To Live Is Christ

Hello!

Wow! It’s almost unbelievable that the summer is almost gone and I will be flying to Paraguay in a few short weeks! I am so thankful for the time that the Lord has provided me with this summer to meet with so many people and to go on so many mini-trips. It has been such an encouraging time in my life, and I can see the Lord’s faithful hand giving me exactly what I’ve needed at exactly the right time. I am in constant awe at His goodness and mercy to me.

I was amazed at how many of you came to my “Anchor’s Away” party, as well as my commissioning service at church! It was so great to see so many people and say some goodbyes “in person”, as well as being encouraged by so many people through their love and prayers. My commissioning service was WONDERFUL! I am so thankful that the Lord has blessed me to be a part of Graham Church! It was so awesome to see so many people come to (0nce again) hear what God has for me in Paraguay, as well as send me off. It was a precious time for me. We sang all my favorite songs, and all of my favorite Bible verses were read. There were charges given by my dad and 3 men from my church who have all been so influential in my spiritual growth. I am so grateful for the advice they gave, as well as the time and love they have invested into my life, so that was extremely special. The night ended with the entire congregation coming up and praying for me and laying hands on me. I am so thankful for this wonderful night – I was so encouraged by the love and support given by everyone involved.

You may be wondering how I will be spending my last 3 weeks in the states. Simply put, the answer is PACKING, PACKING, PACKING! Yes, that’s correct. I haven’t packed my bags yet! Trying to squeeze in last minute visits with everyone poses a packing problem! Haha. I also hope to spend some much needed time with my family. Unfortunately, they’ve been getting the short end of the stick lately. But, I’m looking forward to these next few weeks, savoring every moment. I have been praying a lot for this last bit of time, as well as my future in Paraguay. I’ve been meditating and praying Philippians 1:20-21 a lot lately:

…It is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.

I am praying that in everything I do and say, the glory will go to Christ. I am praying that I will not focus on the “what-ifs” or the “how-will-this-works” but will focus on bringing honor and glory to my Savior in all things. Please be praying with me: that above all else, my focus will be on Christ and not on myself or my circumstances.

It’s crazy to think that more than likely, my next post will be from Paraguay! I am so excited to finally be there, and am looking forward to being a part of the nations in Paraguay coming to know Him as Savior. My life will be different, but I can confidently say life will be good and awesome, walking alongside Christ.