Translated Title: I'm going to Haiti!
Just over a week ago, my mom's boss sent me an email suggesting I contact Helping Hurting Children about a summer internship they were offering. After sharing my story with the director of this organization, they asked that I fill out an application and come on board. Last week I purchased my airfare so it is REALLY happening!
I will be there for six weeks, learning from missionaries that are already on the field. I will help lead short-term trips as well as love on children in the orphanage and teach English, Bible and health classes. I will also be going to smaller villages to do revival services for children.
This God-given adventure starts on May 26th, so I don't have much time to get everything settled here in the States. I will be selling all of my worldly possessions as Luke 18:22 commands and follow the call to live and serve in Haiti. So, if you are interested in furniture I am selling a love seat, cherry wood triple dresser, night stand and Lazyboy recliner! :)
Telling people about this adventure has been met with mixed responses. I had one person offer to give the money I paid for the airfare so I will stay here. Many people think Haiti isn't very safe (in certain places) and they are right, but how can I be afraid if this is where God has called me? It is more dangerous for me to be in Dallas and be outside of God's will than for me to be in Haiti. There is no ounce of fear in me, but if it ever creeps in, there are 365 verses in the Bible urging me not to be afraid. My favorite is Isaiah 41:10 "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
Other people have been fully supportive and really excited. First of all, I am very lucky to have my family's support in this! My mom and dad have raised my sister and I to have a heart for the poor and all nations so this isn't a surprise to them. My mom was the one who urged me to sell all my possessions so I could more easily answer God's call!! Not too many mothers would do that. My friends and family friends have also been very supportive. In order to answer this call, I am raising support and one offering has stood out above the rest so far. One of my dad's coworkers offered $5. At first I thought that was strange, but found out it was all he had in his wallet. He gave ALL he had, like the widow who gave her last penny in the Bible. It really touched my heart!! I also have a coworker who is from Haiti and has been giving me Creole lessons and telling me about his home country. I love how he lights up when talking about Haiti and I look forward to our talks every week. His family has also graciously accepted me into their own for Easter this year so I can learn Haitian traditions, culture and eat their yummy food. I hope it is my first of many Haitian Easters!
As I continue to prepare for this trip, please keep me in your prayers. I am still about $1,000 short of the internship expenses. I have faith that God will provide for me to answer the call he has placed on my life. If you feel led to give, please message me or comment so I can send you my contact information. Please keep me in your prayers during the time I'm in Haiti. As much as I love the beautiful country of Haiti, I know there will be hard days where I will miss my family and American luxuries we all take for granted (air conditioning, internet, phone, etc.). Please pray that I will always stay encouraged and remember my purpose for being there. Also pray for my health. The last thing I need is to get sick and be sidelined from the work I am there to do.
I will continue to update this blog with fundraising and trip progress until I leave. Thank you for your prayers and support! My readers, family and friends are THE BEST! :)
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