It's been 3 weeks since I flew into Innsbruck for the summer.
My initial thought was that this would be in my comfort zone since I'm dealing with youth but I was totally wrong.
Moving into someones home the same day I met them was slightly uncomfortable.
Going places and not knowing what any one is saying is strange.
Sitting in German class and being the only one who speaks English/ is from America is intimidating.
Not knowing this city and getting lost everywhere I go is frustrating.
Not working at a regular job or having school gives me this feeling of laziness.
These have been my struggles so far but let me tell you what God has done through those.
My family is amazing! They are fun and very generous. I feel at home all the time. Ritha just took her English test we've been studying together for and we will get the results on Tuesday. We are hoping for a 1 or 2! This weekend we are doing a family bike ride and they love hacky sack...SCORE!
Not being able to communicate is actually really nice. I've been learning to listen and to shut my mouth. It's crazy how much I missed because I was focused on what I was going to say next. The day after I got here we went on a youth retreat and I understood nothing the speaker was saying. As I sat there reading my bible I couldn't help but be focused on the bigness of God. He can understand everyone. It still blows my mind that while I'm talking to Him in English, the guy next to me is speaking in German and a girl on the other side is speaking Italian, God can understand us the same. Amazing. Makes me excited for heaven when we all understand each other.
This week was the first week of German class. At the school (BFI) people come from all over the world to learn different languages. In my class I happen to be the only American which means the teacher is always calling on me because she thinks I understand. She asks me what the German word means in English and 95% of the time I just throw out a word because I have absolutely no idea what she's talking about. There are a couple relationships I hope to pursue in that class so we will see where those go.
Getting lost almost everyday turns out to be good sometimes. I've find lots of cool places and get tons of exercise! Because I ride my bike and walk everywhere, I pray more frequently since there's nothing else to do. Praying for this city is one of the most important things I can do and what better place to do that then the streets they walk on.
Not working was fun for the first 3 days then I started to miss it. I knew that would happen. Dave (my team leader) has given me a couple projects to keep me occupied which is great! God is still trying to teach me that I don't always need to have every hour of the day filled with things to do. If my day is filled with things I have to do, that means God doesn't have room for what He wants me to do. This is the biggest struggle for me and I get so frustrated. Running, biking and playing sports help me to feel accomplished so doing those things with students is what I'm working towards. My dad is totally the same way so thanks for that one daddy ;)
Getting to know the youth is just awesome. God is doing big things throughout this group of students. Love it.
Thank you for your prayers and support.
guten Tag
Saturday, June 8, 2013
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Tomorrow is the Big Day
May 16 is the day.
Tomorrow I fly to Newark -> Frankfurt -> Innsbruck.
I'll be dropped off by my awesome grandparents and greeted by the team leader in Austria.
The Lord has been so good in letting me raise the money and support for this.
I'll be blogging as often as I can to let everyone know what the Lord is doing over there but I do not plan on spending much time on the computer.
This are a couple things I'm praying for and you can as well...
-For God to soften the hearts of the children I'll be working with
-Open my eyes for opportunities His has put in front of me
-That I'd have some awesome conversations with the family I'm living with
-Patience for His timing and the travel over there
-I'd have a kingdom driven mindset (big prayers for a big God)
Pray for those students a lot.
Here has been the statement that I've been repeating for the last couple months:
'I'm the weakest person I know and if the Holy Spirit doesn't help me, I sin.'
This is your trip, Lord. Help me.
Thanks for all the prayers and support guys!
Can't wait to tell you all about it.
#overflow
Tomorrow I fly to Newark -> Frankfurt -> Innsbruck.
I'll be dropped off by my awesome grandparents and greeted by the team leader in Austria.
The Lord has been so good in letting me raise the money and support for this.
I'll be blogging as often as I can to let everyone know what the Lord is doing over there but I do not plan on spending much time on the computer.
This are a couple things I'm praying for and you can as well...
-For God to soften the hearts of the children I'll be working with
-Open my eyes for opportunities His has put in front of me
-That I'd have some awesome conversations with the family I'm living with
-Patience for His timing and the travel over there
-I'd have a kingdom driven mindset (big prayers for a big God)
Pray for those students a lot.
Here has been the statement that I've been repeating for the last couple months:
'I'm the weakest person I know and if the Holy Spirit doesn't help me, I sin.'
This is your trip, Lord. Help me.
Thanks for all the prayers and support guys!
Can't wait to tell you all about it.
#overflow
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
End of Semester Eval
One semester down, a lot more to go.
What a crazy first semester of college it's been. First I was going to be in Austria all year
then some how ended up in Ames! The plans of me being a missionary this year in a completely different
country were set a side for bit while God did work in my life here.
Moving to Ames was probably the last thing I really wanted to do but somehow it turned out alright.I was able to meet and live with Rachel who's actually the craziest person I know. She's awesome! We started running together at the beginning of the semester and we also decided that when we get bored Dairy Queen blizzards are the only remedy. Living with Tori again has been great as well. We've gotten closer and just been able to open up with each other quite a bit. Sharing a bunk bed isn't bad at all actually; especially when she's trying to go to bed and I try to scare her...classic.
Teshia Robinson and I have gotten involved with Cornerstone Church and I absolutely love it. The worship there is amazing and they always have great speakers's. Through that I was able to get into a connection group and it is amazing! The girls in my group have taught me a lot and the leaders are a tremendous blessing in my life.
My job is way better now then it was at the beginning of the semester. At first I hated my co-workers and thought the way this store was ran was just the worst but after a couple of months of getting use to it, it's probably one of the best Fareway's in the company. In October my boss asked me if I have ever considered being a manager and I said yes. Then and there he offered me a full time position and an opportunity to be in the management program. I took it and got a significant raise and benefits. I now have health insurance! Working full time and taking 11 credits wasn't too bad this year, let's hope it stays that way next semester. Being able to make some money, pay off school and not be in debt is a great feeling.
I've been reading the book of Ecclesiastes and it pretty much sums up my semester and what I've learn
'I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure. My heart took delight in all my work, and this was the reward of all my labor. Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun.' Ecclesiastes 2: 10-11
I could work and work and achieve goals that I set but it's all meaningless if my God isn't the center of all of it. So my prayer for next semester is that I won't get caught up in the things of this world but the things of heaven.
What a crazy first semester of college it's been. First I was going to be in Austria all year
then some how ended up in Ames! The plans of me being a missionary this year in a completely different
country were set a side for bit while God did work in my life here.
Moving to Ames was probably the last thing I really wanted to do but somehow it turned out alright.I was able to meet and live with Rachel who's actually the craziest person I know. She's awesome! We started running together at the beginning of the semester and we also decided that when we get bored Dairy Queen blizzards are the only remedy. Living with Tori again has been great as well. We've gotten closer and just been able to open up with each other quite a bit. Sharing a bunk bed isn't bad at all actually; especially when she's trying to go to bed and I try to scare her...classic.
Teshia Robinson and I have gotten involved with Cornerstone Church and I absolutely love it. The worship there is amazing and they always have great speakers's. Through that I was able to get into a connection group and it is amazing! The girls in my group have taught me a lot and the leaders are a tremendous blessing in my life.
My job is way better now then it was at the beginning of the semester. At first I hated my co-workers and thought the way this store was ran was just the worst but after a couple of months of getting use to it, it's probably one of the best Fareway's in the company. In October my boss asked me if I have ever considered being a manager and I said yes. Then and there he offered me a full time position and an opportunity to be in the management program. I took it and got a significant raise and benefits. I now have health insurance! Working full time and taking 11 credits wasn't too bad this year, let's hope it stays that way next semester. Being able to make some money, pay off school and not be in debt is a great feeling.
I've been reading the book of Ecclesiastes and it pretty much sums up my semester and what I've learn
'I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure. My heart took delight in all my work, and this was the reward of all my labor. Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun.' Ecclesiastes 2: 10-11
I could work and work and achieve goals that I set but it's all meaningless if my God isn't the center of all of it. So my prayer for next semester is that I won't get caught up in the things of this world but the things of heaven.
Monday, October 15, 2012
Prayer Update
Hey everyone,
just wanted to give you and update as to where the fundraising is going and where to be praying specifically.
I have sent over 20 letters to businesses asking for a donation and making it clear that their business can get a tax deduction on it. Only one has contacted me back so far and I'm doing follow up calls with them this week. If you know of any companies needing a tax break let me know. Please be praying that God will do great things in that.
As far as churches go, I've been pretty hesitant to contact any more churches because very few will let me fill out applications let alone invite me to talk to the missions board. BUT Grace Church in Indianola has asked me to come out in 2 Sundays to do a presentation in front of the congregation. I'm super pumped about that.
Since I've been in Ames, I've been attending Cornerstone Church and recently got the opportunity to speak with the missions pastor. He didn't sound really hopeful that I would get funding but he still said he would talk to the financial staff.
So 5 things to be praying about:
-That those business letters will be fruitful and we would see a miracle within that attempt
- For God to touch the hearts of people at Grace church to respond in a positive way and that they will partner with me
- That Cornerstone will truly consider my request and at least support me in prayer
- Austria: the youth disparately need to know of God's love. Pray that their hearts will be soften and His name would spread throughout Europe through the youth.
- And finally, pray that my heart will be in tune with God's. I need direction on where to go next and I need to know that everything will play out like He wants it to.
God has blessed me with $7,000 so far, that means $30,000 left to go!
Thank you for your support and prayers.
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
New things
My heart is heavy tonight as I attempt a blog tonight.
Heavy because of..... tough decisions that had to be made and executed
....changes
.....internal struggles
As I think of words to describe this month, nothing actually comes to mind because it's been so
...different. Let me tell you why; the Lord has been at work in my life.
The plan to be in a missionary in Austria starting in September got moved to January due to the lack of funds. And from that came the decision to go to DMACC this semester and from that- moving to Ames and
continuing to work at Fareway.
When you have your heart set on going to do something like move to another country then are told you can't, it hurts. Flat out sucks.
But here's the deal; I'm going to move to a town where people need to Jesus too. People still need to know about the saving Christ and it's my job to tell them. I'll still be building relationships, connecting in with a church, learning new things and furthering my knowledge about life.
Situations change all the time, people change, you change, life changes....but my God is the same yesterday, today and forever.
It's sad to have to leave all my friends at Fareway who've become like family, my small group, church, friends and family but thinking about meeting tons of new people is exciting!
And to those who are wondering; Ian and I did break up. Nothing was wrong with our relationship but it felt like God was wanting us to direct our undivided focus on Him. We are still friends and it's not awkward between us. It's awesome to have a friend like Ian that will understand things like this and be so in love with the Lord ans who will cling to Him even more through this. It was hard don't get me wrong but God never said that doing the right thing would be easy.
With all this being said I have to leave with this: when you hear the will, the call of the Lord always go for it, never looking back on what could have been. #noregrets
Heavy because of..... tough decisions that had to be made and executed
....changes
.....internal struggles
As I think of words to describe this month, nothing actually comes to mind because it's been so
...different. Let me tell you why; the Lord has been at work in my life.
The plan to be in a missionary in Austria starting in September got moved to January due to the lack of funds. And from that came the decision to go to DMACC this semester and from that- moving to Ames and
continuing to work at Fareway.
When you have your heart set on going to do something like move to another country then are told you can't, it hurts. Flat out sucks.
But here's the deal; I'm going to move to a town where people need to Jesus too. People still need to know about the saving Christ and it's my job to tell them. I'll still be building relationships, connecting in with a church, learning new things and furthering my knowledge about life.
Situations change all the time, people change, you change, life changes....but my God is the same yesterday, today and forever.
It's sad to have to leave all my friends at Fareway who've become like family, my small group, church, friends and family but thinking about meeting tons of new people is exciting!
And to those who are wondering; Ian and I did break up. Nothing was wrong with our relationship but it felt like God was wanting us to direct our undivided focus on Him. We are still friends and it's not awkward between us. It's awesome to have a friend like Ian that will understand things like this and be so in love with the Lord ans who will cling to Him even more through this. It was hard don't get me wrong but God never said that doing the right thing would be easy.
With all this being said I have to leave with this: when you hear the will, the call of the Lord always go for it, never looking back on what could have been. #noregrets
Sunday, May 27, 2012
Give Me Rest
About 3 months out and this is what I've been learning...
God is big
My plans aren't His
He knows what will happen
He's obviously teaching me something
I can't do this myself
These things He's teaching me aren't easy; not knowing what will happen in 3 months scares me so much and the fact that God knows...honestly? It makes me a little mad sometimes. After so many times of having to rely fulling on God, you'd think that I'd learn that He knows what's He's doing right? NOPE. I'm dumb and un-trusting of the one who planned out my life before I was even born.
Lately the book of Psalm has been speaking to my heart and uplifting me.
Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.
-Psalm 9:10
But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation
- Psalm 13: 5
Encouraging.
This weekend I listened to a speaker at Hidden Acres and she was telling a story about how when she asks students about there relationship with God they respond with 'I could do better.'
My first reaction was 'what's wrong with that?'
They could do better...
"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness" Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weakness, so that Christ's power may rest on me. - 2 Corinthians 12:9
It's not about us doing better, it's about us resting in His love, His grace, mercy and forgiveness. That hit me because I have the same reaction. I always want to be a better Christian by doing good things and trying to be a better person- but it starts with me realizing that I need to fall back on Christ.
Over and out.
God is big
My plans aren't His
He knows what will happen
He's obviously teaching me something
I can't do this myself
These things He's teaching me aren't easy; not knowing what will happen in 3 months scares me so much and the fact that God knows...honestly? It makes me a little mad sometimes. After so many times of having to rely fulling on God, you'd think that I'd learn that He knows what's He's doing right? NOPE. I'm dumb and un-trusting of the one who planned out my life before I was even born.
Lately the book of Psalm has been speaking to my heart and uplifting me.
Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.
-Psalm 9:10
But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation
- Psalm 13: 5
Encouraging.
This weekend I listened to a speaker at Hidden Acres and she was telling a story about how when she asks students about there relationship with God they respond with 'I could do better.'
My first reaction was 'what's wrong with that?'
They could do better...
"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness" Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weakness, so that Christ's power may rest on me. - 2 Corinthians 12:9
It's not about us doing better, it's about us resting in His love, His grace, mercy and forgiveness. That hit me because I have the same reaction. I always want to be a better Christian by doing good things and trying to be a better person- but it starts with me realizing that I need to fall back on Christ.
Over and out.
Sunday, May 20, 2012
Random Thoughts
This week has been quite the week. It's been full of change, stressful situations, times of relaxation, hello's , goodbye's , happy and sad moments, rejoicing over accomplishments and cake.
So graduation week, yes?
My grandparents from Florida came on Tuesday and it's been great to catch up with them. They keep suggesting I go to Florida soon so that looks like a possibility!
Friday night we had a Mother Daughter Tea....Sounds boring right? Yup, it was.
Smoking Sawee was the high-light of my Friday night/ Saturday morning. There's just something about sitting with my dad watching smoke at 2:30 in the morning that's really enjoyable.
Maddie and I had a great party and a big thanks to all who came! I'm blessed to have a friend like Maddie!
Commencement ceremony today was nice. As I watched my friends walk across that stage, I couldn't be more proud. They have accomplished many things in high school but it's their relationships with the Lord is what I'm most proud of. Walking and growing closer to our God with them has been such an incredible journey.
It really hit me today that I won't be spending next year with them. As much as that sucks and hurts, I rest in the fact that God will provide replacement relationships in our lives.
Also, sitting next to a nice fellow(Ian) was pretty fun. I'm blessed to be dating such a good guy.
Fundraising has been not so great lately. It's been very slow and discouraging the last couple of weeks. Talking to churches hasn't been successful. Here's where the faith, trust and hope comes into play. If this is something God wants me to continue, then so be it. If it's not, so be it. Amen.
So graduation week, yes?
My grandparents from Florida came on Tuesday and it's been great to catch up with them. They keep suggesting I go to Florida soon so that looks like a possibility!
Friday night we had a Mother Daughter Tea....Sounds boring right? Yup, it was.
Smoking Sawee was the high-light of my Friday night/ Saturday morning. There's just something about sitting with my dad watching smoke at 2:30 in the morning that's really enjoyable.
Maddie and I had a great party and a big thanks to all who came! I'm blessed to have a friend like Maddie!
Commencement ceremony today was nice. As I watched my friends walk across that stage, I couldn't be more proud. They have accomplished many things in high school but it's their relationships with the Lord is what I'm most proud of. Walking and growing closer to our God with them has been such an incredible journey.
It really hit me today that I won't be spending next year with them. As much as that sucks and hurts, I rest in the fact that God will provide replacement relationships in our lives.
Also, sitting next to a nice fellow(Ian) was pretty fun. I'm blessed to be dating such a good guy.
Fundraising has been not so great lately. It's been very slow and discouraging the last couple of weeks. Talking to churches hasn't been successful. Here's where the faith, trust and hope comes into play. If this is something God wants me to continue, then so be it. If it's not, so be it. Amen.
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