Thursday, March 26, 2009

As a missionary associate, I see the issue of frequently running out of thank you cards as a very good problem to have.


The generosity and faithful enthusiasm of my friends, family and fellow Christians continually amazes me. I wish I had better ways of expressing how truly grateful I feel. But in the meantime, I'm going to buy a bigger pack of thank you cards this weekend, as I believe God is going to continue provide in miraculous ways.

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." Galations 5:1

I'm so grateful when God gives me much-needed reminders that this promise applies not just to the women that I'll be working with in Thailand, but also to me.

Sunday, March 15, 2009

Exceeded Expectations

Yesterday morning my parents prayed that God would exceed my expectations of Zumbathon. And their prayers (as well as mine and everyone else who prayed for Zumbathon) were definitely answered!


More than 100 women attended Zumbathon and the event raised a little over $1,300, including a few donations that were made by friends unable to attend.

I still can't believe it! As my parents prayed, God completely exceeded my expectations through this event. I am so amazed at the generosity of the women who attended. Their excitement for the ministry that I'll be involved in was incredibly encouraging and another confirmation that God will provide for my needs.


Having the opportunity to briefly share my heart with so many people was also a blessing. At the conclusion of Zumbathon I read Psalm 103:6, "The Lord works righteousness and justice for all the oppressed." I told the ladies that I believe God uses His people to help work justice and that through their support, they were a part of bringing justice to the women in Thailand who are involved in the sex industry. I can't wait for the day when I can send back stories to them of how God is transforming lives!

As I think back over the tremendous success of Zumbathon, one verse comes to mind. Ephesians 3:20-21, "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen."

Through Zumbathon, God really did more than I could ask or imagine.



Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Every Tuesday morning from 8-9 a.m. AG headquarters employees meet for chapel. Today's service was a powerful one as Dr. Jim Bradford (my pastor at Central Assembly) was installed as the new General Secretary and then shared a message about following the Lord in spite of the sacrifices it may require. At the conclusion of the service Dr. Wood led us in singing "Trust and Obey." There's something I've really come to love about the deep meaning behind old standards like that and the words especially resonated with me as I thought about my approaching departure for Thailand in September. A lot has to come together between now and then, but for now, I have to make a daily decision to just trust and obey.

Zumbathon for Thailand is this Saturday! Plans and preparations have gone well so far, but there's still a lot to do in the next few days. Please pray for the event, that lots of women will come and have a great time; that the fundraiser will make a nice dent in my budget; and that, most importantly, God will speak to the hearts of the attendees and move them to prayer on behalf of the women in Thailand. There are many spiritual bonds to be broken and we can all make a difference by consistently praying for these women.

Check back soon for a follow-up report on Zumbathon!