Unburdened

14 “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16 (NKJV) I don’t know about you, but lately I feel like the world has felt needlessly dim and heavy. I have noticed it has felt darker for than usual for people. It seems there is a lot more noise, distraction, and forecasts for fear seem to fill the headlines and instagram streams. I have had a few friends message me about similar feelings. I see so much “information” right now looking to “help” but instead it is filling minds with confusion. Do I need to detox from heavy metals? Is my food safe? Should I be worried about the tick invasion? What’s the all the alien news lately? There’s always something competing for our attention. There’s always something that seems more informative and helpful but may be discretely (or not so discretely) stirring up fear, despondency, or even “random” anxiety. Lately I have been reminded of the promises spoken by Jesus and throughout the Bible. He reminds us that we need to be salt and light. As I was sitting with the Lord he brought me to this beautiful word from Matthew 5. So while things look dim, we are to be the LIGHT of the world. For He has called us into LIVING HOPE (1 Peter 1:3)! I just like to take a moment to remind you to seek Him and His Word. Return to the Word. Shut of the late night scrolling and return to Him. Find time to sit with Him, He is more than ready to speak to you. I encourage you to find the treasures in His Word and to remind you of the promises He has spoken over you as sons and daughters of the most High God! Find the Light in His presence and share it with others. Pray over situations that are trying to stir up fear or uncertainty rather than giving them room in your mind. And I pray Romans 15:13 over you today: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit" 

Shabbat and Rest

On Your Way to Serve

Keeping a journal is a great way to not only document your trip but to gather your thoughts as you experience new situations. It’s a great way to recall the events of your trip as well as what God spoke to you during that mission; this will come in very useful later on! Often on mission trips, we rarely find time to be alone. This is a great way to gather your feelings and speak with Him about what is taking place each day. I recommend taking even 10-15 minutes to be still and find some quiet (even in a shared space). This is a great way to share scriptures and talk to God about what you saw and felt each day. Another great use for journals is to write down dreams you have had. I hear so many people tell me about dreams they have but are quick to forget them if they don’t take a few minutes to write them down or draw the out. When we are in a space where we are seeking Him these dreams can come more frequently. I have found when I write them out I gain a better understanding of what they mean as well as scriptures that line up with the message shared in the dream. Years down the road you may be reminded of a memory from one of your mission trips. Journals are a great way to look back and what God was speaking to you as well as a testament to His goodness. These memories can provide confirmation to all that He has brought you through and where He spoke so clearly, especially in seasons where hearing from Him seems difficult. I know it can seem like a daunting task, especially if you are not used to journalling but I recommend staying diligent in this during your trips. You will not regret those few moments spent each day with Him.

What is Eshet Chayil?

Is this your mission to serve?

Mission Trip Photography Dos and Don’ts

Give Him What You Can’t Let Go Of