Most of you know that we had planned to be in language school in Costa Rica by the end of April and were very disappointed when it didn't not work out. Since then we have come to see that the Lord knew better. He still has work for us to do before all of our funding is raised and we are released. That became imminently clear within the last couple weeks.
Right after Independence Day, we packed up the van and drove to Indian Springs Holiness Camp in Flovilla, Georgia for 10 days. Once again, we worked in the Children's Tabernacle each day, Troy as the leader on the Missions Porch and me as the Blue Team leader (or more appropriately, the Team Heavy or Bouncer). There were a few people we are able to share with about our ministry, new missionaries we were able to meet, and familiar faces to greet as well. There were times when some of the children or situations frustrated us. But then there were the rewards as well. For example, today, Troy and I are both sporting pink hair. Now, that's not necessarily a reward for US, but for the kids for exceeding our missionary offering goal. In the past the highest amount raised was around $700. This year the kids--with the added incentive of seeing 6 of their team leaders, three of them men, with pink hair--raised over $1,100.00 for a new Children's Center in Zambia, Africa! We were humbled and overcome to see these children go door to door every day in the heat--sacrificing their free time in order to raise more funds for the missions project. Humbling. On the Missions porch, there were several children who told Troy that they had made the commitment to God to go anywhere or do anything He wanted them to do--some even thought that might mission work! Awesome! Another reward was mine today. I got to pray with one little boy in particular who asked Jesus into his heart and life. How awesome to be the vessel used by God to reach this precious life. Again, how humbling.
Over the months we have been frustrated by our lack of progress, like we were as team leaders at camp. But then, also like at camp, God showers us with unexpected blessings that overwhelm and humble us--reminding us again and again of His faithfulness to us. We are at approximately 35% now. There is a long way to go, but we are resting in His promises that as HE HAS CALLED US, He WILL PROVIDE.
When you are facing times of frustration in your own lives, when things do not go according to your plans, think of our story, and remember that God is faithful to provide all our needs according to His riches and glory in HIS time.
Thank you for your prayer support, your financial support, and your friendship. We could not do this without you.
