As some of you know, I am going overseas again with Simpson University in May! I have the opportunity to lead 5 students to Southeast Asia where we will be partnering with a unique mission organization. (Due to the location/ministry, I can't name the country.) We will spend three weeks living with local Muslim families in villages, learning about their culture and language and how to naturally talk with them about the good news of Christ. I am really looking forward to serving on this team as a leader, because I have a passion for homestays and cultural immersion after my experience in Uganda. I am excited to get to share with my team all the ups and downs that will come with living with a host family, all the while getting to participate in ministry!
This trip is particularly exciting for me. This location ties into my YWAM journey 5 years ago. If you remember, I experienced God's provisions in unbelievable ways in order to be able to go on my outreach. Before I was fully funded, my team leader approached me about possibly going to another location (SE Asia) that was cheaper and left later, allowing me more time to fundraise. Despite the draw to that new location, I knew I was supposed to go with the original plan (in which God provided in abundace, beyond what I needed). When we got back from outreach and shared stories, I was so intrigued by the team that went to SE Asia, and wanted to go there. Fast forward to now and I GET TO GO THERE!! I love how God placed my interest the same SE Asian country then, and is now bringing it back full circle for me to see His hand in it all.
I would like to invite you to be my prayer partner. We need your support and prayers for us during our preparation time over the next few months, while we are serving in Southeast Asia, and after we return home. Specifically, I would like to ask you to pray for a readines of my heart. I still miss Uganda almost daily. If I’m being honest, I am a bit hesitant to go on another trip, because I can connect so deeply to people, a place, and a culture so quickly. I know the lasting impact Uganda has had on my life and how much I miss it, that I’m afraid this will be hard for me in just the same way. Nevertheless, I know this is where God wants me, and I am ready and willing to go. (I am extremely excited, too!) I ask for prayer that I wouldn’t guard my heart, but that I would be able to be fully present and intentional in my relationships. As this is the first team that I will be leading by myself, I ask for prayer for wisdom, discernment, and good communication skills with leading this team of five students. I’m excited for this opportunity, and so excited to be able to disciple and pour into the lives of my team members! Another prayer request of mine will be the full faith in God’s providing. Please know that your prayer support is a vital part of our ministry and a valuable gift to me.
I am also praying that you will consider supporting our WorldSERVE team financially. The cost of this service project is $3,300 per participant, and I would truly appreciate any size gift. My first deadline is to have 40% of the total funds raised by February 10, so would you consider giving a tax-deductible donation? You can donate online (at www.simpsonu.edu/supportmissions) by finding my team and searching for my name. I’m also planning to do fundraisers with my teammates, as well as contribute to my trip from my own pocket. I am willing to work hard for this experience.
Personally, I'm not a fan of fundraiser letters, emails, posts, etc. BUT, I know it's a necessary part of this journey. I truly do enjoy including you all in my life and experiences, and sharing with you the things God teaches me. If you have any questions or encouraging words, I would LOVE to hear from you. :)
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