When I was probably 4 or 5 I remember watching a World Vision ad on TV with my Mum. I remember being so impacted by the need in Africa with all the starving children that I wanted to give all my money to help them (which was maybe a $1 or 2). From that day until now, if anyone had asked me what I would do if money wasn't an issue or if I could fulfil any dream that I had, I would say go to Africa. I have specifically wanted to work in an orphanage there and be able to just love on the kids there and to give them hope. It seems that next March, this dream will come true. At BSSM all the students go on at least one missions trip a year. We were given 51 to choose from at the beginning of the school year and we got to choose our top 5 choices. My #1 choice was Kenya. I have NO idea how many people applied for it but between 1st and 2nd year students alone, there are at least 1200 possibilities with only 12 spots available. The people leading the Kenya trip decided to interview us all to see why we chose Kenya. That interview was one of the easiest I've ever been to as it is something I am so passionate about, and every answer came straight from my heart. I can not even express how happy and privileged I feel to have been accepted. Below is the description of what the trip entails:
Kenya
God has begun a great work in Kenya! This trip is focused on strengthening the leaders who are facilitating the movement today, and pouring into the children who will be the leaders of the next generation. We will be ministering at the largest orphanage in Kenya and teaching at a school of ministry. We will also be working in the slums, bringing the love and power of God to Kenya’s most needy.
As you can see from the description, it is exactly what I have always wanted to do. Now to the fun bits. :) I feel so blessed to be able to be here this year and to have my life's dream come true at the same time is just an awesome display of God's love for me in giving me the desires of my heart. The things I'm discovering and learning over here are invaluable. I know I already had a foundation of who God's made me to be, but as well as being able to see and be a part of amazing miracles in other peoples lives, I'm also having my heart and life exponentially expanded. One thing I know I've always found challenging is asking for help. I've always wanted to do it all myself and not be a burden to anyone else. Gift giving is my love language.... but yet receiving is one of the things I find hardest. This trip is $2900USD and instead of beating around the bush I figured I'd be completely upfront-- because one of the things I hate most is feeling like I'm being manipulated when it comes to money. :) I would love for you to consider sowing into my trip/expenses. I need 10% by next week and then have to have it fully paid by early February. (The trip is March 10-21st) Any amount you can give is appreciated. If you can't support me financially, I would love you just to pray for the trip- that we would be safe and have awesome God encounters with the people who's lives we are able to touch. Below is a little tax info etc:
Financial gifts may be made online at ibssm.org. This gift is tax-deductible and you will receive a statement at the end of the year for your tax records. If you wish your gift to be anonymous, please check the anonymous box. This will allow you to receive an end of year statement, but will not allow the student to see your name. This gift is non-refundable, and if for any reason a team member or team does not go, the money will support another mission trip sponsored by Bethel Church.
(If online payment is not an option, donations can be mailed to Bethel Church Attn: Bethel International 933 College View Dr. Redding, CA 96003.)
https://www.ibssm.org/?action=donate&target=missions&student_id=211791 This is the exact link if you would like to give with credit card online (please note this is in US Dollars).
If you'd like to give into my NZ account it is: National Bank- 06-0807-0172073-03 and I can transfer it over to the US.
Even though I'm miles away from most of you, I love to hear from you all and see what's going on in your lives too. Please email me at kkw1812@hotmail.com or message me on Facebook. I'll keep updating my blog as well with the exciting journey I'm on. http://onlyloveremains.blogspot.com/ Thank you so much for all the prayer and support I've already received from you all. Please feel free to let me know if there is anything you need/want prayer for... there is no thing too small that He doesn't see or want to help with.... I know that sounds cliché sometimes but it is the Truth and it's one thing I'm figuring out more and more by being over here. Thanks again. ♥
Much love,
Kristina
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