just a whisper.

I will pray without ceasing for these unspoken requests. For the second time in my life, I can truly say that I am doing just that. There is not a minute that goes by without the Holy Spirit putting words to the multitude of feelings that are heavy in my heart. I am praying for direction, for an answer, for some kind of modern day miracle, for a word that it will be okay.

And He whispers: "Trust."
And He reminds me of Jeremiah 29:11.

And though they aren't the words I was hoping for, they are more than enough. At the whisper of His voice, He brings peace to a worried soul and a mind full of questions.

My strength is renewed, and I continue on with the waiting.

the praying continues.

While I continue to pray about HUGE things and wait for God's response, I am trying to remember the truth of this quote - which I came across in today's devotional:

"If humans can describe, prescribe, dictate, or anticipate it -- it surely can’t be God-sized."

Please continue to pray with me for a God-sized answer to the prayers that are on my heart. And I promise that I will say more and stop being so cryptic as soon as I can!

trust that He provides.

I am SOOOOO excited!! I had a photo shoot a few weeks ago, and I let the families involved know that the proceeds from the orders are going to be split between Ekubo Ministries and Sangaalo Babies' Home. I have gotten so many orders for prints -- and I've even gotten some donations on top of the cost of the orders! One family even scheduled a private shoot for later this month, since I conveniently had an opening on the day that they requested! I put the word out there that I'm now booking into March, so it will be exciting to see what God continues to do as He provides for these ministries in Uganda! Pray with me!!

end slavery.

I did not get to go to the Passion 2013 event in Atlanta GA this year, but some of my dear friends did. They were blown away by Gary Haugen's talk about ending slavery. I was able to listen to his sermon online and I wanted to share it with you all because it was just so powerful. Please share your thoughts in the comments below - I'd love to hear what you think.

one word 2013.

For the past few years, my friends and I have joined the One Word movement. For those of you who haven't heard of it, let me explain:

"Forget New Year’s Resolutions. Scrap that long list of goals you won’t remember three weeks from now anyway. Choose just one word. One word that sums up who you want to be or how you want to live. One word that you can focus on every day, all year long. It will take intentionality and commitment, but if you let it, your word will shape you and your year. It will guide your decisions and help you grow. Discover the big impact one word can make. One word. 365 days. A changed life."**

Last year, my word was BLESSINGS. 2011 was full of tough stuff, and I was determined to find the blessing in everything during 2012. The biggest blessing, however, was Africa and how it completely and utterly changed my life.

This year, I am choosing the word PATIENCE - not necessarily because I want to (you know the joke about asking God for patience: He will give you circumstances that require it of you!) but because my spirit knows already that it will be a theme throughout the year.

Part of me dreads this, as I am, by nature, a horribly impatient person. But the other part of me is excited because it is a necessary part of the journey that will lead to a wonderful end. I am choosing to focus on the latter. With patience comes hope, and hope is my life's theme. (See? It all ties together!)

What is your One Word for 2013? I will be praying for you throughout your journey.




** For more information, go to www.oneword365.com or to www.gritandglory.com