Introduction

Dear Friends,



I am writing to share with you about my opportunity to go to on a mission’s trip! I had been praying about where God would have me to go this summer, and He put a desire in my heart to go somewhere where my life would come in contact with the “least of these” – whether it is orphans, street children, or refugees. I had no idea where to look for opportunities, but faithfully asked God to pave the way for me to go.


 A few months later I was talking with a dear lady from our church who leads a mission’s trip to Staten Island every summer to do a two week summer school program with Liberian refugee children. The refugees are often behind in school because of the poor schooling they received before coming to the U.S. and the fact that many of their parents cannot read makes it very difficult for them to catch up in a failing school system. She invited me to go along and assist her in the kid’s schooling. I was touched by the offer, and agreed to pray about it.


 As I brought the matter before my Lord in prayer, He began giving me a desire to go…but even then I was hesitant. I just wanted to be 100% sure that this was His idea and not just something I wanted to do.


 Not long after, my piano teacher asked if I was going on any missions trips this summer. I briefly told her that I was considering going to New York City to work with Liberian refugee children. She thought it sounded like a really neat opportunity. The next day she sent me an email that simply said if I decided to go to New York this summer, her and her husband would like to contribute financially, including a free airplane ticket. This was just the confirmation I needed from my Lord!!!!


 As I began sharing with people about this opportunity God had given me, everyone was so encouraging. A sweet couple from our church took a special interest in my trip, and always asked me how plans were coming along. They were very supportive, and I knew they were praying for me as well. They too surprised me with a gift of money and a note attached. It simply stated that part of the money was for my personal expenses, and the rest was for the children. I needed to do something to bless them, in a way that they may not receive otherwise.


 Corrie ten Boom said, “If we seek to raise our own money, then God will let us do it – by ourselves. Many times we will be able to raise great amounts of money by human persuasion of downright perseverance in asking. But we will miss the far greater blessing of letting Him supply all our needs according to His own riches.”


 Watching God provide for this trip has been one of the most incredible blessings. I never said a word…He just provided! Truly, He is a God of abundance. There is no end to His goodness!


 I sincerely long for your prayers for this trip. In my life, I am increasingly aware of my weakness and desperate need for the Life and power and love of my Lord Jesus. Only He can change a life. Please pray ….


 ~God to prepare my heart; that I would be completely un-focused on myself and have a servant’s heart and attitude.


 ~Safety and awareness of the strong presence of my God as I go with Him to Staten Island, New York City. I will be there July 10 through July 24, 2010.


 ~Above all, I ask that you pray for the Spirit of God to be in and upon me. It is His sight that I need, His inspiration, and His power to work and spend my life for His purposes and the task before me.

Thank you so much! I appreciate each and every one of you and count it a privilege to have you in my life.

 With love,

Ashley