How Far We've Come

I was recently asked  why I thought that had God placed me in this position for the past two years. I smiled because for a change, I knew the answer to that question!  I replied that I have come to realize that part of my personality in God is that I love the challenge of seeing Him make the impossible become possible, especially with people. In the beginning of moving to Costa Rica, I asked God that very question hundreds of times. I have learned a lot of things about myself in these last few years and although the answer came swiftly to my mouth in reply to the person's question that day, it was a quite a journey for my heart to come to the revelation. 

 

I am not a competitive person in games or anything of that nature, I usually don't play to win, I just love being with people. My closest friends will tell you it's true! However, when it comes to people who feel lost, discouraged, lonely or forgotten, something rises up in me that becomes determined to show them that Jesus can change that feeling or circumstance in their life. I become fiercely competitive with the enemy. I remember Laura and I laughing at this realization one day of how I was not competitive or stubborn in anything, except this ministry. 

The safety fair went great and I am so thankful for everyone's prayers and letters of encouragement! Thank you to all of you that gave financially to the event. I want to say a very special thank you to the amazing ladies, Paula and Julie, who selflessly and tirelessly gave that whole week. As well as my awesome team of staff and translators! The pastors and the community of Tres Rios were so blessed! Because of this event, we have a stronger voice in the community. 

As I look back, I am amazed at all God has done with us in Costa Rica. I can't believe I have been here and called this place home for the last two years. We have seen mountain tops and valleys a lot in that time and especially these past few months but we have stood firm in knowing that God is faithful. He has never left us and we have never been alone.

There is so much I could say but it would take too long! We are seeing doors open in new ways of fighting sexual exploitation here in Costa Rica. Some of the dreams and prayers of my heart these last couple of years are starting to come about and I am THRILLED! God is moving is such fascinating ways and I look forward to sharing about it when I come to the States for the month of October!

 

I am ending with the lyrics to that song that has ministered to some of  the LightForce team and I hope it ministers to you. The lyrics to the song, best describe my heart as I reflect on our time working in Central America.

 

Standing on this mountaintop 

Looking just how far we've come 

Knowing that for every step 

You were with us 

Kneeling on this battle ground 

Seeing just how much You've done 

Knowing every victory 

Is Your power in us 

 

Scars and struggles on the way 

But with joy our hearts can say 

Yes, our hearts can say 

Never once did we ever walk alone 

Never once did You leave us on our own 

You are faithful, God, You are faithful