Read and think about John 3:1-21.
Mission trips are famous for their 2-minute gospel presentations: knock on door, door opens, smile big and spit out the Good News as fast as you can, door shuts. But here we see Jesus taking time to talk and entertain some questions in the late night hours. He doesn't seem rushed. He doesn't seem bothered. He just speaks to the heart of a man that is trying to find out the truth about Him. Jesus doesn't necessarily answer the questions coming out of Nicodemus' mouth, but the ones that are hidden in his heart. He challenges his way of thinking, He shares truth, and He shares about the amazing world-wide love of God - love that can cause a man to be re-born into a whole new kind of life. Amazing what can happen when you just take a little time to chat.
What stands out to you about Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus?
Jesus is not wishy-washy. He stated the truth directly and answers every question Nicodemus has.
How can you follow Jesus' example in your ministry?
By having no "ums" or "uhs." By not being ashamed to tell anyone and everyone about Christ Jesus.
John 3:16 is a verse you've heard a million times. Spend some time meditating on verses 16 and 17, asking God to give you a fresh understanding of the amazing truth they convey.
Today was so amazing, as every day has been. First of all we went to a nearby school to do a mini-service (music, a skit, and the salvation message...a lot of schools go year-round in Jamaica). In Jamaica, you can teach God all you want in school, and in most school, He is taught, which is something America needs to do. Anyway, a lot of the kids who were at VBS yesterday were there and they all remembered me. There was this one new girl that I walked up to and spoke to. Her name was Jessica and I asked her if she wanted me to take a picture of her. She said yes, so I did. After that, it was like I was her new best friend. She grabbed my hand and showed me all around the school, telling her friends about me. She was wonderful.
After that we did "God And I" time (individual devotionals, where we get to spend time alone with just us and God) while taking a tour around a couple of other towns in Jamaica. We got to see some of the wealthier neighborhoods, with mansions and stuff, but still nothing like America's. Then we pulled into a children's home. Now, I thought when they say "handicapped children," they meant, like, crippled or deaf. I quickly learned that they were mentally handicapped. When the first guy I met, who looked to be about 19, screamed out of joy and hugged me as tight as he could, I felt weird and uncomfortable at first. But then I heard God tell me, "They're My children too." After that, it was much easier being around those kids, and I actually enjoyed myself immensely. I danced with one girl, walked around everywhere with a boy, spent time with a lady that loved feeling my face and hair, and played with a very affectionate woman who loved to hug and kiss me on the cheek (for fun, I called one of my mission tripper guy friends over, who's not too big on hugs and especially kisses...I laughed so hard when the woman grabbed his neck, pulled him close to her, and gave him a huge kiss on the cheek). I just felt so happy around these people. Whenever I smiled at them, they smiled back. I gave more hugs today than I have in the past few months. It just really showed how beautiful these handicapped people are. I want to go to another children's home when I get back to America.
Then I did hard construction work, we got super hot and sweaty and - haha - the Lord send rain. Again. So we didn't get a huge crowd of kids for VBS (in fact, there were only about 15), but then again, we can really control 15 kids. There was one girl named Renise who gave me a piece of paper. On the front was a colorful alphabet she'd drawn, and on the back it said in huge letters, "I LOVE YOU! You are nice and kind and good." It felt so good, just to know I've made a difference in someone's life.
Tonight I got up some serious guts and spoke my mind. The Georgia group hasn't been very nice or hard-working, so our team's been complaining and talking about them in private, and it really bothered me. So tonight I told the team that I didn't like how we were talking behind their backs, and just cuz they were mean didn't mean we had to be. I mean, what difference does it make if you're saying bad things to a person's face or behind their back? Us talking about them in private makes us just as bad as them. Not justifying what the Georgia team was doing, just saying we shouldn't do the same thing. Man, it nailed everyone. Everyone was so silent, then they were all thanking me afterward.
So I have to go to bed now!
TRIP UPDATE
What was the weather like today? Hot and humid at first, then very cool and rainy.
Who is someone that encouraged you today? How? Renise, by giving me that note she made.
What was the best part about today? The children's home.
Which was the hardest? The construction work.
Did anyone say something "quote-worthy?" Leann also encouraged me today. After I spoke up about the Georgia team, she told me, "When I first saw you, I thought you were a quiet shy girl...now I know you are very courageous."
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
On Trip - Day 3 - June 11th, 2007
Read and think about John 4:4-30.
She was used to being ignored, so their conversation was a surprise from the beginning. His words were confusing, and uncomfortably personal at times, but also full of compassion. Her gut told her He was offering her something she desperately needed. She'd tried so many things to satisfy her desires, and now this man was telling her He could give her living water that would quench her thirst forever. He was also telling her her life story. Normally His knowledge of her not-so-pretty life would have embarrassed and enraged her, but instead she felt freedom. Someone was loving and accepting her despite what she'd done, and offering her a way out of her dangerous downward spiral.
Is there someone you have met this week that may feel unwanted and unloved like the Samaritan woman?
There have been a couple homeless people walking around who pretty much think their lives are ruined.
What is God calling you to do to make that person feel loved and accepted?
I try to smile and wave at everyone I see, whether I feel uncomfortable around them or not. Smetimes I try to talk to them, but being the shy person I am, it's pretty hard.
How can you share "living water" with them?
Being a living example of Christ, and sharing the Word unashamedly.
Spend some timme praying, asking God to give you a greater heart for the seemingly "un-lovely."
Today was SO AMAZING!! We finally got to do some work. Early in the morning we drove over to Bessie Baker to do some construction work. It got very hot and very humid very quickly. I pretty much was giving the job of digging rocks out of the ground (with my bare hands) and making a wall with them. Anyway, I later learned that I sweated a lot more than I thought I would and drank less water than I thought I did. I was so busy moving huge rocks around that I only stopped once in an hour and a half for a water break. I got pretty lightheaded later, but after some Jamaican grapefruit soda I felt better. Anyway, God was definitely watching over us as we were working. We were so hot and so sweaty that it was getting pretty hard for us. Then, right at the end of our work...it rained. It was bright sunshine before, but it just downpoured and oh it felt so good. Kept us cool and washed the dirt off our bodies. I found it quite a worshipful experience.
Later in the day we did VBS, which was better than I thought it would be. Around starting time we only had 3 kids, so we prayed for others to come, sent out our clowns (about 7 mission trippers dressed up as clowns...they were really great, but now one of them can't fully get the paint off his face), and started. After a few songs from our music teachers, I had the job of teaching the kids the Bible lesson (about the sick servant in Luke 7). By that time, we had about 35 kids. And I don't know why, but somehow I felt totally confident, not nervous at all. The kids were AMAZING. They were all so quiet and well-mannered. And never underestimate their memorizing skills. I was teaching them a memory verse and I was completely blown away with how fast they learned it. I just can't wait until tomorrow, when we'll have more kids (we only got 35 today cuz it was raining). And I can't wait until I can teach the kids again on Wednesday!
I love it so much here in Jamaica (despite the fact that our food - or the lack of it - is really spicy and not very good at all). I'm working and serving so much and I love every minute of it. Although there has been one homeless guy who I think is mentally challenged or totally stoned or both. He follows us everywhere. We accept him, but he's gotten a little scary lately. One time he locked a little kid who didn't do anything wrong behind a fence and started screaming at him. He wouldn't leave until one of the mission trippers got him out. Also, he keeps kissing one of our trippers' hands (I mean, I guess it'd be understandable if it were a girl's hand he was kissing but...it's a guy's hand). So sometimes we have to deal with him. But it's so great here.
TRIP UPDATE
What was the weather like today? Hot and humid at first, then it rained all day and got comfortable cool.
What cultural differences stood out to you? While us Americans honk our car horns to be rude, Jamaicans honk at each other as a kind of greeting.
What was the best part about today? We finally got to work, and I got to do a Bible lesson.
What was the hardest? The building we're holding VBS is too small and we had to improvise.
Did anyone say anything "quote-worthy?" --
She was used to being ignored, so their conversation was a surprise from the beginning. His words were confusing, and uncomfortably personal at times, but also full of compassion. Her gut told her He was offering her something she desperately needed. She'd tried so many things to satisfy her desires, and now this man was telling her He could give her living water that would quench her thirst forever. He was also telling her her life story. Normally His knowledge of her not-so-pretty life would have embarrassed and enraged her, but instead she felt freedom. Someone was loving and accepting her despite what she'd done, and offering her a way out of her dangerous downward spiral.
Is there someone you have met this week that may feel unwanted and unloved like the Samaritan woman?
There have been a couple homeless people walking around who pretty much think their lives are ruined.
What is God calling you to do to make that person feel loved and accepted?
I try to smile and wave at everyone I see, whether I feel uncomfortable around them or not. Smetimes I try to talk to them, but being the shy person I am, it's pretty hard.
How can you share "living water" with them?
Being a living example of Christ, and sharing the Word unashamedly.
Spend some timme praying, asking God to give you a greater heart for the seemingly "un-lovely."
Today was SO AMAZING!! We finally got to do some work. Early in the morning we drove over to Bessie Baker to do some construction work. It got very hot and very humid very quickly. I pretty much was giving the job of digging rocks out of the ground (with my bare hands) and making a wall with them. Anyway, I later learned that I sweated a lot more than I thought I would and drank less water than I thought I did. I was so busy moving huge rocks around that I only stopped once in an hour and a half for a water break. I got pretty lightheaded later, but after some Jamaican grapefruit soda I felt better. Anyway, God was definitely watching over us as we were working. We were so hot and so sweaty that it was getting pretty hard for us. Then, right at the end of our work...it rained. It was bright sunshine before, but it just downpoured and oh it felt so good. Kept us cool and washed the dirt off our bodies. I found it quite a worshipful experience.
Later in the day we did VBS, which was better than I thought it would be. Around starting time we only had 3 kids, so we prayed for others to come, sent out our clowns (about 7 mission trippers dressed up as clowns...they were really great, but now one of them can't fully get the paint off his face), and started. After a few songs from our music teachers, I had the job of teaching the kids the Bible lesson (about the sick servant in Luke 7). By that time, we had about 35 kids. And I don't know why, but somehow I felt totally confident, not nervous at all. The kids were AMAZING. They were all so quiet and well-mannered. And never underestimate their memorizing skills. I was teaching them a memory verse and I was completely blown away with how fast they learned it. I just can't wait until tomorrow, when we'll have more kids (we only got 35 today cuz it was raining). And I can't wait until I can teach the kids again on Wednesday!
I love it so much here in Jamaica (despite the fact that our food - or the lack of it - is really spicy and not very good at all). I'm working and serving so much and I love every minute of it. Although there has been one homeless guy who I think is mentally challenged or totally stoned or both. He follows us everywhere. We accept him, but he's gotten a little scary lately. One time he locked a little kid who didn't do anything wrong behind a fence and started screaming at him. He wouldn't leave until one of the mission trippers got him out. Also, he keeps kissing one of our trippers' hands (I mean, I guess it'd be understandable if it were a girl's hand he was kissing but...it's a guy's hand). So sometimes we have to deal with him. But it's so great here.
TRIP UPDATE
What was the weather like today? Hot and humid at first, then it rained all day and got comfortable cool.
What cultural differences stood out to you? While us Americans honk our car horns to be rude, Jamaicans honk at each other as a kind of greeting.
What was the best part about today? We finally got to work, and I got to do a Bible lesson.
What was the hardest? The building we're holding VBS is too small and we had to improvise.
Did anyone say anything "quote-worthy?" --
On Trip - Day 2 - June 10th, 2007
Read and think about Luke 4:31-37.
News of Jesus has started to spread through the countryside. His words are spoken with authority, and people are amazed. Many still aren't sure who He is, but people are starting to pay attention, especially Satan and his demons. They know that this man is the start of something big -- something that threatens all of their destructive purposes.The demon can't sit still any longer, as the powerful, life-giving words of Jesus' teaching in the temple burn his ears. With calm force in His voice, Jesus takes care of the situation, commanding the demon to come out. This temple scene is just the beginning of God's demonstration of complete power and victory over Satan, sin, and death.
What are some areas that you are starting to see the enemy's influence this week?
Increasing headaches, and a bit of tiredness in the group.
What do you think your response should be to the evil you see around you?
"Resist the devil and he will flee from you." I wiill stay focused on God and will not allow a foothold.
Read Ephesians 6:10-18. Spend some time praising God for His victory over the enemy. Ask Him to help you stand strong against the plans of the enemy.
Today we were all tired, but overall it was an easy day. We didn't do any work because it's Sunday. We went to church and, let me tell you, you haven't seen anything like a Jamaican church. Think "Southern Baptist" times 3. The church was just a plain building with one big room, but they still had a sound system, drums, and a keyboard. Personally I don't think they needed a sound system, because they were LOUD. The music was amazing though. It drove me to tears. Quite indescribable. The sermon's another matter. The pastor was yelling so loud that I swear you could've heard him a mile away without him wearing a microphone (and he DID wear one, so you can imagine). I found one of the congregation members humorous. The pastor wouldn't even be making a point and this guy would start exclaiming things ("I wore green pants yesterday." "Amen! Yes, Lord!"). The service was 3 hours long. I was definitely not used to that. So it was pretty great anyway.
We're here with 2 other missionary groups. One is a group of 17 from Georgia and another's a group of 5 from New York. We're getting along fairly well, I think. Or at least I am. I think some of my teammates are having some tension with the Georgians.
We drove to a town called Bessie Baker (haha), which is where we will do construction work and VBS (vacation Bible school). Now, I thought I'd seen poverty before. I'd been through Mississippi and Louisiana before and their houses and towns are really junky. But those aren't Jamaica. These people basically live in old metal shacks with a bunch of holes in them. Fortunately there's not much winter in Jamaica so they're not cold, but still. Children have to grow up in this. They probably don't know how much better it could be, like what Americans have. I'm going to feel so weird when I get back home. I'm living in a college dorm for the week and it's not...well, ideal (the floor is covered in fire ants, the walls are crawling with cockroaches, the toilets won't flush, our "showers" are ice water coming out of a pipe, no air conditioning, and we live with a couple lizards we named Fred and Bob). But I've grown to adapt. I have to.
It's just strange, cuz everyone pictures Jamaica to be this beautiful tropical paradise, and it is on the outskirts. But you go inland and it's so incredibly poor.
Anyway...tomorrow's gonna be big!
TRIP UPDATE
What was the weather like today? Actually pretty cool and not too humid.
What is the local currency worth compared to the U.S. dollar? 1 American dollar = $61.50 Jamaican dollars
What was the best part about today? The church music.
What was the hardest? Sitting through 3 hours of church service, and not being able to work.
What words have you learned in the local language? Jamaicans pretty much speak English.
News of Jesus has started to spread through the countryside. His words are spoken with authority, and people are amazed. Many still aren't sure who He is, but people are starting to pay attention, especially Satan and his demons. They know that this man is the start of something big -- something that threatens all of their destructive purposes.The demon can't sit still any longer, as the powerful, life-giving words of Jesus' teaching in the temple burn his ears. With calm force in His voice, Jesus takes care of the situation, commanding the demon to come out. This temple scene is just the beginning of God's demonstration of complete power and victory over Satan, sin, and death.
What are some areas that you are starting to see the enemy's influence this week?
Increasing headaches, and a bit of tiredness in the group.
What do you think your response should be to the evil you see around you?
"Resist the devil and he will flee from you." I wiill stay focused on God and will not allow a foothold.
Read Ephesians 6:10-18. Spend some time praising God for His victory over the enemy. Ask Him to help you stand strong against the plans of the enemy.
Today we were all tired, but overall it was an easy day. We didn't do any work because it's Sunday. We went to church and, let me tell you, you haven't seen anything like a Jamaican church. Think "Southern Baptist" times 3. The church was just a plain building with one big room, but they still had a sound system, drums, and a keyboard. Personally I don't think they needed a sound system, because they were LOUD. The music was amazing though. It drove me to tears. Quite indescribable. The sermon's another matter. The pastor was yelling so loud that I swear you could've heard him a mile away without him wearing a microphone (and he DID wear one, so you can imagine). I found one of the congregation members humorous. The pastor wouldn't even be making a point and this guy would start exclaiming things ("I wore green pants yesterday." "Amen! Yes, Lord!"). The service was 3 hours long. I was definitely not used to that. So it was pretty great anyway.
We're here with 2 other missionary groups. One is a group of 17 from Georgia and another's a group of 5 from New York. We're getting along fairly well, I think. Or at least I am. I think some of my teammates are having some tension with the Georgians.
We drove to a town called Bessie Baker (haha), which is where we will do construction work and VBS (vacation Bible school). Now, I thought I'd seen poverty before. I'd been through Mississippi and Louisiana before and their houses and towns are really junky. But those aren't Jamaica. These people basically live in old metal shacks with a bunch of holes in them. Fortunately there's not much winter in Jamaica so they're not cold, but still. Children have to grow up in this. They probably don't know how much better it could be, like what Americans have. I'm going to feel so weird when I get back home. I'm living in a college dorm for the week and it's not...well, ideal (the floor is covered in fire ants, the walls are crawling with cockroaches, the toilets won't flush, our "showers" are ice water coming out of a pipe, no air conditioning, and we live with a couple lizards we named Fred and Bob). But I've grown to adapt. I have to.
It's just strange, cuz everyone pictures Jamaica to be this beautiful tropical paradise, and it is on the outskirts. But you go inland and it's so incredibly poor.
Anyway...tomorrow's gonna be big!
TRIP UPDATE
What was the weather like today? Actually pretty cool and not too humid.
What is the local currency worth compared to the U.S. dollar? 1 American dollar = $61.50 Jamaican dollars
What was the best part about today? The church music.
What was the hardest? Sitting through 3 hours of church service, and not being able to work.
What words have you learned in the local language? Jamaicans pretty much speak English.
On Trip - Day 1 - June 9th, 2007
Read and think about Matthew 14:22-23.
Jesus had told them to get into the boat and cross to the other side. "Thanks a lot Jesus" was what they were probably all thinking as they were pelted and jolted by a violent storm. What were they supposed to do now? They did what the disciples (and all of us) seem to do so well: they forgot. They forgot about the people they'd seen healed, the dead they'd seen raised, the demons cast out, and even the food multiplied. They forgot, and they freaked. But Jesus sees them in the middle of their fear, and He comes to them miraculously on the water. "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid!" Peter, always quick t act, follows the command to come, and he steps out of the boat. But the raging wind around him draws his attention from Jesus, and he begins to sink. Jesus' arm is quick to grab him. They both climb onto the boat, the sea is instantly calm. "Why did you doubt?"
What does the fact that Jesus sent the disciples onto a sea He knew would turn violent show you about Jesus' character?
Sometimes He puts us through things He knows will strengthen us and wants to teach us to trust Him.
What does it mean to you that Jesus came to them in the middle of their fear and doubting?
He won't ever leave. You may stop looking for Him, but He's always there. Just look, you'll see Him there. He'll always be there when I'm afraid.
What will it mean for you to "step out of the boat" this week? What will help you keep your focus on Jesus as your faith is being tested?
You don't know how much I laughed when I read that. This whole DAY was a test of faith! Early this morning our mission team lef the church and rose on the l-o-n-g 2-hour bus ride to O'hare airport in Chicago. It was when we arrived at the airport that I realized how many of us there were and how much baggage we had! All 29 of us with our bright yellow mission trip shirts caught the attention of a lot of people and we met a mision team going to Mexico also wearing bright yellow shirts! It took a lonnnng time to get us all through. What made it longer was the fact that they wouldn't let 5 of our members through.
See, a couple days before today, the law had changed to where you didn't need a passport to enter the tropics (another miracle from God, because 5 of our members hadn't gotten passports in). But O'hare wasn't honoring that law. The kids had birth certificates, photo ID, everything, but they still wouldn't let them through. So the rest of us went through, all praying and some (like me) almost crying because it looked like the 5 would have to go back home and wait until their passports came in so they could come maybe in the middle of the trip.
About 15 minutes before we were boarding the plane, the airport let those 5 through. It was so amazing.
Today was nothing BUT travel. The plane rides were tedious and my arms were pretty tired after all the luggage carrying, but it was worth it. On the flight to Jamaica, we flew through a storm. It was kind of scary at first, but then it got pretty amazing. Lightning was striking all around us. It was cool.
It was so great seeing Jamaica from the air. It was even better when we landed. I love the Jamaican accents!! They're...I don't know....fun, I guess. It is sooo humid down here though. My hair got pretty big. The humidity was so thick that we were almost breathing pure water.
I can't wait until tomorrow when we get started on work!
TRIP UPDATE
What was the weather like today? Nice and sunny and warm
What cultural differences stood out to you? Jamaicans drive on the left side of the road.
What was the best part about today? The sooo many miracles that God did.
What was the hardest? The parts before God did the miracles!
Did anyone say anything "quote-worthy?" "It's sooo humid. If I die, it's because I drowned." - Jordan
Jesus had told them to get into the boat and cross to the other side. "Thanks a lot Jesus" was what they were probably all thinking as they were pelted and jolted by a violent storm. What were they supposed to do now? They did what the disciples (and all of us) seem to do so well: they forgot. They forgot about the people they'd seen healed, the dead they'd seen raised, the demons cast out, and even the food multiplied. They forgot, and they freaked. But Jesus sees them in the middle of their fear, and He comes to them miraculously on the water. "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid!" Peter, always quick t act, follows the command to come, and he steps out of the boat. But the raging wind around him draws his attention from Jesus, and he begins to sink. Jesus' arm is quick to grab him. They both climb onto the boat, the sea is instantly calm. "Why did you doubt?"
What does the fact that Jesus sent the disciples onto a sea He knew would turn violent show you about Jesus' character?
Sometimes He puts us through things He knows will strengthen us and wants to teach us to trust Him.
What does it mean to you that Jesus came to them in the middle of their fear and doubting?
He won't ever leave. You may stop looking for Him, but He's always there. Just look, you'll see Him there. He'll always be there when I'm afraid.
What will it mean for you to "step out of the boat" this week? What will help you keep your focus on Jesus as your faith is being tested?
You don't know how much I laughed when I read that. This whole DAY was a test of faith! Early this morning our mission team lef the church and rose on the l-o-n-g 2-hour bus ride to O'hare airport in Chicago. It was when we arrived at the airport that I realized how many of us there were and how much baggage we had! All 29 of us with our bright yellow mission trip shirts caught the attention of a lot of people and we met a mision team going to Mexico also wearing bright yellow shirts! It took a lonnnng time to get us all through. What made it longer was the fact that they wouldn't let 5 of our members through.
See, a couple days before today, the law had changed to where you didn't need a passport to enter the tropics (another miracle from God, because 5 of our members hadn't gotten passports in). But O'hare wasn't honoring that law. The kids had birth certificates, photo ID, everything, but they still wouldn't let them through. So the rest of us went through, all praying and some (like me) almost crying because it looked like the 5 would have to go back home and wait until their passports came in so they could come maybe in the middle of the trip.
About 15 minutes before we were boarding the plane, the airport let those 5 through. It was so amazing.
Today was nothing BUT travel. The plane rides were tedious and my arms were pretty tired after all the luggage carrying, but it was worth it. On the flight to Jamaica, we flew through a storm. It was kind of scary at first, but then it got pretty amazing. Lightning was striking all around us. It was cool.
It was so great seeing Jamaica from the air. It was even better when we landed. I love the Jamaican accents!! They're...I don't know....fun, I guess. It is sooo humid down here though. My hair got pretty big. The humidity was so thick that we were almost breathing pure water.
I can't wait until tomorrow when we get started on work!
TRIP UPDATE
What was the weather like today? Nice and sunny and warm
What cultural differences stood out to you? Jamaicans drive on the left side of the road.
What was the best part about today? The sooo many miracles that God did.
What was the hardest? The parts before God did the miracles!
Did anyone say anything "quote-worthy?" "It's sooo humid. If I die, it's because I drowned." - Jordan
Pretrip - Day 5 - June 8th, 2007
Read and think about John 6:1-15.
A few fish, a few hunks of bread. A meager lunch for 3 at best. Not even a small snack for 5,000 plus. Who knows what the young boy was thinking, but even though the size of his lunch seemed so lacking for teh need at hand, the boy decided to give everything he had to Jesus anyway. Jesus took it, and blessed it, and passed it around...to every single man, woman and child seated n the hillside, and bring baskets full of leftovers back to the feet of Jesus. Soon there isn't one of the multitude that isn't full, and a disciple that isn't stunned as they gather the leftovers. There was no magic in the tiny lunch, just power in the hands that took it and multiplied something so small into something GREAT.
What's something in your life that you need to offer up to Jesus to be used for His purpose?
I've been told by so many people that I have a lovely singing voice, and it can get hard not to get too big a head from these compliments. I need to catch myself and remind myself that I'm not singing for my glory, I'm singing for God's glory. If there is one thing I'd like to accomplish with my voice, it would be to let God use me for His purposes and to impact or change a life for Him through my songs.
What do you think Jesus can do with it when you allow Him to use it?
Jesus can do amazing things when you surrender it all to Him! I remember one time (I love pulling from past experiences, can you tell?) when I was working at my local library. It was supposed to be some special Christmas family fun night. The program started at 6:30pm, and at 6:25pm, there were only about 2 kids there. We were pretty worried that there wasn't going to be a good turnout. So I decided to pray, "Lord, if it's Your will, we can have 2 kids. Just let me be a good example of You for them. I dedicate this night to You. Please do whatever You would like with it and let me act to glorify You." I kid you not, in the next 10 minutes, we had over 100 people up there. It was great.
Spend some time praying and surrendering yourself to God and His purposes. Remember: they are GREAT!!!
Tomorrow we will be on the plane heading for Jamaica. Believe it or not, today it actually sunk in for me. I guess this past week, while I've been pretty excited, I didn't really believe we were leaving so fast. I mean, it seems like yesterday we had 8 weeks until we left. Today I was sitting on the couch doing school (yeah, being a homeschooler I'm the only kid on the team still doing schoolwork) and I suddenly realized, "Holy cow, I'm going to Jamaica tomorrow!" Now I have butterflies in my stomach. I am so excited...and nervous!
"FEARLESS" - recorded by BUILDING 429
Verse 1: No I don't understand and I can't comprehend
This power that draws me to You
But I know for the cross I'll consider all lost
In an effort to tell of the truth
That the world may know...that the world may know
That You have been heaven-sent to us
Chorus: So I'll be fearless for You
I'll be fearless for You
Take me, I'm Yours
I'm fearless for You
Verse 2: All the times that I've failed, that my doubt has prevailed
These are the moments I'm giving to You
Cuz I can't be ashamed, no I can't fear the pain
When it comes time to be living proof
That the world may see that the captives are free
Cuz You have been heaven-sent to us
Repeat chorus
Bridge: Unwilling to bend
Unwilling to break
And headstrong I'll stand
No matter what it takes
Repeat chorus
A few fish, a few hunks of bread. A meager lunch for 3 at best. Not even a small snack for 5,000 plus. Who knows what the young boy was thinking, but even though the size of his lunch seemed so lacking for teh need at hand, the boy decided to give everything he had to Jesus anyway. Jesus took it, and blessed it, and passed it around...to every single man, woman and child seated n the hillside, and bring baskets full of leftovers back to the feet of Jesus. Soon there isn't one of the multitude that isn't full, and a disciple that isn't stunned as they gather the leftovers. There was no magic in the tiny lunch, just power in the hands that took it and multiplied something so small into something GREAT.
What's something in your life that you need to offer up to Jesus to be used for His purpose?
I've been told by so many people that I have a lovely singing voice, and it can get hard not to get too big a head from these compliments. I need to catch myself and remind myself that I'm not singing for my glory, I'm singing for God's glory. If there is one thing I'd like to accomplish with my voice, it would be to let God use me for His purposes and to impact or change a life for Him through my songs.
What do you think Jesus can do with it when you allow Him to use it?
Jesus can do amazing things when you surrender it all to Him! I remember one time (I love pulling from past experiences, can you tell?) when I was working at my local library. It was supposed to be some special Christmas family fun night. The program started at 6:30pm, and at 6:25pm, there were only about 2 kids there. We were pretty worried that there wasn't going to be a good turnout. So I decided to pray, "Lord, if it's Your will, we can have 2 kids. Just let me be a good example of You for them. I dedicate this night to You. Please do whatever You would like with it and let me act to glorify You." I kid you not, in the next 10 minutes, we had over 100 people up there. It was great.
Spend some time praying and surrendering yourself to God and His purposes. Remember: they are GREAT!!!
Tomorrow we will be on the plane heading for Jamaica. Believe it or not, today it actually sunk in for me. I guess this past week, while I've been pretty excited, I didn't really believe we were leaving so fast. I mean, it seems like yesterday we had 8 weeks until we left. Today I was sitting on the couch doing school (yeah, being a homeschooler I'm the only kid on the team still doing schoolwork) and I suddenly realized, "Holy cow, I'm going to Jamaica tomorrow!" Now I have butterflies in my stomach. I am so excited...and nervous!
"FEARLESS" - recorded by BUILDING 429
Verse 1: No I don't understand and I can't comprehend
This power that draws me to You
But I know for the cross I'll consider all lost
In an effort to tell of the truth
That the world may know...that the world may know
That You have been heaven-sent to us
Chorus: So I'll be fearless for You
I'll be fearless for You
Take me, I'm Yours
I'm fearless for You
Verse 2: All the times that I've failed, that my doubt has prevailed
These are the moments I'm giving to You
Cuz I can't be ashamed, no I can't fear the pain
When it comes time to be living proof
That the world may see that the captives are free
Cuz You have been heaven-sent to us
Repeat chorus
Bridge: Unwilling to bend
Unwilling to break
And headstrong I'll stand
No matter what it takes
Repeat chorus
Pretrip - Day 4 - June 7th, 2007
Read and think about Mark 4:35-41.
This wasn't their first time riding stormy seas. They were seasoned fishermen. They knew what could happen. They'd had their own experiences with storms, and probably had friends that had gone out to sea and never returned. This night the waves were enormous, the wind was fierce, and their knees were weak. Who can blame them for a little freaking out? But this time was different. This time Jesus was with them in the storm. He didn't prevent the storm, but He rode it with them. And at the perfect moment He stood up and calmed His creation. The disciples were afraid of the winds and the waves, but there was no need. The one who created them was in the boat.
What are some of your fears as you head to the mission field?
I'm a worry wart with occasional problems with anxiety. I worry about EVERYTHING!! I assume the worst in everything. In one way it's a good thing, because I pray and do nothing else when I'm afraid, but it is a problem nonetheless and I have done a good bit of praying about it. So whatever fears anyone could have about this trip, I've thought of it before.
Read Matthew 28:18-20. What does it say about God's presence with you as you go out to tell others about Jesus?
"Surely I will be with you even to the very ends of the earth." Which is an amazing promise.
Spend some time praying and surrendering your fears. Ask God to give you peace, confidence, and assurance of His presence.
I just love Jesus so much. And I am SO EXCITED that I'm leaving in TWO DAYS!!!
This wasn't their first time riding stormy seas. They were seasoned fishermen. They knew what could happen. They'd had their own experiences with storms, and probably had friends that had gone out to sea and never returned. This night the waves were enormous, the wind was fierce, and their knees were weak. Who can blame them for a little freaking out? But this time was different. This time Jesus was with them in the storm. He didn't prevent the storm, but He rode it with them. And at the perfect moment He stood up and calmed His creation. The disciples were afraid of the winds and the waves, but there was no need. The one who created them was in the boat.
What are some of your fears as you head to the mission field?
I'm a worry wart with occasional problems with anxiety. I worry about EVERYTHING!! I assume the worst in everything. In one way it's a good thing, because I pray and do nothing else when I'm afraid, but it is a problem nonetheless and I have done a good bit of praying about it. So whatever fears anyone could have about this trip, I've thought of it before.
Read Matthew 28:18-20. What does it say about God's presence with you as you go out to tell others about Jesus?
"Surely I will be with you even to the very ends of the earth." Which is an amazing promise.
Spend some time praying and surrendering your fears. Ask God to give you peace, confidence, and assurance of His presence.
I just love Jesus so much. And I am SO EXCITED that I'm leaving in TWO DAYS!!!
Pretrip - Day 3 - June 6th, 2007
Read and think about Luke 5:27-31.
Are we seeing a pattern here? Fishermen stink. Tax collectors cheat. Jesus seems to be calling some unlikely people to be a part of His team. Were all of the lawyers, doctors, and Bible scholars unavailable that day and Jesus just had to take whatever He could find? Nope. Jesus knew exactly what He was doing. He often chose the unlikely and imperfect to carry out His plans, and He still does so today. Take a look around your church. Take a look in the mirror. But watch out: a perfect, powerful and creative God can do amazing things with the most unlikely person, because it's not about who's being called, it's about who's doing the calling.
How does it make you feel to know that Jesus has chosen you?
It makes me feel more honored than I could possibly say! I certainly know I'm not perfect, so to know that Jesus is using me to impact lives for Him is just so amazing.
What are some doubts that you have about yourself as you head into this mission trip?
This is my first mission trip, and I am honestly very nervous about being a Bible teacher! It's a wonderful job and I've spent a LOT of time preparing for it, but part of me is afraid that I'm going to mess up. I'm also a little afraid that the headaches that I've been fighting daily for the past year might raise in intensity. But I've chosen to trust God with these worries! If He's got the whole world in His hands, there's really no need to be afraid!
Read 2nd Corinthians 4:7, and Philippians 4:13, then spend some time praying about your doubts and asking God to give you confidence in what He can do through you!
I am really glad that God has all the power and I do not. Honestly, this world would be the absolute worst if I were the one in charge. Everything would be black and gray and white because I wouldn't be able to decide the colors, I'd say yes to all prayers just so I wouldn't have to hear them all, there'd be no missionaries because I wouldn't be able to choose...I'm just so glad God is in control and will never go back on His promises!
Are we seeing a pattern here? Fishermen stink. Tax collectors cheat. Jesus seems to be calling some unlikely people to be a part of His team. Were all of the lawyers, doctors, and Bible scholars unavailable that day and Jesus just had to take whatever He could find? Nope. Jesus knew exactly what He was doing. He often chose the unlikely and imperfect to carry out His plans, and He still does so today. Take a look around your church. Take a look in the mirror. But watch out: a perfect, powerful and creative God can do amazing things with the most unlikely person, because it's not about who's being called, it's about who's doing the calling.
How does it make you feel to know that Jesus has chosen you?
It makes me feel more honored than I could possibly say! I certainly know I'm not perfect, so to know that Jesus is using me to impact lives for Him is just so amazing.
What are some doubts that you have about yourself as you head into this mission trip?
This is my first mission trip, and I am honestly very nervous about being a Bible teacher! It's a wonderful job and I've spent a LOT of time preparing for it, but part of me is afraid that I'm going to mess up. I'm also a little afraid that the headaches that I've been fighting daily for the past year might raise in intensity. But I've chosen to trust God with these worries! If He's got the whole world in His hands, there's really no need to be afraid!
Read 2nd Corinthians 4:7, and Philippians 4:13, then spend some time praying about your doubts and asking God to give you confidence in what He can do through you!
I am really glad that God has all the power and I do not. Honestly, this world would be the absolute worst if I were the one in charge. Everything would be black and gray and white because I wouldn't be able to decide the colors, I'd say yes to all prayers just so I wouldn't have to hear them all, there'd be no missionaries because I wouldn't be able to choose...I'm just so glad God is in control and will never go back on His promises!
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