He said, "I'd much rather take a slingshot to the forehead than a towel to your feet." Yet this is what Christ has called us to do. Oh, that my heart would be ready to serve!
I continue to thank you for all of your prayers and support. God is so good to provide financially for this trip. Today I received 4 more checks so I am just a little less than $700 short, Glory to God! He continues to amaze me each day! Please go on praying for God to prepare my heart and the hearts of the team members for our trip. I know that the enemy will try to get us down before we leave. If our God is for us, then who can be against us? Love you all.
I got to go to church with my sweet sister and brother-in-law in Nashville today. The sermon was from Mark 10:35-45 when the disciples are arguing about who is the greatest. Just imagine the God of the universe in human skin looking at them bicker back in forth! Finally Jesus tells them that whoever wants to be great must be a servant and whoever wants to be first needs to be last. This is so opposite to our world today. We are told to climb the ladder of success and look out for number one. Yet even Christ did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many (Mk. 10:45). What a great example to us! I pray that as I get ready to leave for Sydney, that the Lord will ingrain in me this servant attitude.
The pastor talked about how we pick and choose which Bible stories we want to read. He said, "I'd much rather take a slingshot to the forehead than a towel to your feet." Yet this is what Christ has called us to do. Oh, that my heart would be ready to serve!
I continue to thank you for all of your prayers and support. God is so good to provide financially for this trip. Today I received 4 more checks so I am just a little less than $700 short, Glory to God! He continues to amaze me each day! Please go on praying for God to prepare my heart and the hearts of the team members for our trip. I know that the enemy will try to get us down before we leave. If our God is for us, then who can be against us? Love you all.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Near Through the Blood
“But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.” Ephesians 2:13
My friend Savannah and I went to donate plasma today in order to raise support for our trip. (Crazy, I know :) Anyway, as I was sitting there squeezing my hand so that the blood will flow out better, I thought of Christ. I might have felt a little light-headed, but I was sitting in a comfortable chair with pillows, a blanket, a T.V. to watch, and nurses around me to make sure everything was ok. However, Jesus had no such “luxuries” when he shed his blood on the cross. He was stripped, beaten, spit upon, mocked, slapped, pierced, and marred. He took my punishment so that I could be seen as righteous. He stepped down from the luxuries of heaven because he loved us so much. What a wonderful God!
On another note, the Lord’s been opening up some unexpected doors for support. I talked with my dad the other day on the phone and he said that my mom’s best friend (who was there the day I was born), came up to him with a support check from Sherwood Baptist. This was the church that I was baptized in and attended until I was ten. I was not expecting anything, especially since I did not even ask for anything. God is so good to provide through this sweet body of believers.
I also got an opportunity to share with Redeemer, my church here in Florence, about my trip last Sunday. The congregation was so encouraging and excited about my trip. They decided to take up a love offering for me and some team members from UNA. Please continue to pray for me and my team. Right now I’m at about 27% on my funds, praise God!
I continue to thank you all for your prayers. (I especially need them as I take my finals next week). You can pray this for me and my team members, “10And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully 12giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light“ (Col. 1:10-12). I love you all and pray that God is teaching you to live a life worthy of him.
My friend Savannah and I went to donate plasma today in order to raise support for our trip. (Crazy, I know :) Anyway, as I was sitting there squeezing my hand so that the blood will flow out better, I thought of Christ. I might have felt a little light-headed, but I was sitting in a comfortable chair with pillows, a blanket, a T.V. to watch, and nurses around me to make sure everything was ok. However, Jesus had no such “luxuries” when he shed his blood on the cross. He was stripped, beaten, spit upon, mocked, slapped, pierced, and marred. He took my punishment so that I could be seen as righteous. He stepped down from the luxuries of heaven because he loved us so much. What a wonderful God!
On another note, the Lord’s been opening up some unexpected doors for support. I talked with my dad the other day on the phone and he said that my mom’s best friend (who was there the day I was born), came up to him with a support check from Sherwood Baptist. This was the church that I was baptized in and attended until I was ten. I was not expecting anything, especially since I did not even ask for anything. God is so good to provide through this sweet body of believers.
I also got an opportunity to share with Redeemer, my church here in Florence, about my trip last Sunday. The congregation was so encouraging and excited about my trip. They decided to take up a love offering for me and some team members from UNA. Please continue to pray for me and my team. Right now I’m at about 27% on my funds, praise God!
I continue to thank you all for your prayers. (I especially need them as I take my finals next week). You can pray this for me and my team members, “10And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully 12giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light“ (Col. 1:10-12). I love you all and pray that God is teaching you to live a life worthy of him.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Beloved
“As a young man marries a maiden, so will your sons marry you; as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will your God rejoice over you.” Isaiah 62:5
As many of you know, my sweet sister, Lydia, got married last weekend, so the Bond family has had our hands full. It was so wonderful to stand at the end of the aisle and watch my beautiful sister walk down the aisle toward her groom to the song “Beloved” by Tenth Avenue North (if you get a chance, look it up). As I was watching her walk down the aisle, I couldn’t help but think about Christ and how He sees the church. He loves her and she is without blemish because of the sacrifice that Jesus made for us. What a wonderful God! That is how he views you and me! We should get excited about such love.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” Phil. 4:6.
We learned to put this verse into action last weekend. Thursday night as my family was praying over Lydia’s upcoming marriage, we heard my grandmother scream in the other room. We all went in there and found out that she was suffering from blood clots on her spine. We called the ambulance and prayed over her. The second her and some of my family members left the house, the remaining ones got together and prayed. All weekend, we bathed everything in prayer. Every time we would begin to worry, we prayed. It didn’t matter if we were in the bathroom, on the phone, or driving (we kept our eyes open, don’t worry). Mema is still in the hospital, so please be praying for her.
“Faith without deeds is dead” James 2:26.
Anyway, I have realized that only God has the power to get me to Australia, so please join with me in prayer for Him to move! The Lord has provided about $3,700 which is so great! Please continue to pray that the other $2,300 comes in. I’m also asking you to pray that the Lord works in my heart. I want to believe that He can do huge things in my life. I want to not only say that God can do these things, but actually put them into practice. I want my life to reflect this verse. I was realizing as I talked with some friends tonight that this is the first time I have truly had to trust God with something this huge. He is so big and so faithful. He is my Beloved. I love you all and covet your prayers.
As many of you know, my sweet sister, Lydia, got married last weekend, so the Bond family has had our hands full. It was so wonderful to stand at the end of the aisle and watch my beautiful sister walk down the aisle toward her groom to the song “Beloved” by Tenth Avenue North (if you get a chance, look it up). As I was watching her walk down the aisle, I couldn’t help but think about Christ and how He sees the church. He loves her and she is without blemish because of the sacrifice that Jesus made for us. What a wonderful God! That is how he views you and me! We should get excited about such love.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” Phil. 4:6.
We learned to put this verse into action last weekend. Thursday night as my family was praying over Lydia’s upcoming marriage, we heard my grandmother scream in the other room. We all went in there and found out that she was suffering from blood clots on her spine. We called the ambulance and prayed over her. The second her and some of my family members left the house, the remaining ones got together and prayed. All weekend, we bathed everything in prayer. Every time we would begin to worry, we prayed. It didn’t matter if we were in the bathroom, on the phone, or driving (we kept our eyes open, don’t worry). Mema is still in the hospital, so please be praying for her.
“Faith without deeds is dead” James 2:26.
Anyway, I have realized that only God has the power to get me to Australia, so please join with me in prayer for Him to move! The Lord has provided about $3,700 which is so great! Please continue to pray that the other $2,300 comes in. I’m also asking you to pray that the Lord works in my heart. I want to believe that He can do huge things in my life. I want to not only say that God can do these things, but actually put them into practice. I want my life to reflect this verse. I was realizing as I talked with some friends tonight that this is the first time I have truly had to trust God with something this huge. He is so big and so faithful. He is my Beloved. I love you all and covet your prayers.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Remember
Mark 8:16-21
16And they began discussing with one another the fact that they had no bread. 17And Jesus, aware of this, said to them, "Why are you discussing the fact that you have no bread? Do you not yet perceive or understand? Are your hearts hardened? 18 Having eyes do you not see, and having ears do you not hear? And do you not remember? 19When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many baskets full of broken pieces did you take up?" They said to him, "Twelve." 20"And the seven for the four thousand, how many baskets full of broken pieces did you take up?" And they said to him, "Seven." 21And he said to them, "Do you not yet understand?"
The Lord showed me these verses the other day when I was starting to be doubtful of His provision this summer. So often He provides in miraculous ways, and after a while, I forget what he has done in the past. Jesus was telling His disciples, "I fed 4,000 people out of just a few loaves and you're worried about just 12 of you?" I pray that I would trust in the Lord each day for my needs.
16And they began discussing with one another the fact that they had no bread. 17And Jesus, aware of this, said to them, "Why are you discussing the fact that you have no bread? Do you not yet perceive or understand? Are your hearts hardened? 18 Having eyes do you not see, and having ears do you not hear? And do you not remember? 19When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many baskets full of broken pieces did you take up?" They said to him, "Twelve." 20"And the seven for the four thousand, how many baskets full of broken pieces did you take up?" And they said to him, "Seven." 21And he said to them, "Do you not yet understand?"
The Lord showed me these verses the other day when I was starting to be doubtful of His provision this summer. So often He provides in miraculous ways, and after a while, I forget what he has done in the past. Jesus was telling His disciples, "I fed 4,000 people out of just a few loaves and you're worried about just 12 of you?" I pray that I would trust in the Lord each day for my needs.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Manna
Hello Friends! I just finished up my Spring Break. The Lord has been showing me so much about relying on Him alone. At the beginning of this week I was getting pretty nervous about raising the support I need for going to Australia. I have been relying on myself way too much and not on Jesus to supply what I need. Hebrews 12:6 has become so real to me in the past few weeks, "the Lord disciplines those He loves." He's teaching me that He is all I need and He will provide my every need. I've realized that I am very much a planner. I want to know dates and times, but it doesn't always work like this with God. Isaiah 55:9 puts me in my place when it says, "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." Oh, that I would seek the Lord and find His ways to be first in my life!
This past Wednesday I arrived in town from Nashville with a lot of worry on my heart about the support I was lacking, and that very day I received 3 support checks and over $300 in support from a Chic-fil-A fundraiser! Our God is so faithful to provide. He's showing me to depend upon Him alone. To Him be the glory!
Please continue to pray as my team and I raise support for the summer. I'm learning to be thankful for this opportunity to raise funds for our trip. I'm thankful that I don't have all of my support so that I can be desperate for Jesus, and not for myself. I wish I would be so desperate for Him in every season of my life. Growing up in America, most of us have never been in a place where we've doubted there would be food on the table the next day or a bed to sleep in or clean water to drink. We are so incredibly blessed! Raising support has shown me how I take everything I have for granted. It's taught me to rely on the Lord in faith. I'm reminded of the story in Exodus 16 when the Israelites were in the desert for 40 years. God provided them with manna every day, but they were not to hoard more than they needed or maggots would eat them up. I do this so often with God's blessings. I try to hold onto them to make them last longer so I won't be "dependent." Yet the Lord wants me to rely on Him daily. Thank you all for your prayers and I pray you get your manna today.
This past Wednesday I arrived in town from Nashville with a lot of worry on my heart about the support I was lacking, and that very day I received 3 support checks and over $300 in support from a Chic-fil-A fundraiser! Our God is so faithful to provide. He's showing me to depend upon Him alone. To Him be the glory!
Please continue to pray as my team and I raise support for the summer. I'm learning to be thankful for this opportunity to raise funds for our trip. I'm thankful that I don't have all of my support so that I can be desperate for Jesus, and not for myself. I wish I would be so desperate for Him in every season of my life. Growing up in America, most of us have never been in a place where we've doubted there would be food on the table the next day or a bed to sleep in or clean water to drink. We are so incredibly blessed! Raising support has shown me how I take everything I have for granted. It's taught me to rely on the Lord in faith. I'm reminded of the story in Exodus 16 when the Israelites were in the desert for 40 years. God provided them with manna every day, but they were not to hoard more than they needed or maggots would eat them up. I do this so often with God's blessings. I try to hold onto them to make them last longer so I won't be "dependent." Yet the Lord wants me to rely on Him daily. Thank you all for your prayers and I pray you get your manna today.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Beginning
I've never had a blog, so this will be new for me... I'm so excited about what the Lord has done and will do with this trip to Australia. Two weekends ago we had our retreat for Cross Cultural Project. We did some team building activities, and I know that God has brought our team together. One verse that really sticks out in my mind from the weekend is Isaiah 65:1 "I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me; I was found by those who did not seek me. To a nation that did not call on my name, I said, 'Here am I, here am I.'" This is my prayer for our trip to Sydney. The Lord is doing something in the hearts of His people, and it is all for His glory. May I just learn to be His humble servant.
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