When God first told me that He was getting ready to open a door in Italy again, I'll admit that my first reaction was paralyzing fear. You see, I have worked long and hard to process the difficult things about our missions journey and God has been so faithful to bring healing to my heart. But the thought of going through it again was something I wasn't sure I was ready to face.
I'm so thankful that God didn't allow me to dwell in that fear for long. Instead, He gave me a phrase, "Be strong and courageous!" I have clung to that over the last year as the Lord has revealed His plan for a new ministry opportunity in Italy. However, when all the plans finally came together for our first trip and it was time to start fundraising with a very limited timeframe, fear started to raise its ugly head. Would we be able to raise enough funds in just one month?
Oh, why do we doubt what God has so clearly orchestrated? I have been astounded at how the Lord has provided to make this trip a reality! Friends and family have responded so generously and just yesterday we got word that the remaining amount needed was covered IN FULL through an avenue we never expected.
In just 10 days, God has supernaturally provided all the funds we need to follow His call back to Italy!
Thank you, Lord, for your faithfulness even through our doubts and fears! And thank you to everyone for the incredible outpouring of love and support for this new opportunity. Words cannot truly express how deeply grateful Stephen and I are. We can't wait to share with you what God does in us and through us as we start this new adventure!