Hello friends and family! Sorry it has been so long since I have posted. Things have been pretty crazy around here. My teammate and I have been traveling some this month, and I have also been dealing with some issues here. Last week I was able to meet with my supervisors about some anxiety I have been having. I believe that a lot of what I am dealing with is spiritual warfare, and the enemy is trying to attack our team in any way he can. We have seen the L work in so many ways in these past four months, and I know the enemy wants to do anything he can to put fear into my life and make me believe that I can't make it here. This whole experience these past few weeks has been hard, but the L keeps reminding me of truth. I know that there is no fear in love and that He is with me leading me through this battle. Talking about this has been hard for me in some ways. At first I believed I was struggling with this fear because I wasn't spiritually strong enough or did not have enough faith. I know that believing that lie is just another way for the enemy to attack me. After seeking the Father about this daily, I now see that the enemy is attacking my teammate and I because His kingdom is advancing. We are being given opportunity after opportunity to spread His love, and people are coming to know Him. Through scripture and p I know we can fight these attacks. The L is in control, and I want to walk in His love and peace. Please be lifting me up daily. Ask the Father to take away fear and replace that with hope and joy and peace. Ask Him to be my strength and give me the perseverance I need to make it through these next two months. Ask Him to show me power through His word and that I find the truth there. Ask Him to bind the enemy from my thoughts.
Thank you all for your p's and support through this journey. Be encouraged to that amazing work is being done here. As His children we are called to go through suffering, and I am thankful for what I am learning through all of this. Love you guys!!
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Friday, April 10, 2009
Hey guys!! I wanted to post a few pictures I have taken around my city. This has been a slower week for us, and we are getting ready for a full last few months. The first picture was taken in our friends neighborhood. Most men like to take an afternoon stroll.
We see many of these cows as we walk down the streets. They just hang out...
This picture was taken in my favorite coffee shop that we visit frequently. It is our oasis!
My teammate and our favorite rickshaw driver. This is my favorite means of transportation.
My interpreter and me shopping in a market for some new spring kurtas. Look at all the colors!Please lift up my team this next week as we travel to the mountains again for our eighth training. We are so excited about this new opportunity to share in a place that is hard to reach. I will keep you updated on our trip when we get back!! Love you all!!!
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Sacrifice
So, my teammate and I have been traveling a lot, and it is only going to get busier! This past week we got to spend time up in the foothills of the Himalayan mountains. It was absolutely beautiful and definitely a new experience. The roads were curvy, narrow, and very steep. These three things are not a good mixture anywhere...especially South Asia. The driving only gets crazier when paired with hills and no speed limits. BUT we survived!!
On this trip, we had the chance to meet one of the national pastors that is working with many groups of people around the area. We got to spend some time with his family and hear a little bit about his story and what brought him here. That conversation is one that I hope to never forget. This man has been through a lot. When he became a follower he had to give up everything he knew. His family disowned him because he was no longer practicing their religion. He had a very successful job in a very affluent city and gave that up to start his ministry. He is now living in conditions that many of us could not even imagine. His family still will have nothing to do with him, and he now has children that might not ever get to see their grandparents. What moved my heart the most as he was sharing wasn't necessarily the hardships but the hope that came behind the words. This man knows what's important in this life. He knows his purpose, and he is willing to sacrifice in ways that I cannot even comprehend right now. His life reflects the truth that we are not of this world and that our hope is not to be found in things here on Earth. Family, possessions, worldly freedom, comfort, prosperity, and many other things that I hold on to are things that he offers up to the Father. His faith and passion for the lost drive his heart and reflect such deep love. That love overflows into every aspect of his life, and he has challenged me in more ways than I can count.
Seeing this man sacrifice so much got me thinking about my own life. I know that the L has called me to live a sacrificial life. I know that a life with C means that suffering will come. This man's story has allowed me to see the power and beauty in living a life for Him. He is so faithful to provide exactly what we need. Everyday I see His love changing people...changing me. His love really is enough, and because of His grace I am learning to hold fast to that belief!
I want to leave you guys with a verse that has been getting me through the days here. I love you all!! Lifting you up!
"Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. So I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands."
On this trip, we had the chance to meet one of the national pastors that is working with many groups of people around the area. We got to spend some time with his family and hear a little bit about his story and what brought him here. That conversation is one that I hope to never forget. This man has been through a lot. When he became a follower he had to give up everything he knew. His family disowned him because he was no longer practicing their religion. He had a very successful job in a very affluent city and gave that up to start his ministry. He is now living in conditions that many of us could not even imagine. His family still will have nothing to do with him, and he now has children that might not ever get to see their grandparents. What moved my heart the most as he was sharing wasn't necessarily the hardships but the hope that came behind the words. This man knows what's important in this life. He knows his purpose, and he is willing to sacrifice in ways that I cannot even comprehend right now. His life reflects the truth that we are not of this world and that our hope is not to be found in things here on Earth. Family, possessions, worldly freedom, comfort, prosperity, and many other things that I hold on to are things that he offers up to the Father. His faith and passion for the lost drive his heart and reflect such deep love. That love overflows into every aspect of his life, and he has challenged me in more ways than I can count.
Seeing this man sacrifice so much got me thinking about my own life. I know that the L has called me to live a sacrificial life. I know that a life with C means that suffering will come. This man's story has allowed me to see the power and beauty in living a life for Him. He is so faithful to provide exactly what we need. Everyday I see His love changing people...changing me. His love really is enough, and because of His grace I am learning to hold fast to that belief!
I want to leave you guys with a verse that has been getting me through the days here. I love you all!! Lifting you up!
"Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. So I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands."
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Pictures!!
Hey everyone! I finally got some pictures up of my trip from last week! We had a blast, and I definitely got to see and experience a lot! This first picture was taken at the main University in the city. It was beautiful, and we got a personal tour.
This one was taken at the famous temple there. We got to lift the people up that were there to honor the sacred place.
Here's another one of the temple. Many people wash in the lake and also make their children participate in the rituals.
This last one is a shot taken outside one of the markets. Just a typical day in my new life. I hope you enjoyed the snaps. Keep lifting these places up! Remember the darkness here. I love you guys! I'm thinking of you this week!Mere
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Well guys, it's official! Greyson is now finally on the trail. He has been dreaming of doing the AT for years, and through G's grace, he is now getting the opportunity to be out in the wilderness. I am so thankful that he is getting to do this for the next six months. Please be thinking of him and lifting him up as he encounters struggles and triumphs! I know the L has amazing things planned for this journey, and I know He will be faithful to provide!!
So, I have now been in SA for over two months. It is really hard for me to believe the time is going by so fast. This week I have been asking the Father to allow me to experience everything to the fullest. I have started to feel a little more comfortable in my routine, and I want to wake up every morning with a new sense of renewal and excitement for what is to come!
This past week we traveled north to a city that has a lot of religious history for this area. We were able to tour most of the city and see a lot! It was a relaxing time for my friends and me, and we got to make some contacts while we were there that will hopefully open doors for ministry in the future. I will be posting some pictures soon and will explain a little bit more about the city.
Tomorrow we will begin our work out in the villages. We have the opportunity to go and teach the same group we have been discipling for the past month. We are so excited about this group of women and really feel like there is hope for a fellowship one day. We will also be meeting with women that we have known since the beginning of our time here. They are not followers, and we are lifting them up to the Father everyday. All of these women are so beautiful in His sight, and we desire to see them come to know truth. Many of them are so stuck in their routines and rituals and cannot see past what they have believed for years. Please ask the Father that their eyes will be opened.
Here are a few things to be lifting up as this next week rolls around:
Ask Him to open doors for more trainings in our area. As we encounter new women, ask Him to give us the boldness to proclaim His name freely!
Ask Him to renew the nationals here and allow them to see their purpose. Ask that He would give them wisdom in how to lead others and start new fellowships throughout the region.
Lift the women and families up that we have already made connections with. Ask Him to strengthen relationships and build new friendships.
He really is doing some amazing work here. I am so encouraged to know that people are coming to know truth and that people are willing to go out and spread this love that the world so desperately needs. Thank you for your commitment to lift me up and encourage me! I love you guys!
So, I have now been in SA for over two months. It is really hard for me to believe the time is going by so fast. This week I have been asking the Father to allow me to experience everything to the fullest. I have started to feel a little more comfortable in my routine, and I want to wake up every morning with a new sense of renewal and excitement for what is to come!
This past week we traveled north to a city that has a lot of religious history for this area. We were able to tour most of the city and see a lot! It was a relaxing time for my friends and me, and we got to make some contacts while we were there that will hopefully open doors for ministry in the future. I will be posting some pictures soon and will explain a little bit more about the city.
Tomorrow we will begin our work out in the villages. We have the opportunity to go and teach the same group we have been discipling for the past month. We are so excited about this group of women and really feel like there is hope for a fellowship one day. We will also be meeting with women that we have known since the beginning of our time here. They are not followers, and we are lifting them up to the Father everyday. All of these women are so beautiful in His sight, and we desire to see them come to know truth. Many of them are so stuck in their routines and rituals and cannot see past what they have believed for years. Please ask the Father that their eyes will be opened.
Here are a few things to be lifting up as this next week rolls around:
Ask Him to open doors for more trainings in our area. As we encounter new women, ask Him to give us the boldness to proclaim His name freely!
Ask Him to renew the nationals here and allow them to see their purpose. Ask that He would give them wisdom in how to lead others and start new fellowships throughout the region.
Lift the women and families up that we have already made connections with. Ask Him to strengthen relationships and build new friendships.
He really is doing some amazing work here. I am so encouraged to know that people are coming to know truth and that people are willing to go out and spread this love that the world so desperately needs. Thank you for your commitment to lift me up and encourage me! I love you guys!
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Light!
Hello Everyone! I hope you all enjoyed the pictures and now feel a little more connected to where I am! I will definitely be posting more soon!
So, this week has been pretty tough for me. Although we were not as busy, a lot of our work in the villages was very emotionally draining for my teammate and me. I am beginning to experience some of the discouragement that comes with the lostness of this place. The people here are so stuck in their way of life, and it almost seems impossible to break through the barriers. This week we began some discipleship with new believers. We were very encouraged by some of the young women that were eager to learn more. Other women were much harder to reach and almost seemed closed off to the truth. We are learning that breaking down these walls takes time and A LOT of lifting up. Please be lifting that up every day this week. We are asking the Father to open the ladies hearts, and we need discernment to know where to go to teach and disciple.
I am struggling more because my heart is being broken for these people in a deeper way. As I begin to build relationships and meet with women on a regular basis, my heart is softened. I desperately want them to hold on to this free gift! I want their belief to be alive and working in their hearts! I know that it is only by His grace that we are free. Oh, how I want these people to experience that freedom!!
This week we sang a song during our weekly fellowship that encouraged me in such a powerful way. The last verse of the song says....Yes, I can see a light that is coming for a heart that holds on. And there will be an end to these troubles but until that day...still I will praise you! Still I will praise you!! I have been clinging to those words this week as I think about the lives of the people here. Sometimes it is hard to see that light, but everyday He gives me the strength to hold on to Him! I want the people here to have that same hope...that one day there will be an end to all these troubles, and I want them to be praising Him with us!!
I really am learning so much! I am so thankful for your p's and faithfulness in staying connected with me. I really need you to be lifting our team up. I love you all!! I am lifting you up this week!
My Love!
So, this week has been pretty tough for me. Although we were not as busy, a lot of our work in the villages was very emotionally draining for my teammate and me. I am beginning to experience some of the discouragement that comes with the lostness of this place. The people here are so stuck in their way of life, and it almost seems impossible to break through the barriers. This week we began some discipleship with new believers. We were very encouraged by some of the young women that were eager to learn more. Other women were much harder to reach and almost seemed closed off to the truth. We are learning that breaking down these walls takes time and A LOT of lifting up. Please be lifting that up every day this week. We are asking the Father to open the ladies hearts, and we need discernment to know where to go to teach and disciple.
I am struggling more because my heart is being broken for these people in a deeper way. As I begin to build relationships and meet with women on a regular basis, my heart is softened. I desperately want them to hold on to this free gift! I want their belief to be alive and working in their hearts! I know that it is only by His grace that we are free. Oh, how I want these people to experience that freedom!!
This week we sang a song during our weekly fellowship that encouraged me in such a powerful way. The last verse of the song says....Yes, I can see a light that is coming for a heart that holds on. And there will be an end to these troubles but until that day...still I will praise you! Still I will praise you!! I have been clinging to those words this week as I think about the lives of the people here. Sometimes it is hard to see that light, but everyday He gives me the strength to hold on to Him! I want the people here to have that same hope...that one day there will be an end to all these troubles, and I want them to be praising Him with us!!
I really am learning so much! I am so thankful for your p's and faithfulness in staying connected with me. I really need you to be lifting our team up. I love you all!! I am lifting you up this week!
My Love!
Sunday, March 1, 2009
This picture was taken in the village I visited this past weekend. The people farm for a living and usually are out in the fields most of the day. 
This one was taken right before the marriage. You have to wear the traditional dress. It was a really fun night!
Here I am on a camel. I have always wanted to get to ride one, so I was extremely excited when we got to a few weeks ago. This picture makes me laugh!
I took this picture in a village that is right outside the city. Many of the homes look much like this one, and this is the way that many people live.
This one was taken on my birthday when we went to the zoo. We took a "lion safari" in a big bus. Probably not the wisest decision we've made, but it definitely was an adventure!
This one was taken right before the marriage. You have to wear the traditional dress. It was a really fun night!
Here I am on a camel. I have always wanted to get to ride one, so I was extremely excited when we got to a few weeks ago. This picture makes me laugh!
I took this picture in a village that is right outside the city. Many of the homes look much like this one, and this is the way that many people live.
This one was taken on my birthday when we went to the zoo. We took a "lion safari" in a big bus. Probably not the wisest decision we've made, but it definitely was an adventure!
Village Life
Hey guys!! Sorry it has been a little while since I posted. This past week has been super busy, and I am just now getting a chance to sit down and regroup. I have been promising people some pictures, so be looking for them really soon. They should be up in the next day or two!
This past week has been the busiest one we have had so far. Early in the week we attended our first marriage. It was so neat because the couple were believers, and they had a C ceremony. It was such a blessing to see them committing their marriage to the L. This is a very uncommon thing here in South Asia, so I was definitely encouraged to see Him moving in that way. I got to help the bride pick out her sari, and she looked beautiful! This week we also had a training in a village just outside of our city. Two women came to know our Savior the last day or training. Every time I see a new brother or sister come to believe I remember the truth that salvation really is such a miracle. We keep seeing Him work in huge ways, and I hope everyone back home is encouraged to know that He is doing amazing things here! Despite all the darkness that plagues this area, people are coming to know the truth!
At the end of the week, we headed to a village that was further out. We stayed there all weekend, and we were able to teach trainings and meet with so many people. We visited homes, drank A LOT of chai, and got to witness some pretty incredible things. We got to share with over 60 women, and again we had people come to faith! It is hard for me to not get overwhelmed by all I am experiencing here. Our Father is being faithful to give me the strength I need every day. Village life is definitely different than what I am used to. Although we were taken out of our comfort zone a lot, we still had so much energy and excitement about what we were getting to do. He is working in that specific village and raising up leaders that can continue to spread truth. We have been asked back and are planning another trip...hopefully we will get to go back in the next month or two. I still have not fully processed everything I got to see these past few days, but I am continually amazed at how limited my view of the L is. My eyes are being opened to the power He possesses. The word is coming alive to me!! I am so thankful!
Please be lifting up this next week. It will be a little bit slower, but we are still visiting villages around the city and will hopefully get to start some training for new followers. Please lift up our team and ask Him to renew us daily. Thank you for all your p's and encouragement. I know I am being covered, and I feel so much peace! I hope you all are experiencing His joy...I hope you are finding purpose and life in His love and perfect plan for us! Sending my love....
Meredith
Top 5 of the week:
In the village, a lady sang over me in Hindi. She was thanking me for sharing about the L. It was so moving...definitely something I will never forget.
We got to see a few monkeys and also a few unwanted mice. Many will be pleased to know that I did not totally freak out...just a little freak out.
I got to witness a bird go to the bathroom on my supervisor! I couldn't stop laughing long enough to help him clean it off! I wish I got some pictures.
The house we stayed in had a baucony, and I would wake up early to watch the sunrise. It was beautiful.
Seeing people come to Him.
This past week has been the busiest one we have had so far. Early in the week we attended our first marriage. It was so neat because the couple were believers, and they had a C ceremony. It was such a blessing to see them committing their marriage to the L. This is a very uncommon thing here in South Asia, so I was definitely encouraged to see Him moving in that way. I got to help the bride pick out her sari, and she looked beautiful! This week we also had a training in a village just outside of our city. Two women came to know our Savior the last day or training. Every time I see a new brother or sister come to believe I remember the truth that salvation really is such a miracle. We keep seeing Him work in huge ways, and I hope everyone back home is encouraged to know that He is doing amazing things here! Despite all the darkness that plagues this area, people are coming to know the truth!
At the end of the week, we headed to a village that was further out. We stayed there all weekend, and we were able to teach trainings and meet with so many people. We visited homes, drank A LOT of chai, and got to witness some pretty incredible things. We got to share with over 60 women, and again we had people come to faith! It is hard for me to not get overwhelmed by all I am experiencing here. Our Father is being faithful to give me the strength I need every day. Village life is definitely different than what I am used to. Although we were taken out of our comfort zone a lot, we still had so much energy and excitement about what we were getting to do. He is working in that specific village and raising up leaders that can continue to spread truth. We have been asked back and are planning another trip...hopefully we will get to go back in the next month or two. I still have not fully processed everything I got to see these past few days, but I am continually amazed at how limited my view of the L is. My eyes are being opened to the power He possesses. The word is coming alive to me!! I am so thankful!
Please be lifting up this next week. It will be a little bit slower, but we are still visiting villages around the city and will hopefully get to start some training for new followers. Please lift up our team and ask Him to renew us daily. Thank you for all your p's and encouragement. I know I am being covered, and I feel so much peace! I hope you all are experiencing His joy...I hope you are finding purpose and life in His love and perfect plan for us! Sending my love....
Meredith
Top 5 of the week:
In the village, a lady sang over me in Hindi. She was thanking me for sharing about the L. It was so moving...definitely something I will never forget.
We got to see a few monkeys and also a few unwanted mice. Many will be pleased to know that I did not totally freak out...just a little freak out.
I got to witness a bird go to the bathroom on my supervisor! I couldn't stop laughing long enough to help him clean it off! I wish I got some pictures.
The house we stayed in had a baucony, and I would wake up early to watch the sunrise. It was beautiful.
Seeing people come to Him.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
HE is Mighty to Save!
Hey Ya'll!!
I haven't been able to say that here much, and I really miss it!!! It makes me feel like the southern girl that I am...so I decided it was a very appropriate greeting. I hope you all are doing well and experiencing joy as you experience Him! Everyday I meet people that are lost and seeking the peace that we have. I am beginning to realize the ways in which I forsake the precious gift of joy. We have so much to be thankful for, and I p*** that He will continue to bring things into each of our lives that show us what we truly have in a life with Him.
My last post ended with the lyrics of a song that I am very familiar with. Coming here has totally given me a new appreciation for the words to that song. Savior He can move the mountains, my G is mighty to save. Author of salvation he rose and conquered the grave! The first time I heard this song being played in SA was at a fellowship with national believers. Watching them sing this song with such passion in their voices and in their hearts brought me to tears. It is easy to see the importance of these words when you are surrounded by darkness everywhere you turn. I began to wonder why I was not moved in the same way back home. Why do I not believe that He is mighty to save people in my hometown? Why does my heart not break for my neighbors in the same way that my heart breaks for the lost here? I think a lot of it is because I am not asking Him to. I do not look for His hand or His power in the way that I should. I am so thankful that I am learning these lessons now!
These lyrics have also meant so much to me because this week I have witnessed His love and power working in the lives of so many here. This week we have had the amazing blessing of witnessing 9 new believers come to faith!!!!!!!! It is hard to convey in words the joy I have experienced in these last few days. Watching a man come to know the TRUTH after rejecting Him for so long is something that can only be described His grace in our lives. Getting to witness 8 girls pray to receive during our training this weekend was incredible. It is overwhelming to think about the darkness that has plagued them for so long, and now by His love and grace they are walking in the light! They now possess this hope and peace that transforms us! They now can experience His unfailing love and joy that is found in salvation!
I feel unworthy and humbled when I think about all that I am getting to be a part of here. I am so thankful that it is in His plan to use His children as vessels for His glory. I p*** that each one of you will remember His promises this week. Remember that He is working. What an abundant life we have in Him! Please continue to lift up the people we minister to throughout the week. Please lift up our new brothers and sisters, and ask the Father to bring people into their lives that can disciple them and help grow their faith. Please ask Him to refresh my spirit and give me a love for the people here that can only be explained by His grace.
I want to leave you all with a few fun facts about this past week. The adventures just keep coming!! I love you all!! Thinking of you...
1. I ate goat liver for the first time at a nationals house. I didn't even get sick!!
2. I finally got to ride a camel..well technically I just sat on it, but I still got some pretty cool pictures.
3. I have now been to the zoo, famous rose garden, and most recently a local dog show. Pretty interesting!
4. Our rickshaw driver got attacked by another guy, and my teammate and I had to jump off the cycle in the middle of the traffic. It was an experience to say the least.
5. We got to see the foothills of the Himalayas and will be taking a trip there again soon. Beautiful!
I haven't been able to say that here much, and I really miss it!!! It makes me feel like the southern girl that I am...so I decided it was a very appropriate greeting. I hope you all are doing well and experiencing joy as you experience Him! Everyday I meet people that are lost and seeking the peace that we have. I am beginning to realize the ways in which I forsake the precious gift of joy. We have so much to be thankful for, and I p*** that He will continue to bring things into each of our lives that show us what we truly have in a life with Him.
My last post ended with the lyrics of a song that I am very familiar with. Coming here has totally given me a new appreciation for the words to that song. Savior He can move the mountains, my G is mighty to save. Author of salvation he rose and conquered the grave! The first time I heard this song being played in SA was at a fellowship with national believers. Watching them sing this song with such passion in their voices and in their hearts brought me to tears. It is easy to see the importance of these words when you are surrounded by darkness everywhere you turn. I began to wonder why I was not moved in the same way back home. Why do I not believe that He is mighty to save people in my hometown? Why does my heart not break for my neighbors in the same way that my heart breaks for the lost here? I think a lot of it is because I am not asking Him to. I do not look for His hand or His power in the way that I should. I am so thankful that I am learning these lessons now!
These lyrics have also meant so much to me because this week I have witnessed His love and power working in the lives of so many here. This week we have had the amazing blessing of witnessing 9 new believers come to faith!!!!!!!! It is hard to convey in words the joy I have experienced in these last few days. Watching a man come to know the TRUTH after rejecting Him for so long is something that can only be described His grace in our lives. Getting to witness 8 girls pray to receive during our training this weekend was incredible. It is overwhelming to think about the darkness that has plagued them for so long, and now by His love and grace they are walking in the light! They now possess this hope and peace that transforms us! They now can experience His unfailing love and joy that is found in salvation!
I feel unworthy and humbled when I think about all that I am getting to be a part of here. I am so thankful that it is in His plan to use His children as vessels for His glory. I p*** that each one of you will remember His promises this week. Remember that He is working. What an abundant life we have in Him! Please continue to lift up the people we minister to throughout the week. Please lift up our new brothers and sisters, and ask the Father to bring people into their lives that can disciple them and help grow their faith. Please ask Him to refresh my spirit and give me a love for the people here that can only be explained by His grace.
I want to leave you all with a few fun facts about this past week. The adventures just keep coming!! I love you all!! Thinking of you...
1. I ate goat liver for the first time at a nationals house. I didn't even get sick!!
2. I finally got to ride a camel..well technically I just sat on it, but I still got some pretty cool pictures.
3. I have now been to the zoo, famous rose garden, and most recently a local dog show. Pretty interesting!
4. Our rickshaw driver got attacked by another guy, and my teammate and I had to jump off the cycle in the middle of the traffic. It was an experience to say the least.
5. We got to see the foothills of the Himalayas and will be taking a trip there again soon. Beautiful!
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Purpose
Hello Everyone! Today I have officially been in South Asia for a month. The time here is flying by! In my last blog I mentioned that we were going to have the opportunity to go visit women in their homes that had attended our medical clinics. This past weekend we were able to visit six homes and see almost half of the women that we met in the sessions. Sitting in those homes, I began to realize why He had brought me here. For awhile, I had really been struggling with my purpose in all of this. Culture shock, missing home, feeling overwhelmed and unprepared were just a few of the things I have been dealing with. I kept asking Him why He had brought me to a place so far away. I even began to forget some of the reasons why I wanted to be here in the first place. Although I was doubting a lot, He kept reminding me of His plans. Talking with those women and sharing the light and love of the gospel is transforming me. I now see why I am here! Loving those beautiful women and building relationships with them is such a blessing. Many of the people we come in contact with have never heard this good news! They see a joy on our face that they themselves have never experienced. They see that we are different and they want to know more.
Being here is teaching me so much about what genuine love for one another really means. These women have never had someone sit down with them and listen to their problems. They are overwhelmed by the fact that we want to come into their lives and be there. The fact that I am here for a longer period of time allows me to invest in new ways. I know that He has opened the doors and will continue to give us opportunities to reach out.
This next week we will be traveling to two new villages to do the medical camps. I am so excited to meet new people that need to hear. We are going to be busy, and need a lot of P*****. He continues to bring new opportunities to present the medical information. Our entire month of February is full and some weeks in March. I could not be more thankful!
Thank you all for lifting me up...your encouragement means more to me than you know! I really want to know how all of you are doing. Email me if you get a chance, and I will try to get back with you as soon as I can. I love you guys!! I am thankful for this family! Oh, and just a reminder..please stay away from sensitive words if you post on here. Thanks!
Please ask Him to work on the hearts of the ones we have met. Ask Him to tear down walls that have been built up for so long.
Ask Him to continue to give my teammate and I the boldness to share our stories. Ask Him to protect us as we go out this week.
Ask Him to bring peace to their hearts that can only be explained by His love and power!
Ask Him to bring about healing to the women we have p'd over. His will be done!
Saviour, He can move the mountains,
He is Mighty to save,
He is Mighty to save.
Forever, Author of salvation,
He rose and conquered the grave,
He conquered the grave.
Being here is teaching me so much about what genuine love for one another really means. These women have never had someone sit down with them and listen to their problems. They are overwhelmed by the fact that we want to come into their lives and be there. The fact that I am here for a longer period of time allows me to invest in new ways. I know that He has opened the doors and will continue to give us opportunities to reach out.
This next week we will be traveling to two new villages to do the medical camps. I am so excited to meet new people that need to hear. We are going to be busy, and need a lot of P*****. He continues to bring new opportunities to present the medical information. Our entire month of February is full and some weeks in March. I could not be more thankful!
Thank you all for lifting me up...your encouragement means more to me than you know! I really want to know how all of you are doing. Email me if you get a chance, and I will try to get back with you as soon as I can. I love you guys!! I am thankful for this family! Oh, and just a reminder..please stay away from sensitive words if you post on here. Thanks!
Please ask Him to work on the hearts of the ones we have met. Ask Him to tear down walls that have been built up for so long.
Ask Him to continue to give my teammate and I the boldness to share our stories. Ask Him to protect us as we go out this week.
Ask Him to bring peace to their hearts that can only be explained by His love and power!
Ask Him to bring about healing to the women we have p'd over. His will be done!
Saviour, He can move the mountains,
He is Mighty to save,
He is Mighty to save.
Forever, Author of salvation,
He rose and conquered the grave,
He conquered the grave.
Monday, February 2, 2009
My first week has come and gone...
I can't believe I have been in South Asia for almost a month. The time is definitely flying by. I have been in my city for over a week now. We got through our first medical camp and are now preparing for the month of February. My teammate and I were blown away by the things we got to experience this past weekend. We didn't really know what to expect from the women or what the response would be to the material, but we were very encouraged by what He did in those three days.
Neither one of us had ever seen the material much less led a medical clinic, so we definitely felt like we were in over our heads. One of our supervisors came with us each day, and some other girls helped the first day. Again, I am so thankful for my team! I know I could not make it without them. We had over twenty women attend the training, and each day they came back. Many of them were very interested in EVERYTHING we had to share, and we are going to get to spend some time with a few of them this week. I had the opportunity to lift up some of the women while we were there. Many of them were struggling with illness, and many of them were asking us to P for healing. I know that He is doing something here, and I feel so blessed to be a part of that.
This week we are going to focus on connecting with the women that we were able to meet during the trainings and also prepare for these next few weeks of work. The past few days my teammate and I have gotten to rest and have some down time. Things seem to take a lot out of you, and it is has been good to sit and be still. Every week we have a meeting with our team and some others around the city, and I have been asked to teach the kids this week! If any of you know me very well, this is going to be a stretch for me=) I'm not known to be the best at keeping children in line, so we will see. But seriously, I really am excited about the opportunity, and I feel so blessed to have a body to serve with.
I want to leave you guys with a short little list of things I have been able to see, hear, and of course smell since I've been gone. I will also leave with some things you can be lifting up.
1. I see camels frequently...haven't seen an elephant yet, but I still have a few months! Hey, it can happen.
2. Most days I see a man selling cotton candy as he is riding his bike down our street. He likes to blow a small horn to let us know he is coming. We haven't been brave enough to buy any yet, but we will see.
3.Our street is very busy during the day, and we hear a lot of singing at night.
4. Our favorite means of transportation is by rickshaw. We ride one at least once a day.
5. We have a market that is within walking distance, and it is quickly becoming a happy place to go...they have a coffee shop! Enough said.
6. On most corners we usually see at least one barber shaving a man's face on the side of the road, a man selling peanuts, and a man riding a horse with a wagon.
This week:
1. Ask Him to open doors with the women we encounter this week. Ask for relationships to grow through our trainings.
2. Ask Him to be with our team as we each go out and invest in different things. Ask for strength.
3. Ask Him to be with my teammate and I. Ask for Him to continue to show us purpose and grace as we go out.
I love you all so much and think of you often!! You are in my heart! Know I am thinking you everyday!
He is my steadfast love and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield and He in whom I take refuge.
Neither one of us had ever seen the material much less led a medical clinic, so we definitely felt like we were in over our heads. One of our supervisors came with us each day, and some other girls helped the first day. Again, I am so thankful for my team! I know I could not make it without them. We had over twenty women attend the training, and each day they came back. Many of them were very interested in EVERYTHING we had to share, and we are going to get to spend some time with a few of them this week. I had the opportunity to lift up some of the women while we were there. Many of them were struggling with illness, and many of them were asking us to P for healing. I know that He is doing something here, and I feel so blessed to be a part of that.
This week we are going to focus on connecting with the women that we were able to meet during the trainings and also prepare for these next few weeks of work. The past few days my teammate and I have gotten to rest and have some down time. Things seem to take a lot out of you, and it is has been good to sit and be still. Every week we have a meeting with our team and some others around the city, and I have been asked to teach the kids this week! If any of you know me very well, this is going to be a stretch for me=) I'm not known to be the best at keeping children in line, so we will see. But seriously, I really am excited about the opportunity, and I feel so blessed to have a body to serve with.
I want to leave you guys with a short little list of things I have been able to see, hear, and of course smell since I've been gone. I will also leave with some things you can be lifting up.
1. I see camels frequently...haven't seen an elephant yet, but I still have a few months! Hey, it can happen.
2. Most days I see a man selling cotton candy as he is riding his bike down our street. He likes to blow a small horn to let us know he is coming. We haven't been brave enough to buy any yet, but we will see.
3.Our street is very busy during the day, and we hear a lot of singing at night.
4. Our favorite means of transportation is by rickshaw. We ride one at least once a day.
5. We have a market that is within walking distance, and it is quickly becoming a happy place to go...they have a coffee shop! Enough said.
6. On most corners we usually see at least one barber shaving a man's face on the side of the road, a man selling peanuts, and a man riding a horse with a wagon.
This week:
1. Ask Him to open doors with the women we encounter this week. Ask for relationships to grow through our trainings.
2. Ask Him to be with our team as we each go out and invest in different things. Ask for strength.
3. Ask Him to be with my teammate and I. Ask for Him to continue to show us purpose and grace as we go out.
I love you all so much and think of you often!! You are in my heart! Know I am thinking you everyday!
He is my steadfast love and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield and He in whom I take refuge.
Monday, January 26, 2009
I'm finally here!
Hello to all my friends and family that will be reading this blog. All of this blogging stuff is very new to me, but I am so thankful to have an outlet to write down my thoughts and let the people that mean the most to me read about what He is doing in SA. Oh, and I also want to give a huge thank you to my man for making this little blog happen. Thank you, sweetie.
So, I arrived in my city about five days ago. I had training for about ten days when I first arrived in SA, and then took a train to my city. I am still getting adjusted to my new surroundings. Things are VERY different here. One thing that is going to take some getting used to is the water. We only have good water for a couple of hours a day. Shopping for groceries has also been a challenge. My teammate and I had our first "crazy food experience" the other day. We opened a bag of pasta and soon found many bugs swimming around in the pot. No worries though. We just walked down to one of the nearest markets and bought a new bag. Although there are things that will take time to get used to, I am very blessed to be where I am. My city has many beautiful parks, and overall it is easy to get around. We have already taken many taxi's, rickshaws, and jeep rides.
The one thing that I have been blessed with the most is my team. My teammate and I get along really well. We became instant friends, and I can depend on her. The other members of our team here have taken us in and made us feel like family. Having instant community is such a gift! Every week we will have a group fellowship together. We sing songs and go over a lesson. Nationals are coming to this group, and that is definitely a praise! We have alredy celebrated two birthdays, seen a movie in a very nice theater, and been shopping in the mall. Our new family has shown us the ropes and prepared us for what is to come. I could not be more thankful!
This first week we are focusing on orientation and being trained for the medical camps we will be leading. By the end of the week we will have already started the first medical camp and will continue that work the following week. We have a lot to get prepared for, and I know that He has given us everything we need to do this work! I am learning to trust more and more. I know that I cannot do any of this on my own, and I am thankful for the hard things that make me look to my Father. Only He can supply me with what it takes to share these things.
Thank you all for the support and intercession. I know that your words and thoughts have brought me through so much! Days have been hard, but His strength gets me through. He is good. I believe that more everyday. I want to leave you guys with some things to be thinking about and lifting up. I love you all. Know that I am thinking of you!
Lift up the women that we will be sharing with this week. Ask for Him to bring people of peace into our lives that want to know more.
Lift up the workers already here. Ask for strength and encouragement.
Lift up my teammate and I as we seek to present this the best way possible. Ask for boldness and courage!
The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore p earnestly to the L*** of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.
So, I arrived in my city about five days ago. I had training for about ten days when I first arrived in SA, and then took a train to my city. I am still getting adjusted to my new surroundings. Things are VERY different here. One thing that is going to take some getting used to is the water. We only have good water for a couple of hours a day. Shopping for groceries has also been a challenge. My teammate and I had our first "crazy food experience" the other day. We opened a bag of pasta and soon found many bugs swimming around in the pot. No worries though. We just walked down to one of the nearest markets and bought a new bag. Although there are things that will take time to get used to, I am very blessed to be where I am. My city has many beautiful parks, and overall it is easy to get around. We have already taken many taxi's, rickshaws, and jeep rides.
The one thing that I have been blessed with the most is my team. My teammate and I get along really well. We became instant friends, and I can depend on her. The other members of our team here have taken us in and made us feel like family. Having instant community is such a gift! Every week we will have a group fellowship together. We sing songs and go over a lesson. Nationals are coming to this group, and that is definitely a praise! We have alredy celebrated two birthdays, seen a movie in a very nice theater, and been shopping in the mall. Our new family has shown us the ropes and prepared us for what is to come. I could not be more thankful!
This first week we are focusing on orientation and being trained for the medical camps we will be leading. By the end of the week we will have already started the first medical camp and will continue that work the following week. We have a lot to get prepared for, and I know that He has given us everything we need to do this work! I am learning to trust more and more. I know that I cannot do any of this on my own, and I am thankful for the hard things that make me look to my Father. Only He can supply me with what it takes to share these things.
Thank you all for the support and intercession. I know that your words and thoughts have brought me through so much! Days have been hard, but His strength gets me through. He is good. I believe that more everyday. I want to leave you guys with some things to be thinking about and lifting up. I love you all. Know that I am thinking of you!
Lift up the women that we will be sharing with this week. Ask for Him to bring people of peace into our lives that want to know more.
Lift up the workers already here. Ask for strength and encouragement.
Lift up my teammate and I as we seek to present this the best way possible. Ask for boldness and courage!
The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore p earnestly to the L*** of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.
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