On my way to work today, I listened to 95.1 Shine FM as I usually do. For those not in the Baltimore Maryland area, that is the Christian radio station that my radio seems to never leave anymore. Anyway, a quirky little song came on, called "Do Everything", by Stephen Curtis Chapman (who just happens to physically resemble my favorite redhead outside of my mother, Rob Kastens, but that's another story)...
From my first time listening to this song, it had my attention. The first lines are "You're picking up toys from the living room floor for the fifteenth time today"...ummm...Stephen, are you peeking in on a single mom's home? Such as my own? Maybe not...my kids are older, and it would be video games, shoes and socks...but still....
Anyway, what really hit me was the chorus.
"It all matters just as long as you do everything you do to the glory of The One who made you, cause He made you to do every little thing that you do to bring a smile to His face, tell the story of grace with every move that you make, and every little thing you do "
My sister (well, technically sister-in-law, but I'm not married anymore either...go figure that one out!) Stephanie lives by, and got me hooked on the motto "Jesus is Lord, and I work for the Lord!" If you know Steph, she REALLY DOES live by this! This song is a great explanation of that exact motto.
It makes me think of everything that I do on a day to day basis...from working to mothering to worshiping to living. In the end, all that matters is "am I pleasing God?"
As I prepare for this missions trip, I hope to continue to live up to that, and please God in my preparations. I have studied the Prague area, its culture, and religious background. I have checked travel tip sites, mission trip sites, government guidelines, TSA regulations, and UNESCO. I have studied websites that recommend packing everything in one bag (which I fully intend to TRY!), travel insurance information, sites with information on how to control asthma in different parts of the world. Whew! I've done alot, and I still feel like there is so much more to do and know!
When I sit back and think about it, I am doing all of these things, and making these preparations and dotting I's and crossing T's so that I can go over there and so everything to the glory of The One who made me. I am going to do His work; to be His hands and feet. To serve in flesh where His word has not yet reached. And believe me, there is MUCH to do! ...and I am more than willing to go and do*!
*Isaiah 6:8, Then I heard the Lord asking "Whom should I send as a messenger to these people? Who will go for us?" I said "Here I am. Send me."
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
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?
Sunday, February 12, 2012
MESSAGE!
So today, I got up early, and decided not to waste any time. I was awake already, and wanted to get myself to church. I prepared myself, got dressed, and figured I'd let the kids sleep in, since the youth services aren't held until later in the afternoon. I prayed to God, thanking Him for waking me again, into another day of grace and mercy, and thanking Him for awaking me early enough to make it to our 8:08am service.
I left the kids asleep (well, my middle son was up and watching cartoons already...), and drove to church. As usual, I sang my heart out (I often give 'concerts in the car' as I drive), but this morning, I felt a cry coming on. I was happy to be alone in the car, as my crying sometimes worries my kids.
The message Pastor Ben gave today was exactly what I needed to hear. It was about Loving People. We are in a new sermon series, entitles The Mountain (my church) Walk. We have a new mission, which is simple"Love God. Love People. Serve the World.", and this was the beginning of the Love People portion.
It really hit me when Ben said "We don't have time to live in quiet desperation. We don't have to be isolated. Sometimes the worst loneliness happens in a crowd."
WOW...(I'm having a moment here...)
I have come to realize that I am more than hungry for healthy relationships! The last few great relationships that I have had with people have crumbled, and I've allowed them to do so. I have things that have happened in my past that have taught me to just allow myself to quietly 'walk away' from these relationships, instead of facing reality, and owning up to my mistakes. Typical conflict avoider; that's me. Instead, I need to take a lesson from Matthew 22:37-40, and love people as I love God, in similar ways. He loves me, no matter what I've done, do, or have yet to do. Now, because of that, I need to go out and love people in the same way...and (the hard part for me) allow them to love me in the same way.
Love God. Love People. If one part of that is missing, then everything is wrong.
When thinking about how I can apply this to my mission trip, I think of my team, the Mudrik's and the people of Prague. With my team, I need to allow them into my life, and go deep...be real enough to show them who I really am. I need to care for them enough to "Carry (their) burdens, and in this way (I) will fulfill the law of Christ" (Galatians 6:2). We are a small team, but need to be a tight team, so that we can go and serve fully, together. They need to know my weaknesses, and I theirs. We need to know how each of us deals with conflict, so that they may be solved, and we can go on about our purpose, which is serving while on the trip. As for the Mudrik family, their neighbors, and the people of Prague, we need to be hospitable. Not only as guests, but as preparers of the feast at God's table. We are there to invite them to share in meals with Christ, to get to know Him and love Him, so that they will one day serve Him as we are. After all, 'the healthy people don't need a doctor; the sick people do' (Matt.9:11-12). We are to be gracious guests, not becoming a burden on our host family, but there as friends to serve all of their needs fully. When I think of this, I think about how, when we leave, I don't want the family to have been exhausted. Instead, it is my prayer that they will have rested; that they have wonderful memories of our visit, and that they thank God for us being there, to provide whatever help and relief they have needed.
I am looking forward to building my relationships, with my team, and within my circles here in life. This is something I will continuously be working towards, and would love it if YOU, dear reader, would help to hold me accountable. Feel free to offer advice by commenting below...I am willing to consider anything you have to offer.
I left the kids asleep (well, my middle son was up and watching cartoons already...), and drove to church. As usual, I sang my heart out (I often give 'concerts in the car' as I drive), but this morning, I felt a cry coming on. I was happy to be alone in the car, as my crying sometimes worries my kids.
The message Pastor Ben gave today was exactly what I needed to hear. It was about Loving People. We are in a new sermon series, entitles The Mountain (my church) Walk. We have a new mission, which is simple"Love God. Love People. Serve the World.", and this was the beginning of the Love People portion.
It really hit me when Ben said "We don't have time to live in quiet desperation. We don't have to be isolated. Sometimes the worst loneliness happens in a crowd."
WOW...(I'm having a moment here...)
I have come to realize that I am more than hungry for healthy relationships! The last few great relationships that I have had with people have crumbled, and I've allowed them to do so. I have things that have happened in my past that have taught me to just allow myself to quietly 'walk away' from these relationships, instead of facing reality, and owning up to my mistakes. Typical conflict avoider; that's me. Instead, I need to take a lesson from Matthew 22:37-40, and love people as I love God, in similar ways. He loves me, no matter what I've done, do, or have yet to do. Now, because of that, I need to go out and love people in the same way...and (the hard part for me) allow them to love me in the same way.
Love God. Love People. If one part of that is missing, then everything is wrong.
When thinking about how I can apply this to my mission trip, I think of my team, the Mudrik's and the people of Prague. With my team, I need to allow them into my life, and go deep...be real enough to show them who I really am. I need to care for them enough to "Carry (their) burdens, and in this way (I) will fulfill the law of Christ" (Galatians 6:2). We are a small team, but need to be a tight team, so that we can go and serve fully, together. They need to know my weaknesses, and I theirs. We need to know how each of us deals with conflict, so that they may be solved, and we can go on about our purpose, which is serving while on the trip. As for the Mudrik family, their neighbors, and the people of Prague, we need to be hospitable. Not only as guests, but as preparers of the feast at God's table. We are there to invite them to share in meals with Christ, to get to know Him and love Him, so that they will one day serve Him as we are. After all, 'the healthy people don't need a doctor; the sick people do' (Matt.9:11-12). We are to be gracious guests, not becoming a burden on our host family, but there as friends to serve all of their needs fully. When I think of this, I think about how, when we leave, I don't want the family to have been exhausted. Instead, it is my prayer that they will have rested; that they have wonderful memories of our visit, and that they thank God for us being there, to provide whatever help and relief they have needed.
I am looking forward to building my relationships, with my team, and within my circles here in life. This is something I will continuously be working towards, and would love it if YOU, dear reader, would help to hold me accountable. Feel free to offer advice by commenting below...I am willing to consider anything you have to offer.
Monday, February 6, 2012
The Marvel that is Technology
A few days ago I posted THIS BLOG, asking for prayer from my readers, due to the major European snow storm that has taken over. I mentioned there that I'd be contacting the Mudrik family, encouraging them with prayer, and trying to find out their needs. I awoke this morning to find this response waiting for me in my email inbox:
----------------------
Hello Yonna,
----------------------
Hello Yonna,
We are grateful for your prayers. We are doing well, because we can hide in the warmth of our home. The main humanitarian concern is the homeless in our city. The temperature at night has been around 0 degrees F for the past week or so and some homeless people have died here as well as in the surrounding cities and countries. People are rallying to get warm clothing, etc to the centers who distribute to the homeless. There are simply not enough beds in the shelters for all of the homeless people. The city has set up some huge heated tents and the police has been going around looking for the homeless and taking them there.
Thank you for remembering us. Our family is warm and well fed. We are grateful.
Marek and Elaine
-------------------
Sometimes, when I think of Europe, I think of this magical place across a giant ocean where everything is amazing, beautiful, and historic. I never really think about the issues that they may have over there that we experience here in America, and that included homelessness. Of course, the homeless are never mentioned on tourism webpages, or travel brochures, and I will admit that it never occurred to me that the same things I see in Baltimore happen in Prague as well.
Please continue to pray for this region. Pray that everyone can find shelter, and that their needs will be met. I am grateful to hear that the Mudrik family is taken care of, and pray that in their wealth of food and warmth, that they can continue being a light to their neighbors, and are able to meet their needs as well.
God is so great! His grace is sufficient (2Cor12:9), and His mercies are new every (snowy) morning!
Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
I say to myself, “The LORD is my portion;
therefore I will wait for him. (Lamen3:22-24)
for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
I say to myself, “The LORD is my portion;
therefore I will wait for him. (Lamen3:22-24)
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Storming the weather; Praying for the family...
I was just made aware of the weather over in the Czech Republic, and am currently praying for that area, as well as the family of missionaries we will be going to serve.
Being that I am originally from Michigan (US), I am quite used to blizzards of snow. I would think that they are as well, since geographically, they are the equivelant of being located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and Ontario Canada (here on the North American continent). They have seen their fair share of snow is what I'm saying.
However, I am hearing reports of how within the past 2 days, they have received 5 meters (16 feet) of snow. Even to a Michigander, that is ALOT of snow. 11,000 villagers in Serbia are trapped. Deaths have been reported and are still coming in: on Thursday alone, 20 have been reported from Ukraine, 9 from Poland, 8 from Romania, and one each from both Serbia and Czech Republic. You can read the entire story from The Charlotte Observer HERE.
When I heard of the storm, I immediately began to pray. I prayed for the Mudrik's, who, while I have yet to meet them, mean so much to me already. I've also been praying that God's will be done, for He knows the plans He has for us (Jeremiah 29:11), even when it seems that natural disasters create chaos in our lives. I pray that all is well with this family, and that they can be a light to their neighbors in this time of need. I pray that the work that they have started is not stunted by the weather; that their hope is not diminished; that their faith is strong.
I will try to contact them shortly, offering my thoughts and prayers, and trying to find out if there is anything I can do to help...even if its just through prayer.
Being that I am originally from Michigan (US), I am quite used to blizzards of snow. I would think that they are as well, since geographically, they are the equivelant of being located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and Ontario Canada (here on the North American continent). They have seen their fair share of snow is what I'm saying.
However, I am hearing reports of how within the past 2 days, they have received 5 meters (16 feet) of snow. Even to a Michigander, that is ALOT of snow. 11,000 villagers in Serbia are trapped. Deaths have been reported and are still coming in: on Thursday alone, 20 have been reported from Ukraine, 9 from Poland, 8 from Romania, and one each from both Serbia and Czech Republic. You can read the entire story from The Charlotte Observer HERE.
When I heard of the storm, I immediately began to pray. I prayed for the Mudrik's, who, while I have yet to meet them, mean so much to me already. I've also been praying that God's will be done, for He knows the plans He has for us (Jeremiah 29:11), even when it seems that natural disasters create chaos in our lives. I pray that all is well with this family, and that they can be a light to their neighbors in this time of need. I pray that the work that they have started is not stunted by the weather; that their hope is not diminished; that their faith is strong.
I will try to contact them shortly, offering my thoughts and prayers, and trying to find out if there is anything I can do to help...even if its just through prayer.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
We are NOT going for Jesus...
We are going WITH Him.
We are going to do His work right by His side, just as He will be along ours. He tells us so in Matthew 29:20: "And surely I am WITH YOU always, to the very end of the age".
These were the words that struck me last night as I sat in on the meeting where I'd eventually meet the rest of my team. About 50-60 people gathered in the room where display boards and colorful pamphlets had been neatly placed, along with 3 ring binders with the names of the places where the teams would go. Red for Europe, Orange for North America, Blue for Latin America, Green for Africa and Yellow for Asia. Of course, we were told to sit at any open chair at a table, as they were not yet splitting us up by group.
I chose to sit at one of the tables, and in speaking with those there, found myself surrounded by both veteran mission trippers, and newcomers as well, which made me very comfortable. I was secretly hoping that my own group would be the same in make up; that we'd have veterans, as well as a first timer to share my experiences with.
After a prayer and an icebreaker, we sat and discussed some of the basics of the trips. I found that I had been one of the first people chosen to go on one of the trips (I turned my application in as soon as I could after they had been released), and that they had still been interviewing people for the trips, as late as just before the meeting began.
One of the biggest things we talked about last night was health issues. Not only do we want everyone healthy during the trip, but we want to make sure that everyone stays healthy enough to go! Immediately, I put a reminder in my phone to make an appointment with my own doctor, so that I could get a check up, and make sure that my asthma is in check before I go. I also need to see a dentist, since we all know that one little toothache can kill anyone's good time anywhere in the world. I am so grateful that we have doctors in my church who are not only willing to share this information and their services with us, but are actually going on these trips with us, to serve just as we will. We were given reminders and tips (with more to come, I'm sure) to keep all original prescription containers (boxes for my inhaler and daily meds), to pack those in carry ons, to bring about 25% more than we think we will need; bring a personal first aid kit and pain medications; walk around on long airplane flights to prevent bloodclots, etc., etc.
Also, explained briefly, was the issue of fundraising. While each person is to make efforts to raise their own funds, we are working as a team. For instance, let's say that I work hard, but only get 75% of my funds raised. Another person on my team may raise more than enough, and then would be able to share their donations with me, ensuring that I am able to participate fully. Your donations will not go to waste. They will be used fully, to ensure that all needs are taken care of. Also, periodically, we will be given a tally of how we are doing (financially), as well as who gave (amounts don't matter here!)...so please, if you plan to donate in my name (or for my team) share with us who you are. I would personally like to thank you for your gift, and keep you up to date on what is being done with your funds.
Finally, we were asked to gather in our groups to finally meet and greet one another...I was so FIRED UP to meet mine! I had already been given the head's up that we'd have a pretty small group, but that's cool with me. I see it as an opportunity to be a tight knit group. Last year, there were 81 people who went on one of the trips, so I am sure that not every person got to have one on one time with all of their travel mates.
Disclaimer: Once meeting my group, I did inform them of this blog, and asked their permission to use them in the blog. I may or may not use their real names, but the experiences we share, along with some of their personal thoughts will be used. From each of them, I was given permission, though at any time, if they are uncomfortable with the information I release, I may edit the blog with revised information.
As I mentioned before, I knew of my team coordinator, as she was one of my interviewers. "Liz" is someone I have seen around the church quite often, as she serves in great capacities there. Her son "Taylor" will also join us on the trip, though he wasn't at the meeting last night. Taylor is completing his third year in college now, and joined our group by phone last night. This is cool, because it will be the first trip that Liz and Taylor have ever taken together, and he is using it as a learning experience. Taylor and I met about a year and a half ago at the North American Christian Convention, where we both served as a part of the Worship Team; I as a singer, and he as a musician. He's a cool and talented guy, and I look forward to sharing this experience with them.
"Jeff" is another servant I have seen around church, and can now include a name with his face. He is going on this trip because he wants to serve the Mudrik's themselves. He once went on a business trip to Rome, and had some downtime, so he wanted to find some missionaries in the area. After contacting home to find out who was in the area, he met the family, went to dinner with them, and found out that they had never had anyone come and seek them out, just to show them support. "Cheryl" is another woman going on our team that shares in this feeling with Jeff; she has the heart to go and serve the Mudrik's, and provide them with whatever support they need. After reading the Mudrik's Blog, I, too, feel compelled to go, and be for them whatever they may need (my daughter is also wanting to serve them, and suggests that we send some goodies over for their children!).
"Phil" has been a member of our church for years, and actually taught one of the classes The Mudrik's attended when they were members of our church, back when they were newlyweds (before the children and the move to Prague), and has a relationship with them already, and can't wait to go and serve them, and see what their life is like, now that they are parents, and teachers.
"Becci" is another who, like myself, had intentions on going on another trip, but God felt that she'd better serve with the team in Prague. As it turns out, He knows best, because she LOVES carpentry and building, which could be alot of what we will be doing on this trip.
As it stands right now, this is our team. Right now, there are about 70 people being sent on the Mountain On 5 (MO5) mission, but there are a few more still being interviewed (Reminds me of Luke 10*!). We may have one or two more join us within the next week, but its still looking like we will be the smallest group being sent out. I look forward to getting to know these folks, growing as a team with them, and preparing our hearts to go out into this world as The Hands and Feet of Him, collectively. When you support me, in finances or in prayer, you also support them, as well as The Mudrik's. We look forward to adding your name to our team.
Let's Go, Team Red!
So, is there anything else you'd like to know about our team? Anything you'd like to know about The Mudrik family? Myself? Our trip to the Czech Republic? Please ask! Comment away! Let me know what you think, feel, or suggest anything you'd like me to blog about. You are taking this journey with Team Red, and I want to make sure you feel welcomed. You are the reason why this blog is here, as YOU are The Hands and Feet of Him as well! Comment away!
*Luke 10:1-3: After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go. 2 He told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. 3 Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves.
We are going to do His work right by His side, just as He will be along ours. He tells us so in Matthew 29:20: "And surely I am WITH YOU always, to the very end of the age".
These were the words that struck me last night as I sat in on the meeting where I'd eventually meet the rest of my team. About 50-60 people gathered in the room where display boards and colorful pamphlets had been neatly placed, along with 3 ring binders with the names of the places where the teams would go. Red for Europe, Orange for North America, Blue for Latin America, Green for Africa and Yellow for Asia. Of course, we were told to sit at any open chair at a table, as they were not yet splitting us up by group.
I chose to sit at one of the tables, and in speaking with those there, found myself surrounded by both veteran mission trippers, and newcomers as well, which made me very comfortable. I was secretly hoping that my own group would be the same in make up; that we'd have veterans, as well as a first timer to share my experiences with.
After a prayer and an icebreaker, we sat and discussed some of the basics of the trips. I found that I had been one of the first people chosen to go on one of the trips (I turned my application in as soon as I could after they had been released), and that they had still been interviewing people for the trips, as late as just before the meeting began.
One of the biggest things we talked about last night was health issues. Not only do we want everyone healthy during the trip, but we want to make sure that everyone stays healthy enough to go! Immediately, I put a reminder in my phone to make an appointment with my own doctor, so that I could get a check up, and make sure that my asthma is in check before I go. I also need to see a dentist, since we all know that one little toothache can kill anyone's good time anywhere in the world. I am so grateful that we have doctors in my church who are not only willing to share this information and their services with us, but are actually going on these trips with us, to serve just as we will. We were given reminders and tips (with more to come, I'm sure) to keep all original prescription containers (boxes for my inhaler and daily meds), to pack those in carry ons, to bring about 25% more than we think we will need; bring a personal first aid kit and pain medications; walk around on long airplane flights to prevent bloodclots, etc., etc.
Also, explained briefly, was the issue of fundraising. While each person is to make efforts to raise their own funds, we are working as a team. For instance, let's say that I work hard, but only get 75% of my funds raised. Another person on my team may raise more than enough, and then would be able to share their donations with me, ensuring that I am able to participate fully. Your donations will not go to waste. They will be used fully, to ensure that all needs are taken care of. Also, periodically, we will be given a tally of how we are doing (financially), as well as who gave (amounts don't matter here!)...so please, if you plan to donate in my name (or for my team) share with us who you are. I would personally like to thank you for your gift, and keep you up to date on what is being done with your funds.
Finally, we were asked to gather in our groups to finally meet and greet one another...I was so FIRED UP to meet mine! I had already been given the head's up that we'd have a pretty small group, but that's cool with me. I see it as an opportunity to be a tight knit group. Last year, there were 81 people who went on one of the trips, so I am sure that not every person got to have one on one time with all of their travel mates.
Disclaimer: Once meeting my group, I did inform them of this blog, and asked their permission to use them in the blog. I may or may not use their real names, but the experiences we share, along with some of their personal thoughts will be used. From each of them, I was given permission, though at any time, if they are uncomfortable with the information I release, I may edit the blog with revised information.
As I mentioned before, I knew of my team coordinator, as she was one of my interviewers. "Liz" is someone I have seen around the church quite often, as she serves in great capacities there. Her son "Taylor" will also join us on the trip, though he wasn't at the meeting last night. Taylor is completing his third year in college now, and joined our group by phone last night. This is cool, because it will be the first trip that Liz and Taylor have ever taken together, and he is using it as a learning experience. Taylor and I met about a year and a half ago at the North American Christian Convention, where we both served as a part of the Worship Team; I as a singer, and he as a musician. He's a cool and talented guy, and I look forward to sharing this experience with them.
"Jeff" is another servant I have seen around church, and can now include a name with his face. He is going on this trip because he wants to serve the Mudrik's themselves. He once went on a business trip to Rome, and had some downtime, so he wanted to find some missionaries in the area. After contacting home to find out who was in the area, he met the family, went to dinner with them, and found out that they had never had anyone come and seek them out, just to show them support. "Cheryl" is another woman going on our team that shares in this feeling with Jeff; she has the heart to go and serve the Mudrik's, and provide them with whatever support they need. After reading the Mudrik's Blog, I, too, feel compelled to go, and be for them whatever they may need (my daughter is also wanting to serve them, and suggests that we send some goodies over for their children!).
"Phil" has been a member of our church for years, and actually taught one of the classes The Mudrik's attended when they were members of our church, back when they were newlyweds (before the children and the move to Prague), and has a relationship with them already, and can't wait to go and serve them, and see what their life is like, now that they are parents, and teachers.
"Becci" is another who, like myself, had intentions on going on another trip, but God felt that she'd better serve with the team in Prague. As it turns out, He knows best, because she LOVES carpentry and building, which could be alot of what we will be doing on this trip.
As it stands right now, this is our team. Right now, there are about 70 people being sent on the Mountain On 5 (MO5) mission, but there are a few more still being interviewed (Reminds me of Luke 10*!). We may have one or two more join us within the next week, but its still looking like we will be the smallest group being sent out. I look forward to getting to know these folks, growing as a team with them, and preparing our hearts to go out into this world as The Hands and Feet of Him, collectively. When you support me, in finances or in prayer, you also support them, as well as The Mudrik's. We look forward to adding your name to our team.
Let's Go, Team Red!
So, is there anything else you'd like to know about our team? Anything you'd like to know about The Mudrik family? Myself? Our trip to the Czech Republic? Please ask! Comment away! Let me know what you think, feel, or suggest anything you'd like me to blog about. You are taking this journey with Team Red, and I want to make sure you feel welcomed. You are the reason why this blog is here, as YOU are The Hands and Feet of Him as well! Comment away!
*Luke 10:1-3: After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go. 2 He told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. 3 Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves.
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).
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