I have been reading biographies and autobiographies of missionaries since I was a little girl.
The first book I can remember reading and it having a huge impact on me was a book about David Livingstone. I remember so many thoughts and emotions whirling through my little head…What a life of sacrifice, of trust, of faith, of love…
So many great women and men of faith who have gone before us.
Brave. Holding fast to Christ. Passionate. Steadfast.
I remember being so young, having no clue about so much and yet longing to experience that. To fall so passionately, deep in love with Jesus and therefore HAVE to go, share, compel, love others to know Him.
We have been on the foreign mission field just just 9 months and I have learned that I am the least qualified person to be here. I have never seen so much sin in my heart, so much pride, so much selfishness, so much lack of self control (and the list could go on forever!).
I have questioned God so many times why He brought us here, knowing how ugly my heart is?!? Occasionally someone will refer to me as a missionary and I cringe thinking: “I am an imposter! Please don’t put that title on me because I don’t want to stain that word and the work of the godly men and women who I respect so much.”
I’m a fraud y’all!
–But God–
My mom loves to use that phrase, especially during a conversation that I’m sounding defeated or use the word “I” in too much.
BUT GOD!
He delights to use the broken, messed up, hurting, frauds- and in the midst of using us all, for His purposes and glory, He sheds light in the dark places in our hearts and brings conviction, healing, sanctification and breathes HOPE into lifeless corners.
This will always capture my heart and make me stand in awe… How kind, how gracious, how forgiving.
“In Him was LIFE, and that LIFE was the LIGHT of all mankind.” John 1:4
“Come to me all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Mat 11:28
Please pray for us that we would pursue God wholeheartedly, that we would not grow weary in doing good (or fighting sin!), that God would protect us and help us (we need so much help) to serve Him well, to be faithful, to keep the Gospel first and to be steadfast. Also pray for energy and health.
We love you all.
Please write us and let us know how we can be praying for you all.
Keep pressing on friends.
“You will never know the fullness of Christ until you know the emptiness of everything else but Christ.” Charles Spurgeon
Below: the girls made a new friend while attending the women’s Bible study at our village church
<– Josapha is growing up SO quickly!
Love this honest word from you! God is answering prayers I have prayed over you for years. BUT GOD! Praise Him for His grace, His faithfulness, His mercy, His lovingkindness on our behalf, to the glory of His great name!❤️ Love and hugs from Mom😘
Caleb and Annie,
Thank you for the opportunity to walk with you and to pray for you.