Living Sacrifice 9-13

Catch up

2012-02-13T11:08:00.000-08:00

Wow it has been long since I've written an update. I apologize for not keeping you all involved in the ministry here the past couple of months. I decided to do the update a bit differently this time in an effort to make sure you are all up to speed on things here in Uganda. So first to say that the past couple of months have been 'double double' awesome-as we say here in Uganda. :-) I'll try to keep things short but give you a good update of the happenings.

December:
-Maupin Community Church Maupin, OR
Shelby and Melissa came to serve in Uganda for two weeks and oh how the Lord did a mighty work! Their time was filled with Bible studies, evangelistic outreach at fishing camps on the Islands, youth ministries, Sunday school, worship, bucket bathing and eating fish heads (eyeballs included-so proud!). It was truly amazing to see how the Lord loved on the people of Uganda through these two beautiful warrior princesses. It also was a good reminder to me of how important fellowship and teamwork in ministry really is.
-Christmas
Christmas Eve is my favorite holiday because of a family meal tradition in America. Well I was surprised by an awesome friend here who cooked that meal as a gift to me. It was so fantastic to get a piece of 'home' on that special day. Christmas was then spent in a whole different awesome way. The same awesome friend hosted a group from a baby home-18 babies, 7 aunties and one granny for a meal, gifts (given by Santa-my friend Sam in a santa outfit) and lots of hugs and laughter. Such a Blessing to be involved seeing the Lord's Love reach so many!
-Safari Vacation turned bad...
A couple of days after Christmas I went on a safari vacation with some friends. It was going to be four days of relaxing, game drives and lots of fun. The Lord had a different plan for me. We left on Tuesday and reached the hostel in the evening. The following morning at 430a I awoke with severe low back pain. Long story short, I went to 2 clinics in the bush and was incorrectly diagnosed, placed on 2 incorrect antibiotics and then the decision was made to medi-vac me back to Entebbe for proper medical treatment. The clinic I went to there then placed me on 2 more incorrect antibiotics, however properly diagnosed me with multiple kidney stones, a kidney infection and an ovarian cyst which had partially ruptured. After about a week I was taken to a solid medical clinic in Kampala where all incorrect meds were stopped and I was placed on proper antibiotics. Due to the amount of medication, and the incorrect nature of the medication, and developing a severe bacterial infection in my gut, I was pretty much in bed for 2 weeks. It took an additional week for me to begin to feel a bit normal. Currently however, I am feeling 100% and extremely thankful for friends who worked so hard in taking care of me and making the difficult decisions while I was subconscious for so long. Praise the Lord for His healing-in His time!
-More friends visiting
Two friends of mine from Oregon State Univ came to visit for 3 weeks. Brad and Rachel came and were involved in additional ministry in a fishing camp, two baby homes, two children's villages, children's remand center as well as helping me recover from being sick. We traveled to the north for part of this ministry as well. It was so fantastic having friends from America here as well as seeing the Lord work in their lives as well as in so many lives that were touched through their ministry in the Lord.
-Future plans??
It's definitely been a crazy busy couple of months, and it's not looking to slow down any time soon. This week I'm heading for a week conference of Transformations. It's a process of looking into your past and removing the strongholds of evil in your life. Intense, awesome, awful and challenging-I'm looking forward to it. Then a week of preparation for upcoming teams, then another week long conference, this one about the Father Heart of God. Then beginning in March is a whole new season of teams coming through the end of May. It will be amazing to see the work of the Lord through so many people!!
Lots of new ministries with Life Church are also either underway or starting soon. Weekly outreach at Bwerenga Life Church campus: evangelism in the nearby fishing camp, youth outreach, a youth sunday school class and a ladies Bible study. Also at Namasuba Life Church campus we are beginning a community education outreach to momma's in the neighborhood in the course of maternity health. So lots going on!!
-Prayer needs
I will need a lot of prayer for this weeks conference as well as the Father Heart conference in a couple weeks. It will be an intense time and I will need protection and prayer cover. There are also some potential ministry changes in the semi-near future. So please be in prayer for guidance and the Lord's vision to be clear to me. And a HUGE praise for His healing on my body!!!

I love you all and miss you! I do hope you feel involved in the ministry and I apologize for not keeping up on my end of the involvement.
My prayers are with you all!

The world in which I live....

2011-10-18T10:43:00.000-07:00

Today at the children's remand center I told a young girl named Brenda, recently injured and in pain, about the Lord healing a woman who had been bleeding for 10 yrs. I told her how much Jesus Loves her. And as I began to pray for her, tears began to fall from her eyes.
Today I saw a light in Aaron's heart as he spoke of complete contentment and joy of his role at the center. He spoke of sadness at the thought of going home to his family in two years. When I first met him he was bitter and angry over why he was left there by his family. He hated and mistreated the other kids. Now he is leading the Bible study in Pastor's stead, learning culinary and desires to remain at the center that he can reach the lost for Christ.
Today I saw a boy named Fred as he approached me with a face of desperation. As he began to ask me for something, my thoughts went to school fees, or shoes to protect his bare feet or a new shirt to replace the tattered one that barely covered his chest. Instead, he spoke of wanting a Bible. The way he stated his request, the way he spoke of the Word of God showed such respect and awe for the Book. He stated he desperately desired to study it and learn more of God.
Today I spoke to a 14 year old girl who had been at the center 3 months. She was told by the state council and her parents she was being taken to a boarding school. Instead she was dropped off at the center. No explanation. Just left. She has contacted her family and they've stated that maybe they will come to get her around Christmas.
Today a boy who is fed just 2 meals a day because of a food shortage, gave me one of his 2 guavas and watched joyfully as I ate it.
Today I left 200 children I've come to love. I watched as they smiled and waved at me. I listened as they shouted 'I love you' and 'We can't wait to see you next week' and 'We'll miss you'.
Tonight, I cried. Tonight, I prayed.
Tonight, I cried, because today.....

America...in summary! :-)

2011-09-25T04:31:00.000-07:00

I realized I had so many amazing moments while in America I wanted to take the time to share some of the details of the Lord's work. I am keeping the names, places and dates secret to protect anonymity.

Youth camp
I was so stoked when I received an email asking me to be a speaker for a Christian youth camp for 5 days. I had never even attended a Christian youth camp as a child, and only attended one secular camp, so I felt very unprepared-which is why I dove right in for the adventure. Now many of those who attended would probably say my favorite part was the food because at every meal I would speak out with more excitement over peach cobbler or cheese than a 5 year old on Christmas morning. Now I will be honest, the food was ah-mazing! :-) However, that does not even come close to the awe in my heart over the Lord's work during these five days. The theme of the camp was 'living a better story: what in life is worth fighting for?' The theme opened up through vulnerability of the counselors sharing their own stories. Stories filled with abandonment, death, abuse; all followed with death of the old, redemption and Life in the new. Because of the vulnerability of the staff, youth were then showed how openness can be the path to healing. And true death of the old must occur before the new can become Alive. The Lord changed the hearts and lives of so many during these five days. It truly was humbling to have the opportunity to watch from such a close distance. I saw so many children go from not connecting with others, wearing hoods over their faces to having the spirit of a truly alive and hopeful child. Anyone who has seen this transition knows there are few things more beautiful than a child who has been given Hope for their future through the Love of their Lord.

Churches
I must clump these venues all as one or I would be writing for hours. To try and sum up in a shorter paragraph is simply to state the appointments were Divine. Speaking at churches throughout Oregon and California opened people's hearts to hear the Call of the Lord. Many following my time of sharing approached with comments such as 'I never thought I could be used in such a powerful way' 'I can see now where the Lord is directing my path' 'I'm going to begin exploring how to serve the Lord each day, where I am'. It was beautiful to see the Spirit move through entire congregations as Purpose, Power and Peace reigned down from Heaven into the hearts of so many aching to receive. And the response, through prayer, prophesy, finances and support through the commitment of short term missions was overwhelming. Nothing short of a miracle!

Rotary
I had never been to a Rotary meeting prior to this past summer. I knew very little of what Rotary gatherings represented. What I found, was magnificent. I found a group of people desiring to 'be the change they wish to see in this world' as Gandhi so well spoke. People uniting together to combine resources, ideas and service to fill the needs of today, across the world. It was humbling to be in the presence of so many giving hearts. I was Blessed to be in their presence and privileged to have the opportunity to express the work laid before me in Uganda. Truly these people are at the forefront of changing the world through engaging in today's problems and finding solutions.

Girls home
This is where I saw a glimpse into my future. I have felt for many years that someday the Lord desires to use me to serve as a foster parent to troubled teens as well as open a girls home for victims of sex trafficking. A girls home was a venue for which the Lord needed a story to provide Hope. He needed a vessel in which to portray His Glory and His Love through. I was this vessel this day. No more, I was simply His vessel. However, this day I saw the most incredible glimpse of Hope as I've seen in many eyes. I shared my story, a story of being brought through life believing I was worthless and cast aside by so many to knowing I am a princess of the Almighty King. A story not unlike many others. Following this story 2 gifts were given by 2 girls. I did not realize it in the moment, but these two girls were expressing the Hope they had received. I now cherish these gifts dearly. I also cherish, and will cherish my entire life, the comment of one girl who summed up the picture of Hope which comes when we, the broken and redeemed become vulnerable and share our story: 'her story makes me realize I'm not the only one'.

Winchester Bay
Pink elephant. Now if that doesn't make you smile, think about it another moment. :-) Beth Moore expresses a story in which her niece asked her for a pink elephant for her birthday. Beth uses this story to literate how the Lord wants us to come to Him with our impossible desires. He LOVES to overwhelm us with His Love. And He does it but granting us pink elephants. I spent a week in Winchester Bay, Oregon at a retreat for missionaries and pastors. This time was a complete gift used for rest and reviving in the Lord. One day as I was preparing to head out for a walk down the beach a moment of loneliness struck me with a desire for a dog to accompany me on my walk. Not knowing more than two people in the whole town, of which did not own a dog, I set out on my walk, Jesus and me. I then came upon a horse corral with a sign saying 'horse rides $20/hour'. For a moment I thought how awesome! I've never ridden a horse on the beach. But then the practicality of the moment caught up with me and I mentally declined the opportunity in favor of saving money. Deciding to stop and at least pet some of the horses showed no harm though and as I did so the owner approached. He then provided me a glimpse of the Lord. You see he had a miniature pony tied to a stump in need of a walk on the beach and he was too busy for this task and humbly asked if I would do him this favor. A grin entered on my heart as I began to see the Blessing of the Lord unfold before me. And as I walked this miniature pony down the beach, he was roughly the size of a st. bernard, I realized I had been the recipient of my very own pink elephant. The Lord may not play favorites, but He sure is especially fond of me! Be bold, ask for the impossible and wait for your own pink elephant! :-)

3 weddings and a baby!!
Oh all that is wedding.... Sometimes I truly feel spoiled by my Daddy in Heaven. I not only was Blessed just to be in America, but I was overwhelmingly Blessed to be present at 3 weddings of such wonderful friends and the birth of a baby from a dear friend! It was an unexpected surprise to be able to be present at all, but I was also honored to be involved, in some manner, in all the weddings-which I must say I LOVE being involved in behind the scenes actions! Each took place on beautiful days with beautiful brides and handsome grooms! :-) It was such a joy to watch as 2 people became 1 under the Lord. And I also must include that 2 of my other dear friends became engaged while I was in America also. Wow! Love is in the air!!!

All this to say... my visit to America was truly Blessed and filled with Joy, Love and lots of laughter! I love you all and already miss you and long for the day when we are together again-perhaps this side of the world next time! :-)

Hope

2011-09-23T04:29:00.001-07:00

Hope. It's such a small word for what it represents. To some, it represents a reason for life. To others, it represents a reason to thrive. It often shows the greatest magnitude of itself within the greatest magnitude of darkness within one's life. To express or receive it, is something of greatness, and usually the two are hand in hand. To express hope, is also to receive it.
For the past two months I have been visiting America. I have been trying to express the hope of the Lord's work in the darkness that is present in Africa. I had no idea however that the Lord wanted so much more from me.
2 venues, 1 story, 3 girls-this is where Hope began. The venues were a youth camp and a girls home. The story was mine. The story of the redemption of a princess by her King and Saviour. The result was Hope for 3 girls. It was expressed to me through 3 gifts. 3 gifts which at first did not show all that was being expressed. A closer look through the Spirit and I saw the Hope that had been received. I saw the Hope that I had received so long ago. It was such a small moment, at such a small cost to me, yet the result was Divine.

The questions that have been burned into my heart are these: How often do I express the Hope of Christ? How often do I truly receive the Hope of Christ? How much Hope am I depriving the world by remaining silent?

I will remain silent no more!

Trusting in the Lord

2011-08-03T10:31:00.000-07:00

Wow! America...cheese....starbucks....tillamook cheese...clean drinking water.... :-D This makes me happy! America has been fantastic. I'm sorry I haven't written an update in so long-I've been experiencing so much of the Lord here that I haven't done my part in expressing it to you all. I am definitely homesick for Uganda however the Lord continues to fill my heart with love of my home country. I have seen the Lord move in miraculous ways every day. He is rocking my world! I'm overwhelmed with thankfulness to all who have taken time to spend with me and listen to stories. Also to all of those who have given to the Lord's work in Uganda, I give you a tearful thanks. Your gift will help send love and compassion to the lost in Uganda.
With all of this excitement and cheese... haha I am realizing more and more how needless materials are and how desperately I need my King. My reading this morning is Proverbs 3. The past few days have been a developing volcano of culture shock and over stimulation. Well as I read this I'm reminded just how much I am not trusting in the Lord when I allow these feelings to overwhelm me. No matter where I am, in America or Uganda, I am His warrior princess and His disciple. I am fighting for the lost and desperately trying to be more like Christ each day. That is the goal and passion of my heart. How often though do I lose sight of that. Proverbs 3 has brought me back, once again to the Cross of Grace.
'My child, never forget the things I have taught you. Store My commands in your heart. If you do this, you will live many years, and your life will be satisfying. Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write them deep within your heart. ....Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take. Don't be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead fear the Lord and turn away from evil. Then you will have healing for your body and strength for your bones. Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce. Then He will fill your barns with grain, and your vats will overflow with good wine. My child, don't reject the Lord's discipline, and don't be upset when He corrects you. For the Lord corrects those He loves, just as a father corrects a chid in whom he delights. Joyful is the person who finds wisdom, the one who gains understanding. '

I am so thankful that I worship a King who gently reminds me-'I'm still here. I'm still with you. I'm never going to leave you. I died for you because I love you. And I died so that you could die to the world every day and live an abundant life. I want to give you the gift of life every day. I'm here for you. I'm here for your hurts, your triumphs and your confusion. I am the answer. ' The King is saying this to you as well. Can you hear Him? Have you tried listening to Him? Every morning He sits at our bed waiting for us to wake up so He can say ' I love you! Do you know how much I love you? I'm going to spend today showing you new ways of how much I love you and want desperately to spend time with you.' Listen and you'll hear.

Whew!

2011-06-30T01:58:00.000-07:00

Well I've just checked in for my flight to America. So many emotions! Of course most of you that know me know that I'm extremely emotional on an average day.... :-) This past week has been a whirlwind of 'see you laters' and closing up of projects until I return in September. I will land in America Saturday night and spend the next two months sharing stories, pictures and experiences the Lord has brought into my life. Please pray for safe travels and continued Peace from my King as I adjust to the time change, deal with reverse culture shock and re-embrace all the relationships I've missed so much! :-) Thank you all for your support! I'll post dates of various speaking engagements as the details become available.

I go to America!!!! :-D

2011-06-11T06:18:00.000-07:00

Well delivering Bibles to Osanidde was awesome! So many smiling faces!! I'll post pictures as soon as I can but I have to let you all in on some fantastic news.... I'm coming to America!!! I land July 2nd and I leave Sept 5th. I'll post my itinerary which of course is subject to change.
July 2-5=Bend
July 5-10=Portland
July 11-16=Winchester Bay
July 17-22=Cottage Grove
July 22-29=Bend
July 30-31=Maupin
August 1-6=Bend
August 7-10=Corvallis
August 11-22=Bend
August 23-Sept 1=California
Sept 2-3=Bend
Sept 4=Africa!!!

Bibles to Osanidde!!!!! :-D

2011-06-07T22:09:00.000-07:00

It's finally here!!! The moment I've been waiting for the last 5 months since the vision began. Tomorrow my family and I will be traveling to Osanidde Village to deliver 160 Bibles to orphans there and 9 mommas. We're also taking candy and clothes which has been donated from various teams who have come. The Bibles were donated from Real Life Christian Church in Bend Oregon. Thank you!!!!!!

Royal wedding or funeral of the forgotten

2011-05-11T04:33:00.000-07:00

My goodness I cannot believe it has been so long since I have updated. I apologize! It is a testament to the level of craziness this side of the world and in my life. Much of the craziness has been good, however there has been much heartache as I assume few of you are aware. In the midst of the world watching the 'royal wedding', we here in Uganda were experiencing a much different phenomenon.
Our governmental elections took place between February and March and in the months since we have seen moments of violence due to the opposition to our president. The situation has been similar to that of Egypt if you are familiar with that situation. A couple of weeks ago there was an eruption of violence due to the arrest of the presidential opponent. We were thankfully in the church when the violence began and spent those hours in prayer for our nation as bullets, rocks and tear gas flew outside. I am unable to describe in detail what happened except to say many were killed and all were affected. I'm thankful for the Protection from the Almighty as I was 5 minutes away from being on my way downtown on a boda when the violence began. That day was an abrupt reminder that our world is in pain. Our world is seeking Justice for wrong and Peace for the innocent. The sad part is that most are looking in the wrong place because it will not be found on this earth. There is only One who can truly proclaim Justice and Peace and on this earth, it can only be found in the hoping of a person's heart who has found their Saviour. My prayer for you reading this is that you might find that Hope, and that you might recognize the pain from around the world and be a part of the healing.
Specific prayers are needed as the opposition to our president returns today from Kenya. And our presidential inauguration is scheduled for tomorrow. Please pray for Peace and Justice.

Journey or destination?

2011-03-30T03:07:00.000-07:00

I visit the children's remand center every Tuesday. The journey of it is almost as difficult as the destination. From my home, it takes 3 hours to arrive and typically 3 1/2 hours to return....on a public taxi....squished next to five strangers.....without many open windows....driving too fast down a dangerous road.... :-) Did I mention I enjoy adventure? Not the most fun of adventures, but that's just how I look at it. Well in my efforts to make the trip less stressful, I decided to hire a boda driver to take me instead. Well this little boda was a 90cc and it had problems to say the least. The air filter was not tightly sealed so we had no power on hills, as in I jog faster. So it still took 2 1/2 hours to arrive and 3 hours to come back.... On the way there we were 'blessed' with no rain and lots of dust. On the way back we were 'blessed' with rain and no dust.... :-) Fun times right? Why do I do this every week I'm often asked? Well yesterday just to give an example was a slow clinic day. I treated only 17 children. I say 'only' because most days I am treating between 25-35 children. That is one reason I go. But yesterday I was Blessed with the biggest reason I go. Every week I bring 3 Bibles with me and the children read them and often ask questions. Yesterday was a day with lots of questions. One of the boys was reading Romans 8:2-5 which led us into a discussion of what does it mean to follow sinful nature vs following the Spirit. We discussed the difference between temptation and sin. We also discussed what it means to truly love others by our actions instead of just words. This is why I go. In the midst of often horrible situations and environments, the Lord's work is thriving. I've included pictures of the last reason I go-these kids make me laugh! Boys will be boys no matter where they are! :-)

Heart of pearls

2011-03-25T03:37:00.000-07:00

How do we greet the troubles that come into our lives? At first we probably try to get rid of the grit or run from it. Maybe we even try to ignore it. These are natural things to do. Nobody likes pain. But God uses pain in our hearts. People with problems flocked to Jesus when He walked on earth. Today our problems can still cause us to turn to Him. When we go to God with our hurts, He comforts us. As the oyster coats an irritation with mother-of-pearl, God coats our pain with His Love. In Him we find strength and patience that enable us to keep going. Our faith is strengthened. We get to know God in a much deeper way.
'The greatest opportunity to Glorify God is when you are walking thru the fires of affliction and trials.' Bob O'Bannon

Provision

2011-03-21T10:13:00.000-07:00

I've heard from many missionaries that one of the hard parts of returning home on furlough is the realization that life has continued on for friends and family without you. We all want to think that life just stands still so that when we are able to return, we have not missed out on anything. Well a bit over a week ago, I was reminded that life, and death, do go on without me. My lifelong friend named Dustin was taking pictures of the tsunami waves and was taken to meet the Lord by one of the waves. Death is something difficult for me to assimilate surrounded by friends and family. It's also difficult when the person is older or dies peacefully in their sleep. But this is now the second time in my life a friend has died with such violence. It makes it more difficult somehow. It is also made more difficult by being without my dear friends and family to turn to.
I write this to ask for prayers for his family and friends. Dustin was loved by many. He had so many friends! I'm also asking for prayer for me. Prayer to continually feel the Lord's arms surrounding me as I know they are. Prayer also to take comfort in the fact that Dustin is Home and living even more adventurous than he did here.
I titled this Provision because as I began to post this blog, I saw my last post regarding the intimacy felt at the Pure Joy retreat. How awesome is our King to bring me so close to Him, that when heartache hits, I didn't have to go anywhere to be in His arms, I was already there.
There was a song we sang at the retreat I had never heard before called 'The more I seek You'. It's a beautiful song but one line specifically speaks to my heart every time I hear it. 'This Love is so deep, it's more than I can stand. I melt in Your Peace, it's overwhelming.' How often, and for me it's been often throughout my past, do I feel that I can't stand the difficult situation I'm in? Or how often do I feel overwhelmed? When I heard this line I came to realize, the Lord's Peace and Love do not change. It's right there to 'overwhelm' me. I need only to turn to Him and receive it. It's right there for you too.

Pure Joy

2011-03-10T04:33:00.000-08:00

I have just spent the most intimate four days with my King. I truly have not had such a personal time with Him in all my life. It was provided through a new favorite ministry-Pure Joy International. This ministry works to 'Lift the hearts of women around the world'. And it has truly done just that in my life. I was Blessed to have spent four days at a fantastic retreat center outside of Kampala-all expenses paid. It was four days of teaching, worship, prayer, fellowship and falling into the arms of my Lover. There was a statement made at the end of the time: Good ministry occurs when a person receives conviction, affirmation and challenge. Well I received all three of those attributes from the Lord through this venue. I'd like to share just some bits of the weekend. It may seem sporadic, but only because my heart is still so lifted that words cannot express. If you would like to hear more specifics, feel free to ask. Please check out this ministry's website.
http://purejoyinternational.org/
-Faith is the epitome of 'I'm just not 'feeling it'" And that's ok, that is what faith is. "Not feeling it". Faith is moving past the feeling and making a stand anyway.
-Our ability to let go is directly relational to what we believe about God.
-You can't live both in the present and the past, or in the present and the future. Live in the present!
-God has the past and future covered-but He doesn't live there.
-'I am a little pencil in the Hand of a writing God who is sending a Love letter to the world.' Mother Teresa
-'I am here by God's appointment, in His keeping, under His training, for His time.' Andrew Murray
-'It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; He will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.' Deut 31:8
-'Never be afraid to trust an unknown future with a known God.' Corrie ten Boom
-Ex 16:1-3 The desert brings out what is inside us. It is also where the Lord tests and builds our character. There are no shortcuts to maturity. But God always provides in the desert-check out verse 4.
-A person is forever dealing either with salvation or lordship.
-God never created until He made provision for what He created. Grass before animals, sea before fish, man before woman.
-Adam believed he had everything he needed. God was the One who said 'its not good for man to be alone'. Adam was clueless. Then God marched the animals by-possibly 2X2. Now Adam saw he was alone and now he has the desire for someone like him.
Then the Lord brought Eve to Adam.
-Functionally, man becomes the provision for woman.
-Our desires have 4 sources-God, self, others, enemy. Which voice do you know and recognize the best?
-Gain intimacy with your mate by growing closer to the Lord
-We're no longer sinners. We're now Saints that sin. 1 John 1:8-9
-When we become Christian, we trust God with our eternal life. Why don't we trust Him with everyday issues?
-God's Purpose is bigger than my pain.
-Remember what He has done! 1 Sam 12:24
-Marriage should and could be as beautiful and graceful as partner ice skating. But this takes constant work and practice. Also, each must know their role- 100% leader and 100% follower
-What is good leadership? To recognize the strengths and weaknesses of both partners and humbly place responsibility on the stronger partner.
-When we are rightly aligned with God, we as women have an innate need to follow and be his helpmate. (This one brought many a tear to my eye)
-Would my husband be a better man and leader if I let him? (This one I'll save for later :-)
-The family is the nuclei for everything in existence; city, business, schools, church. So when we see the world falling apart, it is truly because what is at the center has fallen apart.
-As parents, you are like guard rails. Your children need enough room to learn to drive through life. But also need a strong boundary with consequences so they don't fall off a cliff.
-In life, everything has an order. God should be #1. Then your husband #2. Then your children #3. Ministry and others must come after those.
-Eph 5:33 This respect should be unconditional!
-Try to one-up your husband in terms of giving and serving.
-Make sure your husband feels like your husband, and not your son.
-Best things to say to your husband- 'I'm proud of you' and 'I respect you so much for....'
-1 Cor 7:3-5 We as women have a sexual responsibility in our marriage. It's for our own protection.
-Anybody can be passionate with someone new, it's a challenge to keep the passion year after year with the same person.
-Every day you say 'last words' to your husband. Beware of that and take caution in your words.
-Sex is a spiritual issue-denying it is a sin. 1 Cor 7:5
-Don't pass on a negative aspect of sex to your children. Express to them it is a great thing, created by God, but to wait and keep it pure.
-Sex is the only thing which makes you and your husband's relationship uniqueness.
-Have a weekly date night!
-God intended us to be needy for Him!
-We act out what we believe, not what we know.
-The worth and value of anything is equal to it's identity.
-When we become defensive, there is usually an element of truth to what was said.
-If we are walking around in defeat, there is a lie we're believing somewhere.
-The belief in our identity is like a grid we are surrounded with. All comments and gestures must pass through before reaching us. What is your identity? When you invited Jesus into your heart your identity changed. John 1:12-13 At your best, you are a child of God. At your worst, you are a child of God. You cannot do anything to make God Love you any less. You cannot do anything to make God Love you any more.
-Don't bring the lies of performance into your relationship with God.
-Whether a quarter is clean or dirty, it is still worth 25 cents. However, a clean quarter when hit with light, will reflect the Light to others.
-God doesn't condemn, He convicts.
-Learn to respond and not react in communication.
-Be virtuous before you become married!
-The Word of God + Adversity = Hope
-God is not only to be worshiped because of the Blessings He bestows, but for who He is.
-'God is still God and God is still Good. To God be the Glory!' Zac Smith
-Ps 84:5 Set your heart on the pilgrimage
-Gen 26-Isaac didn't retaliate against those who came against him. Instead he moved on. And in doing so, left a trail of blessing and refreshment everywhere he went. Move on, and dig another well!
-When there is no authority from on high, there is no power and therefore no change.
-Our authority from Heaven is on loan. What will it look like when it's time for us to turn it back in? Better? Worse?
-The proper order- God-Intimacy-Marriage-Sex. Intimacy comes as a natural part of life in getting to know another.
-Live in the present. Stop worrying and wondering about the future. The Lord won't let you miss this if it's meant to be.
-Check your heart motives when encouraging. But be yourself. Don't manipulate.

So those who I've lost in the process, probably missed out on some amazing Truths, but I understand it was alot. I pray that at least one of them spoke to your heart as they all spoke to mine. Ah, words cannot express the new level of intimacy I feel with my King, my Abba, my Lover and my Lord.

Unexpected doors

2011-02-03T03:48:00.000-08:00

Greetings to all from Uganda!
These past few weeks have been filled with lots of time set aside for seeking the Lord, which I have to say was pretty much forced by the King due to a horse accident which rendered me unable to participate in many of my ministries-not that I'm blaming him for the stupid horse, just that He's allowed me to use this time so well. I have since recovered for the most part but have thoroughly enjoyed and learned so much from this time in fellowship with my Lord.

One unexpected area I have been able to serve since my arrival in Uganda has been home medical visits to care for Ugandans within my circle of friends. Last week I had the honor of going with my dear friend Gladys to her village to treat a girl who suffered a severe burn wound on her leg 3 weeks prior. Due to the remote location of their home, this girl was unable to visit a proper hospital and was reliant on local clinics and advice from the women in her village. What one must consider in this, and most cases, is that both clinics and the community have no outside education of current medical treatment protocols. Both follow protocols brought down by generations. So imagine what health care was 100 years ago and that is what it is today in local villages. It is heartbreaking and difficult at times, due to cultural differences, to come in and see the harm caused by local medical treatment while at the same time, not discriminating or criticizing the healthcare workers. This girl in particular had been using local herbs and crushing medication tablets to apply on her wound. Thankfully this girl is being raised in a Christian home and therefore no witchcraft was used, which is a typical 'treatment method'.

Through Gladys, I was invited to her home and allowed to evaluate her wound as well as give medical advice and treatment for her continued care. Now following that visit, I have also been invited to speak with a group of women in the village to educate on common health care practices and misconceptions about medical treatment. I'm so thankful for this opportunity to use what the Lord has taught me about village healthcare as well as my education in basic healthcare.

I urge you to seek out opportunities of unexpected doors which the Lord places before you to share knowledge, wisdom and the King with those before you. You'll be amazed by the outcomes!!

Woohoo for 2011!!

2011-01-06T05:37:00.000-08:00

Happy Christmas and Merry New Year! :-) I pray that you had a Blessed holiday season and that you are rested and ready for 2011. This year has flown by and has been filled with soooo much adventure! Just the way I like it. This year has also been a year of a few first times for me: milked a cow, skinned a snake, moved to another country, lived on an island, was bucked off horses twice in one day, drove a dirt bike. Yep, it's been a good year!
This year has also been filled with learning the importance of flexibility in the Lord. Upon moving to Africa, flexibility was the character trait most missionaries insisted was most important. Only now do I see why they have all agreed. For example:
After much prayer and fasting, seeking the Lord's Will, I have decided not to move to Kapchorwa to work with the REACH program against FGM. This decision was made following weeks of heartache regarding certain circumstances surrounding the organization. I have nothing bad to say of REACH, only that it is not the organization which the Lord desires me to serve with. I continue to feel a deep calling to serve girls affected by FGM and I am currently seeking out other organizations in Africa working towards the goal of eradication of the practice.
I must share some difficult news which has occurred recently. Luke, the boy from the children's rehabilitation center I've written you about, has disappeared from the hospital. He went through his skin graft surgery on a Tuesday and Thursday morning I received a call that he was missing. There is not a suspicion of foul play, Luke has been a runner ever since he first showed up at the center many years ago. However, the urgency of this situation is that due to the surgery having just been done, Luke now has two wounds which have a high chance of becoming infected. So I ask for your prayers for healing, that he is found and that in the meantime he is kept safe on the streets. I also ask for your prayers for my heart. Luke has become a friend and was always a joy to be around. Every time I went to the hospital he'd run to see me and give me a huge hug and take me around to see all of his friends he'd made. We had begun to be able to communicate through his disabilities. I will miss him terribly until he is found. But I will believe in my all powerful, all Loving Abba that He will watch over and take care of Luke until he is found.
I want to take this opportunity and say a bit about the missionaries I live with and their ministry. First, Brent and Virginia Earwicker have been in Uganda for four years with their two children. After being in Uganda for some time they began taking trips out to the Islands of Lake Victoria. During their visits they learned that most pastors had little to no training on the Word or how to lead a church. Therefore, through a pastors' training school, Roots of Character seminars and evangelistic crusades Brent and Virginia serve to train up the pastors in the local church of Uganda. Their other ministry is through Life Church in Kampala. Through the church they run a discipleship program called Ignite. Ignite is a 6 month program for 18-30 year olds. For more on their ministry, visit their website: http://www.pleadthecause.org/v2/
The other missionary at the house is Seth Sokoloff. Seth has lived in Uganda for one year working to assist Brent in the ministry to the Islands as well as with the Ignite program. Around Life Church, and our house, Seth is known as the 'go-to' man for just about any job needing completion-including being my veterinarian assistant as I've stitched up a few dogs. Long term, Seth desires to develop a discipleship program in the Ukraine. Seth has a boldness and passion for following the Lord that is rare. He will do amazing things for our King! For more on his ministry, visit Seth's blog website: http://sethsokoloff.wordpress.com/

I would encourage you all to check out their websites. There are so many amazing ministries in this world and each one of you can be involved in an area you are passionate about. These fellow missionaries have become my family and I'm sooooo thankful the Lord has blessed me with such amazing people as I begin this new stage in life serving Him in Africa.

I love and miss you all and continue to chat with my Abba daily about you. I ask for Blessings and Peace for each one of you in this time of new beginnings!

Love and hugs to you all!

Do you believe God?

2010-11-21T23:36:00.001-08:00

I am involved with a Beth Moore Bible study currently called Believing God. The premise is that so many believe in God, but how many Christians believe God. There was a quiz given to see the areas you struggle in belief. Many of the questions were foundational however when I broke them down I began to realize how little at times I trust in the Lord. If I truly believed I was saved by Grace, what would that mean in my life? Am I living differently because of what I believe? 'My Grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.' 2 Cor 12:9 This verse speaks to my heart in a new way this morning. Not only do I doubt at times that His Grace is ALL I need, but in my weakness do I delight in His power being made perfect? Do I delight and rejoice for my weakness that His strength may be all I have? It is in those moments when we are at our end, tears streaming, on our knees before the Lord begging to feel His Presence that He is finally able to be the God of Almighty Strength in our lives. When I look back on my life, the moments I felt the Presence of my King the most were not in large crowds of worship, or in the midst of a deep Bible study. But instead, when I felt the Hand of the Creator, my face was to the ground, I had little more than the clothes on my back and often had spent days turning to substances for peace. But there is no Peace apart from Him. Ask yourself, do I truly believe that His Grace is sufficient for me? Do I delight in my weakness for His perfect strength? And if that is true, what would it look like in my life? To be saved by Grace....

They touch my heart

2010-10-28T04:07:00.000-07:00

I apologize for not updating in such a long time. I have been trying to write this blog for a month and words just cannot express my heart. So open your heart to more than what these words say. Open it to the children's faces which come out of these words. Listen with your heart to their stories.
It is in the most unlikely places where we find the Lord. He sat at a well with a prostitute, hung out at parties with drunkards and visited the homes of thieves. It is a similar place where I have found His dwelling place most recently. It is a home to 'juvenile delinquents and those unwanted by society', if you could even call it a home. Kids are sleeping on concrete floors, being fed a handful of porridge twice a day and kept without much chance of being released. But it is also a place where children are loved, through the staff playing volleyball and football, to the various organizations which come in to speak about conflict resolution, breaking bonds of your past and Jesus Christ. It is this place where I have found a new cause worth fighting for. These children do not have adequate medical care and because of the work they must do while staying there, severe wounds occur and then become infected due to the lack of care. I am honored to have been accepted to visit once a week with the ministry of Not Forgotten. While I spend my hours tending to the wounds and illnesses of these ~200 children from 4 years-19 years, the rest of the group performs skits, dances and speak about Grace. The children are also given a chance to to share their testimonies and stories.
I'd like to share just one of their stories. Luke is around the age of 14. I do not know if that is his real name or his real age. You see, Luke is deaf and mute. He has been at the rehabilitation center for around 3 months now. His story comes relayed to us through another boy who lived on the streets with him for a short time. Just before coming to the center, Luke was living on the street and was attacked by a man with a panga(machete). We do not know the cause of this or who the man was. Luke was picked up off the streets and taken to the rehab center where, to say the least, medical care is inadequate. His wound was not cared or touched for many weeks. I came on the scene about a month ago and began treating him. However my weekly visits were not enough to mend his wound due to the size, depth and vast amount of infection. Two weeks ago, he developed a second wound due to the weakness of his tissue and this past Tuesday it erupted into a large ulcer. I immediately knew that transport to a hospital would be necessary but was at a loss for the logistics to occur. Due to the state of the center typically children are not allowed to leave, nor is there any financial means available for transport or the hospital care. However, yet again the Lord showed His desire to overwhelmingly Love His children. Luke was released into my care and by our taxi, then Seth driving we were able to transport him to the hospital. Luke has been touching the hearts of all those at the hospital, nurses, fellow patients and visitors. Each time I see him his face lights up and the biggest smile comes across his face. He even giggled when I kissed his hand yesterday. His laugh is the most enlightening sound to reach your ears. Currently, we are praying the infection will decrease enough that he will get a skin graft tomorrow. This surgery is very expensive as well as his hospital stay. Yet the Lord's Love showered that situation as well. Because of Luke's condition he qualifies for Hope Ward-a branch of the government which unites charities to pay for medical expenses of those who are disabled. The people in charge however informed me that his surgery would not be covered. Upon speaking to the physician to work out a deal however, he has agreed to accept no pay. Praise the Lord! Without this surgery, due to the immense infection, Luke would have eventually died.
There are many more children at the center who are in need of better medical care. Currently I am negotiating with those in charge to begin coming 3 days a week. I also have begun to provide soap for those with wounds so they are at least able to clean the wounds on their own.
Much is needed, but the Lord is the master Provider and each week He reveals which need shall be met. I'm so thankful to all of you for your prayers and support, without which, I would be ineffective. Please continue to pray for these children-for healing, that they might come to know their worth in the Lord and that a better home would become available. Please pray for me as the emotional heartache which comes with compassion has been strong lately. The Lord continues to give me strength, I only ask for continued open doors to love these children.
Luke preparing for treatment

Salim carries my bag, Collins does my documentation, Brian takes photos

One of the boys sharing his story

Not Forgotten

2010-09-29T06:51:00.001-07:00

Ever felt neglected or forgotten by those around you? Whether it is your family or friends, most of us at one time have missed out on receiving an invitation or had an important date in our lives forgotten by those around us. For thousands of children, elderly and disabled living on the streets in Kampala, Uganda being forgotten is a way of life. They not only have been neglected by their family and friends, but by the whole of society. But they have not been forgotten by our Lord. It is for these that He came! He came that those who are cast aside, might have One they can run to! And they have not been forgotten by a group of Ugandans either. A small NGO (non-profit) has just begun to serve these beautiful but neglected souls. I urge you to check out the website of this group which I have recently had the privilege to join and work with. Last week we went out on the streets of Kampala twice and handed out food, toys, medical care and the Love of Christ. It has been a humbling experience to witness the Love of Christ be passed to a child begging to survive, probably a slave to another. May we never forget those whom we are called to Love and Serve.
http://notforgottenafrica.wordpress.com/
http://notforgotten-uganda.blogspot.com/

Kapchorwa

2010-09-14T06:53:00.000-07:00

Well I've been back from Kapchorwa for just over a week now and it has been an intense time working on a project and seeking the Lord's will. Kapchorwa was overall amazing. It is even more beautiful than I remember from last year. The name literally means 'town of friendship' and it truly lives up to it. I couldn't go hardly anywhere without people inviting me in for tea. I learned a lot about the culture and people who live in the surrounding areas as well as the organization I will be working with, REACH. My work is still kind of up in the air, but there is a possibility of having an opportunity of volunteering in the hospital in Kapchorwa town-there are no doctors or anyone who specializes in emergency medicine. Kapchorwa town has a population of around 1000 people so it is quite small. Prayer needs regarding my visit include my desire for a ministry partner to aid in fighting loneliness-I will be the only mzungu (white person) for many miles. I also need prayer for discernment regarding timing. Currently my plan is to return full time to Kapchorwa the end of October, but we will see what the Lord has planned. Thank you for your prayers during my visit there. They were greatly needed. Please continue to stay in contact with me and if you would like to receive more detailed updates, just send me an email and I will add you onto my list. I pray Blessings of our Lord's presence and peace in your life.

Prayer need

2010-08-21T11:24:00.000-07:00

So plans to go to Osanidde on Monday have been canceled, but the Lord has opened the door to Kapchorwa instead! I leave tomorrow for an undetermined amount of time, probably without internet. Please be in prayer for travels, good favor and health. I'm still recovering from being sick but prayerfully it will be gone by morning. Love and hugs!!

Praying to your Friend

2010-08-18T03:32:00.000-07:00

Francois Fenelon, a seventeenth-century Roman Catholic Frenchman, said this about prayer:

Tell God all that is in your heart, as one unloads one's heart, its pleasures and its pain, to a dear friend. Tell Him your troubles, that He may comfort you; tell Him your joys, that He may sober them; tell Him your longings, that He may purify them; tell Him your dislikes, that He may help you to conquer them; talk to Him of your temptations, that He may shield you from them; show Him the wounds of your heart, that He may heal them; lay bare your indifference to good, your depraved tastes for evil, your instability. Tell Him how self-love makes you unjust to others, how vanity tempts you to be insincere, how pride disguises you to yourself and others.

If you thus pour out all your weaknesses, needs, troubles, there will be no lack of what to say. You will never exhaust the subject. It is continually being renewed. People who have no secrets from each other never want for subject of conversation. They do not weigh their words, for there is nothing to be held back; neither do they seek for something to say. They talk out of the abundance of the heart, without consideration they say just what they think.

Blessed are they who attain to familiar, unreserved intercourse with God.

Osanidde

2010-08-13T08:01:00.000-07:00

Greetings to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ! I pray blessings on you as you read this and open your heart to the children I wish to tell you about. I have just returned from spending a week on Bussi Island at Osanidde Village. Osanidde is a Lugandan word meaning 'He is worthy' and it is pronounced 'oh sunny day'. Osanidde Village is home for 160 children, 16 mamas, 9 teachers, many aunties and uncles and one nurse. My favorite thing about Osanidde is how joyful these children are. You would never guess they are orphans from the joy that emits from them as they play futbol, tag, dance or sing for their King.
Throughout my week stay I spent much of my time learning the way of life in the Village. Very limited electricity means meals are prepared over a fire which was wonderful because for me it was like camping! And oh such wonderful food; matoke-kind of a banana, cassava-a root, pineapple, cow's milk and posho- porridge. I love it all! My afternoons were spent playing with the younger children as they only went to school until 1pm. Throughout the day I would visit the clinic as wounds occurred but mainly worked there in the evening. When I was in the clinic I cared for wounds, infections, malaria, colds and much coughing.
I would like to share with you about one child in particular. His name is Christopher. Christopher and I spent much time together reading my Bible and talking about the differences between America and Uganda. I would like to share his words with you which I recorded via my phone.
'My name is Christopher. I am 11 years old and I come from Osanidde Village. I want to serve the Lord and be a man of the Lord. A long time ago I was a muslim but a long time ago Jesus saved me and has helped me. I am an orphan. I do not have any parents, but I think Jesus will help me. I want to see you all in America but I cannot get any chance because I am an orphan. Let the Lord be your Saviour and my Saviour. I will pray for you to be saved. You will pray for me and the Lord will help me when you pray for me. I want to serve the Lord and see the Lord work in everything. The Lord is our Saviour. I want to say that I will pray for you. You pray for me. I am an orphan. God bless you so much. Bye bye.'
Christopher is just one of the voices from Osanidde calling out to the Lord, and to anyone who will listen, for love. I besiege you to pray for Christopher and the other children at Osanidde. It truly is one of the happiest places on earth- better even than Disneyland! I have attached just a few photos taken during my time there, the rest are on facebook. Here is a link to Osanidde's website as well if you would like to read more about it: http://harvestministry.org/osanidde. I am continually so thankful for your support through finances, prayer and encouragement. Life in Africa proves to be something new each day and it means so much to me that I have so many of you with me. I love you all and pray for you daily.

~Kelly
p.s. I must include briefly our adventure of the other day. We have had a green mamba snake terrorizing our compound now for three days. Each time the snake man comes to catch him we lose it in a tree. However yesterday our day guard, Geoffrey, was determed to kill it. So as a crowd gathered to watch outside, five men began attacking the snake in a tree to make it fall down then proceeded to beat it to death with sticks. After cutting the head off-just to be sure, I dissected it and have now dried the skin to place on my wall. My long term goal is to make a hat band for my cowgirl hat! Ah, TIA! So many random adventures along the way when you surrender life to the Lord amen??

Prayer need

2010-07-25T22:11:00.000-07:00

So in a few hours I'm jumping on a boat to head to Osanidde Orphanage on Bussi Island for a week. I will be assisting Nurse Prossy while she is busy with her Introduction period and wedding. I will not have internet access while there so I cannot update with prayer needs so here is my prophetic guess at what I will need-

-Spiritual, emotional and physical church

-Discernment for administering medical care

-Healing for children treated

-Intimacy with my King

Thank you for the prayers and I will definitely send out an update upon my return. A separate note-I also have been sending out updates via email-different than what I post on my website. If you would like to receive them send me an email and I will add you to the list.

I must also include our excitement of last night! So we were sitting in our living room watching a movie and our night guard Lawrence came to our door saying 'come look right away!' We came outside, it was around 930pm, to find a black mamba eating a large frog! Seth proceeded to cut off the head of the snake with a machete only to see the head continue munching on the frog. We moved closer to see better when all of a sudden the frog began leaping away! All of us, including Seth and Brent, screamed like little girls. Ick! ....TIA

A glimpse into Kadi's world

2010-07-14T08:08:00.000-07:00

What follows is the Prologue for a book I received while in the UK for my training. The book is called “The Day Kadi Lost Part of her Life”. It is a book about a young girl who is circumcised. I would recommend it to anyone, however it is a difficult read and has graphic pictures. I want to share with you just the Prologue which I think was very well written and explains briefly about the experience.

The sacrifice of genital mutilation which kadi experienced so early in her tender life has been going on in many parts of Africa for decades, even before the advent of Christianity or Islam. The practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) is a traditional one, endemic and culturally linked to many communities in Africa. This practice is detrimental to the health of women and the girl-child, who accept it without challenging the authority and tenets of its origin. The female population in areas where this practice is endemic have jealously guarded its secrets and are prepared to kill those women who are trying to highlight health hazards which prevent active participation in the development of family, community, country.

Kadi's story is typical of every little girl who lives in a community where to be loved, married, and held in high esteem requires you to be genitally mutilated. Failure to undergo the operation leads to harassment, ridicule, abuse, trauma, and eventual ostracism from one's community.

The attitude of the circumciser (buankisa) is typical of women who strongly believe they are doing Kadi a big favour by making her a marriageable commodity. The only role for African girls in that setting is matrimony with the eventual reproduction of children, which becomes an asset to her and the community. No man in that community is allowed to marry a girl who has not been genitally mutilated. FGM is the core prerequisite to matrimony, status, acceptability and peace of mind despite the fact that one's human rights have been violated and abused.

The fact that FGM, once performed, is permanent and makes the woman disengage from herself sexually, depressed psychologically, impotent and frustrated, makes no difference to the perpetrators of this wicked act, who strongly believe that they are acting in the best interest of the female child. The fact that many young girls die as a result of this practice makes no difference to their attitudes. Those who die are termed as wicked witches whom the community are glad to be rid of, hence the killing of chickens as sacrifice to appease the ancestral gods. The health of the girl is not taken into consideration, and she may be suffering from malnutrition, bacterial infection, or sickle cell anaemia and the circumciser is only interested in getting paid for work done, to maintain her status in the community.

In many African countries the practice of FGM is a political concern, and politicians seeking their own interest do not address this issue as it may cost them votes and the loss of parliamentary seats. As a result they turn a blind eye to the activiites of the circumcisers (buankisas) who boast that nobody can stop them and that they will continue the mutilations, even in private.

I believe that with constant information, education, communication and sensitisation programmes, and with the collaboration and cooperation of African governments, the prevalence and incidence of the practice will be drastically reduced. The African girl-child may be free from mutilation and child abuse sometime in the 21^st century.

-Dr Olayinka Koso-Thomas 1998

Thank you for reading

I've made the choice

2010-07-08T01:44:00.003-07:00

Ah, a few days without internet has given way to much intimacy with my King! I have been unable to work on my projects but it has been wonderful to grow closer to my favorite One. It has also been a few days of wonderful connection with other missionaries here in Africa. Last Saturday morning there was a ladies breakfast where I met about a dozen women from all over the world united by the same call from the Lord to love the broken in Africa. It was wonderful hearing their hearts and yet difficult at the same time. Most of them are connected with various ministries here in Uganda, yet they have taken a step away from them towards another ministry-child raising. As I began to listen to their lives I realized that most of the women at the breakfast were stay at home moms. It was difficult for me to hear this and the encouragement from them to me was a bit hesitant. I've come to notice that most women here doing ministry are married with children and their husbands are out in the field. Hmmmm, so where do I fit in? I brought this to my Prince during one of our walks and it occurred to me that I must make a choice-ministry or family. Now, being raised by a single mom myself I can attest to a small portion that it is a full time, highly respectable ministry. And I still believe stay at home mothers are a necessity for a time in a child's life. However, I had hoped to have both family and ministry. It is possible, but at different times at different callings. So for now, I've made my choice. I will go against the grain that is set here and fight against the evil one for the hearts of the broken in Africa. And I will not go forth alone, for I am engaged to my Prince. And until He allows the perfect man to cut in, we will dance the night away!!

Now for a brief update of happenings.....

-Went jogging yesterday for the first time since I've been here-and let me tell you, there is something amazing about jogging while surrounded by monkeys!!

-The bfast on saturday was wonderful to connect with ladies here and they even have a weekly Bible study which I hope to join.

-I continue to connect with our neighbors-the family of 10! We went to the pool on Monday and hope to visit the snake park and the zoo in the coming weeks.

-I'm hoping to finish one of my curriculums today now that internet is back on. I will be teaching on body changes and puberty to a girls boarding school at their request-they are not taught this in any health class or by their mothers!

-Last night was a bit of an adventure-there are huge bugs which for the past week have been climbing on our windows every night. Brent and Virginia have never seen them before so maybe I brought them in?!? Anyway, last night I was sitting at the table reading when all of a sudden one got in the house and hit my arm. Yep, I screamed. Well apparently there is a hole between the window and the wall-never noticed before-and before we knew it, there were 9 in the house! Brave and courageous Virginia battled and killed them all!! I then headed outside to give our guard some dinner-still skittish from the bugs- and a lizard fell on my head! This time I was at least able to control the scream. A bit later, as we were headed to bed, Virginia went into the kitchen for a snack and found a huge cockroach on our counter......I said I'm going to crawl into my mosquito net and not leave until morning! haha, we had a lot of laughs!

And to leave you with a verse of inspiration-

"Yet I will show Love to the house of Judah; and I will save them-not by bow, sword or battle, or by horses and horsemen, but by the Lord their God." Hosea 1:7

This verse reminds me that it is not our call to save, but to Love and allow the Lord to do the saving. We must not battle to save the hearts and minds with a bow, but with Love in our hearts. That is the true enemy of the evil one!!

Life in Africa

2010-06-29T03:51:00.000-07:00

One of the processes the Lord is teaching me right now is patience and flexibility. In Africa, everything takes its own time and happens in its own way. This is what I've heard and seen a small amount of. I arrived in Entebbe on Friday morning and so far, life has not been much different for me. I am now settled into my room with my pictures on the wall and I'm getting used to living with a family. Sunday church was wonderful. I ran into many friends I met last summer and it was very encouraging that some of them remembered me. They call me "nurse kelly", not much different from Ika in the States calling me "Dr. kelly", but I prefer nurse-less responsibility! I also have been making a few connections for work here while I am trying to get to Kapchorwa. As I said, everything in Africa takes its own time. So while here in Entebbe, I am trying to get some projects under my belt. I spoke with Pastor Sharon at church and she was enthusiastic about me jumping on board to help teach the children's ministry. I have also learned that Osanidde Orphanage is thinking I will be able to fill a vacancy for medical personnel. I'm in the works of making connections up north for my work against FGM, but in the mean time, I plan to stay busy as well. Overall, these first few days in Africa have been wonderful, restful and filled with an even more intimate level of Love from my Prince than I ever imagined. It has been encouraging connecting with so many of you back in the States via facebook and email, so please continue!! It has been so much fun being introduced into the Earwicker family. Various events have included a MacGyver night, building a fort out of mattresses, backflips and trust falls on mattresses and playing with two such adorable little ones! The Lord continues to urge me to be patient and flexible to His timing and plan for my life. Thank you for encouraging me and praying for me as I work to show the Love of the King to Africa.

My first sunset living in Africa

Africa the Beautiful!

2010-06-27T13:59:00.000-07:00

Well, its now official: I've moved to Africa! I'm here and settled into my new room with my new "family". In fact tonight I was inducted into the wonderful world of MacGyver, a weekly household tradition, haha. I only have battery power for a bit longer so this will be short. Hopefully tomorrow we will have power like we did today and I will be able to put up a longer post. But I've made it here safely, as did all of my luggage-I have some pretty amazing friends who are incredible packers!! I love you all and so far the thing I miss the most are hugs!! So the next time you see me.... I expect lots of them!

London baby!!!

2010-06-23T02:41:00.000-07:00

Wow, well if I know one thing in my life its that Jesus loves to surprise me...and spoil me! I have been in London now for about five days and today will be the first day of sightseeing. Not exactly what I had expected, but it has been a wonderful five days all the same. The first two days I spent lying in bed or sitting in a park close to my hotel because I was sick and exhausted. Monday and Tuesday were then spent in quiet meditation of what I am here for and why I am here. My King has used this time to remind me that I am His princess and that I will never be alone. He has Blessed me immensely these past few days with much needed Rest, the training I came for and a heart ready to invade. I have been so blessed by your emails, comments on the blog and facebook. Please keep them up. It is so encouraging seeing you stay in touch with me! Today I am heading to central London to enjoy some of the sights-yes, Beaver is coming with me! ;-) Then tonight I am heading to Wales to see a dear friend for the day. Then, all comes to a climax as Thursday night I will board a plane for the final leg of this journey, but it is far from over. I will land in Uganda about 745am and begin this next adventure for my King. Please continue to pray for me, as I will for you! I love and miss you all!!

Africa Eve!!!

2010-06-16T06:00:00.001-07:00

Wow, well its about 6am the morning before I begin a brand new adventure for the Lord and ...wow! It has been crazy wonderful looking back over the past five years since He first called me to Africa to see His perfect timing. Even just in this last year since I was there my first time I can see His Hand guiding me through a year of training-spiritually and emotionally. It has been a wonderful reminder that He is not only in control, but knows what He's doing! Lessons I have learned this past year have been so necessary. To name a few- 1.timing is the Lords! I am ready when He says I am ready-not before and not after. 2.Never fully rely on anyone but Him! Trust Him, believe in Him, walk with Him. The Church, your family, your friends will waver, but He never will! 3.You will not be ready for all attacks! That's why you are to daily take up the breastplate, helmet and shoes. The sword and shield are for the attacks you see coming, the rest are for the ones you don't. All this to say: He has called, I have answered and in about 33hrs: "I'm leavin' on a jetplane. I don't know when I'll be back again!" ;-) Thank you for all the love and prayers. I will miss you all!!

Final countdown

2010-06-10T09:21:00.000-07:00

Well it's been a long time since I've been able to update. I was on a road trip around Oregon and into Northern California saying my "see ya laters" and much of that I was without internet access-practice for Africa! And now I'm on my final week here in the states. A few things I must ask-first please be in prayer for me during this final week. It has been an emotional trial letting go of people in my life whom I love. Each time I am reminded that they are in the Lord's Hands and I hopefully will see all of them again. Next I must ask for you all to take the lead on maintaining contact. Once I get over there and settled, I will try to set up a time where I will be on skype and I dearly hope you will take time to contact me and let me know what is going on in your life. I desire to maintain being a prayer warrior for you all but I will need to know specifically how to pray for you. I am so thankful to you all for your support in my life and in this cause the Lord has placed within my heart. I depart Thursday June 17th so please contact me if I have not had the opportunity to say goodbye-I honestly will probably not be able to contact everyone myself. I leave you with these two verses which have been on my heart recently:
"I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me-the task of testifying to the Gospel of God's Grace." Acts 20:24
This one I give to you:
"Look at the nations and watch-and be utterly amazed. for i am going to do something in your days that you would not believe, even if you were told." Habakkuk 1:5
Get ready to be amazed-for the Lord Almighty is invading satan's bedroom and is gonna be stealing back the hearts of little girls in Africa!! I love you all!

Jesus is Love made manifest

2010-05-26T13:51:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a dear friend of mine named Randy's birthday. Randy was one of those guys that had an addicting personality. You just wanted to hang out with him any chance you could. He always knew how to make you feel special-girls anyway! He was definitely a lady's man! Well, four years ago, Randy was killed in Iraq while serving our country and fighting for freedom of another country. The past four years I have not made it up to Willamette cemetery to see his gravestone. It was just too difficult for me. However, I made a promise to his family long ago that prior to me going to Africa, I would make it up there. So for Randy's birthday I upheld my promise. It was a very difficult afternoon, partially because so many more of the men I love continue to serve in this manner and there is a part of me that wonders if I will see them again on this earth. However, as I sat on the grass thinking of memories with Randy, the Lord impressed upon me things I have been learning recently. I began a study on Grace about a month ago and am currently re-reading A Violent Grace by Michael Card- a book I highly recommend. But one section of it he is telling a story about a soldier who sacrificed his life by jumping on a grenade to save his friend. He wrote that it was an amazing thought to know someone who had been died for. Then he realized "I was died for". And so were you. Jesus jumped on a grenade for you too. Let that resonate for a bit.... Grace is defined as receiving a gift you do not deserve and cannot repay or earn. Cheap grace as defined by Charles Spurgeon is "grace without the cross". This gift was not free. Just as freedom in this country is not free. My friend died to help maintain freedom for America and stretch that freedom to the people of Iraq. My Lord died to offer you a freedom better than what is represented in America. My Lord died to offer you Life. Not a life abundant here on earth, but a Life in Him filled with Love, Peace and Purpose. He suffered and died a horrifying death just to offer this to you. Many won't take it. Many will scoff and say he never existed. Many will come up with excuses of why does a good God allow horrible things to happen. Yet with every question and doubt, He looks on you with Love and tears requesting you to give Him a chance to show Himself to you. I will end with another Charles Spurgeon quote: "If you reject Him, He answers you with tears. If you wound Him, He bleeds out cleansing. If you kill Him, He dies to redeem. If you bury Him, He rises again to bring resurrection." How will you respond at the base of the cross when the Lord looks into your eyes requesting you to receive His Love?

Whats going on inside?!?

2010-05-23T23:03:00.001-07:00

Throughout the past few weeks as more and more people are becoming aware of how soon I leave on this grand adventure I have been getting a lot of questions about what emotions I am dealing with. Now those of you that know me well, know that I am an extremely emotional woman who often times has difficulty handling my emotions. This has been one of the reasons it is difficult for me to explain the emotions I am going through during this final stage of preparation. However, here is my best shot. One of the most common questions I have received has been regarding being scared or nervous about what I am about to do. Well, that question is mostly directed at if I'm scared about the idea of living in Africa with the wars or the snakes or spiders. There is definitely fear regarding those things, however the Lord gave me a brain to be wise in dealing with my personal safety and He created large sticks, dogs and taught us how to create guns in dealing with spiders and snakes! There is definitely anxiety over the unknown of what will happen as I disembark the plane in Entebbe, however the Lord also gave me a vast sense of adventure with which I have begun to look at all things in life. Having said this, I must say there is still fear and anxiety that I am unsure with what to do with during this period of time. That is a fear and anxiety of being forgotten. Will my friends or family forget me? Not forever, but for the little things. Will my friends forget to tell me they've gotten the new job? Will they forget to tell me they're getting married or expecting a child? This is my fear as I prepare to depart. As a "quote collector" I know there are many pillows stitched with sayings such as "some people come and go, but others leave marks on our hearts...." That does not make this idea any easier however. This fear of being forgotten ends with all of you. For years I have been known as the "one who stays connected with everyone" or "the one who brings everyone together". That will no longer be my role. Due to the lack of connection to the states I will step back from being able to be the main connector in relationships around me and I will rely heavily on all of you to remain in contact. That, nearly above all else is my fear. I do not wish to lose contact with any of you, but I know it is inevitable with some of you. So that is the fear and anxiety which is in my heart during these last few weeks. That is why I am cherishing every moment I have with you in the here and now. Because now is all I may have of you.

Why would a 24 yr old white American young woman move to Africa?!?

2010-05-15T10:58:00.000-07:00

I pray this letter finds you well and filled with peace and joy. It has been a difficult few months as my longing to return to Africa only increases with each day. However, the Lord has been keeping me busy loving His Kingdom in Bend, OR. I am encouraged when I write this letter because He continues to give me the call to fulfill my purpose in Africa, loving girls affected by the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM). I’d like to tell you a little about FGM. Our human nature causes us to want to avoid topics such as this, but slavery ended in the US only because awareness was raised and those who thought it unjust rose up and fought against it. I desire to help end a similar torture of our day, so I am beginning by raising awareness as well. · FGM comprises all procedures that involve partial or total removal of the external female genitalia for non-medical reasons. · Currently, according to the World Health Organization, 3 million girls are at risk for FGM annually in Africa alone. This number is staggering. · FGM is a practice that occurs all over the world, even here in America. It is a practice which is believed to have begun in Egypt 2,000 years ago to ensure women would not have relations outside of marraige. · Today, the practice continues as a right of passage for a girl to become a woman as well as to ensure monogamy. This right of passage traditionally occurs when a girl is between infancy and 15 years of age, and is done without anesthesia. The practice is done without a heed for a sterile environment; often multiple girls are done with the same tool causing HIV to spread easily. Common risks of FGM include severe blood loss, infection, lack of sexual pleasure, difficulty in childbirth and death. If you would like to learn more regarding FGM and how it affects girls worldwide, please visit http://www.fgmnetwork.org/. I understand this is a topic most would like to avoid, but I can avoid it no longer. I have a calling on my life to do all that I can to stop this practice. That is why; in a few months I will be flying to Africa with a one-way ticket to fulfill this call on my heart. Now, more than ever before, I need your help. Young girls in Africa need your help. This practice will not end overnight, nor will it end with my efforts alone, but I refuse to stand by and do nothing. I pray you will rise up with me and help end one of the injustices of our day. I’m asking you to partner with me in this cause. While I am in the process of learning how I will specifically serve the cause against FGM there are a few projects in which I have already become involved. First, I will be aiding the children's ministry at Life Church in Kampala, Uganda. They are in desperate need of children's leaders and I desire to serve the local church where I will be living. Second, I hope to serve at Osanidde Orphanage home to 163 orphans from the islands of Lake Victoria. Lastly, there is a children's prison located outside of Kampala in which I will be aiding some medical workers from Life Church with their traveling medical clinic. If you would like more information on any of these projects please go to my website (see below) or email me. When I move to Africa, I will need three things. First, I will need prayer partners. I will be invading Satan’s backyard with the full force of our Lord and will need people backing me up with prayer. Second, I will need one time financial supporters to raise $2000 for my initial travel expenses. And finally, I will need a steady monthly support base of $500 and I would like you to take part in that. Whatever amount the Lord places on your heart, I ask that you set it aside to dedicate a sacrifice to help sexually mutilated girls. If you feel a call to give, you can either pay online by clicking on the "Involvement" page or by mailing a check made out to The Cause with "Living sacrifice" on the memo line to 365 NE Greenwood Ave #1 Bend, OR 97701. I thank you in advance for your sacrifice, whether it is time in prayer or financial support. FGM is a cause of our day. Just like slavery, it will be stopped and you can have a part in it. Please be in prayer for me during this time of preparation. I look forward to your response and partnership.
In His Loving Hands,
Kelly Rompel

Lost

2010-05-12T21:56:00.000-07:00

One thing I've learned these last few months of preparation for Africa is that every moment counts. Not to become melodramatic, but I may never come back. Whether that means I finally get to go Home to meet my Prince, or He sends me to the ends of the earth to live out my days; I may never come back. Being in this mindset has helped me hold dear these last days I have in America before I depart. Now, I truly hope to return and I have no intention of purposely not returning, but all in the Lord's Hands and Will. In saying all of this, one of the hardest parts of leaving has been interacting with those around me who may be lost on the idea that I may never return. I know its not a happy subject, however it is the one the Lord has chosen to lay on my heart these past few days. I read a quote a while back regarding a longing for another person. "The worst way to miss someone is when they are right next to you." How true this is! I have no doubt I will miss all of my friends and family when I am in Africa. But what has become even more true to me is the fact that even while I am still in America, there are people I am missing. I am missing them even though they are only miles away. I am missing them even though I see them often. So now what of that? All I can know is that I will rest in knowing the Lord never desires a relationship to end but instead become built up and glorify Him. So that is what I will hold to; that someday, the lost will be found in this relationship. So help me treasure these times, in your relationship with me and all those in your heart. For we never know when the Lord will call us Home...or you to Africa.

Security

2010-05-06T11:23:00.000-07:00

Well it's official. I gave my notice at work and my last day is May 22nd. Wow, Uganda is coming fast! Giving up my job has been a difficult process. A job ensures security and status in our culture. I have given that up and its kind of scary. In the state of our economy losing work is a very difficult thing. I will be stepping into a lifestyle of living off others' donations for the work I will do in Africa. This is not the first step in trusting the Lord with my security, but it is a major one. I'm so thankful that I have the support of all those choosing to unite with me in the cause of Love for young girls in Africa. I think its just a piece of this whole picture the Lord is drawing for my life and you have joined in it with me. Whether its by sacrificing time for prayer, time for a visit ;-), or by writing a check either once or monthly, you are giving up some of your own security for the Lord's work as well. You are helping prepare the world for the coming of the Lord by making these sacrifices and Loving these girls. I thank you for partnering with me in this project and for making those sacrifices with me. Lets all see what the Lord does through our sacrifice!!

Africa awareness and pledge night

2010-05-01T15:10:00.001-07:00

I'm moving to Africa!!! ...You probably knew that! But either way come find out why and more specifically what I will be doing Sunday evening at Real Life Church at 6pm. I hope to see you there!!

The amazingness that is my Daddy

2010-04-29T09:08:00.001-07:00

All I can say about the last few days in Chicago is wow! The Lord blessed me in so many ways it took my breath away. Five years ago I spent the summer living on the south side of Chicago with 18 of the most incredible college students I've ever known, plus awesome staff members! Over the past few days I had the opportunity to reunite with some of them. What a blessing these people have had on my heart! Each one of them in their own unique way showed me the face of Jesus and His heart for the lost. Through this time I was able to reminisce over that summer so long ago as well as make some new friends-Tony if you read this know that I truly am moving to Africa and that I will be praying for you and your daughter. I'm so thankful for my Daddy knowing exactly what I need, when I need it! The past few months I have been struggling with feelings of isolation from those around me. Well over this weekend, through the amazing support of friends the Lord relieved all of those feelings of isolation. I'm so thankful to Him for recovering my heart and bringing it back to a place where I am joyous over this path regardless of what is around me. I also want to make mention of a wonderful ministry in Chicago called Emmaus. This is one of the most incredible ministries I have ever heard of and I want to encourage you to check out their website- http://www.streets.org/ Emmaus Ministries reaches out to men involved in sexual exploitation with the Love of Christ. Please check it out and unite with them in prayer.
I leave you with this note, I pray that you would have a new trust in the Lord's power and Love in your life. I pray that you would recognize His face in those around you and that you reach out to the lost with the compassion of Jesus Christ.

Going back

2010-04-24T07:20:00.001-07:00

For the next five days I have the huge privelege of walking around the streets of Chicago. Five years ago the Lord called me to this great city for inner-city ministry. I lived here for a summer spending my time sitting next to people who are homeless, playing with abused and neglected kids and hanging out with seniors. That was the summer that changed my life. So here I am; lost, confused and hurting regarding life so I've come back to the place where it all began. The place where the Lord grabbed my heart and turned compassion for the lost into a reality. Over the next few days I will be exploring not only this wonderful city, but also the walls within my own heart. I desire to return to that place where my heart couldn't make sense of what I was doing other than the fact that I was loving people. I urge you to remember that place in your own life. When was it that the Lord grabbed your heart with compassion for the lost?? Remember your heart and draw it forward. I can't wait to update when I return home to tell you all what the Lord has done while I am here! Please be praying that I will continue to hear the call and that through this time, my compassion for the hurting in Uganda only grows in intensity!

Dive in

2010-04-15T09:47:00.001-07:00

Wow, this has been an emotional couple of weeks-both high and low but all amazing. To explain I must go back a couple of weeks to Good Friday. My pastor held a "memorial service" for Jesus. He asked a couple people in the family to stand up during part of it and share the impact that Christ had on their life. The catch was that they were "playing" a character from the Bible. So Lazarus stood up, a Samaritan woman stood up and a couple others. I was blessed to take part in this as well. I became the woman who had been bleeding for 12 years and was healed by touching Jesus' cloak. Well I'm not a speech writer so when I'm asked to do public speaking I find it easier to know my topic and speak from my heart. So in this case, I read this woman's account in all four Gospels and tried to imagine what she was going through. In the process, I realized how much I could relate to this woman who out of desperation reached out for the healing of this man she had heard so much about. In light of this path the Lord took me down I want to encourage you to do the same. Choose a character from the Bible-it doesn't have to be from the Gospels, but a character you would not normally relate to and dive into their life. Then watch how they encounter the Lord and see how the Lord is drawing you near through their life. Be open to it and amazing things will happen.

Purpose

2010-04-04T14:18:00.001-07:00

This morning at church a dear friend of mine was asking about how I know for sure that Africa is my calling. I explained to her the process the Lord went through in bringing me to where I am and how Africa was specifically where He has called me to at this point in my life. But then later I began to think of a situation that occurred while I was in Uganda last summer which reinforced the Lord's call on my life. My team and I were on one of the Islands in Lake Victoria doing ministry in a village. I had an interpreter named Michael with me and the team leader Jay. As we moved through the village I looked to my right and about 30 yards away was a small hut just off the main path with a woman sitting at the front door. I felt the Lord tug at my heart to go and sit next to her and share my story with her. I began to argue saying Michael was going somewhere else and I wouldn't have a translator, but still I felt Him leading me to this woman. After a moment, I began to walk towards her and I sat down without saying anything at first. Then I introduced myself and began to share my story. This was difficult because typically I like to ask questions about the person and get to know them first. However the Lord was impressing on me to share myself with this woman. I began to specifically share some areas of heartache in my past which are normally rather difficult for me. As I began to do so, she became more engaged. I shared with her that through abuse in my life I came to realize just how amazing my Lord was in my life and that He alone would never hurt me and that I should put my trust in Him as opposed to man-even the Christian man. Her eyes began to water and slowly she began to cry. I placed my arm around her and began to explain my Prince's Love for her. She then began to share her own story. She had been a leader in the village church but left when she was abused by a fellow male church leader. It was in that moment sitting on a doorstep in a village in Lake Victoria, East Africa that I felt my purpose before me. In that moment, I knew that there was no better place for me to be. I look forward to many more moments like those as I plan to move back to Africa to Love women affected by various forms of abuse-primarily FGM. But I would like to impress on you that the Lord has a purpose in your life. It may not be Africa, although it might be :-), but there is someone in your community of living that needs an embrace, a smile, a prayer or even a kind word. Do not think that just because you are not in a foreign country you are not being used by the God Almighty. He is trying to use you every day, take advantage of your purpose!

Video

2010-03-25T10:41:00.000-07:00

I wanted to take this opportunity to explain the video on my home page. At first glance, its a few missionaries and Africans dancing. But at a closer look, the Gospel of the Lord Jesus was being shared through so many different outlets. First, the two gentlemen in the orange shirts run a futbol outreach to neighboring islands in Lake Victoria. Pastor Joash is the coach and he has his own team which travels and competes teens who live in the villages. Then one of the athletes shares their testimony. An amazing way for the Lord to work through engaging teens in sports! Some of the people in the background of the video played in this game. Most of them sat off the field and watched. A second look at the video which you must look very closely to see is the physical pain and need of healing in many of the children. While the futbol game was going on, I took the few medical supplies I had with me and tended to the hurting children. Through the Lord's wisdom and provision I mended the hurts of about 60 children. Lastly, the main theme of the video is dancing. To the African culture, dance means so much. It brings people together and turns strangers into neighbors by involving outsiders into their culture. In this case, the village was spread over 100 yards of a field. So when it came time to talk with them about the Lord, we needed something to bring them closer. Turn on some music and shake your booty and you've made a crowd from scatter. We were able to speak with people on a much more intimate level through the art of dance. So many ways for the Lord to speak through actions and Love!

FGM update

2010-03-19T15:41:00.001-07:00

I have received wonderful emails, phone calls and conversations from friends regarding the cause of FGM. I am so thankful to the people in my life wanting to get involved in this cause. I do have some sad news to relay. I'm doubtful you are aware of this situation as it has not received much national attention, but a case of FGM has been found here in the US. This is not the first time this has happened by any means, however it has been a while. A woman in Georgia was arrested last week for mutilating her daughter when she was five months old. This is a devastating story, however when more people read it and become alive with love for those affected, FGM will end. Please read this story and get involved with stopping this horrible practice. http://fgmnetwork.org/news/show_news.php?subaction=showfull&id=1268935417&archive=&template=

Support Letter

2010-03-17T15:36:00.000-07:00

I pray this letter finds you well and filled with peace and joy. It has been a difficult few months as my longing to return to Africa only increases with each day. However, the Lord has been keeping me busy loving His Kingdom in Bend, OR. I am encouraged when I write this letter because He continues to give me the call to fulfill my purpose in Africa, loving girls affected by the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM).
I’d like to tell you a little about FGM. Our human nature causes us to want to avoid topics such as this, but slavery ended in the US only because awareness was raised and those who thought it unjust rose up and fought against it. I desire to help end a similar torture of our day, so I am beginning by raising awareness as well.

· FGM comprises all procedures that involve partial or total removal of the external female genitalia for non-medical reasons.
· Currently, according to the World Health Organization, 3 million girls are at risk for FGM annually in Africa alone. This number is staggering.
· FGM is a practice that occurs all over the world, even here in America. It is a practice which is believed to have begun in Egypt 2,000 years ago to ensure women would not have relations outside of marraige.
· Today, the practice continues as a right of passage for a girl to become a woman as well as to ensure monogamy. This right of passage traditionally occurs when a girl is between infancy and 15 years of age, and is done without anesthesia. The practice is done without a heed for a sterile environment; often multiple girls are done with the same tool causing HIV to spread easily. Common risks of FGM include severe blood loss, infection, lack of sexual pleasure, difficulty in childbirth and death. If you would like to learn more regarding FGM and how it affects girls worldwide, please visit www.fgmnetwork.org.

I understand this is a topic most would like to avoid, but I can avoid it no longer. I have a calling on my life to do all that I can to stop this practice. That is why; in a few months I will be flying to Africa with a one-way ticket to fulfill this call on my heart. Now, more than ever before, I need your help. Young girls in Africa need your help. This practice will not end overnight, nor will it end with my efforts alone, but I refuse to stand by and do nothing. I pray you will rise up with me and help end one of the injustices of our day. I’m asking you to partner with me in this cause.
While I am in the process of learning how I will specifically serve the cause against FGM there are a few projects in which I have already become involved. First, I will be aiding the children's ministry at Life Church in Kampala, Uganda. They are in desperate need of children's leaders and I desire to serve the local church where I will be living. Second, I hope to serve at Osanidde Orphanage home to 163 orphans from the islands of Lake Victoria. Lastly, there is a children's prison located outside of Kampala in which I will be aiding some medical workers from Life Church with their traveling medical clinic. If you would like more information on any of these projects please go to my website (see below) or email me.
When I move to Africa, I will need three things. First, I will need prayer partners. I will be invading Satan’s backyard with the full force of our Lord and will need people backing me up with prayer. Second, I will need one time financial supporters to raise $2000 for my initial travel expenses. And finally, I will need a steady monthly support base of $500 and I would like you to take part in that. Whatever amount the Lord places on your heart, I ask that you set it aside to dedicate a sacrifice to help sexually mutilated girls. Please fill out the information card I have included and return it in the stamped envelope with your response.
I thank you in advance for your sacrifice, whether it is time in prayer or financial support. FGM is a cause of our day. Just like slavery, it will be stopped and you can have a part in it. Please be in prayer for me during this time of preparation. I look forward to your response and partnership.

In His Loving Hands,

Kelly Rompel

Website and Africa update!

2010-03-15T15:33:00.000-07:00

So I have a website up and running now!!! Woo hoo! Here is the link for it: http://kellyrompel.com/ I know, tough to remember! There is a blog portion through the website which will pull straight from blogspot so this post will appear but now you can go to my website to get updates through pictures and video of my adventures while I am gone. The website is also complete with more detail regarding projects I am working on as well as ways to get involved. Also, for an Africa update, last week I phoned my travel agent to start figuring out dates and prices for a plane ticket! Please be in prayer as plans are coming for purchasing the ticket. If you would like to help out check the website page "donate". Thank you for your prayers and support!

What are you trading and is it worth it?

2010-03-05T12:45:00.000-08:00

The Thursday morning Bible study I attend struck my heart in a new way this week. We are working our way through Genesis, currently in chapter 25:19-34. This chapter is filled with so many Truths but I was impacted by one towards the end of the story. It is about Jacob and Esau waring against each other and Jacob deceives Esau into giving up his birthright. Now in the culture in that day, a son's birthright was everything. It was the most important thing. Esau had been out hunting and was "famished". He comes home to find Jacob has been cooking a stew. In return for some stew, Jacob demands Esau's birthright. Esau was so hungry, that he agrees. Now the applicability to my life is I have been given, by birthright into the family of God, intimacy through Jesus Christ. Satan comes at me daily with temptations to trade that intimacy in for something much less perfect. If we had a ten second period where when presented with a temptation we would stare into the eyes of Jesus, I believe we would resist many more dangers around us. When we commit to a sin, do we realize we are trading our birthright in for lentil stew? Try, the next time that Satan presents you with an opportunity against the will of the Lord, to think about the face of Jesus on Calvary and realize the price He paid for that intimacy. Then realize that even if you commit to that sin, He will climb right up on that cross to ensure you know that you are worth it. Don't ever become so spiritually famished that you would trade your birthright for lentil stew.
Lord please remind me each day how precious a gift I have received in the intimacy of our relationship. Continue to Love me in a way that only You know how. Give me the strength I need to resist the devil's attempts to ruin our relationship. Thank you for always being with me regardless of the things I do.

Where have you been?

2010-02-27T16:37:00.000-08:00

Last night I watched the movie Pursuit of Happyness with Will Smith. If you haven't seen it then don't read this post as I am giving away the ending. That movie affects my heart in different ways each time. And I also find myself emotional at different scenes each time. As I was finishing the movie though I began to think of trials that the Lord has brought me through. Many scenes in that movie I can relate to quite well and it always moves me. However as I watched it last night one scene in particular hit me hard. It was when Chris finds out he has been accepted for the position as a stock broker. The look on his face is what hit me. That moment when you realize that from now on, things are going to be better. Not great, and not without hardship but that moment when you realize that your past was worth it. Think back on times of trials in your life. Those times when you truly felt alone and lost. Then think back to that first moment when whatever it was became resolved. That first time you took a full breath of fresh air. Sometimes I think that is what Heaven will be like. That moment when we realize, yeah, that was all worth it and we take our first breath of Heavenly air. Those moments do not come however without the heartache. So think back and remember those times, but be sure the memory ends with the breath.

Daily Devotion

2010-02-21T12:10:00.000-08:00

Ah, so today my devotion is on the passage found in Numbers 9-now if you've ever read through the old testament you may agree with me that Numbers is one of those books that you have to skim through quickly in order to get past all the names that no one can pronounce. However, I have found that today it is speaking to my heart with the same clarity as if Jesus was speaking it to me by physically standing before me. So I encourage you to turn to this passage and specifically verses 15-23. It is entitled in today's Bibles "The Cloud Above the Tabernacle". Now many times in scripture the Lord manifests Himself in a Cloud. This is an example of how He tangibly reaches us in our world, in our life to show us He is there. The Israelites were in the desert following the direction of this Cloud. At times, the Cloud rested upon the tabernacle. This relayed to the Israelites that they were to stay encamped. When the Cloud rose above, the Israelites were to move out. At this point in my life with a huge change happening sometime in the near future I find myself looking for the Cloud of the Lord to rise from my Tent. But for right now, I see it is fully rested upon where I am right now. Continuing on in the passage is states that sometimes the Cloud rested for two days and sometimes a year. They never knew how long it would be so they always had to be prepared to move but also be prepared for what the Lord had for them there. So often in my life, and I see this in the lives of others, I am looking forward to some event in the future. We are taught to be prepared for what is coming through school, work and in the Church. Yet how often do we focus on where we are now? How often do we recognize that the person sitting next to us on the bus, or in the next cubicle at work needs a positive word- or even a smile. Right now where you are, the Lord may have His Cloud resting upon your tent. Are you sitting outside watching, waiting for it to rise? Or are you taking advantage of being where you are to engage with those around you? Be continually aware of the Lord's Cloud in your life. Do not be stuck in a mentality of constantly waiting for it to move and also do not be stuck in where you are. Be flexible when it comes to the Lord's call on your life-I can guarantee you it will blow your mind so whether you are waiting for it or not, it will surprise you!

Moving forward

2010-02-14T14:59:00.001-08:00

As I continue taking steps towards moving to Africa I constantly run into opposition from friends and family. This is difficult to take in at times. I pray that I would have those closest to me by my side encouraging me as I take this step in following the Lord's will in my life, yet as of this moment it is not there. Today my devotion is taken from Acts chapter 21 when Paul is on his way to Jerusalem and finds opposition in the minds and hearts of the people in Caesarea. One man even prophesied that Paul will be bound and handed over to be arrested. When I use this story to learn something of my own life I wonder what will happen to me in Africa. There is no way of knowing. All I can do is love those around me who are in opposition and reply as Paul did-"Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus." Or in another translation- "The issue in Jerusalem is not what they do to me, whether arrest or murder; but what the Master Jesus does through my obedience. Can't you see that?" Then I can only pray that the response of my friends and family will be as those in Caesarea- "The Lord's will be done."

Ponder this statement in your own life. Fill in the blanks with your fear. Let us move forward together as Paul did and allow the Glory of God be rewarded!
"The issue in _______ is not what they do to me, whether arrest or murder or ridicule me or __________ me; but what the Master Jesus does through my obedience. Can't you see that?"

Letters

2010-02-11T17:49:00.000-08:00

I am getting ready to send out letters regarding my return to Africa. If you would like to be informed and involved, please email me your mailing address. Thank you for your support!
livingsacrifice12@gmail.com

Trust

2010-02-10T16:55:00.000-08:00

In light of all that has happened in the past two weeks-preparing and having surgery- I wanted to elaborate on some of the feelings I have been having. One thing I have noticed ever since returning from Africa last summer is that every battle which has crossed my path I can tangibly see how I am gaining necessary tools for my return to Africa. So, not that this latest battle has come to a close I find myself re-evaluating my battle experience. In this case, I found it a case of trust. I have been battling this physical ailment for around 6 years and I was always too scared to speak with my King about it. I knew He is an all powerful, all loving God but I also knew He allows certain events to occur that we might learn from them. However, I have used the latter to have a distrust in Him. I spend too much time worrying about what He may or may not allow instead of truly trusting Him to bring me through whatever happens. Also there has been a level of doubt in His Love for me. As He allows bad things to occur in my life I struggle with why He can't teach me these lessons in any other manner than the way He chooses. Yet, repeatedly, He reassures me that He is madly, never ending, in love with me. He has been carrying me these past difficult 6 years. Gently trying to urge me closer to Him. And now, in just the right moment He has proved yet again that He truly has my best interest in mind. I encourage you all to try to see His Love for each of you through the battles you are facing. Someday down the road, you will need the tools you are gaining from this trial. And through it all, our King knows whats best and He is forever guiding us down that path.

Surgery results

2010-02-08T18:07:00.000-08:00

Praise the Lord! Hallelujah!! Results are in and they are great. I am recovering and healing well-slow but well. Thank you for the prayers-I truly felt them all!

Travels

2010-02-02T09:53:00.000-08:00

This past weekend I traveled to a small rural town in northern California to visit my roommate from college. She has become involved with one of the churches and each time I visit, I am amazed at the beauty in this family of believers. This church knows how to be a home to the lost and broken by accepting people where they are and welcoming all who enter. I began to ask myself, how often do I properly portray the presence of the Lord who is within me? How often do I instead judge the person in front of me? If we are truly God's workmanship, His hands and His feet, should we not be living out His commands and desires? Let us look on others with the Love of the Lord- as the Church is called to do. Let us listen to their pain without feeling superior. And above all else, God help us to truly understand how You view us-with unconditional Love. Because until we do that, we cannot show that Love towards others.

Wow, He is amazing!

2010-01-29T11:48:00.001-08:00

So this was just too cool not to share. In my last post I shared about having two surgeries next week. It has been a difficult time working through this process. Well, the Lord heard the pain from my heart and answered so wonderfully. I just received a text from a friend who does not know what I have been going through. It stated: "How ironic! God has seen you struggling (with something). God says its over. A blessing is coming your way. Please don't ignore you are being tested. A blessing is coming to you in the form of a new job, a house, marriage or financially." Wow, so maybe ironic....I believe the Lord new what I needed to hear. Along with that, my verse of the day today is found in Exodus and it speaks directly to what my surgery is affecting. It denies the presence of uncertainties tied with the surgery. The Lord works in mysterious ways!!

Prayer needs

2010-01-28T15:37:00.000-08:00

So things are moving along wonderfully for heading back. I recently found that I will be able to purchase a one-way ticket to Africa instead of paying extra for a one year ticket and then paying to extend. It has been a total blessing from the Lord! I am learning more ministries fighting FGM are all over the world and they even offer training for advocating against the practice. I am in the investigating stages of becoming more prepared for my departure. Right now, I have an immediate request for prayer. First, one of the shepherd's of my church has fallen ill. He is currently in the hospital for the second time this month. Please be in prayer for wisdom of the doctor's to discover what is wrong and pray that he will be healed through the Power of the Lord. Second, I am in need of healing as well. I am unable to share many details, however I will be having two surgeries next week. Please pray for peace of mind and heart as well as quick healing. Thank you all for your support. It truly means alot to me!

Never Alone

2010-01-21T20:05:00.000-08:00

I heard a song on the radio today which in years past has meant a lot to me. The song is Never Alone by Barlow Girl: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Do1RGCt1GDA&feature=related . It is a beautiful song which describes crying out to the Lord and not hearing a reply. I think too often this is thought of as poor faith or not truly listening. I disagree. Sure, sometimes that may be the case. However I believe that sometimes God remains silent that we might gain more trust in the unseen. In my history of apologetic study I have been asked multiple times to prove the person of Jesus Christ. People's response to my simple "I can't" is always of surprise. Christians cannot prove Jesus Christ is the Creator God who came and died to renew a relationship with us which was broken by sin. We can however gain knowledge beyond reasonable doubt of this belief. And this song illustrates it beautifully. Sometimes, it must be more than a feeling-as it is in all our relationships. Think about your parents, your children or your spouse. At one point or another, you do not feel loved by them. Only is it in the quietness of your mind can you know that they do. We must learn to deny our doubts and trust in the knowledge of who Christ is. That even when we do not hear or feel Him, He is always there and we are never alone.

All this and Jesus too!

2010-01-17T17:05:00.000-08:00

Ah, I am loving coffee shops. Many of my great moments have been in coffee shops recently. I just had the opportunity of sitting with a friend and we had wonderful fellowship. He opened up about his need for a home, a sense of somewhere you belong. I was blessed many years ago of being homeless. Now, most would not think this is a blessing, but I beg to differ. First, it was a short period of time and I had loved ones around me which I know made my experience easier than most in the same situation. But this brought me into today's meditation from my King. I'm still reading Max Lucado's book about Psalm 23 and today is about "thou shalt not want". Here is a passage which jumped out at me: "You have a God who hears you, the power of Love behind you, the Holy Spirit within you, and all of Heaven ahead of you. If you have the Shepherd, you have grace for every sin, direction for every turn, a candle for every corner, and an anchor for every storm. You have everything you need....What will you gain for your contentment? You may gain precious hours with your children. You may gain your self-respect. You may gain joy. You may gain the faith to say, 'The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.'" Wow, what a writing! What if, we all had the faith to say that and mean it? What if we could go out each day realizing 'I have everything I'm going to need today...and every day. It would be the end of greed, our need for success and competition. What a wonderful way to experience true life! We would be content where ever we go and what ever our environment. To truly rest in the Lord for our provision. This is what I pray for all of you. Trust in the Lord. Do it one day at a time and see what happens. Did I go hungry today? Did I have to sleep on the street? Do I have someone in my life I can turn to for a listening ear? Most have all this, and Jesus too! But, even if you answered yes to those questions as I have in my past...you still have Jesus. And each day, He will be there with you, loving you where you are at. So no matter what the circumstances in your life, I pray you trust in the Lord and do not want.

Bail water or settle the storm

2010-01-15T23:08:00.001-08:00

So I've begun sorting my belongs and yesterday I worked through my book collection. I decided on a few to take, a few to get rid of and a few to read prior to leaving. One of those is called Safe in the Shepherd's Arms by Max Lucado. He is one of my favorite authors and I had never read this book. Well the first chapter is describing what we as humans need in this life. We need a Yahweh. "Counselors can comfort you in the storm, but you need a God who can still the storm. Friends can hold your hand at your deathbed, but you need a Yahweh who has defeated the grave. Philosophers can debate the meaning of life, but you need a Lord who can declare the meaning of life." This reminds me of a sermon my pastor spoke on a few weeks ago regarding Jesus calming the storm. When the disciples in the boat woke Jesus up during the storm, they did not know His powers. They did not expect him to calm the storm-as evidenced by their reaction when He did. They were expecting Him to help them bail water. Instead, He removed the need to panic. How often in our lives do we ask Jesus to simply bail water instead of calming the storm. We worship the Almighty God who created the universe. We worship a God who can "place 100 billion stars in our galaxy and 100 billion galaxies in the universe... a God who can shape two fists of flesh into 75 to 100 billion nerve cells, each with as many as 10,000 connections to other nerve cells, place it in a skull, and call it a brain." This is who we worship. And this is who is sitting in Heaven simply desiring to show us how much He loves us. We must stop bailing water and go to the creator of the water for our source of comfort, peace and above all-removal of the storm. No more bailing water....my God is removing the storms.

Ah, the Armor

2010-01-13T22:21:00.000-08:00

So I'm going to branch away from my study-yes that I just started yesterday-to focus on a current issue in my life which has made me realize yet another wonderment of my Lord. He prepares me even when I don't realize it. Ephesians 6 discusses the Armor of God. Now many people, including non-believers are familiar with this passage at least from an existence standpoint. But, what is amazing to me is how intricate the detail. I've read this passage a hundred times, yet the Lord showed me something brand new in a battle I fought yesterday. Last night, a past evil came back to haunt me. I was thrown to the wolves by surprise. Yet, in the midst of it, I had a peace which I could not understand. And through it all Ephesians 6 has come to my heart. My King fitted me with a sword and a shield to battle those hits which I see coming. However, He also fitted me with a breastplate, helmet and feet fittings to battle those hits which come at me unawares. My King, who in complete sovereignty watches over me, ensures that even when I let my sword and shield down, that my heart is protected. Think back to the battles which you did not think you would win. The battles in which you saw no hope. Now, perhaps you did not feel peace or comfort in those moments, but I ask-Did you make it through? I did. I've made it through battles in which to this day I would still sometimes rather have died prior to fighting. But, always, I look back...and just that. My King has brought me through to the possibility of looking back. There is something greater to come, otherwise we wouldn't have made it. I visited a friend today who lost someone dear in her life. And when asked for justification a verse came to me. Ephesians 2:10-For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which He prepared in advance for us to do. To my friend in suffering and to all of you in suffering I say two things. First, God will protect us through both the battles we see coming and those we don't. And second, only when we have completed our good works of glorifying Christ Jesus our Creator, will He then take us Home-not because we lost the battle, but because the war has already been won!

He is the source of our Light-it is only our job to shine

2010-01-12T16:59:00.000-08:00

So I've been advised to update my blog more often in order to maintain my readers. So here goes. I'm doing a Bible study learning a new outlook towards missions and I hope to share with you what my thoughts are on the verses I've read. My dearest hope is that as you read the verse, you will meditate on it and see where the Lord takes you with your thoughts.
So Take 1: Matt 5:14-16
You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on a stand and give its light to everyone in the house. In the same way let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in Heaven.
My notes
-I must take the light You have given me of Your self and share it, beginning with where I am right now. It is my job to shine this light to those around me.
-You are the One who sustains the oil for my fire. And you never cut me short. It is not my job to worry about my oil supply or the oil supply of others. I only need to shine for You that others may be lit from my fire.
-I must have the good deeds that men might see them. Be always full of Grace and Love-two qualities which are rare in this world.
-Always direct everything to the Father. Do not direct praise to myself but make sure the praise goes to You-the source of my fire.

This is of huge encouragement. Often I find people asking me how I live a life of passion without getting exhausted. Well, the difference is where I find my passion. It comes straight from my Father. And it will never be drained because He is overflowing with passion for me, and for all of you. I pray you will look inside yourself and find the fire that He is burning inside you. And I pray you will recognize where it has come from and shine to the rest of the world!

Uganda recap...finally!

2009-12-16T18:22:00.000-08:00

So, I know this is a long time coming...but here it is!

I first want to thank you for all your prayers. I have been back from Africa for about three months and I continue to feel the strength of your words to our Lord. Thank you! This time has been filled with much reflection, diving into the character of my King and looking with anticipation to the future. But before I get ahead of myself, let me share with you just a small piece of Africa.

First arrival to Uganda was awe and wonder. It is a country of beauty, culture and hospitality. The Ugandan people are hungry for knowledge and thirsty for the Lord. Everywhere we went, we were followed by little ones calling out “muzungu!”- the Ugandan word for “white person”. We were welcomed into homes, fed amazing food and blessed by each person we came in contact with. I’d like to introduce you to one of the girls the Lord touched this summer due to your support.

Ruth is an average 11 year old girl. She has a shaved head to prevent disease, likely ringworm which is rampant in her neighborhood. Her neighborhood is also rampant with sexual promiscuity. Men work as pimps and women as prostitutes in order to survive. I first met Ruth on my third day in Uganda. Ruth does not have a home in our sense. She lives in a hut made of wood and metal scraps. Ruth was one of many children following me around as I shared Jesus
with her neighborhood. A couple days later, Ruth came to Life Church for the first time. As it came time to say goodbye, I gave her a hug, looked into her eyes, and told her she was beautiful. As I turned to leave, I felt her grab my hand and pull me to my knees. As I knelt I noticed tears in her eyes as she asked, “do you really think I’m beautiful?” As my own eyes began to well with tears, I hugged her once more and said, “Yes, I really do… and so does your Daddy. And because He is King, you are a princess.”

This is just one story from my four weeks stay in Uganda. This girl would not have received this message of the Love of Christ without your support, whether it be financial or through prayer. Countless more Ugandans need the Lord. Please continue praying over the next few months about what more you can do to serve. Perhaps you could even be called to go yourself. The Lord uses us all, beyond what we think we are made for! Ten years ago, I never thought I would go to Africa. And now, after hearing the Call, and seeing the need, I will be moving to Africa indefinitely. The details are still being considered, however I have been made ready by the Lord’s will and I am eager to return to the harvest set before me. Please continue to pray for me during this time of final preparation.
If you would like to give financially to support my return to tell lost souls in Africa of the Love of Christ, please do so by going to http://www.thecause.org/ and click on Donate. In the “For” column type “living sacrifice” which will ensure where the money is distributed.

Thank you again for your support through prayer and finances.
Daddy’s princess,

Ah, the peace from the presence of the Lord

2009-10-03T19:04:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to do a quick update on how things are going. I am doing research into ministries fighting against FGM in Africa. And there are a lot praise the Lord! Currently I would still like to work with REACH building a safehouse for the young girls, however I'm exploring other options as well. No word yet from my King as to who He desires me to settle with. I am still praying many details for my return to Uganda. Please continue to pray with me. The Peace from my Lord has been amazing this past week. I have had many attacks from the evil one yet my King has placed a shield of protection around His princess and I have been saved from harm many times. The presence of the Lord carries with it such a trustworthy Love that has engulfed my heart. It has been difficult these past two months trying to cope with those around me. Many have judged my war-torn spirit as a defeated spirit. But they are wrong. The Lord has allowed me rest and in that rest He has shown Himself to me as well as showing me who He desires to be for me. He has shown me His Spirit. It is not a Spirit of happiness of this world, but a Spirit of peace, perseverance and joy which comes only from Him. So please, do not judge my faith by the smile on my face. Instead, encourage me to continue following His path for my life as I will try to do the same for you! The Lord desires to be someone unique for all of us. Seek Him and you will find Him! I have no doubt of that.

My heart

2009-09-13T13:12:00.000-07:00

So I know its typical for people to put lyrics of songs onto a blog. But I wanted to share my heart and right now I think this song does it best. Thank you to all of you who are pointing me to the One who fills my brokenness with Himself.

Broken by Lifehouse

The broken clock is a comfort, it helps me sleep tonight
Maybe it can stop tomorrow from stealing all my time
And I am here still waiting though I still have my doubts
I am damaged at best, like you've already figured out

I'm falling apart, I'm barely breathing
With a broken heart that's still beating
In the pain there is healing
In your name I find meaning

The broken locks were a warning you got inside my head
I tried my best to be guarded, I'm an open book instead
And I still see your reflection inside of my eyes
That are looking for purpose, they're still looking for life

I'm falling apart, I'm barely breathing
With a broken heart that's still beating
In the pain there's the healing
In your name I find meaning
So I'm holdin' on,
I'm holdin' on,
I'm holdin' on
I'm barely holdin' on to you

I'm hanging on another day
Just to see what you will throw my way
And I'm hanging on to the words you say
You said that I would, would be ok

The broken lights on the freeway left me here alone
I may have lost my way now, haven't forgotten my way home

I'm falling apart, I'm barely breathing
With a broken heart that's still beating
In the pain there is healing
In your name I find meaning
So I'm holdin' on,
I'm holdin' on,
I'm holdin' on,
I'm barely holdin' on to you

I'm holdin' on
I'm holdin' on
I'm holdin' on
I'm barely holdin' on to you

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZXHYItXWqE

Calling all warriors

2009-09-01T22:57:00.001-07:00

Following my presentation, many people came up to me and expressed their envy of knowing my cause in life and how they so deeply wished they knew theirs. To those of you that feel this way, I say this. Your cause is found in the end of Matthew. The Lord gave each of us a calling in life which we must accomplish to find fulfillment in this life. Go into the world, tell about Jesus and make disciples. That is a call to each of us. Now I believe each person has a unique gift given them by which they accomplish this cause. But, in the mean time...just go tell about Jesus. Dive into the lives around you and love on people. We all have the same cause, we just carry it out differently. I did not know where and what exactly my King wanted with me until last summer. And it will still be a while before I am able to carry out that specific calling. However, that does not mean that I can sit back unable to fulfill anything until that time. His calling on my life in the great commission is just as strong on me here in america as it is in africa. I must not lose sight of that. I was amazed at the readiness and urgency Ugandans went about sharing the Love of Christ. They didn't wait more than 3 minutes after meeting someone before they were telling this new friend about the Savior of lost souls. I want to encourage you to do the same. We have but one life to help free those suffering in lives controlled by evil. We mustn't wait for the bright shining path. Walk forward in faith and carry your cross toward the King...and bring as many of us with you as possible. There are too many people in the world hurting for us to be hesitant about where and when we are supposed to live out a call in our life. Christ laid it out for us before He left. Begin your life now
Check out this song "Lost get Found" by Brit Nicole
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4GmLRTJq1w

Presentation

2009-08-24T14:26:00.000-07:00

I'm back! I just realized I haven't updated this since being back in the States. And this one will be quick. I am doing a presentation on my trip this coming Sunday Aug 30th at Real Life Christian Church off 27th St at 6pm. There will be worship for the first 30 minutes. There will be pictures, video and I will be speaking on my experiences. Please be advised that some topics will be graphic in nature due to some of the tortures which are taking place in Africa. These may not be suitable for children. I hope you are all able to come. I thank you all so much for your support in this mission!
Love and prayers

Home-ward bound...or is Africa my new Home Sweet Home??

2009-08-04T01:46:00.000-07:00

Well I am scheduled to leave Africa today...I say scheduled because my heart longs to stay. I've met so many wonderful people here and I do not want to leave. I feel Africa fulfills the verse saying the "the harvest is plentiful, yet the workers are few." I have loved every minute of my time here...with some of that cry laughing to get me through at times ;-). I thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your prayers. There were many times when I thought to myself, yep, I'm feeling those prayers of the saints right now cause there's no way I could do this without them! It is amazing to me the power of the Lord which He has shown me in a whole new way. And how much power in Him I have available if I will only have the courage to draw on it. He is mighty to save and I am in awe of His jealousy for His people!! That jealousy has been lived through me as He has empowered me to heal many, abolish demons and bring many into His kingdom! I can not wait to tell you all in more detail how truly Awesome our Lord is and has been these last few weeks!! I ask that you continue praying for me as I have many hours of travel ahead of me and even as I begin to be accustomed to life in America once again. I will update again soon when, as I keep saying here, I get my levels of discernment back. Again, thank you all for yours prayers, thoughts and support. You have united with my chazown and I am excited to tell you what the King of kings has done through us!

Cry-laughing

2009-07-31T06:23:00.000-07:00

So some of my friends know that when I get into crazy stressful times my bodies replies with this weird cry laughing. Its either I'm crying so hard I'm laughing, or I'm laughing so hard I'm crying. Well my new lovely friend Kelly (she's been Kelly 1 and I've been Kelly 2) has now experienced this weird phenomenon that is me. So I left for Kapchorwa on Wednesday, two days later than originally planned(I love Uganda time) and arrived there that evening. I was able to meet with Beatrice, the woman who directs REACH. She is an incredible warrior for our Lord. I was most welcomed by her and other members of REACH. To skip some details, the next day had some confusion and miscommunication but it ended with me learning much regarding REACH, FGM and Kapchorwa. I was able to meet many wonderful people and see some of the most beautiful scenery in Uganda! Kapchorwa is breathtaking and filled with every shade of green that God created. The adventure that was Kapchorwa ended with Kelly and I, thats weird every time I say it, climbing on a bus that arrived at our hotel at 3am. Kind of crazy...it was scheduled to be there at 4am. So anyway, I have arrived back in Entebbe safely, just woken up from a 4 hour nap and I'm ready to go again where ever the Lord directs me...which right now is looking like a children's prison. Please continue to pray for safety, good health, patience and boldness. I love you all and will see you soon.

Stephen and other members of REACH-I told you I would write and I did not want to break my promise. It was such a blessing from our Saviour to meet you all. I thank Him in my prayers for you daily and I pray against any struggles sent by the evil one. You have been instilled with the power that rose Jesus from the grave and are able to accomplish great things! I look forward with all my heart in hearing from you!

Calm between the chaos

2009-07-26T06:20:00.000-07:00

Hello! We have returned from Osanidde orphanage...without any of the kids I might add. We all wanted to take them with us in our boat but knowing our Lord is still with them gives us some peace. I thank you all for your prayers thus far. I have felt them...and needed more! So please keep praying! The spiritual attacks on the team, this country and myself have been intense. The evil one is hard at work for we are in his yard working for the King, taking back His people! The team has just left to return to the states. I will miss them all dearly! Tomorrow I head for Kapchorwa. There are many unanswered ?'s regarding the trip, including not having a set place/time to leave. So please many prayers for the details. It is a 6 1/2 hour drive and I do not know who is coming to get me. I'm just hoping they speak a little english so that I can make new friends! I will be up north for a week then flying out next Tuesday. I will be able to write once more when I get back to Entebbe before flying out. So please be in strong prayer this coming week. I love you all and I will see you soon!

On the road again...

2009-07-24T02:50:00.000-07:00

So I have a few minutes between Island missions. We left Kalangala this morning. We have made it through the few days safely with only a few of the team being ill. Thank you for your prayers. So much witchcraft and demonic forces! Please be praying for this Island. It was truly a miracle of Jesus Christ that we were able to minister there. Satan has such a strong hold on many people. But our Lord is so much stronger!!!! Please continue to pray for us. We head to Bussi Island in about an hour where Ossannide orphanage is. We will be there until Sunday when the team leaves. I hopefully will be able to do an update then as well before I leave for Kapchorwa on Monday. I do not plan to have internet access there so I will not be writing for a week after Sunday, if I can write then. I already do not want to leave this place. Much love and many prayers!

Happy Bday Africa Style!

2009-07-19T10:42:00.000-07:00

Wow, ok so many of you know I like my adventures... This one takes the cake. First some background on whats been going on the last few days. We had a worship conference at Brent's church in Kampala. It was amazing. So many people so eager to learn to play instruments, sing and sound board. What was more amazing was the overall theme was that to be a true worshiper, meant living a Godly life. Friday afternoon we went to a high school in Kampala. For the last few weeks they have been discussing sexual purity. We ran some worship then we kind of had a ?/answer panel for the kids. Their ages ranged from 10-19 years, boys and girls. I believe this two hour period of ministry has been one of the most impactful on my heart. The desperation in the children's faces when asking questions stunned me. They were so honest and hopeful that we carried the answer. Many were regarding their significant other wanted sex but they desired to stay pure. A couple however were very chilling when heard: "My girlfriends mother is asking me for sex, what should I do?" "Where did homosexuality come from and why?" "Why are you speaking against pornography when your country is the reason for it?" My heart wept for these children. It was a wonderful feeling to be able to pray over them and free them from their struggles in the name of the Lord. Yet so difficult when we had to leave and know they are battles these struggles mainly without any support system.

We ran worship for a youth rally Friday night where 25 adults and 15 kids came to know the Lord. I want to tell you about one of them. His name is Isaiah. He was walking by the rally(it was in the parking lot of the church) and he heard the name of Jesus in the song and he felt a voice inside him saying that if he went in, his life would never be the same. He walked up to our team leader Jay and another pastor for the church, Bosco. They asked him some general who are you ?'s and then asked if he had ever heard the Gospel. He said "the what?" And he asked to know about it. Jay was about to go up on stage and explain it and if he didn't understand following his message to come find him. Well, Jay did his message and then came the altar call. Isaiah came forward and is now a member of the army of the Lord!!! He came to church this morning and will be meeting with Bosco this week and has already been plugged into a Life Group! So amazing.

These are just a couple incredible things that have happened thus far. I wanted to tell you so you could know how to pray-both in praise for Isaiah and in needs for the children at the high school.

Ok, so the rest of my bday...after the youth rally we were on our way home in the van and we got a flat tire...I know right? Adventure, yay! Its pitch black and we couldn't find the spare...then, we couldn't find a jack. Well, the spare was found by some Ugandans who stopped to help us-only after we paid them but a jack was no where to be found. Oh and the spare was flat. Some of the team tried to get on a taxi, but they were all full(when I mean full I mean imagine cramming 30 people into a VW bus with four rows of seats). We tried using a citibus, but they tried to cheat us for money. Couldn't get ahold of Virginia on the cell phone to bring the jack. Finally an empty bus stopped and we ended up paying him for the rest of the seats so that he just drove us home instead of trying to pick up more passengers. Brent had gotten ahold of Virginia and she had gone to take the jack and tire pump to him. A short time later, at the house Brent and Virginia show up in the land rover...the battery had died cause the flashers were on so long. So they rested up a few minutes and then went back out with jumper cables to get the van. When we all got back and had a minute to sit down, out came Mama Janet with a bday cake!!! She had made it earlier for me and with all the commotion we hadn't had a chance to eat it yet. The team sang happy bday to me and it was wonderful. What made it the best bday ever was that a man who lives with Brent named Lawrence said he did not know how old he is. His parents died when he was two and he was raised in an orphanage. He said he thought he was early 20's. So...I now share my bday with this wonderful man Lawrence! We sang him happy bday even. It was incredible to be able to share this with him. And, he was basically the knight in shining armor that evening fixing the van and getting us home as well.

Well, we head off to the Islands tomorrow and will be gone until Sunday afternoon and then the team takes off and I'm on my own up to Kapchorwa! Prayers are so needed for energy, peace and bodily strength. We are all pretty wiped out and we head full speed into the enemy's front yard tomorrow. The Islands are filled with witch craft and Brent has said that satan fights back intensely every time he heads out there. I have felt all your prayers thus far and it means the world to me. Please comment on my stories so I can hear from you! Much love and I will write again hopefully before heading to Kapchorwa.

I have arrived!!!

2009-07-15T12:53:00.000-07:00

Wow! I have arrived! I am singing that to the tune of "I have survived"! In some ways that is how we feel. It was an amazing ride. Internet is sketch so I will update as much as I can while I have it. Only minor problems thus far-lost one team bag so please pray for its recovery. The Ugandan people here are amazing and so far they love us because in order to be loved all you must do is eat all their food-and Americans are good at that! And to all of you who laughed at Ethiopian Airlines-laugh no more! It was AMAZING! Incredible food and tons of it, soft blankets(I'm bringing one home ;-), wonderful service. Then last night we ate pizza on the beach of Lake Victoria and watched the sun set. Brent and Virginia have two german shepherds so I am falling in love with them as well as every little kid I've met thus far. Tomorrow we start doing ministry, we are running worship for a conference with Brent's church in Kampala for the next few days. And then Saturday I am hoping to visit a children's prison and help with a health clinic with some other medical people from his church. This children's prison is made up mostly of kids that are not law-breakers, they just have no where else to go. Pray for my heart that as it breaks for these children, I am able to love them more. So far only one very small spider and no, it did not fly! Yay! The weather has been good, pretty warm but not too hot. Its been fun cramming into a van that was made for 5 fewer people! Other prayer needs- a couple of the girls have gotten stomach flu's-nothing too major-no snouts or curly tails yet but they are very uncomfortable. Also pray for the conference. We are all working hard to learn Lugandan, with the faithful help of Lawrence-a man who lives at Brent's house but pray that we are able to reach many with the Love of Christ. I miss you all and I will try to update again, however internet is sketchy and next week I will be on the islands and there is no electricity or plumbing...pray for that too! I lift you all up in my daily prayers, that you will see the Love God has for you in Jesus Christ. He is there, waiting for you to accept His Love. And He will be there waiting until the end. I feel your prayers, they give me strength!

Africa Eve!!

2009-07-11T16:19:00.000-07:00

That's right!!!! Its the eve of the beginning of my Africa life adventure! My Saviour has been gracious in healing my heart in many ways. I just spent the night at one of my favorite places with my sister and a very dear life long friend, who is about to set out on her own amazing adventure. It was the perfect setting for healing and strengthening from my King. I have been rejuvinated and given much love to share with the Ugandan people. My heart is just that, to share the Love that is Jesus with those who are unaware of His presence. I feel ready, prepared and Loved as I embark on this call He has placed on my heart. There are many unknowns and crazy ideas in the works...but that I believe is part of following my Creator. I will trust Him with each step I take and He will guide me. While I am in Uganda I will update this blog as often as I can so please recheck to hear about current news and prayer needs. I will miss you all and I will be praying for you as well!

Please pray for:
Safe travels to Uganda and back
Good health and spirits
Boldness in loving the Ugandan people
Patience in serving others and our team
Open hearts in us and those we serve to hear Christ
Blessings on Brent, Virginia and Josiah for hosting us

"Finally, brothers, pray for us that the message of the Lord may sread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you. And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men, for not everyone has faith. But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen and protect you from the evil one. We have confidence in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we command. May the Lord direct your hearts into God's Love and Christ's perserverance."
2 Thessalonians 3:1-5

Broken Arrow

2009-07-07T14:53:00.001-07:00

So lately the arrows from Satan have been coming much faster and there has been more of them. I have five days until I embark on this new exciting adventure my Prince has called me upon and Satan is trying to dash my spirits. I cannot go into much detail but I have recently had some events occur which have distracted my heart from my Lord. My back has also decided to erupt in problems from my car accident in the last week and a half. I saw my doctor today and he is hopefully we can make it stop prior to my departure. I am reminded of my verse for my life during this last week. It has given me comfort in this time where it is much needed. "Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor...be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." I have repeated these words countless times in my head. His peace is never ending and I am dwelling on that. In these last days before I leave, please be in prayer that my heart, mind, body and spirit are no longer distracted by pain, sorrow and confusion. There is also a level of anxiety just over the whole trip. When I tell people what I am doing I have to smile because I think, wow I'm crazy to be doing this if I was on my own. Thank God I have Him as a travel partner! I am reminded each day that my Lord is standing before me carrying a bigger sword and shield than I. And only the arrows that He allows through will strike my shield. But He has shown me how to ensure they break off my shield and do not pierce my heart. So thank the Lord for those broken arrows which continue to teach me. I thank you all for your prayers. I will update once more prior to my leave and then as often as I can while there so that you can keep up on my adventures. I pray peace and comfort in your hearts and minds as you dive into your own God-given adventures.

"Hear, O Lord, and answer me, for I am poor and needy. Guard my life, for I am devoted to You. you are my God; save your servant who trusts in you. Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I call to you all day long. Bring joy to your servant, for to you, O Lord, I life up my soul. you are forgiving and good, O Lord, abounding in love to all who call to you. Hear my prayer O Lord; listen to my cry for mercy. In the day of my trouble I will call to you, for you will answer me. Among the gods there is none like you, O Lord; no deeds can compare with yours. All the nations you have made will come and worship before you, O Lord; they will bring glory to your name. For you are great and do marvelous deeds; you alone are God. Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. I will praise you, O Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever. For great is your love toward me; you have delevered me from the depths of the grave. The arrogant are attacking me, O God; a band of ruthless men seeks my life--men without regard for you. But you, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness. Turn to me and have mercy on me; grant your strength to your servant and save the son of your maidservant. Give me a sign of your goodness, that my enemies may see it and be put to shame, for you, O Lord, have helped me and comforted me." Psalm 86

13 days left

2009-06-29T10:22:00.000-07:00

Wow...Its coming soooo fast! I have 13 days before I jump on a plane for 22 hours. My excitement is growing, as is my anxiety. I do not feel worried or scared, but anxious as to this new adventure my Saviour has called me to. Financially, I am around $600 short but He has called and therefore He will provide through the generous gifts of His loyal saints. I thank you all who have given so selflessly! You are uniting with this cause and I will carry your love to Africa with me. My prayer needs include needing restful sleep, the rest of my finances and continued trust in the Lord.

"All things have been handed over to Me by My Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father; nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and anyone to whom the Son wills to reveal {Him.} "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.
"Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. "For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
Matthew 11:27-30

Abounding Love

2009-06-10T21:49:00.000-07:00

I am renewed with awe for my Saviour. Monday night I spoke about my anxiety regarding not having a travel partner for the first time. It was as if Christ wanted me to be honest and confess my struggle in order to stretch my trust in Him. Well, He has answered. The need for a travel partner up to Kapchorwa was due to the danger and uncertainty in traveling alone. I have just received an email stating that members from REACH will come to Kapchorwa and bring me there and take me back. God You are my God and You never cease to shower me with love! I also today found out that part of my vaccinations will be paid for by insurance so that I do not have that added cost onto my mission. His providence is never ceasing! I urge you to continue praying for this cause of Love for women in Uganda. There is short time until I will carry your love and prayers to them in person and I continue to thank you for your support. All my love to you!

"Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory and power for ever and ever. Amen!" 1 Peter 4:8-11

Team Africa

2009-06-09T09:06:00.000-07:00

Wow! Only 33 days left before I hop on a plane for about 20 hours and my dream comes true!! I have been amazed at the Love from my Lord. Not only has He saved me from a penalty of Death, He showers me with Love just because of who He is!! Last night I met once more with my team. They each bring a wonderful dynamic to the group and I can't wait to hear their stories and watch Christ work through them. We are getting our vaccinations this evening-thanks to a medical group in Bend we are getting them at cost! Praise Jesus! As Africa comes closer there are still so many unknowns-as I am learning happens alot in ministry! What an opportunity to trust in my Saviour more! I am still waiting on a travel partner to Kapchorwa for my last week and a half in Uganda. This has caused some anxiety in my heart which I am certain is not from the Lord. I know that His Will for me is to reach these women so I shall not worry. I will continue to update as things occur. Currently I am waiting to find out total cost for my last week and a half but without that added cost, I am short around $900. God will provide in all things! I thank you all for your support, prayers and love!
Please be praying about the following:
-Travel partner to Kapchorwa
-Peace regarding unknowns
-Financial support to come in
-Team Africa to come together as one body serving Christ

"Sing to Him a new song; play skillfully with a shout of joy. For the word of the Lord is upright, and all His work is done in faithfulness. He loves righteousness and justice; the earch is full of the loving kindness of the Lord. By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, and by the breath of His mouth all their host." Psalm 33:3-6

The dates are set!

2009-05-06T17:14:00.000-07:00

WooHoo! The dates are set for Africa this summer! I will be going with a group from Westside Church to Entebbe, East Africa from July 12th-Aug 4th. Oh please be in prayer against spiritual attacks, as well as my financial support to continue to come in. As soon as I get a trip itinerary set up with more specifically what I will be doing I will let you know. Praise Jesus!!

"Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; He rises to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for Him." Isaiah 30:18

The family of God is uniting!

2009-05-06T17:01:00.000-07:00

Oh my Prince is so amazing! Support has been coming in beautifully. Partnerships are being made all over the US. One of my requirements for love missions is having support from a home church. Well, I meet with my church elders this Sunday to discuss just that. However, I have had amazing support from other churches, some which I have never even attended. I was in Houston a few weeks ago and I met an associate pastor on my first day there. He shared his heart with me regarding ministry to those who are homeless. His church is currently working on building a men's shelter and they also help get employment for men and women that are homeless. It was such a wonderful opportunity to hear how our Lord is blessing the ministry through him. Well we exchanged addresses to keep in touch and I mailed him a support letter when I returned to Oregon. I also wrote that I just wanted to share my heart and what God is doing in my life. I was not expecting money from him. However, my God is bigger and more loving to just leave something unnoticed. I received a call Monday morning from Pastor Craig. He said he was so moved by my letter that he just had to call. He also said the head pastor of his church is from Nigeria and he would be discussing what their church could do to help support my chazown!!! I am so amazed at how the Lord is moving in so many different areas. And not only Texas! In a couple of weeks I will be flying to Florida to see a good friend-Greg I cant wait! While I am there I am going to attend his church. His church has decided this year that they would support a different missionary each month and I will have the privilege of presenting to them to gain their support as well. Not only that, but my roommate from college is attending a church in northern California who I feel homesick for actually. This church is the most welcoming, Christ-like atmosphere I have ever witnessed or been a part of. They will also be giving me support. Before I leave I will also be presenting to a couple of churches I attended in Corvallis while in college and churches here in Bend I have attended. Oh Lord to You I give all the glory and praise! Whether this support comes in the form of items to hand out to the women in need, money to get me there or prayer against spiritual attacks it is all blessings for the Lord. I thank you with all my heart!

"Therefore I am now going to allure her; I will lead her into the desert and speak tenderly to her." Hosea 2:14

Where am I going?!?

2009-05-06T16:23:00.000-07:00

So to refresh you all on the adventure God has called me to... Following my short term love project to Chicago three years ago, God moved in my heart that someday He was going to call me to Africa. I begged Him to call me then, but "wait and prepare" was His reply. That reply remained the same through college where I tried to "prepare" by receiving a degree in sports medicine. (I knew I wanted to do medicine and I just couldn't give up sports.) The other way I "prepared" was by trying to hold tight to my loving Prince as He carried me through various trials. Many of these trials would prepare me for His call, which would come later, by having personal experience. Then last fall, when I had moved back to Bend, I was invited to the showing of an education film called "Cutting the Star Flowers" about female genital mutilation in Uganda, East Africa. I had remotely heard of FGM but had no idea the extent of it. Following the film, I felt paralized and alive at the same moment. The thought that women and girls all over the world were going through this tore at my heart. But it was in this moment that my Lord revealed to me what I have been designed for. He has united my passions in life into this cause. His desire for me is to go and love these women as He does. This love cause in my life will present through providing a safe place for girls to come if they do not desire to undergo cutting, medical treatment for those who do, vocational training which will provide the girls a way to support themselves and lastly yet most important, I will tell these girls of the love of a Prince that died for them. This cause is so much bigger than myself. I will not be able to do it alone. I'm needing your help. If you feel the tug of the Holy Spirit wanting to partner with me in this, please let me know and I will tell you more specifically what our need is. I cannot tell you what it has meant to me having the support I have. I pray continually that God will bless you and show you your own chazown.

"I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God offerings that cost me nothing." 2 Samuel 24:24

Chazown

2009-05-05T17:25:00.000-07:00

Chazown: Hebrew word meaning vision, dream, revelation
I have started this blog to share with you my chazown. I will share specifics as time goes on, but for now, these verses best reveal an overall chazown for my life.
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God-this is your spiritual act of worship...Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality." Romans 12:1, 9-13
"I have come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." John 10:10
"If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink." John 7:37