Well, Lord, once again you hijacked our plans and showed us how amazing you are! Because it was nice out today, the people at the shelters wanted to return to their homes before the looting began- so the shelters were empting out. So, we went into gang territory to a neighborhood that was mostly mothers and children. I was a bit bummed that we couldn’t go to the shelters, I really wanted to share my families story and your hope for them, but I knew you had a plan and you knew best. So, we did our skits and dances and then Leianna and I got to help out in the medical clinic by sharing the wordless braclets with people. We gave them the braclet and told them what each bead meant, then we would pray with them (either to accept Christ or just prayer requests). The first time was a bit awkward and I stumbled my way through it. The second people to come through made me cry- it was a young lady and her mother. The young lady (I can’t remember their names now) recently got out of a gang and accepted Christ, she wanted prayer for courage and strength to continue a life for Christ. The mother was homeless and wanted prayer for a home…. Uh, yeah- two of the most horrible parts of my life were sitting right in front of me. Lord, you are so good! I was able to share a bit of my story with them and encourage each of them with your words of encouragement and hope. Thank you for letting me be a part of that, Lord. I spent the rest of my time praying for people- I loved it and it was so hard to walk away. I hated leaving them, knowing that there were still more people who needed prayer and needed to hear the story of the bracelet. I pray Lord, that it would be a ripple effect in that community. That those who were there yesterday would be encouraged to share their faith with their loved ones within gangs and that they would be changed from the inside out. Use yesterdays work to do something miraculous in that area, Lord.
It’s raining again, Lord, so part of me is excited that we may get the chance to share at the shelters. On the other hand, I’m sad for these people. Too much rain for them is not good! You know best, Lord, so I just pray whatever your will is- so be it. And we were hoping for good weather for the kids camp today. Once again, whatever your will- so be it. You do what you do best and we’ll follow wherever you lead. I love you, Lord, have fun today!
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Okay, Lord, right now we are suppose to spend the next 30 minutes with you. I am so glad you gave that word to Chelsea because I really miss you. We’ve been so busy out doing your work (which is so amazing) and we’ve felt your presence every step of the way. But I love having you all to myself without any interuption. Even though there are 3 other girls in the room right now, I still get to spend some quiet, quality time with you. I love it! You started showing me something tonight during worship and I’m looking forward to seeing where you’re going with it. We started singing Hosanna- which reminded me of the phrase that says, “I see a a generation, rising up to take their place, with selfless faith…. I see a near revival, stirring as we pray and seek, we’re on our knees… we’re on our knees.” You showed me this last year in Guatemala and reminded me of the visions and prophesies about the youth today, starting a revival. Then you reminded me of what we saw today getting to the kids camp. Houses destroyed, roads taken out, complete destruction. You revealed to me that all that destruction was was these students lives. They’ve all been broken, battered and bruised in some way- their lives were destroyed. But, just like those roads and houses, we are being built anew. Into a strong and courageous nation- rising up to take its place. You also reminded me of a verse or two in Isaiah (looking it up right now)… Ha! I knew it! It was Isaiah 61- the same chapter I’ve been giving to a lot of the girls these past few days. How cool is that?! I love the way your work! I think you’re wanting me to share with the group to encourage them. They may have been long devistated, but you will rebuild their ancient ruins and recieve a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. Thank you, Lord, for your word!