Thankful doesn't even begin to cover it...

I’ve tried for several days now to figure out how to say thank you for all everyone has done to help make this mission’s trip possible. But honestly, there are no words. I can’t put into words how thankful I am for my church. You all have gone above and beyond anything I could have imagined. Your support and love mean the world to me. During the bowling tournament I took a second and looked around at all the people that had showed up to support and I nearly cried! You all are so amazing! I was able to raise over $600 for my missions trip that night. How amazing is that?! Seriously, thank you, thank you, and thank you. I love you. Here is me with the winners!

                So far this year God has given me the opportunity to speak at two churches about my mission’s journey. Both services went so good! Though beyond nervous at first, God intervened and it went smoothly. The congregations were both so generous with their giving’s!  Thank you Lord! And a HUGE thank you to the people of Smokey Lane Apostolic and Apostolic church! You have made my heart so happy. Thank you for your investment in the Kingdom. I know your sacrifices will be greatly blessed. J

                I was sitting here at work just thinking about how awesome God is. When starting to prepare for this trip I was so overwhelmed by the budget that I had a lot of doubt I would be able to raise it. (I can be honest with you) But then during that time I also thought how dare I doubt!  That’s not exactly putting my trust in God now is it? So I starting turning that doubt around and saying “Yes! I will raise this and beyond what I need!” and I’ll tell ya what, God started opening doors and working in ways I never imagined! But it had to start with me turning around that doubt. Then I started thinking about how undeserving I am of all the blessings God has given me. I’m not worthy of anything God has given me except by His grace! He is so merciful and forgiving! My prayers are that God continues to mold me and prepare me for this trip. “God prepare me by any means necessary! Completely break me if you have to! I clear the stage and give you total rein over my life! God you know the ways I need to be prepared, please continue to work in me and the people of Africa. Thank you!” (Now having a praise break in my office)

                I am about 82 days out from embarking on my new journey. My plane tickets were purchased! So I’m pretty much set! I’ll be flying out on May 31^st at about 11am our time, head to Chicago, then from there I’ll head to Belgium. I have about a 6 hour layover in Belgium then I go to The Ivory Coast and from there on to Togo. Talk about the long way around! 27 hours of travel and 4 plane rides later, I’ll finally be in Togo!  Ready to begin the ministry, ready to see the people, and more than ever ready for African church! Keep checking! I’ll be updating as frequently as possible from the field. It’s gonna be amazing! AHH! J  

 

Until next time...

<3 Brandi