Last week I had the opportunity to go to a drinks reception for IJM UK at a law firm in London. (Wait, did I just say that? Posh law firm event + London + IJM + ME? I still can't get over what a blessing this adventure has been!) The event was hosted by a gentleman who had just joined the law firm and had previously been a legal fellow with IJM Cebu. He shared with a group of his friends and colleagues about IJM's casework, Project Lantern, and his personal experiences with the Cebu team. He said what impacted him the most while serving with IJM was the team's incredible joy. In the midst of horrendous exploitation and abuse, IJM is truly motivated by joy.
I have found this true with everyone I have encountered at IJM. These people confront overwhelming darkness with incorruptible joy. In earthly terms, the odds are always against them, the job is always impossible, and the onslaught of evil ever relentless; but they are set aglow in the knowledge that Jesus has already won the battle and has sent them in His power to bring good news to the poor, to bind up the brokenhearted, and proclaim liberty to the captives. On one particularly stressful morning at work, the IJM UK director came into the office with a smile on his face and asked us, "Who's ready to free slaves today?" And the worry and stress I felt instantly vanished. I am so thankful to take part (small as it is) in this incredible work.
Speaking of thankfulness, we had an amazing Thanksgiving celebration last night at church! Loaded with traditional dishes, Psalms of thanksgiving, and fellowship with lovely people, last night was a blessing indeed. I am deeply thankful for this church community and the way they have embraced me, encouraged me, inspired me, and enlightened me. They certainly went all out to make us Americans feel at home!
And now we look to the future... Christmas in Ukraine! I am thrilled to say I am officially going back to Ukraine to serve with Hope for Orphans during two orphan camps from Dec. 22nd to Jan. 12th. It is largely due to your generous support that I am able to so this. Thank you!! As many of you know, this country and ministry has captured my heart and it is a joy and privilege for me to return to a place and people I consider my second home and family.
My church here in the UK invited me to share about HfO during an evening service, and now someone from the church will be going with me to the first camp! I am astounded at the response of this community to the needs of Ukrainian orphans. Many people are now praying for these kids and want to help. Someone even paid for my return flight from Ukraine. I'm humbled and astounded that I got to take part in connecting this community here in the UK with HfO. God really does have plans beyond what we could ask or even imagine.
May the Lord bless each one of you, and may He fill you with His joy!
"Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." -Romans 15:13
I have found this true with everyone I have encountered at IJM. These people confront overwhelming darkness with incorruptible joy. In earthly terms, the odds are always against them, the job is always impossible, and the onslaught of evil ever relentless; but they are set aglow in the knowledge that Jesus has already won the battle and has sent them in His power to bring good news to the poor, to bind up the brokenhearted, and proclaim liberty to the captives. On one particularly stressful morning at work, the IJM UK director came into the office with a smile on his face and asked us, "Who's ready to free slaves today?" And the worry and stress I felt instantly vanished. I am so thankful to take part (small as it is) in this incredible work.
Speaking of thankfulness, we had an amazing Thanksgiving celebration last night at church! Loaded with traditional dishes, Psalms of thanksgiving, and fellowship with lovely people, last night was a blessing indeed. I am deeply thankful for this church community and the way they have embraced me, encouraged me, inspired me, and enlightened me. They certainly went all out to make us Americans feel at home!
The Americans, the beautiful dinner table, and -of course- the scrumptious turkey! Unfortunately my camera died before everyone else arrived.
And now we look to the future... Christmas in Ukraine! I am thrilled to say I am officially going back to Ukraine to serve with Hope for Orphans during two orphan camps from Dec. 22nd to Jan. 12th. It is largely due to your generous support that I am able to so this. Thank you!! As many of you know, this country and ministry has captured my heart and it is a joy and privilege for me to return to a place and people I consider my second home and family.
My church here in the UK invited me to share about HfO during an evening service, and now someone from the church will be going with me to the first camp! I am astounded at the response of this community to the needs of Ukrainian orphans. Many people are now praying for these kids and want to help. Someone even paid for my return flight from Ukraine. I'm humbled and astounded that I got to take part in connecting this community here in the UK with HfO. God really does have plans beyond what we could ask or even imagine.
May the Lord bless each one of you, and may He fill you with His joy!
"Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." -Romans 15:13
