I was a sophomore in college when God first gave me a glimpse of living for more than just my little life. Up until then, my faith was mostly about me. That, by the way, was the same summer I met Rick, who was getting the same glimpse into God’s bigger agenda. Since that fated summer in 1990, we haven’t looked back. Ours has been an adventure of trying to keep our eyes open to God’s work around us and then getting on board with what He is doing to advance His kingdom in a lost world.
When we left the staff of CRU (after 15 years) and Rick became a pastor, I wasn’t exactly sure what that would look like for me. But, as always, God knew. My ministry morphed from reaching out to and mentoring college women to a ministry of coming alongside Rick, reaching out to moms in our kids’ schools, being hospitable to international students attending Kent State, blogging, mentoring my own daughter, pouring into the younger women at our church and teaching the Bible to women – primarily at our church but also at conferences here and there. In fact, earlier this season, I spoke at a Christmas event for a church on Cleveland’s west side and got to see 30 or so women trust Christ! I have loved this new phase of life and ministry in ways I didn’t expect.
Now I have an opportunity to be part of team that is going to Costa Rica in February. Our church partners with an orphanage there (Roblealto Child Care Association in San Jose) that is doing powerful things in that tiny country. We love their philosophy of ministry, their approach to their people, and their heart for Jesus. While the orphanage is now mostly run by nationals, they still use outside teams to come in throughout the year for various projects. Our team will get to be a part of that legacy. During the days, I’ll be part of a construction team to help with any rebuilding projects the orphanage needs. During the evenings, I’ll get to spend time with the kids who call Roblealto home (for the time being). In fact, Rick and I support two children at the orphanage and can’t wait to meet them!
This trip is part of a long-standing relationship between our church and Roblealto. We are happy to partner with the ministry there in many ways, whether by sending money, encouragement and prayer from afar or by supplying manpower, supplies, and refreshment in person to bless the staff who live and work there day-in and day-out.
I would love to take this chance to serve, but I can’t do it without you. I need my friends and family to surround me in two ways: first, by praying for my team and our ministry to these precious young people; and second, by giving part of your resources so that I can go. As always, no pressure. I’m trusting the Lord to raise the money if He wants me there. I’m just asking you to ask Him if you should be a part of His provision.
If you would like to support this trip financially, you can give online here. If funds are received which exceed my personal expenses, the extra will be donated directly to Roblealto.
And, if you want to join me by praying, just make sure you’re subscribed to the blog via email (see the sidebar to the right). I’ll post updates right here.
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