Sorry for the hiatus after the hiatus...I'm really trying to get my (blogging) life together here.
Since I my last trip, life has changed a bit. My job promoted me, and I have lots more responsibility added to my plate; a group that I co-lead at church; the worship arts ministry, and my young people at home (yep, I'm a momma!) and therefore, not as much time to blog. So, I guess now, I really need to make my blogs worth something, huh?
Anyway, since I last blogged, I've met most of my team. We got together with all of the rest of the teams that are going on mission this year, and had a brief time of meet and greet. I am excited about my new team, as I have seen many of their faces out and about around church, and our leaders are both folks that I have wanted to hang with for awhile, so this is a great opportunity. One of my friends that I have really been getting close to is also going on this trip, and I feel so blessed that she is able to do it, for a number of reasons, selfish and otherwise.
I've also been called to the carpet by one of the new leaders, as something happened on the Prague trip that needed to be addressed. I'm glad that it was...I certainly don't want to make that same mistake twice! From that, I was able to look at myself, and see what character flaws needed to be addressed...I was also able to apologize to one of the two people that I effected in a choice that I made (I haven't seen the other just yet, but plan to talk when I do see them). Thank God that He is a God of second chances!
So anyway, we are full swing into fund raising, and I don't know how I'm doing just yet, but I know that I have sent out letter, tweeted about it, and (after finishing this blog posting) am about to Facebook message folks about it. So much to do!
The thing I really wanted to blog about though, is one of my teammates. I only met her for the first time at our group meeting, and honestly, didn't get a chance to speak to her one on one. However, her story astonishes me.
She is a mature woman of 80+ years old, and is going on this trip with us. 80+ years! I look forward to her wisdom, and everything that she can offer on this trip. I think most, I look forward to her challenging us as we go about our service. To know that she is able to Go and Do and Be the Hands and Feet of Him...all I know is that there should not be one complaint coming from my mouth! If she can, I know that I am more than able! After all, Isaiah 46 reads "Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, and I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you". It seems that my teammate TRULY believe in this, and I look forward to sitting at her feet, and learning from her what all she has to offer.
I hope to not take so long between posts again, to keep you updated on the progress of the teambuilding and fundraising aspects, as well as other things. One of my friends was recently offered a job working with CMFI, or Christian Missionary Fellowship International, and I want you to get to know her and how she got to be an intern, and now a fellow worker in the mission field. Also, I plan to interview teammates of mine, both experienced, and those going on mission for the first time. I'm excited, and hope that you are as well!
Thanks for reading and supporting!
<3,
~yonna
Showing posts with label Team. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Team. Show all posts
Friday, March 1, 2013
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
MO5 "This Is Life" Video from Mountain Christian Church on Vimeo.
Here is the video that my church put together, as a sort of collage of all of the trips that were going on at once. Look closely, and you'll see a familiar face a time or two (and some bright red hair as well!). And thanks for being so patient with me. I am not only still recovering from jet lag, but also trying to process my 're-entry' back into my regular life after mission.
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Details, details!
Last night, Team Red got together for what we THOUGHT would be our final meeting before takeoff.
BTW, before I even get started and well into the blog...11! 11 days until we take flight to go and do His will. YESSsssss!
Back to business...we got together and began going over the details of our trip. Our schedule has been planned out for meeting and getting to the airport; parking situations spoken of; departure wear was discussed (I'd already planned my flight wear, but we all need to be unified and in uniform...Jesus is Lord, and I work for the Lord, and someone else was chosen to lead, so I will follow!). Detailed paperwork is still needed from some team members; insurance cards and documents were passed out and discussed (had to make sure it covered prescription meds, in case I lose my inhaler while I'm over there!). LOTS and LOTS of details!
We went over the 'proposed' schedule of our days while we are there, with the great warning that it may/possibly/might/more than likely change, and that we need to be flexible and ready to roll with the punches for whatever may happen. At this point, we are still unsure of exactly what we will actually be doing while we are there, work-wise. Being that we are the smallest team, I'd say that being open to any changes that are thrown our way has really got to be our biggest strength right now, and I am honored to be part of a team that just accepts it like it is. The Mudrik's have had a big change of plans with what they thought they'd need, so we have to go with the flow. The only thing that we absolutely know for sure is that we are going over there to assist them with ANYTHING that they need help with. Also, we are planning to go and run Camp Rivenhill while we're there, but even that is subject to change at this point.
So we've talked about packing and rides from airports and hostel amenities, and so many other things. Taylor and I will be leading worship while we're there, which eases my heart a bit, because that is something I am comfortable doing anywhere, plus it doesn't take much set up at all. Taylor is a great guitar player, and having been on a worship team together before, I think we will have no problems just giving our hearts wherever we are.
Also, it was discussed that we need to 'leave home at home' and kind of disconnect while we are away, so that we can focus on our task while we are there. That means no cell phones. 3 months ago, this would have been a huge issue for me, considering the fact that I am a single mom...but I already know that my kiddios will be in good hands. I take them to my mother for their summer vacation this weekend, and they are excited for that. I will be taking my laptop, and the entire team will be posting updates from here on this blog while we are away, which I am excited about. Having new writers with different perspectives should be interesting, and fun! So please, be on the lookout for postings from my teammates! (I'm working on getting individual pictures of each of them, so I can post a face along with a name!)
Also, since I'll have my laptop (along with the free wi-fi at the hostel) I will be able to skype my family...and hopefully, with the time difference, and my kids "on-the0go summer schedules" I'll be able to catch them a couple of times while I am away...maybe. If not, I will know that i tried...
So...its almost that time. One more (packing) meeting, and we're off! A huge thanks to all of you who have donated financially; to you who have purchased items for me from my amazon wish list and to those of you who have been praying for us from afar, the time is almost here! Please stay tuned for updates from the field, and a great debriefing as well!
Dobrou noc!
~yonna
11 days!
Back to business...we got together and began going over the details of our trip. Our schedule has been planned out for meeting and getting to the airport; parking situations spoken of; departure wear was discussed (I'd already planned my flight wear, but we all need to be unified and in uniform...Jesus is Lord, and I work for the Lord, and someone else was chosen to lead, so I will follow!). Detailed paperwork is still needed from some team members; insurance cards and documents were passed out and discussed (had to make sure it covered prescription meds, in case I lose my inhaler while I'm over there!). LOTS and LOTS of details!
We went over the 'proposed' schedule of our days while we are there, with the great warning that it may/possibly/might/more than likely change, and that we need to be flexible and ready to roll with the punches for whatever may happen. At this point, we are still unsure of exactly what we will actually be doing while we are there, work-wise. Being that we are the smallest team, I'd say that being open to any changes that are thrown our way has really got to be our biggest strength right now, and I am honored to be part of a team that just accepts it like it is. The Mudrik's have had a big change of plans with what they thought they'd need, so we have to go with the flow. The only thing that we absolutely know for sure is that we are going over there to assist them with ANYTHING that they need help with. Also, we are planning to go and run Camp Rivenhill while we're there, but even that is subject to change at this point.
Also, since I'll have my laptop (along with the free wi-fi at the hostel) I will be able to skype my family...and hopefully, with the time difference, and my kids "on-the0go summer schedules" I'll be able to catch them a couple of times while I am away...maybe. If not, I will know that i tried...
So...its almost that time. One more (packing) meeting, and we're off! A huge thanks to all of you who have donated financially; to you who have purchased items for me from my amazon wish list and to those of you who have been praying for us from afar, the time is almost here! Please stay tuned for updates from the field, and a great debriefing as well!
Dobrou noc!
11 days!
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Retreat Day!
So, I am supposed to be napping right now, but I am too excited to do so. So I figured I'd go ahead and post this blog while everything is still so fresh in my head.
Today was our MO5 Pre-field retreat, where all 5 of the teams come together to build as teams, learn a few things, and continue preparing for our trips. My team chose to go as a unit to the morning session (we had our choice, morning retreat, or afternoon), which was a great choice for us, since 6 of the 8* were able to make it.
Team Red, L to R: Liz, Jeff, Me(Yonna), Phil, Theresa and Sherril.
We arrived by 8 this morning, and immediately got to work. After a few small housekeeping things, we began the morning with team builders...but since the other teams weren't all in attendance like Team Red was, we ended up counting off, and splitting up that way. We had different tasks/games to complete, and the team with the most points in the end won a prize. One game was a ping pong ball toss, where 2 'blind' people tried to toss the balls into a basket across the room,where 3 'blind' people were holding baskets. No one tossing or catching (was supposed to) talks, but there was one open eyed guide who would tell the tossers how to throw. Our team, the green dots, did REALLY well on that one!
The next game was a scavenger hunt, where all of the team members were arm in arm. That last person in line was 'blind', and was the only person who could grab and hold the items found. Once we got our list, we kind of planned out where we'd be able to find our items, with a 10 minute time limit. Luckily, I had about 5 items right in my purse, to our benefit. Not so much to my benefit, I ended up being the blind person. It was quite interesting, not only being blinded, but completely relying on others (some, strangers!) to guide my way to picking things up, and almost running around the church.
The third game was the alligator pit, where one person was to act as a verbal guide to the rest of the team who had to cross an area littered with clothing without stepping on anything. I was the first person from our team to make it across, and then ended up being the guide after that.
We then debriefed, and talked about how we were able to take risks, and trust one another, something we will most certainly need to do once we get to our mission fields. AAAAnd my team won, so we got a chance to pull from an assortment of travel sized gifts...I chose a sewing kit, since I always seem to be in need of a safety pin!
We then did a few more exercises, figuring out our personality types, which my team will discuss further in detail later.
Then it came time for lunch...the World Meal, as it was being called. Our host walked around the room, and everyone chose a slip of paper from a basket with the name of a country on it. There was a beautifully set table for 2 set in the middle of the room, and we made a circle around the team. Then, the people who pulled USA and the UK were invited to have their meal at the table. The table was set with wine glasses, china and silverware. They were offered sparkling water, sweet tea, an amazing salad, an entree of chicken, rice, rolls, butter, and fruit, as well as a pastry dessert. Next called was Czech Republic, who were offered chairs (no table), glasses of tea, chicken, rice, a banana and 2 slices of bread on fancy paper plates. Mexico was offered a linen table cloth on the floor, hard plastic cups of tea, chicken, rice, banana and a slice of bread, with a plastic knife and fork. The rest of the groups were served as follows:
Brazil: vinyl tablecloth on the floor, hard plastic cups of water, plastic fork, rice, banana and a slice of bread.
Thailand: thin plastic tablecloth on the floor, red plastic cup of water, rice, half a banana and a slice of bread.
India: a square of napkin to sit on, small cup of water, a slice of bread.
I was in this final group, which was Kenya. We were told to sit right on the cold floor. We were given a small cup of dirty water, and a half slice of bread.
So many things ran through our minds. I actually thought that we'd end up getting the scraps from the table, especially since they didn't finish all of their food, and had it packaged to go...but no such luck. I guess that really IS they way of the world. How sad...the rest of the world watches as we in the USA eat when we're not hungry, waste food, 'save it for later', feed it to our pets...instead of sharing it. I thought about it...even when we give for food drives, we usually give whatever we have that we aren't eating,or what we have had the longest - we reach into the very back of the cupboard, and dust off a couple of cans to give. We aren't giving our best to help our neighbor...and in doing this, are we also revealing our hearts for God? Hmmm...
Just a little something to think about...
Next time: Team Red's Skype chat with the Mudrik family!
*We are now down to 8 members. Due to familial situations, 2 of our members made the decision to withdraw from our trip, one of them being my beloved partner, Becci. I know that for her, it was not an easy decision, but after much discussion and prayer, she decided that this was the best thing to do for her family. While I am sad to see her go, I am happy that she is at peace with her decision. I will miss her while I am gone, but look forward to our growing friendship.
Today was our MO5 Pre-field retreat, where all 5 of the teams come together to build as teams, learn a few things, and continue preparing for our trips. My team chose to go as a unit to the morning session (we had our choice, morning retreat, or afternoon), which was a great choice for us, since 6 of the 8* were able to make it.
We arrived by 8 this morning, and immediately got to work. After a few small housekeeping things, we began the morning with team builders...but since the other teams weren't all in attendance like Team Red was, we ended up counting off, and splitting up that way. We had different tasks/games to complete, and the team with the most points in the end won a prize. One game was a ping pong ball toss, where 2 'blind' people tried to toss the balls into a basket across the room,where 3 'blind' people were holding baskets. No one tossing or catching (was supposed to) talks, but there was one open eyed guide who would tell the tossers how to throw. Our team, the green dots, did REALLY well on that one!
The next game was a scavenger hunt, where all of the team members were arm in arm. That last person in line was 'blind', and was the only person who could grab and hold the items found. Once we got our list, we kind of planned out where we'd be able to find our items, with a 10 minute time limit. Luckily, I had about 5 items right in my purse, to our benefit. Not so much to my benefit, I ended up being the blind person. It was quite interesting, not only being blinded, but completely relying on others (some, strangers!) to guide my way to picking things up, and almost running around the church.
The third game was the alligator pit, where one person was to act as a verbal guide to the rest of the team who had to cross an area littered with clothing without stepping on anything. I was the first person from our team to make it across, and then ended up being the guide after that.
We then debriefed, and talked about how we were able to take risks, and trust one another, something we will most certainly need to do once we get to our mission fields. AAAAnd my team won, so we got a chance to pull from an assortment of travel sized gifts...I chose a sewing kit, since I always seem to be in need of a safety pin!
We then did a few more exercises, figuring out our personality types, which my team will discuss further in detail later.
Then it came time for lunch...the World Meal, as it was being called. Our host walked around the room, and everyone chose a slip of paper from a basket with the name of a country on it. There was a beautifully set table for 2 set in the middle of the room, and we made a circle around the team. Then, the people who pulled USA and the UK were invited to have their meal at the table. The table was set with wine glasses, china and silverware. They were offered sparkling water, sweet tea, an amazing salad, an entree of chicken, rice, rolls, butter, and fruit, as well as a pastry dessert. Next called was Czech Republic, who were offered chairs (no table), glasses of tea, chicken, rice, a banana and 2 slices of bread on fancy paper plates. Mexico was offered a linen table cloth on the floor, hard plastic cups of tea, chicken, rice, banana and a slice of bread, with a plastic knife and fork. The rest of the groups were served as follows:
Brazil: vinyl tablecloth on the floor, hard plastic cups of water, plastic fork, rice, banana and a slice of bread.
Thailand: thin plastic tablecloth on the floor, red plastic cup of water, rice, half a banana and a slice of bread.
India: a square of napkin to sit on, small cup of water, a slice of bread.
I was in this final group, which was Kenya. We were told to sit right on the cold floor. We were given a small cup of dirty water, and a half slice of bread.
So many things ran through our minds. I actually thought that we'd end up getting the scraps from the table, especially since they didn't finish all of their food, and had it packaged to go...but no such luck. I guess that really IS they way of the world. How sad...the rest of the world watches as we in the USA eat when we're not hungry, waste food, 'save it for later', feed it to our pets...instead of sharing it. I thought about it...even when we give for food drives, we usually give whatever we have that we aren't eating,or what we have had the longest - we reach into the very back of the cupboard, and dust off a couple of cans to give. We aren't giving our best to help our neighbor...and in doing this, are we also revealing our hearts for God? Hmmm...
Just a little something to think about...
Next time: Team Red's Skype chat with the Mudrik family!
*We are now down to 8 members. Due to familial situations, 2 of our members made the decision to withdraw from our trip, one of them being my beloved partner, Becci. I know that for her, it was not an easy decision, but after much discussion and prayer, she decided that this was the best thing to do for her family. While I am sad to see her go, I am happy that she is at peace with her decision. I will miss her while I am gone, but look forward to our growing friendship.
Monday, April 16, 2012
Meet Megan of Team Kenya!
So in continuing to introduce you to my team, I thought I would also interview other people involved with the MO5 mission. We have teams going to Arizona, Mexico, Nairobi, Kenya and Southeast Asia, as well as my team's trip to Prague. Here is where I asked a good friend of mine (we are in a wonderful small group of women together at church) to tell me about her experience with preparing for her trip!
Yonna: Tell me a bit about yourself: Who are you? What do you do? How did you come to be a member of Mountain Christian Church?
Megan: My name is Megan! 
I originally started going to Mountain when I was seven years old, but stopped going when I was 15. Then returned last year (2011). I am a faithful member of the Women's Mentoring Group at Mountain (Yonna note: and we LOVE her presence!~)
Y: Have you ever been on a missions trip before?
M: I have not been on a missions trip before, or even an airplane!!!
Y: WOW! Not even an airplane? What a leap of faith you're taking...especially with a plane ride that can last up to 14 hours...you are one brave little sister! So in knowing that, what made you want to go on a missions trip, and how did you decide on Kenya, of all places?
M: Well, when I heard about Mountain On 5, I thought "wow, I really want to be apart of that". I had some friends that when to Kenya last summer with the church, who came back with amazing, life changing, faith building and challenging stories. Last summer I thought that there was no way could I go to Africa on a missions trip. But when I found out about MO5, I prayed (a lot!) about it, because I knew I wanted to go on one of the trips, but I didn't know which one. After much prayer, I kept hearing God call to me, Kenya, Kenya, KENYA!
Y: I know how that is! I prayed lots myself, and it's amazing the way God let's you know exactly what His will is. So, what was your application process like?
M: It took me a while to fill out the application form...
Y: I KNOW! It was 12 pages long!
M: RIGHT! I was so nervous and unsure if I was even ready to do it. And then I turned it in. About two weeks later, I got a call from church asking me to come in for an interview. I met with 3 church members that I had never met before and had to tell them my strengths and weaknesses, describe my faith, and explain why I wanted to go... I was so nervous! But after it was over, I thought to myself "Wow, that went so well". Three days later, I got an email saying "Welcome aboard M05!"
Y: AMEN! I know all of those feelings all too well. Being nervous, interviewing with people I didn't know, sharing testimony...its all enough to make you anxious! I know I'm glad to have gotten that part over with already! So, now that you've made the team, tell me about this trip...what are you expecting? What are you hoping to come away with?
M: I am looking forward to seeing God in ways I cant even imagine. I'm sure I will see how real and how powerful God is. I have been told that the people of Nairobi, Kenya are filled with so much hope and faithfulness to our God, and I want to see and experience that. I've also been blessed to be a blessing to those people who are living without the light of God. I cannot wait to connect with God's people, experience a completely different culture, and grow significantly as a woman of God.
Y: Oh Megan, Amen!
M: I am going to the Marthare Valley in Nairobi, Kenya. These beautiful people live in substandard conditions - the area is severely stricken with an outstanding amount of poverty. They are starving for food and starving for God. I cannot wait to share the good news with them!!!
Y: I appreciate your heart so much...wanting to go and do and be the Hands and Feet of Him in Africa...I can't wait to get back and hear the stories of your time of service (and find out how those plane rides turned out for you!). Is there anything else you'd like to add for our readers?
M: I just want to ask them to continue to pray for all of the MO5 teams: Arizona, Mexico, Southeast Asia, Czech Republic and Kenya!
Y: Thanks so much Megan, for sharing you heart with us!
If you are interested in supporting our teams, please pray for us by name, or click the link at the top left of the page to donate. Anything you can do will be GREATLY appreciated!
Yonna: Tell me a bit about yourself: Who are you? What do you do? How did you come to be a member of Mountain Christian Church?
 |
| Megan, MO5 Team Green: Kenya |
I originally started going to Mountain when I was seven years old, but stopped going when I was 15. Then returned last year (2011). I am a faithful member of the Women's Mentoring Group at Mountain (Yonna note: and we LOVE her presence!~)Y: Have you ever been on a missions trip before?
M: I have not been on a missions trip before, or even an airplane!!!
Y: WOW! Not even an airplane? What a leap of faith you're taking...especially with a plane ride that can last up to 14 hours...you are one brave little sister! So in knowing that, what made you want to go on a missions trip, and how did you decide on Kenya, of all places?
M: Well, when I heard about Mountain On 5, I thought "wow, I really want to be apart of that". I had some friends that when to Kenya last summer with the church, who came back with amazing, life changing, faith building and challenging stories. Last summer I thought that there was no way could I go to Africa on a missions trip. But when I found out about MO5, I prayed (a lot!) about it, because I knew I wanted to go on one of the trips, but I didn't know which one. After much prayer, I kept hearing God call to me, Kenya, Kenya, KENYA!
Y: I know how that is! I prayed lots myself, and it's amazing the way God let's you know exactly what His will is. So, what was your application process like?
M: It took me a while to fill out the application form...
Y: I KNOW! It was 12 pages long!
M: RIGHT! I was so nervous and unsure if I was even ready to do it. And then I turned it in. About two weeks later, I got a call from church asking me to come in for an interview. I met with 3 church members that I had never met before and had to tell them my strengths and weaknesses, describe my faith, and explain why I wanted to go... I was so nervous! But after it was over, I thought to myself "Wow, that went so well". Three days later, I got an email saying "Welcome aboard M05!"
Y: AMEN! I know all of those feelings all too well. Being nervous, interviewing with people I didn't know, sharing testimony...its all enough to make you anxious! I know I'm glad to have gotten that part over with already! So, now that you've made the team, tell me about this trip...what are you expecting? What are you hoping to come away with?
M: I am looking forward to seeing God in ways I cant even imagine. I'm sure I will see how real and how powerful God is. I have been told that the people of Nairobi, Kenya are filled with so much hope and faithfulness to our God, and I want to see and experience that. I've also been blessed to be a blessing to those people who are living without the light of God. I cannot wait to connect with God's people, experience a completely different culture, and grow significantly as a woman of God.
Y: Oh Megan, Amen!
M: I am going to the Marthare Valley in Nairobi, Kenya. These beautiful people live in substandard conditions - the area is severely stricken with an outstanding amount of poverty. They are starving for food and starving for God. I cannot wait to share the good news with them!!!
Y: I appreciate your heart so much...wanting to go and do and be the Hands and Feet of Him in Africa...I can't wait to get back and hear the stories of your time of service (and find out how those plane rides turned out for you!). Is there anything else you'd like to add for our readers?
M: I just want to ask them to continue to pray for all of the MO5 teams: Arizona, Mexico, Southeast Asia, Czech Republic and Kenya!
Y: Thanks so much Megan, for sharing you heart with us!
If you are interested in supporting our teams, please pray for us by name, or click the link at the top left of the page to donate. Anything you can do will be GREATLY appreciated!
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Meet The Team: Becci
Here is an opportunity to meet the rest of Team Red: Czech Republic for the MO5 Short Term Missions Project. I'm sure there will be others, so stay tuned for them!
First up is my prayer partner, travel partner, and partner in silliness, super-preparing and 'crime', (lol) Becci!
First up is my prayer partner, travel partner, and partner in silliness, super-preparing and 'crime', (lol) Becci!
Who are you, and where are you from?
I'm Becci and I'm from Levittown, NY. I'm currently a full time graphic design/ photojournalism student.
Who are you at home?
I'm an army wife (not like the show), 'mama' to a very cute, but very destructive corgi pup, and avid adventurer.
How long have you been a Christian?
I have been a Christian all my life (raised in a christian home) but I made the decision to give my life to The Lord and was baptized when I was approximately 11 years old.
What small groups are you involved in at Mountain?
I am involved with the Mountain Riders, the motorcycle ministry and small group at mountain.
Is this your first mission trip? If not, where else have you gone, and when?
This is not my first mission trip. I have also been to Kentucky, West Virginia and Reynosa, Mexico.
What made you decide to take this trip to the Czech Republic?
I have felt God calling me to go on another mission trip for years, but it was tough to find the time and the means since I was in the military. I originally thought I was going on the trip to Southeast Asia but during my interview, it was thought I would be more well suited for the Czech trip.
How are you feeling about the trip as of today?
I am absolutely psyched for this trip! It really feels like God handpicked this team, and He really has a plan for us.
What are some of your worries about the trip?
Hmmm, worries? No, I really don't have too many and the ones I do have are mostly irrational.
What are you hoping to see/do while we are there?
I'm really hoping to building a lasting relationship with not only the Czech People, but also the Mudrik family. I certainly want to see Prague too; I hear it's absolutely gorgeous.
Do you have anything you'd like to add?
I'm not sure what to add...I'm just really excited. :)
So there we have it! The beginning of the interviews with Team Red. I am excited to have Becci on the team, since she and I share so many things, and are growing in our relationship.
Just a note, our team of 10 has dropped,and we are now a team of 9. One of the members felt that now is not the right time for them, and I am sad to see them go. We are still a small team, however, I know that we will still make a HUGE impact on the Prague community, in His name!!
Once again, we are asking for your support. Through prayer or financial assistance, we are grateful for any help you are willing to give. Please click the link at the top left of the page to offer your support. We thank you for the support that you have already shown by reading this blog, and would love to know you were here...please comment below, and let us know!
Monday, February 27, 2012
A Quick Check in...
I know its been a minute, but believe me, I am still doing his work.
I have gone to the doctor,and let him know that I am going on this trip. He checked his information, and because the Czech Republic is well developed, I shouldn't need any special medications or shots or anything. If I am feeling unsure, he referred me to a travel medicine center for a check up. (Unfortunately, this center isn't covered by my insurance, so unless a flex spending account would cover its payment, I won't be going. Just being honest.) He has put me on different meds for my asthma, to make sure that is regulated well, ensuring that I won't have problems while there. Also, I have been working out, and he's put me on a strict diet and I've undergone blood work to rule out a few different issues within me. Basically, I want to be as healthy as possible when I get there, so I can focus on what I need to: serving.
On Wednesday, I meet again with my team. From what I've heard, we have grown from a team of 7 to a team of 10, and I am excited to meet the new members. It was also mentioned that someone of these new members is a master carpenter, which is great...because I can put together IKEA products, and hang pictures well...but that's the extent of my carpentry expertise, lol.
I will also get an update on fundraising. I have humbly mailed and emailed fundraising efforts, I have made a Facebook page; I have even added a link on this blog (in the upper left hand corner, check it out!) requesting donations. It is my hope that in supporting this blog, you are also willing to give as you can to this mission trip. I will be sending personal thank you's as soon as I am notified of my donors, and I look forward to writing everyone.
There is much to do! Just looking at the date, 4months from today, my team and I will be there, and working for His good! EXCITING!
Again, I thank you for your support. If there is anything you want to ask, suggest or if you just want me to know you've stopped by, please comment. I'd love to hear your thoughts!
Mark 1:17...when He said 'Follow Me", who knew I'd be following Him to Europe?
I have gone to the doctor,and let him know that I am going on this trip. He checked his information, and because the Czech Republic is well developed, I shouldn't need any special medications or shots or anything. If I am feeling unsure, he referred me to a travel medicine center for a check up. (Unfortunately, this center isn't covered by my insurance, so unless a flex spending account would cover its payment, I won't be going. Just being honest.) He has put me on different meds for my asthma, to make sure that is regulated well, ensuring that I won't have problems while there. Also, I have been working out, and he's put me on a strict diet and I've undergone blood work to rule out a few different issues within me. Basically, I want to be as healthy as possible when I get there, so I can focus on what I need to: serving.
On Wednesday, I meet again with my team. From what I've heard, we have grown from a team of 7 to a team of 10, and I am excited to meet the new members. It was also mentioned that someone of these new members is a master carpenter, which is great...because I can put together IKEA products, and hang pictures well...but that's the extent of my carpentry expertise, lol.
I will also get an update on fundraising. I have humbly mailed and emailed fundraising efforts, I have made a Facebook page; I have even added a link on this blog (in the upper left hand corner, check it out!) requesting donations. It is my hope that in supporting this blog, you are also willing to give as you can to this mission trip. I will be sending personal thank you's as soon as I am notified of my donors, and I look forward to writing everyone.
There is much to do! Just looking at the date, 4months from today, my team and I will be there, and working for His good! EXCITING!
Again, I thank you for your support. If there is anything you want to ask, suggest or if you just want me to know you've stopped by, please comment. I'd love to hear your thoughts!
Mark 1:17...when He said 'Follow Me", who knew I'd be following Him to Europe?
Thursday, January 12, 2012
So I asked...the story of HOW...
This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him. 1 John 5:14-15
So, after years of watching others go on missions trips, watching them come home, and watching their lives change once they came back, I said to myself "I want to go and serve. I have seen an entire family (husband and wife, 5 year old, 3 year old and 8 month old) go from the east coast to New Mexico. I have seen a small group go to Jamaica, to teach Vacation Bible School and put a roof on a church, while sleeping on the church's floor at night. I've seen a large group of teenagers go to the Dominican Republic, and help a church start a youth program similar to the one we have at our church, of which they went into the neighborhoods and brought their DR peers to church. And last year, I witnessed 81 people, from teens to the elderly, go to the slums of Mathare Valley, Nairobi, Kenya, to do a number of things. They taught sewing classes, so that people could start and run businesses. They taught Bible classes to children. They had leadership workshops, and went door to door, trying to get people to come and get AIDS testing done.
One group even went to different homes (shacks, to us here in the USA), to 'bring light'. See, each home is basically 4 walls, made of whatever building materials the occupants could find...be it plywood, cardboard, tin sheets...anything. The roof is usually made of a slab of tin. They have a door to get in and out, which stays open most days to let the light in. This one group actually went into the home, cut a hole in the roof, and installed a square of plexiglass to let light into the home...so often, we take for granted that we can open our curtains to let the sun inside. For me, a twist of my wrist opens the blinds...yet there are people around the world who do not have this. Amazing.
So after being inspired when the Kenya team returned home, and shared their stories, I decided that it was finally time for me to go and serve. Of course, their stories were not pretty AT ALL. In Kenya, the smell (I'm told) is worse than any sewer or garbage dump, and it was hard to not let it show on the team's face. They saw what the citizens were living in, how the water was contaminated with both human and animal waste, and how the children still played in it regardless, because it is all they have. The people who call this home are used to it, and are proud of what they have, so the team could not be rude and turn up their noses, as that is not what Jesus would have done. Jesus accepted everyone for who they were, and came to them, wherever they were, with open arms. If we are to be the Hands and Feet of Him, then we must do the same.
After much praying and fasting, discussion and thought, I decided that I was going to Kenya to continue the works where the 2011 team left off.
When it came time to begin missions applications for 2012, I did what I was supposed to. I went to the information session; heard about all of the trips that were being offered, asked a few questions and picked up my application. I prayed before filling it out, and asked that I be sent to serve where I can best be used.
So I began filling it out. When it asked which trip I was applying for,in choice 1 I put Prague, choice 2 was Mexico. Once I had filled it out, I thought I had made a mistake, since I wanted to go to Kenya. At the time, I didn't have any white out on me, so I figured I would take it to work with me the next day, and make my corrections then. I completed my application, and readied my reference letters. Then I prayed again that He "send me where I can best serve His needs".
The next day, I forgot my application at home. The day after, I took it to work, but forgot to make the changes. I then made sure to set a reminder on my Outlook to make the change...but set it for 9p.m. instead of A.M. It took me a minute...and then I realized that maybe I wasn't supposed to make that change, and that this was the Holy Spirit's way of letting me know...and who am I to argue with the Holy Spirit? Yep...NOBODY.
So I prayed to submit to the Spirit, and be glad that I am fit for service. I began the drive to the church, to drop off my application, and prayed along the way. When I took the application into the office, the woman taking it was happy to receive it from me, and asked me where I was applying to go to. With a smile, and a heart of gladness, I was able to tell her "the European trip, to Prague to serve with the Mudriks".
You know, when people say "Let Go and Let God", I always think 'how cliche'...though its a true statement. Sometimes, we get in the way of what the Spirit wants for us. We have our own wants, and we think that our want is whats best for us, so we focus on it. The fact that I made known to Him the desire of my heart (wanting to go and serve), He has heard (Psalm 20:4). He has also heard me ask to be sent to where I can best be used to serve...and while I thought I knew where that was, He knew better (Hebrews 12:9).
So, after years of watching others go on missions trips, watching them come home, and watching their lives change once they came back, I said to myself "I want to go and serve. I have seen an entire family (husband and wife, 5 year old, 3 year old and 8 month old) go from the east coast to New Mexico. I have seen a small group go to Jamaica, to teach Vacation Bible School and put a roof on a church, while sleeping on the church's floor at night. I've seen a large group of teenagers go to the Dominican Republic, and help a church start a youth program similar to the one we have at our church, of which they went into the neighborhoods and brought their DR peers to church. And last year, I witnessed 81 people, from teens to the elderly, go to the slums of Mathare Valley, Nairobi, Kenya, to do a number of things. They taught sewing classes, so that people could start and run businesses. They taught Bible classes to children. They had leadership workshops, and went door to door, trying to get people to come and get AIDS testing done.
One group even went to different homes (shacks, to us here in the USA), to 'bring light'. See, each home is basically 4 walls, made of whatever building materials the occupants could find...be it plywood, cardboard, tin sheets...anything. The roof is usually made of a slab of tin. They have a door to get in and out, which stays open most days to let the light in. This one group actually went into the home, cut a hole in the roof, and installed a square of plexiglass to let light into the home...so often, we take for granted that we can open our curtains to let the sun inside. For me, a twist of my wrist opens the blinds...yet there are people around the world who do not have this. Amazing.
So after being inspired when the Kenya team returned home, and shared their stories, I decided that it was finally time for me to go and serve. Of course, their stories were not pretty AT ALL. In Kenya, the smell (I'm told) is worse than any sewer or garbage dump, and it was hard to not let it show on the team's face. They saw what the citizens were living in, how the water was contaminated with both human and animal waste, and how the children still played in it regardless, because it is all they have. The people who call this home are used to it, and are proud of what they have, so the team could not be rude and turn up their noses, as that is not what Jesus would have done. Jesus accepted everyone for who they were, and came to them, wherever they were, with open arms. If we are to be the Hands and Feet of Him, then we must do the same.
After much praying and fasting, discussion and thought, I decided that I was going to Kenya to continue the works where the 2011 team left off.
When it came time to begin missions applications for 2012, I did what I was supposed to. I went to the information session; heard about all of the trips that were being offered, asked a few questions and picked up my application. I prayed before filling it out, and asked that I be sent to serve where I can best be used.
So I began filling it out. When it asked which trip I was applying for,in choice 1 I put Prague, choice 2 was Mexico. Once I had filled it out, I thought I had made a mistake, since I wanted to go to Kenya. At the time, I didn't have any white out on me, so I figured I would take it to work with me the next day, and make my corrections then. I completed my application, and readied my reference letters. Then I prayed again that He "send me where I can best serve His needs".
The next day, I forgot my application at home. The day after, I took it to work, but forgot to make the changes. I then made sure to set a reminder on my Outlook to make the change...but set it for 9p.m. instead of A.M. It took me a minute...and then I realized that maybe I wasn't supposed to make that change, and that this was the Holy Spirit's way of letting me know...and who am I to argue with the Holy Spirit? Yep...NOBODY.
So I prayed to submit to the Spirit, and be glad that I am fit for service. I began the drive to the church, to drop off my application, and prayed along the way. When I took the application into the office, the woman taking it was happy to receive it from me, and asked me where I was applying to go to. With a smile, and a heart of gladness, I was able to tell her "the European trip, to Prague to serve with the Mudriks".
You know, when people say "Let Go and Let God", I always think 'how cliche'...though its a true statement. Sometimes, we get in the way of what the Spirit wants for us. We have our own wants, and we think that our want is whats best for us, so we focus on it. The fact that I made known to Him the desire of my heart (wanting to go and serve), He has heard (Psalm 20:4). He has also heard me ask to be sent to where I can best be used to serve...and while I thought I knew where that was, He knew better (Hebrews 12:9).
Monday, January 9, 2012
We may not have a lot, but we have more than enough
Tonight was my first time going to a meeting of our GO (Global Outreach) Ministry. This is the ministry that runs the Glocal Missions program at my church. It was an eye opening experience, that's for sure.
As I walked in, I saw a few people that I knew by face, but had never really connected with. This is quite possible, since my church has close to five thousand members. We have a Saturday afternoon service, 3 services on Sunday mornings at our main campus, and 2 other services at our satellite campus to serve all of these members. Even though I am on the worship team, and see alot of the members from the stage, I still don't know every face...so I was a little nervous and shy...which is completely out of my character! Luckily, one of the few faces that I did know invited me to a place at their table, and began to talk with me, and introduced me to others at the table.
I looked around the room, and saw the information about the different missions trips that were being planned for they year, and instantly got excited.
Anyway...that is not the point of this entry...my heart is.
At this monthly meeting, a meal is served. I learned that every time the meal is offered, it is from a different region of the world. Tonight's meal was made by a couple in the church who were originally from Burma. They offered us a traditional Thai meal, something I have always tried to stay away from, thinking that it would be spicy (and I can't handle spice). It was AMAZING! Certainly, I have had a mind change there. Each person was asked to give an offering of $2.20. An odd number, I thought...and then it was explained. It is based on Colossians 2:20, "Since you died with Christ to the elemental spiritual forces of this world, why, as though you still belonged to the world, do you submit to its rules". Of course, the scriptures go on to explain what these rules were, such as not touching, not tasting...so since dying to self, and being born again into Christ, we no longer have to follow the rules of the world. We are supposed to handle and taste and touch all of these things that God has made...
okay...I am getting a little off topic. Anyway, $2.20. First of all, most of the world can feed itself on $2.20 a day. A DAY! I often can't even spend that little on coffee, let alone an entire meal. And it was a great and filling meal at that...
And I am full as I type this. Which makes me think...I just paid $2.20 for a meal, and got my fill. What a blessing to be able to go to bed, and sleep comfortably, versus going to bed to forget about hunger.
Makes me think of other things I take for granted...like how I am overweight. How my gas tank is between a quarter of a tank and half. How I went to college, and now go to work everyday to take care of my family's needs. How I am a single mom, taking care of my 3 kids.
I could be like others in this world. I am overweight because I have plenty to eat...whereas there are others
who don't. My lack of gas for the week means I have a car...92% of the rest of the world does not. I
went to school and got a degree to get a good job...while there are kids around the world who cannot go
to school, because they need to work. And I may be a single mom to my kids...but at least they are not
orphaned and left to fend for themselves.
I have been blessed with abundance, even when it doesn't look/feel like it.
1 Timothy 1: 13 Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown
mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. 14 The grace of our Lord was poured out on me
abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. 15 Here is a trustworthy saying that
deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
From the beginning...
I guess I should begin at the beginning (duh) of how I got onto the team going to Europe.
My church has a Glocal (Global and Local) outreach ministry that is serious about serving the needs of others around the world. They have been charged with making sure that those who are sent to serve do so with a pure heart. Afterall, the purpose of these short term missions (STM) trips are to serve!
Once I had it in my head that going on an STM trip was something I wanted to do, I seriously prayed about it. This is a huge deal, and I didn't want to go into it blindly. I talked to others who had gone on trips about their experiences, and they were real with me. "Not everyone can do it", "When you know you're called to go, you WILL know" were some of the things they told me. There was even one woman who told me"while it sounds great, that just isn't something that's on my hear to do". Clearly, this has been on my heart for years, but it was never the right time.
Well, the Glocal team was pushing a new thing, called MO5. This stands for Mountain (my church) on 5 different continents/regions of the world. There are needs that need to be served everywhere in the world, and we are planning to send 5 teams out at the same time. Teams will be going to Mexico (North America), Arizona (USA, North America), Mathare Valley in Nairobi, Kenya (Africa), Southeast Asia (exact location is not being made public, for the safety of the team), and Prague, Czech Republic (Europe), which is where I will be going.
Of course, when I finally felt the call to go on a missions trip, I just knew I'd be going to Kenya...but clearly, God had other plans for me. I'll talk more about that in a later blog...
So I filled out the extensive (12 pages!) application, prayed and turned it in. I had gone to an informational session to hear about the different works that would be done on the trips, and had scheduled my interview. These trips are pretty popular, and we even have some people who a veteran STM servants, which is why interviews are needed. The ministry staff wants to make sure that the people who are sent on these trips know that this isn't a vacation; that they are spiritually ready for the task; that those who go on the trips know what they are getting into and can handle the stresses that come along with being a missionary.
So I prayed and prayed...and asked for prayers, and had my impatient and anxious moments...and then i finally got my notice. I was accepted onto the team!
Now I am sending out e-mails, drafting a letter to send out snail mail with an insert to describe my trip to supporters and praying, still, to be prepared for this trip. Net week, I will be attending the Glocal Ministry's monthly meeting, to hear what they have been up to, and what plans I can help out with. I don't yet know who else is on my team with me, but I have met our leader (I had no idea at the time, but she was one of my 3 interviewers!). All of the teams meet together at the end of the month for a big celebration, and then we will begin team building on a monthly basis. Just before we leave, we will be meeting more and more often, to learn personalities and conflict resolution styles, etc.
I look forward to these next 5 and a half months, and cannot wait to embark on this journey. Glad to have you along for the ride!
My church has a Glocal (Global and Local) outreach ministry that is serious about serving the needs of others around the world. They have been charged with making sure that those who are sent to serve do so with a pure heart. Afterall, the purpose of these short term missions (STM) trips are to serve!
Once I had it in my head that going on an STM trip was something I wanted to do, I seriously prayed about it. This is a huge deal, and I didn't want to go into it blindly. I talked to others who had gone on trips about their experiences, and they were real with me. "Not everyone can do it", "When you know you're called to go, you WILL know" were some of the things they told me. There was even one woman who told me"while it sounds great, that just isn't something that's on my hear to do". Clearly, this has been on my heart for years, but it was never the right time.
Well, the Glocal team was pushing a new thing, called MO5. This stands for Mountain (my church) on 5 different continents/regions of the world. There are needs that need to be served everywhere in the world, and we are planning to send 5 teams out at the same time. Teams will be going to Mexico (North America), Arizona (USA, North America), Mathare Valley in Nairobi, Kenya (Africa), Southeast Asia (exact location is not being made public, for the safety of the team), and Prague, Czech Republic (Europe), which is where I will be going.
Of course, when I finally felt the call to go on a missions trip, I just knew I'd be going to Kenya...but clearly, God had other plans for me. I'll talk more about that in a later blog...
So I filled out the extensive (12 pages!) application, prayed and turned it in. I had gone to an informational session to hear about the different works that would be done on the trips, and had scheduled my interview. These trips are pretty popular, and we even have some people who a veteran STM servants, which is why interviews are needed. The ministry staff wants to make sure that the people who are sent on these trips know that this isn't a vacation; that they are spiritually ready for the task; that those who go on the trips know what they are getting into and can handle the stresses that come along with being a missionary.
So I prayed and prayed...and asked for prayers, and had my impatient and anxious moments...and then i finally got my notice. I was accepted onto the team!
Now I am sending out e-mails, drafting a letter to send out snail mail with an insert to describe my trip to supporters and praying, still, to be prepared for this trip. Net week, I will be attending the Glocal Ministry's monthly meeting, to hear what they have been up to, and what plans I can help out with. I don't yet know who else is on my team with me, but I have met our leader (I had no idea at the time, but she was one of my 3 interviewers!). All of the teams meet together at the end of the month for a big celebration, and then we will begin team building on a monthly basis. Just before we leave, we will be meeting more and more often, to learn personalities and conflict resolution styles, etc.
I look forward to these next 5 and a half months, and cannot wait to embark on this journey. Glad to have you along for the ride!
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