First of all, I just have to say that this picture is hilarious. Not only because my old man had a FAT uni-brow, but I just love the matching blue eyes and the fact that this was me in the Philippines!
Today has been such a high for me. I am so joyful in the Lord. I felt untouchable. I have tried my very hardest to remain trusting and not be skeptical about the funding situation, and the more I just leave it up to God, the more He provides. It is a TOTAL witness to God's love. With all of my heart, I thank God for providing through everyone who has helped me out so far. You guys have no idea how many lives you are touching.
I feel like I haven't written in so long, I guess I will begin with some updates about the trip. Since my last post, I had a jewelry show at this adorable coffee shop off Grand Ave with Itzeluna and 31Bits. Honestly, I didn't raise that much money doing that, though I thuroughly enjoyed the experience. (I need to work on my marketing skills ha). I have also received some donations from fellow St. Stephen's peeps and some Murphy/Bachman family love. My generous boyfriend gave me a nice chunk, which meant the world that he is so truly supportive, in more ways than one. I am still about a grand short of my goal, but with those good old On the Border tips and maybe some future babysitting/household jobs in VC, I should meet my mark. I also hope to have a few more jewelry parties so if you are interested in hosting one with some girlfriends, or guyfriends who need Valentine presents :) let me know!
I have been in touch with the wonderful Sisters in Manila and they say they are excited to have me come stay with them. They way that Sister Anne writes me is so precious, I cannot wait to meet her. I asked her to send me a little itenerary of a typical week so I can let you all know exactly what I'll be doing over there. My Uncle Godfather, Fr. Pat also set up a family to do the pick-up/drop-off from the crazy airport, which is essential.
Africa planning is great- it's easier since everything is pretty much set up for me. The only things I really need still are my shots and some insurance and the rest of the money. I've also been in touch with the team I'm going with and am stoked to meet them all. If you haven't already, check out ProjectHopeful.com- the founder is the leader of our team!!
Enough details, here's the meat:
Matthew 10:16-43. READ THE WHOLE THING. It's Jesus' pep talk to the apostles and a little taste of what I feel called to do. Here's a little preview...
"Behold, I am sending you like a sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and simple as doves."- 10:16
"You will be hated by all because of my name, but whoever endures to the end will be saved. When they persecute you in one town, flee to another. Amen I say to you, you will not finish the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes"- 10:23
"Do not think that I have come to bring peace upon the earth. I have come to bring not peace, but the sword."-10:34
This is what I got- Hey guys, so here's the deal. It's a dark and sketchy world out there, people are gonna be out to get you. The word God is very powerful and they are going to hate you because you are following my teaching. There will not be a lot of peace on this journey of yours, you're going to have a hard time. But- if you can do these things, and live out my Father's will- if you can have the endurance and strength to not falter under temptation or the evils of the world- you will be in heaven for eternity.
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Here's the Joan of Arc in me coming out, but I am so down God. I have never felt so strong in my life. I know that there's going to be people and situations that might get me off track but my heart is yours and I am begging you to take the steering wheel. You know that I am struggling, but only with Your help can I overcome. You are benevolent, magnificent and all powerful. I want to be your worker bee and your tool to get through to others so that they too can have eternal life. No matter how heavy my cross is, or how many wolves are in my neighborhood, I pray that you give me that endurance to get to You. Make me your Joan of Arc.
Lord, send down your guardian angels to all of the little ones who are lost. And for all the big ones who are lost. I pray for all married couples, that they find strength and understanding in you. I pray for Cameron John Chadwick. I love you. Amen.
