Wednesday, January 23, 2013

Recent and Future Happenings



 

                When you haven’t seen someone in awhile one of the first things you ask is, “What’s new?”  Well it definitely has been awhile for me on my blog.  So, what’s new with me?  Back at the beginning of December I went to Haiti for five days to help a lady named Heather Elyse and her ministry, Giving Hope Rescue Mission.  On my initial trip we began the process of fixing all that’s been broken over the last few months as Heather and her ministry have been under major attack from Satan.  One of the many things Heather is needing is long term help.  Before we left Haiti to head back home, Heather asked if I would come back and be the Crèche (Orphanage) Activity Director.  My responsibilities would include kid’s song leader, church worship leader, boy’s discipleship trainer, and sports/activity director at the orphanage.  With much excitement, I prayed and asked my parent’s council.  One thing I told my mom when she took me to the airport was that I felt this trip was for longer than just a few days…well, I’m happy to announce that this was indeed the preface to the whole story:  I will be heading back to Haiti very soon to work for Giving Hope Rescue Missions for the next year.  This adventure was definitely led of God and I am so excited for this opportunity to go back and work with these children and Heather long term.  Some of the roles I will be filling will be a whole new experience for me and are definitely kicking me out of my comfort zone; however I’m looking forward to this challenge.  It’s been really amazing to see God’s hand in this story from the very beginning, which was birthed in my heart two years ago.
                So, along with three Christmases and the best New Years Eve I’ve had, I have been preparing for my soon to be adventure in Haiti.  These three verses sum up very well what God has been doing: (Psalm 23:1-3) The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.  He makes me to lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.  He restores my soul.  He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.
                Starting at verse one and how it relates to me, God has been providing for my trip.  I have been praying for money and along with a support letter I sent out God has brought in (at this point) about half of what I need…I have not been in want as He has promised.
                The second verse, to me, is a verse that talks of peace and not having to worry.  Since the beginning of this adventure God has made it clear that this is where I am suppose to go and with that knowledge has come this peace He talks about.  Thanks to Jesus I haven’t worried (much) about where the money will come from or when I will be leaving.  God has taken care of all of that and will continue to provide peace throughout my whole Haiti experience.
                And verse three, even when I am faithless, God is faithful. Through the times I have wanted to doubt, God has made it abundantly clear that he is carrying me and that even when the sheep may stray He, the good shepherd, stays constant.
                So, I will keep you posted as the chapters to this story are revealed.  I would love all of your prayers and support for this upcoming trip.  I don’t know yet exactly when I will be leaving yet, but I know the one who does and I will keep you posted as I find out more.  So, until next time my dear family and friends :)
                    

A few pictures from my first trip.
The team I went down with. L to R: Paula, Heather, Ron, Emily, Lauren
            

The first thing you seen when walking into the Creche.


Our dear friend Bob :)


On our way back to the airport.

 

                   

               


1 comment:

  1. I love the photos, especially your big smile in 'em all. More than that, I LOVE that you're taking time to journal your adventures...to pause and reflect on God's revelations to you. It's so vital, in the ups and downs of life, to be able to look back upon all that the Lord has done...to remember His good works, His powerful demonstration in your life, His faithfulness, His mercy etc. In fact Shane, you are following the example of Moses,as he obeyed the Lord's instruction to "write this for a memorial in a book"...Exodus 17:14

    Keep writing and smiling for Jesus!

    Much love,
    Mom

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