The Valley of the Sun

So on my recent trip to Phoenix I asked why people there refer to it as the "valley". I guess I didn't know that it's nick name was "The Valley of the Sun" because it sits relatively low and flat to the surrounding mountain ranges. It's beautiful to see the sun setting against the mountain silhouettes.

My trip was amazing and a huge answer to prayer. I have found a place to rent from a young girl my age who is a believer. She owns a house in Scottsdale and is leaving for a year to do missions in Mexico with TEAM. So many affirmations in our time together made it apparent that this was God's plan for both of us. So now I can check "housing" off the list of things to line up.

I also got to meet with the founder of Arab Women Today. She was a joy to spend 48 hours with and answered so many questions I had about women in the Arab world. Their website is so informative for those of you who would like to learn more visit: http://awtministries.com/english/main.php

It's so hard for me to keep in step with God and not get ahead. My heart is becoming more and more attached to what God is doing through GRM and it feels like living in two world's right now. Please pray that God helps me finish well here at VBC. There are great things happening here and I'm praying for people to rise up that I've invested in for years.

I also was able to meet with the GRM board and connect with some key people there. They are so excited to have me stepping in soon and I felt very valued during that time. Praise God for providing the ability to take this trip. It was his perfect time and he is doing so much for me that I could never accomplish on my own. "Praise God from whom all blessings flow!"

"Caedmon Call" Must Read My Blog

As most of you know God has really given me a theme in this season of life. The idea that God is in my boat has been the source of much intimacy in my walk with God. Well, I was listening to some music tonite and these words seemed to go along with that theme. Maybe they will minister to you as well.

"You've been lost in the wind, And the rain of a storm at sea
The waves crashing over your back, And you're crying out for me
But as the ocean rages "I am sleeping in the boat"
But I have a plan and I'm holding your hand, And I'm keeping you afloat
I'm never gonna let go...My love for you is always true,
I'm never gonna lose heart', Cause I'm holding on tight to you
Should the cruel wind chill your soul, When the world seems out of control
I'm never gonna let go of you!"

Album: Back Home

I'm visting Phoenix

Yes, it's true. Next Thursday I leave for a 4 day trip to Scottsdale (God provided funds to go, so I'm going last minute). I will be meeting a missionary that I will connect with in the Middle East. I will call her Ruth and she is a national from Amman, Jordan. I'm excited about this time with her and to dream about an extended trip next year to Jordan.

Also, there are some awesome possibilities with my housing arrangments. This is a huge answer to prayer as I'm still praying in faith to leave Florida with GRM in January 09.

Also, praise God that my support is now at 38% and rising! God has done a whole lot all at once. His still small voice just keeps saying, "My child, why do you even worry? Remember, I'm in your boat." I feel him slowly building my faith inches at a time....but it's a sweet place to be!

News From Dr. Kristin Beasley

This is an excerpt from Dr. Beasley's newsletter)
Introducing Caye Siller
Mission Accomplished
New Director of Ministry Development
"As you look at either the blog or website you will see the name of Caye Siller. We are delighted that Caye has said "yes" and is busy raising the necessary financial support to join Greater Reach Ministries, even as I write this letter. God put us together a few years ago when I attended a conference for ministry leaders being held in the Chicago area and she ended up being my roommate. We hit it off instantly, and have since that time become friends, and soon will be ministry partners.

Caye's life mission is to disciple women. She has a big heart for women, a spirit of adventure and loves to travel. Plus, she is pursuing graduate education, a fact that is near and dear to my heart, since I have had a passion for education most of my adult life. She is currently serving on staff as Children's and Women's Associate Minister in Venice Bible Church, Venice, Florida (where she has been "holed up" due to the hurricane).
When she reaches her support level, she will be moving out to Arizona to begin her new ministry with us. I want you to know her, pray for her, and love her!"

Venice Triathlon 8-31-08

I came in first in the overall Athena division. It was my fourth Sprint Triathlon. We swam 1/4 mile against the current. Then biked into Hurricane Gustav wind for 8 miles and ran a 5K. My times were decent but it was a lot of fun.

"However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me — the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace." (Acts 20:24)