Fathers...A Steady Hand

When I was trying to write a special tribute last weekend into this past week about my Dad, I had a hard time trying to put words on paper. I've been so blessed to have an earthly Dad and a heavenly One. I wanted to give honor to both. But how do you describe them, best honor them? There was so much to say about each. Where to start?

I had my students "free write" about their dads also. What they loved, what they appreciated. Many of them had much to say as well. 

Here were some highlights:

He loves me

Is always there

Listens

Provides

Encourages

Protects

Advises

He loves my family

He loves my Mom

He believes in me

One students wrote: "His favorite drink is coca cola." Another wrote: "He is long and fat. His face is a chocolate color. He is very beautiful and a smart boy." Those made me chuckle.

One shared a proverb: One father is worth more than a hundred school masters."

One said: "A dad picks you up, brushes you off when you fall, and let's you try again." 

Another wrote: "A dad is someone who holds you when you cry, scolds you when you break the rules, shines with pride when you succeed, and has faith in you, even when you fail."

SO TRUE- Fathers are a gift! Such a blessing!

My Dad, Jim Garrett...has been an amazing Dad! 

He was surprised by having twin girls. They were only expecting one. He worked tirelessly for our family through the years. He worked at General Motors, many times working overtime, to create a good life for my Mom, sister and I. We never lacked for food or fashion or the latest toys, like Cabbage Patch dolls or Barbie cars, etc. Remember those? My Dad was provider, adviser, the main voice of discipline. He took us on vacations to the Smokey Mountains, driving both ways. He made sure we were treated equally- which is important for twins. He made sure we took swimming lessons. He coached us in soccer. He was our biggest fan. He was always there to support us. Every boyfriend (there weren't many)- but he checked them all. He set the curfews. He was there to teach us. To cheer us on. To share his big pepsi with us. He let us sit in His lap. He dressed up as Santa. So many wonderful memories!!! My Dad had us in church at an early age. He prayed for us. He taught us the importance of reverence. I could go on and on.  He's the best! 

There are many things unique about my Dad. He is an incredible server. He has served in almost every ministry at Ginghamsburg Church that I know of. Kids love him. He high fives them. He's a lay pastor.  Ginghamsburg is blessed by his service, the kingdom is!

My Dad praying for kids at "blessing of the backpacks"

He also has to hold the record for dead man float. He will float for maybe an hour in that position- it's relaxing for him. Many lifeguards have noticed and have jumped in to save him. But he's fine, just taking a rest, ha ha.

He's hilarious. And He's humble. He's been that steady presence through the years, the hand in mine. He's prayed. And through crazy career changes, he's supported us, defended us. Loved us. Has never given up on us.

My Dad's leadership was solid and good because His hand was in God's hand. He led well, fathered well, because He was being led by His heavenly Dad. 

Through every road, every turn, My Dad and my Heavenly Father have proven to be the steady hands in mine.  Keeping steady is important.

The roads here in Ethiopia are under construction. They daily seem to shift. It's maddening.  Piles of rock appear out of no where.  Smooth places become a mess almost overnight.

If you're not paying attention, you can fall in a hole- to disappear forever. You can stub you toe or trip. A few nights ago- I had a major fall. A road I thought was paved was not and down I tumbled. Luckily it was dark out and only a few people saw and chuckled. I didn't think it was funny- my hands were bloodied and my pants ripped. But it could have been worse. :-)

Life's journey is full of bumps. Roads with weird twists, unexpected holes, it's dangerous. Thankfully- God has given us our Dads. Our global families. And His big steady Hand.

Through life's changes, He's constant. We're not alone, EVER. He's the great guide. The great provider. He disciplines in love. He gives grace, never giving up on us. He gives leadership. When paths shift, He shows us the way to go. When power goes out (which happens often here)- He's given us His word as our flashlight- and His Spirit as our GPS.  What an incredible journey it can be!

I'm so encouraged by these verses...

Deuteronomy 1:29-31

“Do not be terrified; do not be afraid of them. The Lord your God, who is going before you, will fight for you, as He did for you in Egypt, before your very eyes, and in the wilderness. There you saw how the Lord your God carried you, as a father carries his son, all the way you went until you reached this place.

Deuteronomy 8:2-5

Remember how the Lord your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands. He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your ancestors had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. Your clothes did not wear out and your feet did not swell during these forty years. Know then in your heart that as a man disciplines his son, so the Lord your God disciplines you 
 

Deuteronomy 2:7

The Lord your God has blessed you in all the work of your hands. He has watched over your journey through this vast wilderness. These forty years the Lord your God has been with you, and you have not lacked anything 
 

Psalm 139: 1-5

You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely. You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me

Hebrews 12:10

but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in His holiness 
 

Proverbs 3:11-12

My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline, and do not resent His rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those He loves, as a father the son He delights in 
 

Deuteronomy 3:24

“Sovereign LORD, you have begun to show to your servant your greatness and your strong hand. For what god is there in heaven or on earth who can do the deeds and mighty works you do..." 
 
Matthew 7:11
If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him
 
Luke 15:19-24

“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.“The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate.

For those of us who have been blessed on earth with a great Dad, may we love and celebrate and honor them always. 

Happy Father's Day to my Dad- Jim Garrett. Know you are greatly loved!!!!

My Mom, Sister-Noel, and my Great Dad

My Tribe :-)

And for those who have lost their dads or have never known a good one, know God is your great Father. His hand is there for you. May we continue to celebrate Him as well!

May we continue on the paths God has placed us on, holding to the steady big Hand He has given us.  Praying that for you as you pray that for me. Onward :-)
 

PRAISES

-Interesting conversations have started in and outside of my classes with students and community members about faith and God; pray that God uses me as He wills

-Rainy season is doing it's best to kick in- cooler temperatures are coming back- that's been nice

-I've had to pick up an extra class of teaching- but am starting to get into a good pace as that was adjusted

-Teams had successful visits here and to Haiti; pray as others are still on the ground here and in Ethiopia, in Kenya, in Haiti, in Dayton, and all around the world

PRAYER REQUESTS (some of these are repeats)

-Pray for my Dad's back and neck, that there will be complete healing

-Pray for strength and health as season cools and rains start

-Pray for short term teams on the field, launching and returning- safe travel for all

-Pray for opportunities for me to talk to my students and staff about J.

-Pray for my sister as she figures prays through different ministry opportunities in her new area and which one to jump through

-Pray for wisdom in building relationships

-Pray for good brothers and sisters in Christ globally- who are seeking God's next best step for them, that God will open up the doors for them- it's a critical time.

Thank you for praying for me as I pray for you. Blessings to you in these summer months!

May you stay cool, find time for rest with your families, and enjoy our Father's Love.
Keep confident that God is for you and is working a big plan!

Grateful for Each of You,

Holly

Better With Age

A thought that has been running through my mind this past week is...

Am I getting better with age...like wine- growing sweeter as I mature? 

I sure hope this can be said of me. But sometimes I doubt. Can't I just stay young forever? :-)

Little people are too cute

There is an innocence with childhood and a freedom to play that is later missed

What are things that get better with age? I asked google recently.

Here were some things listed:

...Life, wisdom, knowledge, relationships, tennis shoes, jeans, sheets, wine, cheese

One article (53 things that get better with age)- also listed: life stories; body image; vocabulary; self-awareness; self esteem; common sense; real estate, marriage, friendships, travel experiences.

Hmmmm.

But what about my effectiveness on the planet for God? I'm getting older for sure...but is it getting sweeter as the days go by...or am I getting stressed as I try to manage life's changes?

I think on the exterior, none of us truly want to show signs of age, of wear and tear, of time passing.  Time brings surprising changes to the body. WHAT IS THAT? HOW DO YOU FIGHT OFF THAT? IS IT PERMANENT? WHAT'S THE BEST TREATMENT? Some changes I've began facing already and more are sure to come in the time ahead.

Things like gray hair. Changing metabolism. Veins popping out. Wrinkles. Droopy places- like a chicken neck. Wrinkles. Age spots. There's the "middle age" spread- is that only men? There are aches and pains in usually ache free places. Stiff joints. Teeth fall out. Goodness. How do you deal???

Do you get consultation? Seek advice? (I've called my Mom) :-)  Do you buy new clothes or change your hair, make-up? Do you stay away from mirrors? Do you invest in spas and gyms, hire a personal trainer? Most don't have this luxury. Do you try to change your diet? Workout more? 

In a place like Africa, I've noticed the wear and tear on the body is intense. The elements pound at your skin. Heat, dust, bad water, bad smells, unfiltered smog- are around. No health food sections at grocery stores or low fat, low carb options. How do you manage with passing time? 

God has been making me chuckle at some of these thoughts and changes beginning. It's kind of funny- KIND OF. Just remembering that we are dust balls, largely water, all uniquely held together and this temporary house/tent  isn't supposed to last. Yet, inside of you is an eternal spirit that Jesus paid for with his life.  That part of you will always be. And Jesus has given us His mission to continue...helping His kingdom advance. Sometimes it's hard to wrap your mind around it all.  It can sound like a Star Wars sequel or something.  But it's a real story, our story. And we have a part to play.

God's Word encourages me so much. Verses like this one:

1 Corinthians 4:16-18

Outwardly we are wasting away, but inwardly we are being renewed day by day...

Sometimes I look back and wonder if all my glory days are behind me. The days where my talents and health and energy were maximized. But when I begin to question- I do feel God saying- Holly, I'm not done with you yet. In fact, you're not half done, over the hill, past your prime- in fact- you're almost ready for your greatest feat yet for me. I've matured you, refined you...still am, not to retire you, but to prepare you- move you to a place you've never dreamed. Bring it on. :-)

I think of so many in the Bible who probably thought their glory days were already past.

Try to answer these:

How old was Abraham when God moved him from his home?

How old was Sarah when she would give birth to a son and start a huge part of the human storyline?(She chuckled- it was that old)

How old was Noah when God called him to build the ark?

How old was Moses when God called him to go back to Egypt to free his people?

How old was the man crippled from birth when God gave him fresh legs?

How old was Jesus when he started his public ministry?

How old were the disciples when Jesus called them to change professions?

God has not only used children and the young to do great things, but the middle aged and old as well. So encouraging!

When I was part of the youth ministry team at Ginghamsburg church- I was amazed at how many ages were involved to reach youth.  So many grandparents were most effective in connecting with teens that would  give you attitude.  Our youth staff team spanned decades.  My director, Ken, had me in age by a few decades. But you would never have known it. Our youth work took us to LA, Chicago, New York City multiple times, Mexico, Russia, countless other places, and a favorite for me- Haiti.  God wants all of us to be doing our part. There's not enough space to write about the countless others who continue to give and serve, growing sweeter and more effective with experience and time.  We indeed have a great cloud of witnesses who can inspire us. Let us run on with courage.

Ken in NYC with some of our guys

Ken helping paint a house in Haiti with our inaugural youth team there, Summer 2008

There are three things God has been putting in front of me as time passes and I reflect on my life and pray for what is ahead. 

May I continue to keep them in mind.

As I go...I must...

1. KEEP PERSPECTIVE

As changes happen, may I keep in mind what the big story is.  We must keep perspective, eternal perspective.

John 15:19
If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world...

1 Timothy 6:7

For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 

 

Philippians 3:20

...our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ...

1 Corinthians 10:26

"The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.” 

 

2 Peter 3:13

But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth

2. REMEMBER WHAT TRUE BEAUTY IS

As time passes, our inward beauty can grow. Our maturity in our relationship with God- our wisdom and knowledge of Him- our effectiveness can grow. May we grow old gracefully and with beauty, dignity, and in favor with God and others.  As my good friend here likes to say: It is Possible!

Isaiah 40: 28-31

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. 
 

Proverbs 16:31

Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness 

 

Psalm 103: 1-5

Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion,who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. 
 

2 Peter 3:18

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ...

James 1:4

Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything 

 

Ephesians 4:11-16

So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, hat is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.

Hebrews 6:1

Therefore let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity 

 

1 Peter 2:2

 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good. 
 

Proverbs 31

She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household
and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: “Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.” Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate. 
 
3. BE A GOOD STEWARD

I believe God wants us to be good stewards of what He's given us: our bodies, our minds, our jobs, our education; our resources and finances; our relationships; our talents; our communities; our planet- so much. We can do our best to honor Him in all.  May we do this better and more effectively as we go.

1 Corinthians 9:24

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize 

 

Hebrews 12:1-3

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart 

 

Proverbs 13:20

Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm 

 

Ephesians 2:10

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do 

 

1 Thessalonians 5:11

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up 

 

1 Corinthians 3:9

 For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building 
 

Romans 6:13

Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness 

 

1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies 

 

1 Corinthians 4:2

Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful 

 

Romans 14:12

So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God 

 

As time passes, may we not get discouraged when our bodies change with age. May we realize God is God. He renews strength- likes to do impossible things with impossible people. I'm grateful!

May my greatest days still be before me. May I look with expectation and be ready to move, to speak, to go, to stay- His will, His plan. Til I change this tent for a new one. Onward we go!

PRAISES

-I had a good and restful weekend and took some time alone with God- so needed!

-God continues to teach me and humble me, so grateful for Him

-Still feeling healthy, big praises for that
-I'm grateful for the best Dad in the world, Jim Garrett!- plan to celebrate him this coming Father's day weekend
-I'm grateful for my prayer partner Esther in Kenya, celebrating her birthday this week
-So grateful for global family

PRAYER REQUESTS

-Pray for my Dad's back and neck, that there will be complete healing

-Pray for strength and health as season cools and rains start

-Pray for our English staff, we're still seeking someone to cover our teammate who left- pray for the right person and for strength to cover extra classes

-Pray for short term teams on the field, launching and returning- safe travel for all (in particular- ones to here in Ethiopia, some interns in Kenya, a student team in Haiti from GUM, and Urban Plunge kicking off- students serving Dayton, and many more)

-Pray for wisdom for me...one of my students presented an argument essay in class on: There is no God. Pray for that opening to spark conversation about life and faith

-Pray for opportunities for me to talk to my students and staff about faith.

-Pray for my sister as she figures prays through different ministry opportunities in her new area in the Czech Republic and which one to jump through

-Pray for wisdom in building relationships

-Pray for good brothers and sisters in Christ globally- who are seeking God's next best step for them professionally.

Thank you for praying for me and know I'm praying for you.

Blessings to you this new week!  May we all be better with age!

Love from Ethiopia,

Holly

On Public Transport...

One of the things I've enjoyed about life in Africa has been the walking. Despite the heat, dust, and nagging flies- I've still loved the open spaces that this continent offers. The colors, the good smells of flowers mixed with spices, the sights and sounds of children playing with the most creatively made toys. LOVE!!!

I love seeing ladies washing and hanging clothes, then making afternoon coffee-bunna. Seeing all ages organizing pick-up games of futbol-soccer. Hearing the Orthodox prayers ringing out from churches and big birds gawking and flying overhead. Seeing corn being roasted on the sides of the roads and cattle roaming every where. It's so much to take in. Looking at nteresting clouds floating by. And studying various shoe shiners working and street vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to t-shirts, household items and sticks to brush your teeth with. Even when you're called out to be FORENGIE (foreigner) and not a normal part of the overall beauty of it all- it's still worth that irritation. When you mix in the sunsets and sunrises- it's something you don't want to miss. 

But in recent days the rain then the unexpected shift to burnng sun and heat- has led me to take "public" transport more often than I'd like to. The major forms of transport here are geri (horse and cart), bajaj (see pic); blue mini-van (taxi), and bus. 

geri- one mode of transport

on a "geri"- you can also a the blue minivan (another main form of  public transport)

bajaj

big bus to the left

The cramped conditions, fighting for space that are involved on most public transport options can give you a headache. It's a ton of people in a small area and it feels like space invasion.

But God was able to use these moments the past few weeks to get me thinking and remind me of some important things.

One big reminder is that God definitely has us riding "public" through life. 

I remember Jesus praying for us- that we might not be taken out of all the mess- but kept in it:

John 17:15-18

My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world...

 

Our lives are not shielded from the pain and disappointments of life on planet earth. The biggest iron gates and best security systems you have- still can't keep out broken promises and things like temptation, pride, failure, disease and death. We all must face these things and battle these things. And we're living and working among people who struggle with them too... people who are on our buses, in our grocery stores, in our schools, at our jobs, and on our streets. As much as we try to ride "private"- and act like we have our acts together, we all actually struggle. And we need each other. I remember helping put together purity retreats for youth in the USA, Mexico and Russia at different times. When students started sharing at these different retreat times the struggles were the same, even with living thousands of miles apart and speaking different languages and growing up in different cultures. Language barriers were broken as the common struggles faced were shared. And sharing with each other actually led to healing.

I think as we travel through life on "public"- we can actually not only survive but thrive and represent God well. Even with crowds and all the challenges there are to face in a given day, God has given us His Spirit and His Word to help us not only survive the ride -but enjoy it too.

I'm encouraged by these verses:

Acts 1:8

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth 

 

John 14:16-27

I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Counselor to be with you forever- The Spirit of truth....I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you...because I live, you will also live....Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you...Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid...

Psalm 119:95

Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. 

 

Here are some things God reminded me of the past week as I rode "public here in Ethiopia:

As Much as Possible...

Know and Keep To Your Destination

I have ended up in a few destinations in recent days I didn't mean to end up in. Opps. I've missed my stop, by one or two, and have had to back track. Be careful. I must be keeping watch on where I'm going. Hard lessons learned.

This past Sunday I went with one of my students to his church. It took five taxis to get there. But he knew the way to our destination and when we arrived I was blessed. I saw him play the piano for their youth choir and it brought tears to me eyes to see the heartfelt worship of these young people and their church. I'm so glad I didn't miss out on the destination God had for me for that day.

 May we continue to go the right direction.

Hebrews 12:2

fix your eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith 

 

Deuteronomy 5:32-33

So be careful to do what the Lord your God has commanded you; do not turn aside to the right or to the left. Walk in obedience to all that the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess.

Know and Trust Your Driver  

In recent days, our taxis have been pulled over by random police- and we've all had to pile out because the driver had no license, etc. Lovely. But those times God used to remind me I need that I need to know my driver. Who am I allowing to lead me, influence me? 

Also I thought of God himself as my driver...and if He is at the wheel of my life- I can trust Him. Even with weird twists and turns- He has my and best interest at heart. He can see way further ahead than I can. He's proven trustworthy. May I not forget that.

John 10:3,14

“The sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out...I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me ..."

Jeremiah 29:11

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Pay Attention to Who Is Traveling With You

The other day I was in a taxi and a lamb was laying across the floor bleating its sadness at the whole situation. It had a horn and it kept hitting my ankle with it. Then it let out little pellets all over the place. I felt bad for the little guy- but thankful I knew he was there. If I would have stepped on him or any of his stuff- well, let's just say it would not have been good. We need to watch whose around us. And also keep in mind we live in enemy territory.

I was on a different taxi another day and a former co-worker was at the back and I was at the front and we didn't even see each other. I saw him only as we were pulling away. Watch who's getting in your transport- and keep mindful of the kind of influence they can have on you.

 
Proverbs 13:20

Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.

1 Peter 5:8-9

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings
 
Watch for Needed Maintenance, Etc.

I can't tell you how many taxis I've been in recently that have just stopped. Maybe engine failure- maybe out of gas. What is carrying you? If it's something or someone other than God, watch out. No arms are stronger than His. 

Isaiah 46:4

...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.

 
Keep Good Airflow

Yep. I've noticed that if I can't breathe- I get sick pretty quickly. When your face is pressed against a window- just a little bit of air from that window could save your life. I was actually in a taxi a few weeks ago and my friend visiting from the USA suddenly told all of us to roll our windows down. The exhaust was flowing into the car and we were breathing bad air and didn't even realize it.

How easy it is for our source of energy and health to get tapped into the wrong air, air that could kill us May we keep connected to the only true living source of life and health and healing. 

John 17:5

I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. 

 

Hang On

In bajajs, if you're beside the driver, you can actually fall out. Yep. Make sure you're holding on to the only anchor that holds. The way could and probably will get bumpy.

Proverbs 4:4
Take hold of my words with all your heart; keep my commands, and you will live. 
 

Psalm 91

...Because He loves me, I will rescue Him, I will protest Him..."

Squeeze In

There have been some taxis that I've squeezed into in recent days that didn't look possible. But I'm so glad I made myself fit- because I would have waited hours longer if not. 

It made me think about my ability to fit where God calls me. Can I fit in and am I staying moldable or movable enough that if God asks me to do something or go somewhere or get in somewhere- they I'm able to adapt to that in obedience? If not, I could miss incredible opportunities for God to me. Looking back at the times I made myself squeeze in places- have led to me being a "missionary," a youth pastor, a radio personality, a foot nurse, a seminary student, a nursery worker, an ESL teacher, a college English professor in Ethiopia, a hospital office worker, a researcher, an advocate for Africa. So much. So CRAZY. I didn't think I could do any of those things. But thinking about what I would have missed if I wouldn't have tried to "fit" into that- with God's help- is unimaginable. I would have missed so much. I would have missed literally meeting continents full of fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. I can't imagine not knowing them now and having them as part of my life. May God continue to help me be moldable, movable at His will.

1 Corinthians 9:22

...I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.

 
Philippians 4:13

I can do all this through him who gives me strength. 

 

As I ride "public" here on the streets and paths of Africa for this season, please pray for me.

I will do the same for you. 

May God empower us and give us His awareness and courage to ride public- with caution, with gratitude, with awareness, with effectiveness, with our eyes on Him til home.

I'm grateful for each of you and the example you are to me. May we continue on in trust.

PRAISES
-for God with us as we travel through life and fellow teammates-family

-despite a busy weekend- managed to get ready for classes and on top of my grading

-that Craig and Dave (from Ginghamsburg) returned safely back to Ohio

PRAYER REQUESTS

New...

-One of our English staff members is resigning- pray that we can manage his classes and find someone to replace him

-Pray for many short-term teams that have launched or will be launching soon- going global as summer season arrives, that God will give safety and effectiveness in places like Dayton, Haiti, and Africa and beyond

 Continued from last week... 

-Please pray that I will do my best in this season here in Ethiopia- to be more than I think I can be here- that I will be effective salt and light- and an advocate for my students

-Pray for our staff and students- that God will give good energy and focus; and that relationships will lead to good conversations about faith

-Pray for continued good health as rainy season approaches

-Continue to pray for complete healing for my Dad's back/neck and good health overall for my family

-Pray for some good Ethiopian friends in job transitions now- that God will be their provider and His perfect will be shown

-Pray for my book as I continue to write, that God will give the time and focus needed