Often people ask me what my "needs" are … and usually that means "what comforts from home can we send you?" While Splenda and Starbucks Via are always welcome, I often don't know how to explain and receive things that are TRUE needs for me here on the mission field.
Upon sending one of my last mass-updates, a friend of mine, Kim, inquired about a prayer request I mentioned. In that update, I said "I'm desperate for a deeper level of Biblical teaching and a community to support me; I often feel alone and exhausted in this mission. I'd love to attend a Bible Study where I didn't have to teach or lead; I'd love to have like-minded friends to do life with" (25 Feb 2014).
Well, Kim took this request and creatively stepped up to meet the need. Kim and I have been reading a John Piper book, "When I Don't Desire God: How to Fight for Joy" (which also sounds very un-Christian), but a deep study of our expectations of God and what He really requires from us. We read a chapter every week or two and email our thoughts. I've called it our 'no pressure book club.' We've tracked our lessons and comments on a Word document and have been able to see God move and grow our thinking and gleanings. It's been so nice to rekindle this relationship through learning and depth. It's been neat to receive a unique gift of answered prayer. I love that God uses people to answer prayer!
Well, Kim took this request and creatively stepped up to meet the need. Kim and I have been reading a John Piper book, "When I Don't Desire God: How to Fight for Joy" (which also sounds very un-Christian), but a deep study of our expectations of God and what He really requires from us. We read a chapter every week or two and email our thoughts. I've called it our 'no pressure book club.' We've tracked our lessons and comments on a Word document and have been able to see God move and grow our thinking and gleanings. It's been so nice to rekindle this relationship through learning and depth. It's been neat to receive a unique gift of answered prayer. I love that God uses people to answer prayer!
Thankful for sweet friends who join this journey in their own way!
Thanks for all who add value to this mission - tangibly, in-tangibly, in the Spirit, in support! I definitely need you and long for many to reap the benefits of the blessings of missions in South Africa.
[ More on "needs" to come. Everyone's capable of participating - rich, poor, busy, bored - we all have things to give in our own way! Lots of exciting projects in the pipeline! ]
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