Thursday, March 27, 2014

What's next?

Hi there! Remember me? Ha!

So much has happened since my last blog. Let me fill you in.

I made forever memories with the kids in the Philippines. It takes but a thought of my time with them to put a warm smile on my face. I look forward to the day that we can be together forever. Along with all of the other incredible people I have met around the world!

After my time in the Philippines I spent two weeks in Thailand. Hang on. Let's back up a tad. While I was in the Philippines God began to challenge my faith. I have been in what I like to call a faith bubble most of my life. I grew up in church, have Christian friends, work(ed) at Christian schools, and moved to the Bible belt of America. But what would my faith look like if I was in a place where there was no faith in God? Would my faith be as strong as I believe it to be? Okay, now we can fast forward to Thailand. I had been pondering those questions for a good two months at this point. I get to Thailand and it hits me. This is a place with virtually no faith in Jesus. In fact, only 1% of Thailand puts their faith in Christ.

I couldn't ignore that Thailand is where my next stop will be. So how do I get there?

Step 1: Become a Missionary Associate
I recently became a Missionary Associate with the Assemblies of God! I have committed to a two year term. Shhh don't tell my mom! ;)

Step 2: Fund raise! I know, I know. The "f" word. It is as fun to do as it sounds. The truth of the matter is it has to be done. After my pre field training I began to see fundraising as an opportunity to meet and partner with people that are passionate about knowing Jesus and making him known, feeding the hungry, protecting the innocent, and about education.

I'm currently working part time. Why part time? To cover expenses while I'm stateside, put some funds into my missions account, and to have time to meet with people, pastors, and anyone who wants to hear about what I'm doing.

Lord willing, I will be leaving for Thailand in August. Please consider how you might partner with me. Prayer is crucial! Pray for wisdom, protection, provision, discernment, awareness, boldness, confidence, and anything else God puts on your heart. And of course there's the financial side of it. Monthly pledges are what's often referred to as "bread and butter". I will have monthly expenses - housing, language school, food, etc. Knowing that there will be something coming in each month gives any missionary peace of mind. There is no pledge or donation too small or too big.

Step 3: Move to Thailand!
In Thailand I will be working at a Community Center. I'll be teaching English, helping at feeding programs on the Myanmar border, helping with anti-human trafficking efforts, and of course building relationships with the students. I'll also be teaching English at an elementary school. Speaking English automatically qualifies you to teach it, right?

I even made some changes to the blog!

So that's an update on my life in a nutshell.

Eager to get me on the field? Click here to make your monthly pledge or a donation!