In 4 months I will be leaving for Africa for 9 months! It's hard to believe. I am excited, but also a little apprensive and scared. Will I raise all the support I need? (I just sent my first batch of support letters out yesterday). Will I be able to effectively minister to the people I meet? Will I get sick or be in danger? Of course I know the answers: God can and will bring in the finances according to His will, He can and will make Himself known to the people I meet, and I might (probably will?) get sick or be in danger at some point, but that happens here anyway, and God can and will take care of me even there!

And anyway, what an awesome opportunity to experience a different culture and build relationshps with people who live so differently than me. But more than that, what an amazing opportunity to minister to the fatherless and the widow, and to tell people of the grace we have in Christ Jesus, so that His name would be made great in Africa and all the nations! That is what I get really excited about. So in the midst of fears and apprehensions, God reminds me that with Him we shall do valiantly!