Wonder And Awe From Up Above
As I write this update on my flight from El Salvador back to Ohio, I am simply awestruck. It's difficult to put into words the sense of amazement that is filling me up as I reflect of these past months moving to El Salvador and beginning the initial steps of long-term missions. I also am blown away as I look out my window and see the intricate yet majestic earth that only a Creator could have come up with; vast oceans, volcanoes, vegetation and the millions of people that each hold a special place in our Heavenly Fathers heart. At times it almost seems unfair, that I get to live this life that He has given me, knowing how many times I falter and mess up-God continues to love me and bless me in ways that I truly do not deserve. That kind of love is difficult for us to understand at times, but nevertheless very real and very powerful.
I'm overjoyed that I get the opportunity to return home for a handful of days to spend Christmas and New Years with my family. The old saying sure does hold some weight, "Distance makes the heart grow fonder." I have certainly missed them a lot and am excited for the time we will have together. I'm even more grateful for my family after seeing so many of the people down in El Salvador lacking a true place to call home; children without one of their parents or none at all, youth who don't receive the love and support that they are so desperately searching for in their parents, and adults who simply are trying to survive and can't spend time with their kids. All of this makes me reflect on the HUGE blessing that I have at home with my parents and brothers and other extended family members who love me without a doubt and are there by my side. I hope that the biggest thing we can all reflect on this Christmas is how grateful we should be for the families that we have, and that those of you with kids (no matter what age) can be encouraged to never stop loving them, supporting them, and realize what an important role that you play in their lives.
God is certainly on the move in El Salvador and I'm beyond grateful to have a good view in watching it come together and partaking in what is to come. As I said in my last update, I've been doing lots of preparation for the new year, communicating with teams and missionaries we will receive, and personally adjusting to my new home. Thank you for your prayers in my adjustment-everyday I feel more and more at home and definitely know that this is exactly where I'm supposed to be in this stage of my life. I've had to really cling close to Him in the times that I may feel alone or isolated-but those moments are so vital and a good reminder that I can't do anything on my own power. And I certainly cannot do anything without your prayers and support. For the upcoming year we are excited to offer the sport of volleyball to a local community in where our Soccer School and English classes are. Although soccer attracts many people, most girls have no interest in playing and wonder around the streets doing nothing, and unfortunately being influenced in a negative way. Our desire is to give these girls an opportunity to do something constructive for their lives (physically, spiritually, and emotionally), allow them to have fun playing a sport that's not too common for them, and providing an encouraging and welcoming atmosphere where the can feel the love that God has for them. Please be praying for this new opportunity as we hope to start as school begins in February. As well as starting volleyball, I've also had the opportunity to talk with some girls my age who live close to me about starting a running club. Because of the nearby college, there are lots of college girls who have an interest in staying fit and love to run. Sport is a universal language that can bring so many different people together. Why not collide our love and joy from the Lord with the gift of running together? After many many meetings with various coworkers, pastors, and other ministry partners it seems pretty apparent that God is creating many opportunities to reach out to His people in El Salvador and be a light in this dark world. Please be praying for these new ideas for ministry and the existing ministries that we are humbled to serve in. Jesus came to the earth and humbled Himself as a servant-I pray that I can continue to follow that model and be a blessing to the wonderful people that are around me.
I will finish up writing for now but stayed tuned! Can't say thank you enough for your generosity and sticking with me on this mission together!. I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year! See you all next year!
Love you all dearly,
Lauren
Monday, December 22, 2014
Friday, November 28, 2014
Already 1 month!!!
The phrase "Time flies" really does hold truth. I can't believe it's already been a month since I moved to El Salvador. A lot of great things have been happening and I'm so excited to summarize for you all!
To start out...I'd like to share how God has answered the many prayers that you all have prayed on my behalf! This Monday I received the good news that Immigration finally accepted all my paperwork and I now have my VISA! Wheeww! This was a really important step in me being here and to be honest was a tough and, at times, a discouraging process. Any of you who have ever dealt with this process know exactly what I'm talking about. God really helped me to be "okay" and relax in the frustrating moments. So Praise God that is over with...for now! Second answered prayer is that Wednesday God opened the doors to find and buy a car!! Because of the provision that God has given you all, which in turn you have blessed me with, I now hold the key to a 2009 Nissan Sentra in good condition! Car buying is hard enough...add on a used car, shopping in a foreign country, trying to negotiate a good price, having a good mechanic to tell you exactly what you're getting, and you've got a recipe for the perfect area to practice patience. :) So grateful to finally have a car and be able to "go" and learn the roads here. Having a car is going to help out with ministry in TREMENDOUS ways, so it's a really big blessing to have some wheels! Thank you for you diligent prayers and generous giving! I am reminded of Philippians 4:19, "And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus."
As far as ministry goes, as I said before, right now is "summer vacation" so things are more relaxed and not a whole lot going on. However, it's been a great time to learn the ropes with how the different ministries operate and work on some little projects that we have. One of my roles here is being a coordinator and leader with the teams and short-termers that the base receives. I have been connecting a lot with our base in Omaha in preparation for the people that we will receive. It's really exciting to be able to plan and wait in anticipation for those who feel led to serve here in El Salvador. What I am most passionate about is the spiritual-wellfare of those who are to come. I want them to be prepared, as best as possible, to encounter God and grow spiritually while serving down here. I ask for your prayers in the wisdom to know how to best do this as we begin receiving missionaries and teams next year.
Personally I am beginning to feel a bit more "at home". There is still lots that I am learning and getting adjusted to, but by the grace of God it is coming along bit by bit. This time truly is perfect...I am really able to focus on the logistics and have no excuses for not spending time with the Lord. It's been great to wake up, enjoy God's wonderful creation (it's so apparent here) and spend time in His presence. I so encourage you all, especially during this Holiday season, to stop and spend time with our Creator...He longs to pass this precious time with us, if only we would take the time to do it.
I'd appreciate your prayers for the following:
-Safety, protection, and wisdom while driving in this crazy country
-Wisdom for planning and preparing for the missionaries and teams to come and serve
-Peace and unity within the organization...to really come as one in love
-Strength and growth in this time of preparing for the areas that I serve and will begin to serve in
I'm so grateful for you all...I will never be able to stop saying that. I love to hear from you as well, so please don't ever hesitate to write me! Enjoy the pictures!!!
Much love and warm hugs,
Lauren :)
Me with the much awaited Visa
CAR!! Praise Jesus
Valeria (Pastors daughter) and I at Thanksgiving dinner on Sunday!
Monday, November 10, 2014
Settling down in El Salvador
It's been about 2 weeks since I left the US to begin this long-awaited journey to serve in El Salvador for longer term. I am sure you all are wondering what I have been up to; so this update is to do just that, let you all know what has been going on since I arrived.
First of all, I just have to say THANKS! Many of you have been in this process with me since the start and have seen how God moved in BIG ways to get me down here. I am so grateful to each and everyone of you for supporting me emotionally, spiritually, financially, and in many other different aspects. I literally would NOT be here if it wasn't for all of you! It is a huge blessing to know that there are so many incredible people in my life who believe in me and the mission which has been placed before us. Thank you thank you thank you!
Well, for starters I think the timing of me coming down here has been perfect. The schools here have already taken their final exams and are now on their "summer break". Everyone will be on vacation until the middle/end of January, when school will start back up. The reason I say it's such perfect timing is because it allows me to focus on getting my temporary residence, which is extremely important. This process has so many different requirements and paperwork that it has been occupying most of my time. For those of you who may not know the culture and understand what "latino time" means, things around here don't always happen right away when you need it. For example, if someone says they are going to meet you somewhere at 1, you may not get together until 1:30 or 2. Therefore, these couple of weeks I have simply been waiting for people to get back to me and sometimes getting the run around with the Salvadorian government. This is pretty normal but also a bit frustrating as I have to turn in my paperwork this week before some of my documents expire! Please please be praying that I can get all the correct paperwork in my hands and that the visa process goes well.
Apart from focusing on my Visa, I've been getting adjusted to life down here and doing all the normal things that one would do when moving to a new place. Again, the timing is perfect as a few people and families have been free to take me to all the places I need to go and help me with this big move and all the details since I don't have a car yet. Specifically, a retired American couple who are also missionaries with our organization (CFCI) has been absolutely amazing in taking care of me. They are extremely hospitable and have really shown me what it means to take care of "the body of Christ". In Acts it talks about how the body of believers took care of each other, shared amongst themselves and no one was in need. It's been a humbling experience to have Andy and Deborah caring of all my needs, making me feel welcome and being a comfort as I transition from life in the States to here. May we all be living examples of Jesus by taking care of our fellow brothers and sisters.
I am happy to say that I am officially settled in my apartment and have a spare bedroom which I would LOVE to fill up with visitors!!! :) The area in which I am staying at is very safe and beautiful. I can walk just a block down the street to the grocery store without problems and the other 2 American missionary families also live in the same complex. I feel very very blessed to be staying where I'm at and little by little it's starting to feel like a home. I have been able to visit with people who I haven't seen in a while and have had a day here and there to just relax amongst the business and chaos, haha. :)
Once I have officially turned in my paperwork for the visa and things start moving with that, I will be sitting down with some of the directors and further discussing my specific roles and schedule within the ministry. The basic overview of what I'll be dong includes; sports ministry, ESL, and helping with teams and short term individuals that the base receives. I'm excited to further define how I can use my talents and resources to further God's Kingdom by serving here in El Salvador.
In risk of writing a book, I think I'll wrap it up for today's update. Thank you for your prayers, I can definitely feel them. I ask that you continue doing so, specifically for my visa and all the other details of moving to a new place. I look forward to updating you again here soon and would love to hear back from you! Please don't hesitate to contact me, ask me questions, or set up a time to Skype! You all mean so much to me! Until next time!
Much love,
Lauren
First of all, I just have to say THANKS! Many of you have been in this process with me since the start and have seen how God moved in BIG ways to get me down here. I am so grateful to each and everyone of you for supporting me emotionally, spiritually, financially, and in many other different aspects. I literally would NOT be here if it wasn't for all of you! It is a huge blessing to know that there are so many incredible people in my life who believe in me and the mission which has been placed before us. Thank you thank you thank you!
Well, for starters I think the timing of me coming down here has been perfect. The schools here have already taken their final exams and are now on their "summer break". Everyone will be on vacation until the middle/end of January, when school will start back up. The reason I say it's such perfect timing is because it allows me to focus on getting my temporary residence, which is extremely important. This process has so many different requirements and paperwork that it has been occupying most of my time. For those of you who may not know the culture and understand what "latino time" means, things around here don't always happen right away when you need it. For example, if someone says they are going to meet you somewhere at 1, you may not get together until 1:30 or 2. Therefore, these couple of weeks I have simply been waiting for people to get back to me and sometimes getting the run around with the Salvadorian government. This is pretty normal but also a bit frustrating as I have to turn in my paperwork this week before some of my documents expire! Please please be praying that I can get all the correct paperwork in my hands and that the visa process goes well.
Apart from focusing on my Visa, I've been getting adjusted to life down here and doing all the normal things that one would do when moving to a new place. Again, the timing is perfect as a few people and families have been free to take me to all the places I need to go and help me with this big move and all the details since I don't have a car yet. Specifically, a retired American couple who are also missionaries with our organization (CFCI) has been absolutely amazing in taking care of me. They are extremely hospitable and have really shown me what it means to take care of "the body of Christ". In Acts it talks about how the body of believers took care of each other, shared amongst themselves and no one was in need. It's been a humbling experience to have Andy and Deborah caring of all my needs, making me feel welcome and being a comfort as I transition from life in the States to here. May we all be living examples of Jesus by taking care of our fellow brothers and sisters.
I am happy to say that I am officially settled in my apartment and have a spare bedroom which I would LOVE to fill up with visitors!!! :) The area in which I am staying at is very safe and beautiful. I can walk just a block down the street to the grocery store without problems and the other 2 American missionary families also live in the same complex. I feel very very blessed to be staying where I'm at and little by little it's starting to feel like a home. I have been able to visit with people who I haven't seen in a while and have had a day here and there to just relax amongst the business and chaos, haha. :)
Once I have officially turned in my paperwork for the visa and things start moving with that, I will be sitting down with some of the directors and further discussing my specific roles and schedule within the ministry. The basic overview of what I'll be dong includes; sports ministry, ESL, and helping with teams and short term individuals that the base receives. I'm excited to further define how I can use my talents and resources to further God's Kingdom by serving here in El Salvador.
In risk of writing a book, I think I'll wrap it up for today's update. Thank you for your prayers, I can definitely feel them. I ask that you continue doing so, specifically for my visa and all the other details of moving to a new place. I look forward to updating you again here soon and would love to hear back from you! Please don't hesitate to contact me, ask me questions, or set up a time to Skype! You all mean so much to me! Until next time!
Much love,
Lauren
Monday, August 18, 2014
God is faithful to His promises
As I was reading a devotional today, I came across 2 Corinthians 1:20 which reads, "For no matter how many promises God has made, they are 'Yes' in Christ. And so through him the 'Amen' is spoken by us to the glory of God." In short, God has made and makes promises to us, His people, which are fulfilled in Jesus. Every promise that God has made or ever will make, will come to fruition, it will always come to pass. The 145th chapter of Psalm says that "The Lord is faithful to all his promises...", notice that it doesn't say just some of His promises, but ALL of them! God has promised to watch over us, protect us, hear us, and provide for us, just to name a few. As I sit and ponder this, I begin to think of how I could ever doubt God in my life, especially this new chapter to serve as a missionary in El Salvador. God is the one who has been slowly leading me to this new journey and He is also the one who will make it possible. Although it can be easy to get discouraged or anxious about not having everything together to leave and live out this calling, I am reminded that God has promised me that He would provide for me, and the Lord is not a liar. This verse has brought me hope and refreshed my belief that God....will...provide! I hope that you too, can be encouraged and know that God is faithful to all He has called you to, and will make a way because He is faithful to us, even when we aren't faithful to Him.
I am happy to say that I am at about 25% of the monthly financial commitments needed to start serving in El Salvador. I believe that God will continue to move and work all around me to help me get down there by my desired date in mid-September. Please continue to pray for me and pray for others, that they feel lead to give to this mission. I cannot do this alone, and am actually joyful that I get to partner with others to fulfill this leading of the Lord. Pray that God raises all 100% of the funds so that I can leave by mid-September. Psalm 138:8, "The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me...".
You all are the best! And remember, God is faithful to all He has promised over you!!
Lauren
I am happy to say that I am at about 25% of the monthly financial commitments needed to start serving in El Salvador. I believe that God will continue to move and work all around me to help me get down there by my desired date in mid-September. Please continue to pray for me and pray for others, that they feel lead to give to this mission. I cannot do this alone, and am actually joyful that I get to partner with others to fulfill this leading of the Lord. Pray that God raises all 100% of the funds so that I can leave by mid-September. Psalm 138:8, "The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me...".
You all are the best! And remember, God is faithful to all He has promised over you!!
Lauren
Saturday, July 12, 2014
Getting closer
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this latest update, it brings me so much joy to know that you care about my life and this journey that God is taking me on.
Last week I was able to spend 8 days in El Salvador; an unplanned trip, however it was so necessary in more than one way. This trip came about as Jonathan was unable to obtain a US visa to come visit my family and I. I was very blessed to be able to take off some vacation time from work and hop on a plane so that he and I could be reunited after 10 months of being apart. This time was so great for us to be reconnected and renew our strength as Jonathan is currently in South Africa for a 3 month sports leadership training. God certainly blessed our time while together.
This trip also served a great purpose in figuring out more details for when I move down. I was able to get a good idea of possible places to live, things that I should/should not bring, and lots of advice from other missionaries who are currently serving in El Salvador. Although the nitty-gritty details can sometimes be overwhelming, it actually brought on a feeling of excitement for me as living and serving there will soon be a reality. The mindset of this trip was so different that it has been in the past...before I was always there to serve for a short time, but the lens of this trip was completely different as I will be a long-term missionary in this country.
The question that I have been getting the most lately is, "When do you leave?". Well, as most of you know, I must raise 100% of the finances BEFORE I can take off. Because I am still not close to being fully funded, monthly, I am yet to be able to set a date to leave. My goal is to leave in September and am asking and praying that anyone who feels lead to give to the ministry would do so by August 1, so that I can gather a better idea of on how much support needs to be raised, and if I am able to book a plane ticket.
God has been very faithful in providing more and more in these past few months, however there is still a bit to go in order for me to get down there on the field! Thank you for praying for me and encouraging me along the way. Many of you have already committed to sowing into the ministry in a financial way and I will never be able to express my gratitude to you all!
I am sooo looking forward to the update in the near future that says.... "PRAISE GOD, I AM FULLY FUNDED!" I am praying for you all and trust in God's truth for us all:
"Now this I say, he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must do just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed."-2 Corinthians 9:6-8
In God's grace,
Lauren
Last week I was able to spend 8 days in El Salvador; an unplanned trip, however it was so necessary in more than one way. This trip came about as Jonathan was unable to obtain a US visa to come visit my family and I. I was very blessed to be able to take off some vacation time from work and hop on a plane so that he and I could be reunited after 10 months of being apart. This time was so great for us to be reconnected and renew our strength as Jonathan is currently in South Africa for a 3 month sports leadership training. God certainly blessed our time while together.
This trip also served a great purpose in figuring out more details for when I move down. I was able to get a good idea of possible places to live, things that I should/should not bring, and lots of advice from other missionaries who are currently serving in El Salvador. Although the nitty-gritty details can sometimes be overwhelming, it actually brought on a feeling of excitement for me as living and serving there will soon be a reality. The mindset of this trip was so different that it has been in the past...before I was always there to serve for a short time, but the lens of this trip was completely different as I will be a long-term missionary in this country.
The question that I have been getting the most lately is, "When do you leave?". Well, as most of you know, I must raise 100% of the finances BEFORE I can take off. Because I am still not close to being fully funded, monthly, I am yet to be able to set a date to leave. My goal is to leave in September and am asking and praying that anyone who feels lead to give to the ministry would do so by August 1, so that I can gather a better idea of on how much support needs to be raised, and if I am able to book a plane ticket.
God has been very faithful in providing more and more in these past few months, however there is still a bit to go in order for me to get down there on the field! Thank you for praying for me and encouraging me along the way. Many of you have already committed to sowing into the ministry in a financial way and I will never be able to express my gratitude to you all!
I am sooo looking forward to the update in the near future that says.... "PRAISE GOD, I AM FULLY FUNDED!" I am praying for you all and trust in God's truth for us all:
"Now this I say, he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must do just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed."-2 Corinthians 9:6-8
In God's grace,
Lauren
Saturday, April 26, 2014
Praises and Prayer Requests
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blog! I wanted to share with whomever is reading the most recent Praises and Prayer Requests that I have to share.
I am truly in awe and appreciation as God has enabled me to pay off my student loan!! I shared with you all in my last post that I felt God leading me to pay off my student loan last year....and with His amazing grace and power, I have officially paid off my entire student loan in ONE YEAR!!!! It is a HUGE blessing to now be debt free and know that this is one more step in getting closer to serving overseas. I just want to Praise and thank the Lord for helping me to accomplish this. It is God's money to begin with and I am very blessed.
One the topic of finances...I am also humbled by seeing those who have made the commitment to invest in my ministry in El Salvador. People have been faithful in prayer and also generous in giving of their money. Within that there is also a big prayer request that I ask of you all. While God has been slowly providing through others financial support, I am still in much need of meeting by goal by September. The greatest need I have is for monthly supporters. At the moment, I am at 7% of my total goal for monthly support; this is what will allow me to live and eat every month. I humbly ask you to join in prayer by asking God to move peoples hearts and provide in a BIG way so that this journey is possible. I want to thank all of you who have already pledged to support me, and ask those who have not to prayerfully consider giving to my ministry and maybe even sharing or allowing me to connect with someone who may be interested as well.
Currently I am towards the end of the season as I coach middle school track here in my home town, and I am having a blast! It's so great to give back and inspire these kids to be the best they can be in the sport that I love and God blessed me so much with!!
I look forward to updating you all again soon!
With much gratitude,
Lauren :)
Sunday, January 12, 2014
New beginnings....
I'm officially a long-term missionary with Christ for the City Int'l!
As many of you know, I have taken a few short term mission trips to serve our Lord down in El Salvador. It's been an incredible experience, so much so that I eventually felt the tug from God to make it part of my life, and not just a trip.
Getting to this place really has been a series of events, small steps, and guidance from God over the course of about 4 years. I can remember clearly in college a friend told me I should go into missions, I laughed, said I think missionaries are awesome and would love to do many short term trips throughout my life, but never make it longer term. I can see how God must have just chuckled hearing me say that...man did I have a lot to learn. :)
After praying to God to open or close doors for getting into Medical school, He most certainly answered. I was denied into various medical schools. Twice. I think it's safe to say that He definitely answered my prayers of, "Lord if you want me to go to medical school, open the door. If you don't, then don't allow me to be accepted." As hard as that pill was to swallow I knew that there must be something else, something better in store for the future. After helping me overcome my pride, disappointment, and feelings of being lost I really felt God tell me that He was leading me into a period of waiting and rest. Two things that aren't normally on my agenda. But over and over He just kept telling me that this is a time of waiting, a time of growth, and a time of preparation. The Lord guided me to praying for a job that would allow me to pay off my student loan in a year; Lord willing, this April I should have all my student loan paid off and be completely debt-free. I didn't know why, until recently, I got the desire to get it paid off but it just seemed like the right step.
The more that time has gone by, the more I have begun to realize more about myself and what has brought me the most joy in my life. While there are many things that bring me joy, one thing that has stood out the most has been the times I've been overseas, serving God by reaching out to His people. I have loved Spanish language and the Latino culture from a very young age so serving in El Salvador just confirms this calling even more. After a day of praying and fasting I felt God wake me up the next morning and He just encouraged me to pray. After some time reflecting and simply being with the Lord, I felt like it was time to take a big step of faith and serve as a longer term missionary. Christ for the City Int'l has had its arms wide open to me since the beginning. I feel like I already have a second family in place not only down in El Salvador, but also amongst the staff that are here in the US at the home office. God simply showed off His power by making everything work together to get me to the orientation and start this process.
So many emotions overflow me as I think about "taking the plunge" to serve for long term but I'm just at peace knowing this is what God has for me right now. I don't exactly know how long God has this chapter for me, but I do feel He has called me to simply "GO", and that's enough for me.
I welcome any and all questions and would very much appreciate your prayers. Specifically I would ask that you would pray for my finances. Being in service to the Lord does require that I raise a team of supporters who will join me in God's work and send me off through the help of finances. Seek the Lord and ask Him if He's leading you to be on my team to go and impact El Salvador for good!
I encourage you to read a verse that has really impacted me: Romans 10:14-15
God bless you all,
Lauren :)
As many of you know, I have taken a few short term mission trips to serve our Lord down in El Salvador. It's been an incredible experience, so much so that I eventually felt the tug from God to make it part of my life, and not just a trip.
Getting to this place really has been a series of events, small steps, and guidance from God over the course of about 4 years. I can remember clearly in college a friend told me I should go into missions, I laughed, said I think missionaries are awesome and would love to do many short term trips throughout my life, but never make it longer term. I can see how God must have just chuckled hearing me say that...man did I have a lot to learn. :)
After praying to God to open or close doors for getting into Medical school, He most certainly answered. I was denied into various medical schools. Twice. I think it's safe to say that He definitely answered my prayers of, "Lord if you want me to go to medical school, open the door. If you don't, then don't allow me to be accepted." As hard as that pill was to swallow I knew that there must be something else, something better in store for the future. After helping me overcome my pride, disappointment, and feelings of being lost I really felt God tell me that He was leading me into a period of waiting and rest. Two things that aren't normally on my agenda. But over and over He just kept telling me that this is a time of waiting, a time of growth, and a time of preparation. The Lord guided me to praying for a job that would allow me to pay off my student loan in a year; Lord willing, this April I should have all my student loan paid off and be completely debt-free. I didn't know why, until recently, I got the desire to get it paid off but it just seemed like the right step.
The more that time has gone by, the more I have begun to realize more about myself and what has brought me the most joy in my life. While there are many things that bring me joy, one thing that has stood out the most has been the times I've been overseas, serving God by reaching out to His people. I have loved Spanish language and the Latino culture from a very young age so serving in El Salvador just confirms this calling even more. After a day of praying and fasting I felt God wake me up the next morning and He just encouraged me to pray. After some time reflecting and simply being with the Lord, I felt like it was time to take a big step of faith and serve as a longer term missionary. Christ for the City Int'l has had its arms wide open to me since the beginning. I feel like I already have a second family in place not only down in El Salvador, but also amongst the staff that are here in the US at the home office. God simply showed off His power by making everything work together to get me to the orientation and start this process.
So many emotions overflow me as I think about "taking the plunge" to serve for long term but I'm just at peace knowing this is what God has for me right now. I don't exactly know how long God has this chapter for me, but I do feel He has called me to simply "GO", and that's enough for me.
I welcome any and all questions and would very much appreciate your prayers. Specifically I would ask that you would pray for my finances. Being in service to the Lord does require that I raise a team of supporters who will join me in God's work and send me off through the help of finances. Seek the Lord and ask Him if He's leading you to be on my team to go and impact El Salvador for good!
I encourage you to read a verse that has really impacted me: Romans 10:14-15
God bless you all,
Lauren :)
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