Unexpected Blessings

This evening my family and I had the blessing of participating in the evening service at Grace Gospel Chapel in Rio Grande, NJ. We've been visiting this church ever since I was little with my dad's choir, for weddings, and other things. The people are wonderful, and their joy is infectious! The pastor had asked for information from me concerning BFA, and when I gave it to him tonight he asked me to share briefly with the church. I was a little hesitant to ask for support. This is such a tight economic time, and they have been so generous to us before. However, as I finished sharing I felt like I should offer some info on how people could partner and support. After the service as we greeted people, I was approached by a kind older couple. In quiet voices, they said, "We need to talk to you. We would like to support you for $100 per month. How do we go about doing that?" What a blessing, and how marvelously humbling! As of now, I need about $30 per month. God has provided so richly, and I am convinced He will bring the rest in as well in His time.
This post will seem a bit backwards, but please forgive me, as it's rather late and I'm a bit sleepy. This morning at my home church, the speaker was a guest missionary from South Africa. His wife is from our area, and I felt a particular interest because I had never heard them speak before. He spoke of surrender, of self and what we think is important. He said, "To what extent am I willing to let go of my rights for the sake of the Gospel?" At this stage in my life, I'm not headed to as obviously difficult an area as this dear couples serves. However, as I sat in the pew this morning, I was struck with the obvious necessity to leave self behind. Who I am and my wants are of lesser importance than what God wants me to be. As I go and learn to be the hands and feet of Christ to the guys in my dorm, I pray that God will give me grace and insight to dispense with whatever is necessary for the sake of His dear name.

Comments

  1. Praise the Lord, Lauren. It's been amazing and incredibly encouraging watching you grow in Christ these past years I've known you. I'm going to (and already do) miss you dreadfully. Expect many letters ;-) I love you so much and will be praying for you every day, that God will give you strength and wisdom as you work with the kids, and that He will give you confidence in His unfailing power and unfathomable love!!
    your forever friend, Ange

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