Orientation Week & Testimony

August 2-4 was orientation in NY. I had a very small orientation group, which threw me off a bit, but the community was awesome. I loved hearing the stories of how my fellow missionary friends came to the point where they are at now, to share our hearts for Africa with eachother and to encourage eachother in our journeys. I left the orientation feeling very blessed, prepared and excited to hit the mission field. Most people leave the orientation with a direct path to Africa. However, I am in the midst of waiting an extra 2 and half weeks. Its been somewhat awkward, but mostly a blessing to have this extra time to indulge in the fellowship and encouragement from so many people who surround my life. Please be in prayer that in 10 days, when my departure date is actually here, that I still feel the readiness (in full) that I felt last week.

During orientation, we were giving a guideline for sharing our testimonies concisely and in the African fashion. I only find it appropriate to share mine with those who will be praying for it to be delivered to and welcomed by open hearts.

My Testimony:
Greetings from Fellowship Church in Greeley Colorado! My name is Rebecca and came to know Christ when I was 16 years old. I feel very blessed to have grown up in a Christian home and to have many examples of strong faith to follow. My family had many struggles growing up, and when I was young, I chose to see those struggles more than the faithfulness that God had shown us threw all of those events. When I was older, my faith was challenged by a Mormon. I chose to face those challenges directly by seeking the truth without assistance from parents or pastors. And, indeed, the Truth of the Bible was been made evident to me! Soon after this I confronted the fact that my sin put Jesus on the cross and a new idea that he would have died even if it was just for me. Furthermore, through a song about heaven, God spoke assurance into my life that I would be with him forever. I always doubted whether my faith and God's hold on me would sustain me until my death. Since these words of comfort (nearly audibly spoken!), I do not doubt Him for a second. My biggest struggle now and throughout my life is trusting in God's provision. I love the name of God: Jehovah Jireh (the Lord provides). Clearly he has proved himself time and again but I still need the reminder. Psalm 146:3 &5 are the verses I call to mind: Do not put your trust in princes, in mortal men, who cannot save.... (but)Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob. I love that:"the God of Jacob" as this is a reference to a man who literaly struggled with God. My struggle is not in vain, God is not done with me yet!