More than Money...

Fundraising. It strikes fear in the heart of the would be missionary. Even if you say you're excited about it, there is some aspect of the process that is daunting. Is it the speaking in front of groups of people? Maybe keeping track of addresses and data is overwhelming? Maybe it is all the travel and staying with people you don't know? Maybe it is a fear, no matter how small, and maybe looming very large, that the money just won't come in? I must confess, I have felt all these fears. Ryan on the other hand, does seem to be genuinely excited about the process. Guess that makes a good pair. I fret, he calms me down. He is carefree, I make sure the necessary gets done! And so we get through this process bit by bit. At times it feels that we are getting no where. But... it is not true! We have had several opportunities recently to meet with people and speak at churches. And each time we do, it feels a little easier. Each time someone new decides to partner with us in our journey to Mexico, my heart fells lighter. And most important, I am seeing that fundraising is really such a misname. Yes, we are seeking funds. We can not go to Mexico without money. But I think partner-seeking may be a better name for what Ryan and I are doing. Last weekend Ryan and I were able to spend some time in Myrtle Beach with the congregation of Faith Presbyterian. I have no idea yet what the results of that may prove to be financially. I do know what the results have been for my heart. The couple we had the extreme joy of staying with truly were an answer to prayer. They shared more than their home, their shared their own hearts, their wisdom. They loved our children and in turn the kids loved them. they introduced us to their friends, invited us to everything they did during the weekend, even sent us on our way with a picnic lunch. Fundraising is about so much more than money.

Ellie and John Thomas with our new friends, the Scott's, from Faith Presbyterian.

Karen