Bula Vinaka!
Well, I’ve been meaning to post this blog for a few days, but the pre-outreach prep ended up being a
mix between hectic packing and trying to make everything fit, somehow balanced with capturing my
final moments with so many wonderful friends I have made over the past year in Kona, all resulting in
my mind being in a state of mush when trying to conjure up words that accurately describe how I’m
feeling.
Not saying my mind is currently sharp, but beginning to feel as through some of the mush has hardened
enough to vocalize a little of what has been going on. First off, I want to thank everyone who supported
me financially to bring me here to Fiji. I am currently sitting on the floor in the bedroom at the YWAM
PTC base in Lautoka. I also am so blessed by all of the prayers that have been sent out on my behalf, and
ask that they continue. I have felt completely encompassed in God’s presence during this whole season,
of trying to get finances, saying good bye and the 14 hours of travel to bring me to this wonderful little
town. Travel went well, a couple little hiccups but those only keep your heart beating. Us 7 girls are now
settled into our little house/base here with 3 other women that share the house. We have the first
couple days just to rest up and getting accustomed to the heat and time change. (+22 hours from
Hawaii) our house is set up on a hill right above a school that so far hasn’t had more than an hour of
break from some church service, or indian ceremony blasting at top volume, but it makes for fun
background music as we eat our meals. And eat we do! So far my first 24 hours have consisted of
sleeping, unpacking, some rugby watching, and a lot of eating. The women are very sweet and we are
already feeling extremely comfortable here.
I suppose my vision for this outreach is to learn in new ways what it looks like to be fully surrendered to
the Lord, and fully used for His glory. Our days and exact activities are unknown to us as of yet, but God
has been challenging me daily to make the most of everyday I’m given here, to look for opportunities to
love others on my team and not on my team. To be God’s hands and feet in every aspect over these 3
months. To be fully present in the place that I am and to have a greater faith than I ever have. He hasn’t
said it will be easy, but He has promised to never leave. That in those inevitable moments of tears,
sadness or frustration, to lean on Him for all my strength. I am simply His vessel called to live a life of
love and share Jesus with everyone I encounter. I look forward to seeing the miracles, the lives changed,
the children blessed and the personal growth on this trip. I want to make the most of this time that I
have been blessed with, and although I know the very real reality that it won’t always be cake, but
everything has meaning, and it is my choice as to whether or not I seek that meaning and learning
despite the hindrances.
Please keep me and my team in your prayers,
unity
health and safety
sensitivity to the spirit
guidance and fully capturing all that the Lord has for us.
