Where flowers grow...

First of all, I want to thank everyone who sowed into God's harvest and gave. God used each of you to make this mission possible and I am so grateful for you.

Amazing how the three things God put on my heart several weeks ago to pray for: JOY, HEALING, and FREEDOM- are the things this new church needs the most. Carrying baggage and mistrust, each person here needs the Lord to work. A little while ago the missionaries got a vision of birds sitting in cages with the doors open. God has released us all to experience his healing and joy in freedom. Yet, many have a hard time using the wings that God has so lovingly given.

Today he gave a vision of beautiful parrots of many colors, flying up towards the light pouring through jungle vines. Jesus was on the ground looking up and marveling at his work and even showing others. We receive this.

Our new church, Oasis met for the second time today. With a congregation of just 11 people (8 on the worship team and 3 in the pews) we are few, but praying for God to send others to experience his love and rest in this refuge. Worship today was powerful and so sweet. The Holy Spirit is moving. All we want is to worship God and let him draw his children in off the streets, into his Oasis.

My days have been spent teaching science and outdoor games at the MK school, which has been a great experience so far. In May I told God if I could do anything, I'd want him to use my love for his creation to bring girls closer to him and his love. Well guess what. I'm teaching two 9th grade girls about his creation in science and I get to talk about him as much as I want. HA! God is so cool.

A few days ago, I woke up feeling weary and overwhelmed about planning my lessons. I had a headache too. I read a sign in the missionaries' house (where I'm living at the moment) which said:

"Where flowers grow, hope blossoms."

I then checked facebook to see that sweet Lacey Tomberline was praying for me. God heard her prayers and took away my headache and fatigue, so I went on a run. Running around the large prison in the neighborhood, I looked at the huge concrete walls and many barbwire fences. I thought it strange that so many wild, exotic flowers of all colors were growing high on these barriers. Flowers also covered the large fields, separating the prison from the road. Then the Lord reminded me, "Where flowers grow, hope blossoms." He gave me the privilege of praying for the men inside as I ran around the prison. God is always offering hope. He is extremely redemptive. Let's trust more in him and the unseen, instead of what we see.

Please continue praying for the Holy Spirit to set this place on fire for his name. That each of us would burn with a ravaging passion for him. Pray for people to recognize their thirst for him and be satisfied by Jesus alone.

I praise God for each of you. You are all in my heart and prayers.