Dear Family and Friends,
Greetings of peace, joy, and hope to you.
Have you ever had the opportunity to chat with one of your heroes? Perhaps you stumble to try to find the question you really want to ask. Maybe you hang on every word of their response, hoping to remember each phrase. You observe the person’s mannerisms, and actions, the how as well of the what of their being.
Yesterday I spoke with Sister Paul. She’s a tough-as-nails short Irish nun who has poured her heart into Sierra Leone for the past 36 years. Her heart overflows with love for Jesus as she oversees three schools, one of which is a boarding school for hearing-impaired that she herself played a large role in starting.
As I have often felt “at the end of my rope” during the past five years, I asked her what habits and practices gave her the staying power to thrive amidst the difficulties we face in West Africa. Immediately she answered, “Community and prayer.” After expounding on both of these for a bit, Sister Paul went on to say that having faithful prayer partners, maintaining family and friendship ties, and taking time off to play have also been essential for her. As she spoke, I realized I need to grow in all five of these areas. Being with her for a bit restored my hope, vision, and courage as I begin my next three-year contract with Word Made Flesh.
During my renewal decision-making process the last couple of months, I asked a counselor-friend and a mentor couple to dialogue with me. Their safe listening ears, sound advice, and fervent prayers have been immensely encouraging. Like I mentioned in last month’s letter, I am feeling stronger than I have in a long time.
Several times this past month I was directed to 2 Chronicles 16:9 (above). I took my final decision in faith and expectancy that God will strengthen and restore me, as I stay fully committed to Him. Every hair on my body stood on end when an unknowing acquaintance encouraged me with the exact same verse hours after my commitment.
In keeping with Sister Paul’s advice, would you please (re) commit to praying for me? Sometimes I struggle with sickness and depression here. Please for my health, clarity of mind, and a permeating sense of hopefulness and joy as I endeavor to lead this community in wisdom, grace, and love. Please pray that I would constantly, fervently, and increasingly love God with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength.
Thank you.
Love,
cami