Much like this sculpture, I reflect back on this year and have so much beauty to be thankful for. Those cracks and brokenness in the reflection have allowed me to experience God’s grace and truth in a fresh way (that I wouldn’t have experienced if I wasn’t in the season I am in right now). In all honesty, this new season of my life has been emotionally difficult. I haven’t had much margin the last few months and as marathon runners would say, “I’ve hit a wall.” But every day God is helping me to recognize that where He has me is for a purpose. I’m in a waiting period that isn’t by any means a waste of time.

The verses in Philippians, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (4:6-7). Notice that thanksgiving has a lot to do with peace. This passage not only reminds us to give all of our cares and concerns to God, but to do it with thanksgiving. There is something about being thankful as we give over our concerns that shifts our perspective.

I am so thankful for the opportunity I’ve had to jump out in faith. For being in a season of my life as a single, young woman to be able to resign from a stable job and explore the possibility of living in Europe to reach teens for Christ. I am thankful for my family who has been extremely supportive in a million ways. It would be a more difficult journey without their love and support.

I am thankful for those of you who have already committed to joining my monthly support team both in prayer and financially. Your sacrifice and offering to God is a constant blessing. I learn so much from your faith. I am thankful that I have had a part-time job where I’ve been blessed to meet with so many of you in person. This has taken me to 12% of my monthly support. I am thankful that God desires to continue investing in me, through refinement, challenge and calling me to trust.

As I head back to the Springs on Sunday, I am gearing up for support-raising in 2008. After the holidays I will be cutting back my work hours to devote more time to gathering a team of supporters and finding creative ways to also raise my outgoing support. Pray for creativity and opportunity. Pray for me as I potentially transition into a new living situation to save money. Pray for MTI as they need more staff who can work longer hours, which I can’t offer in this season. Pray for me as I gather the paper work and travel to Chicago or L.A. in January to apply for an Austrian visa.

I am so blessed to have you in my life! Thank you for being you and journeying with me!

Blessings!