Hello everyone! Well, this time next week I will be at training camp for Africa! I am totally pumped and cannot wait to start this new adventure in my life. I've bought pretty much all of my supplies (a 2 lb. tent, a sleeping bag the size of a milk jug, lots of peanut butter, batteries..), and am just waiting for Friday to get here. Of course, I'm doing my best to prepare spiritually. I'm currently reading a book about the Holy Spirit while I read the ministries of the apostles in Acts (which is where the Holy Spirit becomes a part of the New Testament story). I'm praying that God will continue to prepare my heart and weed out the weeds of the world that are constantly contaminating it. Please continue to pray for me, my team, and my parents ( :D ) as we plan to go.
As for when we get there, we will be meeting for training in Chattanooga on Friday the 3rd and will train for four days. Then, on the 7th, we will fly into Entebbe, Uganda. We will be there for 55 days, after which we will return to the States for a night of debrief before we go home. We've been told to expect of a lot of prison and hospital ministry and a bunch of playing with street kids. Bring it on :)
If you want to hear what we're doing and how we're doing while we're gone, please visit the team blog at: http://expedition.adventures.org/
Thanks for your support!
Lauren
Friday, May 27, 2011
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
My Provider
Have you ever been challenged by God but afraid to obey because of circumstances? If you have, then you'll know how I felt. A couple of weeks ago, I was called to do something. I was called to give. I like to give. But this time, it made me nervous; after all, I owed Adventures in Missions $2500 at the time. I prayed that God would make it really really clear to me that I was supposed to give, to whom, and how much. Of course, he did. It was hard, but I obeyed.
The amazing part, other than the peace he gave me, was what came in the mail just a few days later. The exact same amount of money that I gave to others what given back to me for my trip. The exact same amount. Now tell me that that isn't an awesome God!
Still later, today I received another huge blessing. My uncle works for Cook's Pest Control on the corporate side. Apparently, he was talking to a district manager and somehow got him to donate $100 to my trip through the company. A couple hours later, two other managers and a friend had also agreed to give. So in one short day $400 was donated toward my trip!
I don't know why I worry. God is such a provider. He has never failed me, and I don't know why I would think He would now. Praise God.
Malachi 3:8-10 — “ ‘Will a man rob God? Yet you rob me. But you ask, “How do we rob you?” In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse—the whole nation of you—because you are robbing me. Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,’ says the Lord Almighty, ‘and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.’ ”
2 Corinthians 9:6-9 — “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written: ‘He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.’ ”
Lauren
The amazing part, other than the peace he gave me, was what came in the mail just a few days later. The exact same amount of money that I gave to others what given back to me for my trip. The exact same amount. Now tell me that that isn't an awesome God!
Still later, today I received another huge blessing. My uncle works for Cook's Pest Control on the corporate side. Apparently, he was talking to a district manager and somehow got him to donate $100 to my trip through the company. A couple hours later, two other managers and a friend had also agreed to give. So in one short day $400 was donated toward my trip!
I don't know why I worry. God is such a provider. He has never failed me, and I don't know why I would think He would now. Praise God.
Malachi 3:8-10 — “ ‘Will a man rob God? Yet you rob me. But you ask, “How do we rob you?” In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse—the whole nation of you—because you are robbing me. Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,’ says the Lord Almighty, ‘and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.’ ”
2 Corinthians 9:6-9 — “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written: ‘He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.’ ”
Lauren
Friday, April 22, 2011
Satisfactory Weakness?
'I don't pray enough.' 'Man, I forgot to read my Bible!' 'She is so much better of a Christian than I am. I didn't even think to ask how I could help out.' 'Why am I still struggling with this sin!?'
It's thoughts like these that have plagued me lately. Actually, they've plagued me for at least this whole semester. I never seem to be a good enough Christian. Either I don't pray enough, forget to call a friend, don't read my Bible for a couple of days, snap at one of my friends, or simply get intimidated by people who are farther in their walks with Christ than I am.
That was the mindset that I had as I began my devotion time this morning. I just picked up where I had last left off, right in the middle of Hebrews. I wasn't very excited about my Bible time, simply because I felt so condemned that I haven't stuck to my recent resolution to spend more time with God because I've been swamped with school work and studying. So I was reading rather dejectedly. But as I read, I began to absorb the words that my eyes were flowing over. Jesus Christ is my high priest. Unlike other high priests, though, he doesn't make a sacrifice on a regular basis. He did it once, and He did it for all. As I continued to read, I began to feel a weight lift off of my shoulders. I'm not perfect. I daily fail at the Christian walk. I fall short in some area every single day..but that's why Christ died! I don't have to be perfect! His sacrifice, His death, covers up my sin so that God sees me as an absolutely beautiful perfect being. There is nothing I can do to prove my worthiness--not even go to Africa.
I kept reading, and God reminded me of a verse that I read a few days ago. It pretty much sums up everything, all of the encouragement that I needed. 1 Corinthians 12:9 "and he said unto me, 'My grace is sufficient for thee; for my strength is made perfect in weakness.'" God completes my weakness and can use me whether I am always pure or not. Of course, I still strive to be righteous, as we are called to. But when I forget, or simply get tired of it and stop, it's okay. God's strength is made perfect even though I'm weak. Thank you God.
It's thoughts like these that have plagued me lately. Actually, they've plagued me for at least this whole semester. I never seem to be a good enough Christian. Either I don't pray enough, forget to call a friend, don't read my Bible for a couple of days, snap at one of my friends, or simply get intimidated by people who are farther in their walks with Christ than I am.
That was the mindset that I had as I began my devotion time this morning. I just picked up where I had last left off, right in the middle of Hebrews. I wasn't very excited about my Bible time, simply because I felt so condemned that I haven't stuck to my recent resolution to spend more time with God because I've been swamped with school work and studying. So I was reading rather dejectedly. But as I read, I began to absorb the words that my eyes were flowing over. Jesus Christ is my high priest. Unlike other high priests, though, he doesn't make a sacrifice on a regular basis. He did it once, and He did it for all. As I continued to read, I began to feel a weight lift off of my shoulders. I'm not perfect. I daily fail at the Christian walk. I fall short in some area every single day..but that's why Christ died! I don't have to be perfect! His sacrifice, His death, covers up my sin so that God sees me as an absolutely beautiful perfect being. There is nothing I can do to prove my worthiness--not even go to Africa.
I kept reading, and God reminded me of a verse that I read a few days ago. It pretty much sums up everything, all of the encouragement that I needed. 1 Corinthians 12:9 "and he said unto me, 'My grace is sufficient for thee; for my strength is made perfect in weakness.'" God completes my weakness and can use me whether I am always pure or not. Of course, I still strive to be righteous, as we are called to. But when I forget, or simply get tired of it and stop, it's okay. God's strength is made perfect even though I'm weak. Thank you God.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
His Ways Are Not My Ways
Isaiah 55:8 "'For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,' saith the LORD."
The ways that God has been providing for my trip to Africa have definitely been different from how I imagined, and it has been incredible to see how He has worked! Just before my 50% deadline was here, only 3 days before, over $600 was donated to my trip to Africa by people that I didn't even send letters to! Since then, I have continued to receive donations that I didn't expect, be it from classmates, my parents' friends, or even strangers.
Now, I know you all are probably wondering how the Zaxby's fundraiser went--sorry it's taken me so long to report on it! We had a pretty great turn-out, with Zaxby's selling over $400 worth of food. What really made the fundraiser worthwhile though were the many extra donations that were given to me from those who either had leftover change or simply handed me a check. From that fundraiser, I received about $170 total from Zaxby's and friends. So thank you to all of you who came out!
Also, ALL of the t-shirts have been sold! I do still have a few bracelets if anyone wants one, but those have also sold very well.
Of course, I am still far from having my trip paid for, and my next deadline is TOMORROW! Seventy-five percent of my money is due, and I still need about $1000 to meet it. If you would like to donate, simply visit https://www.adventures.org/give/donate.asp?giveto=partFund&multi= and type in my name, Lauren Veitch.
Other needs that I have include: international insurance, a backpacking pack, various travel supplies, and one vaccination. Let me know if you would like to help me purchase any of these items!
Please remember to be praying for me as I prepare to leave for Africa (in only 47 days!): for financial support, safety on the field, and most importantly, spiritual preparation. Once again, thank you so much for your support.
In Christ,
Lauren
The ways that God has been providing for my trip to Africa have definitely been different from how I imagined, and it has been incredible to see how He has worked! Just before my 50% deadline was here, only 3 days before, over $600 was donated to my trip to Africa by people that I didn't even send letters to! Since then, I have continued to receive donations that I didn't expect, be it from classmates, my parents' friends, or even strangers.
Now, I know you all are probably wondering how the Zaxby's fundraiser went--sorry it's taken me so long to report on it! We had a pretty great turn-out, with Zaxby's selling over $400 worth of food. What really made the fundraiser worthwhile though were the many extra donations that were given to me from those who either had leftover change or simply handed me a check. From that fundraiser, I received about $170 total from Zaxby's and friends. So thank you to all of you who came out!
Also, ALL of the t-shirts have been sold! I do still have a few bracelets if anyone wants one, but those have also sold very well.
Of course, I am still far from having my trip paid for, and my next deadline is TOMORROW! Seventy-five percent of my money is due, and I still need about $1000 to meet it. If you would like to donate, simply visit https://www.adventures.org/give/donate.asp?giveto=partFund&multi= and type in my name, Lauren Veitch.
Other needs that I have include: international insurance, a backpacking pack, various travel supplies, and one vaccination. Let me know if you would like to help me purchase any of these items!
Please remember to be praying for me as I prepare to leave for Africa (in only 47 days!): for financial support, safety on the field, and most importantly, spiritual preparation. Once again, thank you so much for your support.
In Christ,
Lauren
Sunday, March 27, 2011
67 days and counting!
I leave for Africa in 67 days!! Yahoo!! I cannot wait!
I am beginning to feel a little bit of pressure though, since it is coming so quickly. My first financial deadline is only 8 days away, on April 4, with $2650 due. I'm about halfway there, so I'm getting slightly stressed about getting it all in on time. If any of you are interested in helping me meet my goal, simply send a check made payable to Adventures in Missions to Adventures in Missions, PO Box 534470, Atlanta, GA, 30353-4470. Thanks!
I have sold some t-shirts and wristbands (I still have a few if you're interested!), so that has helped out a little bit with raising money. On April 5, Zaxbys has agreed to donate 20% of their sales between 5 and 8 pm when customers give them a coupon saying so (I have to distribute those still). On April 23, I will be doing a carwash at home that Dad has organized for me. So, I'm far from my financial goals, but I do have several fundraisers that should help me make more progress.
Aside from the that, I already have my passport and several shos. I have an appointment over Easter break to go receive the rest of my vaccines, and I already have a prescription for anti-malaria pills. I am also starting to look at packs to buy. If anyone knows of a place where I can get a good pack inexpensively, let me know! Those things get expensive! In short, I am spending most of my time planning fundraisers but am beginning to work on other details as well. I am feeling the stress but am confident that God will provide in His own timing and unique ways (even though I at times struggle to remember that!). Thanks for the prayers and support!
Lauren
I am beginning to feel a little bit of pressure though, since it is coming so quickly. My first financial deadline is only 8 days away, on April 4, with $2650 due. I'm about halfway there, so I'm getting slightly stressed about getting it all in on time. If any of you are interested in helping me meet my goal, simply send a check made payable to Adventures in Missions to Adventures in Missions, PO Box 534470, Atlanta, GA, 30353-4470. Thanks!
I have sold some t-shirts and wristbands (I still have a few if you're interested!), so that has helped out a little bit with raising money. On April 5, Zaxbys has agreed to donate 20% of their sales between 5 and 8 pm when customers give them a coupon saying so (I have to distribute those still). On April 23, I will be doing a carwash at home that Dad has organized for me. So, I'm far from my financial goals, but I do have several fundraisers that should help me make more progress.
Aside from the that, I already have my passport and several shos. I have an appointment over Easter break to go receive the rest of my vaccines, and I already have a prescription for anti-malaria pills. I am also starting to look at packs to buy. If anyone knows of a place where I can get a good pack inexpensively, let me know! Those things get expensive! In short, I am spending most of my time planning fundraisers but am beginning to work on other details as well. I am feeling the stress but am confident that God will provide in His own timing and unique ways (even though I at times struggle to remember that!). Thanks for the prayers and support!
Lauren
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Dominoes
Who would've thought that such a simple game of dominoes could mean so much? In Philadelphia this past week, one of the ministries I got the opportunity to work with was a branch of the Bethesda Project, called Our Brother's Place. A shelter where homeless men can stay permanently, eat regular meals, get new clothes, and take showers or can come just momentarily for lunch, Our Brother's Place is the home of William. He probably impacted me the most this week. When we first arrived at OBP, I have to admit that I was scared. I mean, I was supposed to go talk to homeless black men from downtown Philly! But I came to discover that they aren't scary at all: they're normal human beings, with names, stories, and the desire for companionship. Once we got a tour of OBP, we pulled out a bunch of games and started to play each other. Not ten minutes later, several men had curiously wandered over and began to watch. Eventually, I found myself playing game after game of dominoes with William and some of my teammates. Who would've thought that serving in a homeless shelter would yield hours of teasing and comeraderie among us?
William is probably in his fifties, with neat clothes and an easy going laugh. We got to visit with him twice this past week. Before we left the second day, he broke my heart. He asked, "When will you be coming back?" Of course, we had to tell him that that was our last day at OBP and that the next day we would move on to St. John's, a feeding ministry. He was familiar with St. John's and assured us that he would go the next day so he could see us. True to his word, the very next day as I was passing out brownies, who was next in line but Willy?! I was a little disappointed that I didn't get to see him after our brief (but energetic and fulfilling) conversation while he was in line for his lunch.
William touched me in a way that I didn't expect. He opened my eyes to the fact that homeless people aren't just "homeless." They are William. They have names. Further, they're similar to me and appreciate companionship. Not all of them are on the street because they are some gang member or drug dealer. I'm not sure of what Willy's story is, but he was incredibly kind to me, clean, and definitely not some detestable person to avoid. William also taught me a lesson in simplicity. All I did was play a childish game with him, and it made his day. How many times have I failed to love others simply because I thought that the considered act wasn't enough?
So I think meeting William did far more for me than it did for him. It completely changed my perspective on the homeless and taught me the importance of the simply things. Along those same lines, he taught me to appreciate the little things. Here was a man with no home, not many friends, and not even a reliable source of food, yet he laughed at anything suggesting humor and smiled at anything remotely happy. I hope that I always remember that. I hope I remember to appreciate the little things and be ever so grateful for the provision I have been abundantly blessed with.
Thank you so much, Lord, for putting William into my life. I pray that you would sear him on my heart and that I would never forget the needs of others or the necessity of loving people. Help me to be thankful for all that You have so faithfully provided me with. I pray that You would provide a way out of homelessness for William and that he would continue to bless others like he blessed me. Amen.
William is probably in his fifties, with neat clothes and an easy going laugh. We got to visit with him twice this past week. Before we left the second day, he broke my heart. He asked, "When will you be coming back?" Of course, we had to tell him that that was our last day at OBP and that the next day we would move on to St. John's, a feeding ministry. He was familiar with St. John's and assured us that he would go the next day so he could see us. True to his word, the very next day as I was passing out brownies, who was next in line but Willy?! I was a little disappointed that I didn't get to see him after our brief (but energetic and fulfilling) conversation while he was in line for his lunch.
William touched me in a way that I didn't expect. He opened my eyes to the fact that homeless people aren't just "homeless." They are William. They have names. Further, they're similar to me and appreciate companionship. Not all of them are on the street because they are some gang member or drug dealer. I'm not sure of what Willy's story is, but he was incredibly kind to me, clean, and definitely not some detestable person to avoid. William also taught me a lesson in simplicity. All I did was play a childish game with him, and it made his day. How many times have I failed to love others simply because I thought that the considered act wasn't enough?
So I think meeting William did far more for me than it did for him. It completely changed my perspective on the homeless and taught me the importance of the simply things. Along those same lines, he taught me to appreciate the little things. Here was a man with no home, not many friends, and not even a reliable source of food, yet he laughed at anything suggesting humor and smiled at anything remotely happy. I hope that I always remember that. I hope I remember to appreciate the little things and be ever so grateful for the provision I have been abundantly blessed with.
Thank you so much, Lord, for putting William into my life. I pray that you would sear him on my heart and that I would never forget the needs of others or the necessity of loving people. Help me to be thankful for all that You have so faithfully provided me with. I pray that You would provide a way out of homelessness for William and that he would continue to bless others like he blessed me. Amen.
Nice to Meet You
Hello!
The purpose of this blog is really just to give me a place to write my thoughts and record the things God is doing in my life. Thus, this blog will likely cover the various things that God is revealing to me in my life as well as updates/thoughts on mission trips that I get to participate in. If you're interested in these parts of my life, feel free to "follow" me, and if not, then that's okay too! God Bless!
The purpose of this blog is really just to give me a place to write my thoughts and record the things God is doing in my life. Thus, this blog will likely cover the various things that God is revealing to me in my life as well as updates/thoughts on mission trips that I get to participate in. If you're interested in these parts of my life, feel free to "follow" me, and if not, then that's okay too! God Bless!
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