It’s really happening! AHH! I was accepted for Next Steps 2014 in Togo, Africa! I get to go back and work on my ministry! AHH! I get to return to the place I left my heart last year. And not only do I get to return. I will be there for 2 whole months! How amazing?! The Lord truly answers prayers!
Our last day In Tanzania we got some time in the church in the Esso Village. We locked the doors and closed the windows and got some personal time with God. This was time to reflect on the trip, pray and ask God for direction on our life, and just sit and bask in His glory. After 12 days of constant ministry and travel I can honestly say this alone time in the church was perfect. He told me “your work isn’t done here.” And Sister Smoak hugged me as we were departing and said, “I’ll be seeing you again” what confirmation! As I sat and reflected on my short time in Tanzania I realized my life had been more affected in those 12 short days than any other time in my life. Every person, every home, every road, every service, they had completely changed me. And I’ll never be the same again, Thank God for that! How selfish I was! It took seeing one of the poorest countries in the World to realize that. What really brought me to my knees was seeing how giving they were. They literally would have given their last meal to someone in need. For a people who don’t even know where their next meal will come from, they are the most generous people I have ever had the pleasure to meet. How lucky I am to get to spend 2 months back in Africa helping people just like the Tanzanians.
I will be in Lome, Togo, West Africa this time with the Next Steps group. Not sure of anyone else going yet, but it will be a group of UPC young people who have a hunger for World Missions. I mean, seriously?! What have I done to be so lucky! How the Lord has blessed me! 2 months on the field. I think back to all we accomplished in 12 days, just imagine what can be done in 2 months! So many services, youth camps, family camps and kids crusades! I seriously can’t wait! Can’t you tell? ;) With Next Steps we will be doing everything from helping in the local churches, to building churches and helping in the bible college! We have an intense 3 week training course then the remainder 5 weeks will be spent applying what we have learned and helping wherever we can. I just can’t imagine what God has in store for us!
Now of course with any opportunity like this comes an opportunity to give. I’ll need to raise $7000 for this trip. Sometimes I look at the number and think dear Lord! How am I going to do this? But He quickens me and says “I got you this far, I won’t leave you now.” I’m thankful for His peace. Now just to come up with fundraising ideas! And save, save, save! I have a Go Fund Me account for anyone interested in giving… or I can take personal checks. Just remember all donations ARE tax deductible! I thank you so much for your support and support for His Kingdom! It means the World to me!
