Month 11. The last month. The last new country. The last new ministry host. The last lap around the track of this 11 month journey.
This month my team is in Johannesburg, South Africa partnering with Impact Africa. Who’s mission is to Serve. Educate. And Rescue through their multiple outreach programs, schools, and baby homes.
So far for ministry since being here just over a week, each day has looked different. We’ve done outreach in the communities, lead school assemblys, visited one of the Impact Kids schools, and helped with Jabulani Kids (like a day of VBS).
A sweet place to close out the year. An amazing ministry. Hot showers. A big living room. A huge property to explore, really good food, A group of interns here that are becoming friends. And a peaceful place to process. Cool thing: My brother was here at this same ministry over the summer with his church!
Being so close to the end brings on an onslaught of emotions and thoughts as I begin to process. What have I learned? What will I take away from this year? What have I experienced? (more on that in a later blog post). Super excited to get home to see family and friends but at the same time not wanting to leave. In disbelief that its already been almost 11 months. Sad to be saying goodbye to friends. Excitement to hug my people at home and wear different clothes than the same 4 pairs I’ve worn all year. Anticipation of what the next season will look like.
The last lap. We have a choice of how we will finish. We can check out and give up. Or we can give it all we got and finish strong, not taking any moment for granted. Im nearing the end of this journey, but its also nearing the years end, so its also your last lap too. How are you finishing out the year? Just as there are things God still wants to do in a through me as this journey comes to an end in a few short weeks. There are things that God still wants to do in and through you before the years end. If we show up, He’s gonna show up. Keep on seeking, keep on knocking, keep on asking(Matt. 7:7). And stay in the presence of the Lord. Who’s strength are you running on to get you through? Your own? Or Gods? We can’t run effectively or finish strong if we’re trying to get through on our own strength. Run in Gods strength and that requires staying in His presence. God prepares and equips us. He knows just what we need.
Please pray for:
Our last few weeks of ministry and as a team. For extra intentionality, for self-sacrifice, and humility.
For our ministry here. Impact Africa. As they continue to Serve. Educate. And Rescue.
For our transition back to the states soo soon. For direction and provision as we step into a different season.
Wow, Steph! Here you are in your last month. I love that you are so intentional in all that you do…that you are truly finishing the race set before you well (as scripture says!). Keep that laser focus on Jesus. He loves you so much! We love you so much! Take in and savor everything this last month has for you. We are praying always.
Steph, you are wise beyond your years. A true, obedient servants heart. If only I could be half the woman you are. So proud that you took the plunge in this journey, you will never regret this opportunity. Stay strong, finish strong, I can’t wait to see you in my chair and have you back in the Awakening ministry! What a story you have to tell! See you soon! Safe travels! ??
Steph- great to chat with you a little bit today so glad that you are finishing strong it blesses my heart. Will be glad to have you back and see what great things the Lord has for you next
Okay, way to make me cry Susan!! Can’t wait to see you so soon!
Oh my sweet sweet Steph! I am beyond proud of you!! What an encouragement you have and continue to be to all of us!! I am so excited for the things God has for you!! I love you oh so much!! I can’t wait to hold you in my arms !!
Finishing strong in a ministry the Lord REALLY saw you by sending you to. Way to run in such a way as to win (1 Cor. 9:24). I’m proud of you, Steph!