03.19.2013
Dear Family and Friends,
As I write this it’s the first
full day of sunshine we have had in a while.
It’s interesting to me how we often forget the impact the sun has on us
when we see it all the time. Consistent
days of clouds and rain or snow revive a sense of desperation for sun. I found myself saying “I really just need the
sun to shine,” as the cloudy days continued.
Cloudy days hinder the sun, just as darkness is the absent of light.
This presents the opportunity for many analogies. We all know this world is a
dark place in desperate need of a light only Jesus can provide, which leads to
why I am writing to you.
I have been presented
with the opportunity to go abroad again this summer (July 2-8, 2013). In the past it has been to Haiti, this time,
Jamaica. The Lord has created in me a
passion for this area of the world.
While these islands are known as popular cruise ship stops and beautiful
beach destinations the reality is, behind all of the pretty things these
islands have to offer, is there are people in need. Beautiful people looking for hope.
As many of you know I just
recently landed my first teaching job this past August, which is totally a
blessing from God. I love teaching at my
school and I am daily overwhelmed by God’s grace and guidance
through it all. Teaching can be
exhausting but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. While in Jamaica I will have the opportunity
to use my teaching skills with the children and workers at Robins Nest
Children’s Home.
Robins Nest Children's
Home is a Christian children's home located on Salter's Hill, John's Hall near
Montego Bay, Jamaica. Robins Nest
mission statement states,
“We pray that Robin's Nest will provide a nurturing, loving, safe,
Christ-centered atmosphere in which all children will grow at their own speed
-- physically, mentally, and spiritually -- so they may develop their own
individual gifts, talents and abilities and become the person who God
intended.”
This statement
overwhelmingly aligns with my passion and desires as a teacher and as an
individual passionate about children being built up and fed spiritually,
physically, and mentally. My heart as a
teacher is for students to believe in themselves and recognize their value and
potential.
I’m eager about the
opportunity and experience that lies ahead.
I hope you see value in investing in the lives of children in
Jamaica. As you can imagine, trips like
these require financial support from a number of people as well as dedicated
prayer warriors. I will have to be creative
to raise the support both financially and spiritually. If you feel led, to support in one or both
ways I would gladly welcome your involvement. This is a journey God has called
me to and I would greatly value any level of support you are able to offer. While money is important for trips like this, it
comes in a distant second to my need for your pray support. Prayer
is the fuel that will allow us to be successful as we follow God’s leading in this
ministry in Jamaica. In Romans 15:30 the
apostle Paul a man of deep prayer begged believers to pray of him. The choice to serve, to go abroad, to leave
family and friends behind is not an easy one.
I have chosen to go because Christ has broken my heart over the thing
that matter and I as well as those on my team for this trip are consumed by the
desire to see LIGHT in the dark places.
Just knowing that you will be praying for me will give me peace as I go
into a place that has gripped my heart. I
know God is holding a megaphone up to Jamaican poverty and needs. If you
would like to be a part of this mission through your financial and/or prayer
support please see the table below.
Financial Support
1.
Online
Donation
www.newsong-fellowship.com scroll to the bottom, click “online joybox” Select box “international missions” In the memo box put “Rachel Vanausdoll"
All donations are tax deductible
(Due May 18th)
|
Prayer Support
1.
God’s
protection for myself and my team.
2.
That my team
will experience and express unity, love, good communication, patience, and
spiritual gifts
3.
For the
children and workers at Robin’s Nest.
That God would prepare them and us for our encounter and that our time
together will be fruitful.
4.
For God’s
wisdom and love to be with me as I am used by him leading up to my time in
Jamaica and while I am in Jamaica.
(Please shoot me an email if you are
wanting to journey in this way and I will add you to my prayer list/update
list)
|
Thank
you for taking the time to be a part of my trip by simply reading this letter,
it means a lot. Life is busy and makes
connecting hard sometimes. Please know I
value you and your role in my life over the years. If you would like to catch up please do not hesitate
to call or email me. I would love to
hear what is going on in your life.
rachel4184@gmail.com)
Be Blessed,
Rachel
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