Day 1 of Gratitude
Starting off, I promise to *try* to keep the length of this as short as can be.
It is the last month of 2023 and I CAN'T BELIEVE IT! It is so wonderful to write to you. I have to say this will not be our typical update with beautiful fonts and photos. What it will be is one that is reflecting and testifying of the grace of God throughout this year. Reflecting on the generous gifts you have given me, whether financially, through prayer, or words of encouragement. The Lord has partnered with you to bless this ministry as I have had the privilege to partner with the Lord and others to bless people. WHAT A YEAR!
I was sitting earlier this week in prayer asking the Lord on several items regarding 313. Honestly, the last couple of months have been at a bit slower pace than normal. We hit the ground running through August and since I returned home from overseas there have been many still moments with not a whole lot of direction. With anxiousness I asked what the Lord wanted me to do. He nudged, "just write."
'Write what?' As I pondered for the next few days, irritated at the lack of plan He gave me... I have since repented after being reminded of how much purpose is in the still moments. While doing my best to not fall into the societal trap that we must always be moving and doing.
Today, as I met with two women, one in a coffee shop and one through zoom, we chatted about life and what all was going on. At just the right time as our meetings ended, I heard a gentle whisper, "tell the things that I have done." And so... over the next 24 days I plan to send unfiltered emails with testimonies of how much the Lord has protected and blessed the efforts of 313 Ministries through all the people who have been involved this year.
For Day 1 leading to the celebration of Christ being born, I want to acknowledge this season. Had our Jesus not come on the scene we would still be living by the laws of the Old Testament, waiting for the Messiah. Yet, because God sent his only son (John 3:16), we live in the freedom of unity with the Father waiting for Jesus' return. The veil was torn for you and for me to be connected to him. I am grateful that I can write to you about JESUS! I was in countries earlier this year where this is illegal. People are silenced due to the government, tribal leaders, or other dark principalities. Yet, because the Lord planted me in the United States, I have been given the opportunity to go and tell of the Good News of our God to those who are kept silent or have yet to be told.
Wow.
How can we share the gospel leading up to remembering the birth of Christ? Between the Christmas lights, treats, hallmark movies (some of my favorite things!), etc. let us not forsake our gratitude for the Gospel. Not simply just acknowledging it but taking part in it as we lead into 2024.
Much more to come over the next 24 days with real life testimonies of gratitude for the Goodness of God.