BEIJING 2009!!!!!!

Ok, here is my BIG news...in case you are not following me on facebook or twitter...the next phase in my adventure is that...I AM GOING TO CHINA!!!!! :)

Oh my word-I am SO pumped!! It became official today-I am approved, and in 59 days I will be on a plane headed to Beijing, China for 2 weeks!! I am going with the church I have been attending (when in Denton)-Garden Ridge Church of Christ (in Lewisville) and through the organization Let's Start Talking to teach people in China about Christ and His love!! If you have not heard of Let's Start Talking, please go check it out-it is a great opportunity and organization that sends people out into the world to help them learn about the love of God and teaches them English by reading with them through the Gospel of Luke. There have been groups before us that have gone from Garden Ridge to Beijing as part of a larger goal called the Centurion Project, which is an effort to send out 100 members from at least 100 churches over a certain period of time. I will be going with my good friends from college, John & Susan Cooper, their precious baby, Nash, and Josh, who is currently interning at Garden Ridge. It was such a great opportunity, and I truly believe it was God ordained, the timing was right...how could I say no?

I truly do believe that with God ALL things are possible...somehow, I think I have always believed that, and have held onto that truth during difficult times and trials...which is encouraging me in the challenge that is before me: raising $2975 in the next 2 months! :) Garden Ridge is kicking it off with $500, so that leaves me with a total of $2475 to raise, but I do believe with God, it WILL happen...and I also need YOUR help!!

First, and most importantly-I solicit your prayers for our team, and that God will prepare the hearts of those we will be reading and studying with while in Beijing. That is one of the most beautiful gifts you could give to us. Second, if you are able to partner with us in our efforts financially, PLEASE GO HERE to make a secure tax-deductible contribution through LST. I can't tell you how much I would appreciate it, and that I know it is a sacrifice during these difficult economic times. I thank you in advance both for the prayers and the financial help. This opportunity would not be made possible without both!!

It is still surreal! I had been thinking about it for awhile, praying and pondering...and right around and after the New Year began...God just keeps laying things in my lap, placing His love and plans on my heart, and I just hope I can keep up with all He has in store!! It is only January 12, and I am AMAZED at what He is already doing!! Not surprised-but absolutely amazed. It only gets better from here...He really does know the desires of our hearts and has a special plan for us. I am still not sure what that is, but plan on always following Him on this great adventure He has laid out before me...which for now is leading me to China! I am just ecstatic and SO thankful for this opportunity!!

And, now I leave you with one of my favorite Scriptures...from the book of Luke...which I will be reading to Chinese people seeking Christ in just a few weeks...

He told them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. ~Luke 10:2