I have been trying really hard to not let money be something I am fearful of; I keep reminding myself that something so worldly would never get into God's way if it is to have me in Brazil this summer. This is kinda a big deal for me... ask my mentor Kayla, or any close friends... money has always been a massive stressor. A lot of people heard my story about raising funds for the December 2Fortytwo group trip to Brazil, about how I thought it would just be handed to me without a doubt, no worries there. Except, God had a big lesson for me to learn there... might have had a little (or a lot) to do with WHO I am going to Brazil for. One night He took me to Hebrews 12:
" Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us,2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross,scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."
^^ Slap in the face. When I was able to recognize that my heart needed to be in it for Him, and not my own selfish ways, my prayers were different, my eyes were fixed on a different goal, and He provided.
Going into this second and much longer trip happens to take a lot more trust. Trust that He will provide the financial support, that He would prepare my heart and life for the huge change to happen, that I would be able to pass all of my classes, show up to work on time, eat right, maybe get a killer workout in, and still have time to build relationships with those people I love so dearly not only here in Corvallis, Molalla and Portland, but those down in Brazil awaiting my return in just four short weeks.
"I trust You. I know You have a plan and purpose. I am ready and willing to follow You."
I just repeat these words daily, remembering that He provides a way no matter what path is taken.
There have been a lot of distractions in the last six weeks as I have been trying to remain focused on the big things, like Brazil preparation, tests, papers, 2Fortytwo, and work. The Lord has protected me on more than one occasion from falling into a massive pit. He has offered me a wonderful group of women who support and encourage me daily. He sent His Son to die for me so that when I get even a little too close to the edge, He gives me a clean slate. Man, am I one thankful daughter.
In addition to my spiritual walk persevering, I did want to update you all on where I am with fundraising:
This last weekend I had my first fundraiser with Heather Fix who sells Vault Denim Jeans and Julie Monroe-Falk who sells Mary Kay at my Aunt Heidi's house. We had less people show up then we expected, but I still consider it most definitely a great turn out! Nearly everyone who was able to join us was able to find something between Heather and Julie's awesome collections to purchase. 100% of the profits from Sunday's fundraiser, as well as any parties booked between now and when I leave with Heather, and anyone who purchases Mary Kay products from Julie with a comment about my trip, goes towards the total cost of my mission! HOW AWESOME!!
I want to give a big shout out to these two wonderful women who have been amazing support for me, I really do appreciate their generosity and flexibility to throw me a great party.
Last night I was up late, working on checking things off of my crazy Week 8 To Do List, and decided to check the status of my funds raised. It was to my super surprise, which almost brought big crocodile tears, I realized that I am already to the half way mark ($2,000 of $3,800)!!!!
DEUS E MUITO BOM!!!! GOD IS SO GOOD!!!!!
I hope that you would all be able to join me at my Brazil BBQ Fundraiser on Saturday, June 2nd from 2-5pm at NW Hills' Brown House, 3300 NW Walnut Blvd. If you can, please RSVP on FaceBook or let me know via phone or email (just so we know how much food to have). We will have hamburgers, hotdogs, and veggie burgers; chips fruit, some kind of salad, drinks, and my beautiful Brazilian friend, Diana, and I will be preparing a traditional Brazilian dish all for $3 a meal!
There will also be a bake sale with the desserts individually wrapped so you can snag as much variety as you or your household desires, as well as, my Brazil support bracelets for sale for $5 each!
I thank you with all my heart for your love, support and prayers through this journey! Te amo!
~Lacey
