As I sit here thinking of what to type for my latest blog update, I am literally rocking my chair. I am feeling a bit eager about our decision to go on this mission trip in July.
This past week has been quite a mini-rollercoaster (I say "mini" knowing that it could have been much more dramatic, but still had it's ups and downs). Now without getting too detailed or lengthy, I'll just say that my husband and I have felt some obstacles in our financials that feel like a test of our faith. If you are a Christian reading this, you likely know EXACTLY what I mean by that. If you are not a Believer, try not to judge me too harshly. :) I suppose we all have different perspectives and/or explanations for why things happen the way that they do.
Anyway, I am sitting here feeling a mix of emotions because on the one hand I am SO EXCITED and eager to make our first ever trip to Kenya. I am so excited to embark on this adventure with the love of my life, my mate and partner in life. I am also eager to attempt to help the God-honoring ministry of Africa HEART by volunteering my time and my hands and feet to further their cause of showing Christ's love to the women and children who will receive it.
And then there's the other emotions.... the fear, the anxiety, the uncertainty and dred even. I have discovered that I do not actually enjoy the travel days. I feel like I used to, maybe it was because I was just always looking forward to the destination that the travel itself wasn't so bad. But with longer travel days to foreign countries... and with my growing age (I know, I know... I'm still young, but not AS young as when I used to travel to Ohio to visit family every summer). And it was on my first LONG international flight (to Brazil in college) that I got air-sick... just before landing. So now... I have a little fear and anxiety about that actual travel. Plus, the reality and stories from the 9/11 plane high-jackings are a bit disconcerting as well. I could go on, but what's the point? I know that these tiny things are no match for my ALL POWERFUL GOD!
So... I just need to make the decision to look beyond the fear... not let it distract me or prevent me from looking eagerly toward the future... towards our destination. This is true not only for our trip to Kenya (in just SIX short weeks), but for life in general.
Today we are supposed to get a new Support Update... telling us how much money has come into Bayside for our trip. I know that when we last met with our Team on Saturday, the figures were looking like we as a group of 10 had raised about $21,000... just $22,000 short of our end goal. So... with only TWO WEEKS LEFT to pay the church back for our plane tickets and pay HEART the money they need for our expenses while in Kenya... we are ALMOST HALF-WAY THERE! (We've been told everyone should be fully funded by June 1st in order for us to get to go. Hoping no one has to stay behind.)
Many friends and family have been donating what they can... and I cannot adequately express how truly thankful I am! THANK YOU!!!
I've shared enough for now... and will write another update once we finally receive a new summary of funds. IT IS NOT TOO LATE TO JOIN THE CAUSE... to help the Ragles take this journey. We cannot do it alone. We need your prayers... we need your support... in any way that you are able.
Thank you so very much, from the bottom of our hearts.
- The Ragles
(written by Becca)
Wednesday, May 21, 2014
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
FUNdraising update! :)
Just a quick update this morning. We receive "support updates" about once a week... (we know several family members have said they donated this past week, but it hasn't been added just yet but THANK YOU and we will see it soon)!
Last night we received an update showing that we have now raised $1,077.72 towards our $8,600 goal. Bryan is still really hopeful to reach $10,000 so that we can donate some "extra" to the housing fund through HEART. (See more of what the ministry we're joining up with does in Africa on their website (or FB Page)... www.africaheart.com).
THANK YOU SO MUCH for your support... emotionally, physically, financially, and prayerfully.
It is NOT too late to donate! Please consider donating your recycling (cans, glass, plastic)... especially if you just "donate" it to the city right now. We would be more than happy to pick it up at a time convenient for you. Or if you can spare $20... THAT HELPS!!!
Remember... you can mail in a check or pay online... http://bit.ly/short-term-
We'll keep you posted as more develops. Right now we are focused on preparing our business for Final Exams for our students, summer programs, and preparing our hearts (and wallets) for this amazing opportunity to walk in faith and be the hands of feet of Christ... through His church on earth! :)
Much love and humble thanks,
The Ragles
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