Fundraising. When you hear the word, what comes to mind? I know some people emphasize it as FUNdraising. But “fun” has never crossed my mind. For me it used to be Zap-A-Snack, busy, Thin Mints, marketing, peanuts, “Do I have to ring a doorbell and talk to another person?”, chocolate bars, etc. With the World Race in focus it is now prayer, support letters, work, t-shirt sales, time, bake sales, trust, chicken BBQ, amazement. Oh, and we can’t forget to throw out there the words fear, worry, anxiety, and sick.

I was given the amount to raise: $18,200 with specific deadlines or else I lose my spot on my route. Fear, worry, anxiety, and a sickening feeling in the pit of my stomach...yep, they all described my feelings when I looked at the amount. However, I was required to go through a study course and I soon began to look at the amount differently. First, when you think about it, people raise about $3,000 just to go on a mission trip for a week or two. $18,000+ for a year isn’t so bad.  Second, after going through the course, I realized I’m not raising this money for me, I’m raising it to help build God’s kingdom. When I looked at it that way, peace of mind would describe my feelings. That’s not to say that I still don’t think $18,200 is overwhelming at times, but it’s doable.

The course went into detail about many things, but it emphasized the importance of the support letters. Let me just say I agree 100%. They take a lot of time and effort to produce, but that was to be expected. I know I must carve time out every week to be dedicated to this part, which I have learned is a ministry in itself: trust and hard work.

The support I have received so far has just been amazing to me. The love, prayers, emotional and financial support has been overwhelming and there are just not enough words to express my gratitude. Thank you to those of you who are praying (because I cannot do this alone) and those of you who have donated too. You are all helping me be the hands and feet of Christ. I am excited for God’s kingdom to grow because of your support!    

"I praise you today, Lord, as my Jehovah-Jireh (the Lord will provide), who makes all grace abound in me and generously provides all I need." 2 Cor. 9:8