More than anything, He wants us to know Him.
More than anything, He wants to speak to our hearts.
More than anything, during these last three months of my fundraising journey, Jesus has cared for my heart.
When I was dry, He brought my friends around me to uplift and encourage me. One of the most challenging things about this season has been the lack of community, as I’m living in a new place. But the Lord provided a trip for me, back to my college town and friends and church family. They covered me in prayer and encouragement, and renewed my spirit.
When I was unsure, He gave me confidence. I spent a week at a training conference with other Christians working in agriculture all over the world, which was an incredible time of learning and sharing. I made some awesome new friends, and as I got to know them, the Lord reminded me why I’m going to Central Asia. As I shared my story and met others with similar stories, He strengthened me and gave me boldness for the work ahead.
When I began to grieve, He comforted me. I found myself crying on the plane back home, overwhelmed by the reality of what I’m about to do. So far, it’s all seemed distant and removed. But as I journaled about the week, certain things started sinking in—leaving my family and friends for two years; life continuing on without me; stepping into a very foreign culture; being forever changed by this experience. I need time and space to be sad about these things, to cry and then release my grip on them. Jesus makes it a lot easier to do this. I can trust that it is all in His hands, and receive the comfort and assurance found in Him.
I can only do this knowing that God cares for my heart.