Gabi is changed by the power of prayer!

Gabi loves kids.  That was evident every time we were around one that needed held.  She didn't shy away if the child had no diaper on, nor did she withdraw her hand when dirty fingers sought to be held.  She showed Christ's love to so many that needed it!  I am so glad to read her perspective on this and see how much she was able to see prayer work and understand even more the power that there is in it! 

Gabrielle Sinn:

"I am missing Africa a lot right now as I write this. I want to go back as soon as I can ;)
This trip very much changed my life in so many ways. It really opened my eyes to how much prayer means and how important it really is. I never thought of it as having a lot of importance, but as I watched people's lives be changed right in front of me, because of our prayers for them, it was clear to me. God wants us to have complete faith in Him while we pray and that was shown to me through this trip.
Also, I was reminded of how much I have and how blessed I am. I miss having the beautiful children hold my hands and hug me. I miss being Gods hands and feet. I miss watching people accept Christ into their lives. I miss everything about it. I was completely changed by Africa and the people there. I can't even begin to describe how blessed I feel that God had me planned to be on the trip. I love my team and I can not wait to see what else God has in store for us! I will never be the same!!"

Kendall's heart awakens to a boldness and wisedom she never knew she had!

Kendall, Kendall, Kendall...I luv this girl.  Her heart got such an awakening in Uganda, I can't even describe it.  She has always touched me.  She is a small little thing with a competitiveness you wouldn't believe.  You would never guess her strength unless you saw her in action.  With that kind of determination, coupled with a love for Jesus...watch out!  We witnessed Kendall really getting rocked by the Holy Spirit while on several home visits and the hospital ministry.  It was soooo cool to see her getting worked on in a way that made her bold and wise.  All of the sudden she would just look at me and say, "I have something that I need to say!".  Music to my ears!  I just want to step back and let the Holy Spirit go crazy with that one!  I cannnnnnot wait to see what God is going to continue to develop in that one!

Kendall Snyder:

 

"This trip hit me in so many ways. This was my first mission trip so I had no idea what to expect, but man God has never taught me so much in only two weeks. He taught me stuff way before the trip even started. I went to Leo my first semester of school this year and all of a sudden over Christmas break God was saying to my mom and I that I need to go back to Lakewood. So we listened and I came for the second semester at Lakewood. The first day I started back we had just started reading ‘Kisses from Katie’ which is what inspired this trip. Then we found out that we might have a chance to go on a mission trip to Uganda and it blew me away because I knew I was supposed to go on this trip and that is one reason why God called me back to this school. So God taught me that he knows what He has planned for my life and I just have to listen and obey because I don’t control my life, God does. God is always present and walks us through every moment of our lives.

The first days we were in Uganda I was still a little shy because It was my first mission trip and I wasn’t sure what to do or how to do it. Tina, during home visits and hospital visits, would always have to say “Kendall do you have anything to say?” and then I would finally speak up. After about the 3^rd day Tina wouldn’t have to ask me anymore, God taught me how to be bold. I have never been that bold in my life I had hardly ever prayed out loud or really confess my faith to anyone I didn’t know or that wasn’t a Christian before. So after that day, I was praying or encouraging just about everyone we came in contact with and God just kept surprising me with what I can do if I can just be bold.

Another thing I learned on this trip was how ungrateful I was for my parents. A couple weeks before we left I had noticed really how disrespectful I was being to my parents so I prayed that this trip would really help me to obey them and respect them more when I got back. And that’s exactly what God did. Just about every lady we went to visit didn’t have a husband present or if they did they had one present they were abusive. So all these kids had no father figure or they didn’t have a good fatherly example.  So when I got back home I noticed a huge difference on how I responded and acted towards my parents and our relationship has probably never been better.

The last thing that really struck me was how joyful everyone was in Uganda. These people hardly had any food for the day or no bed or no clothes or no money, but they had Jesus. The girls in the maternity home at Kupendwa, you could see their love for God in the way they worshipped. You could tell the Jesus has filled their hearts and they don’t need material things to be filled. They were always so joyful. So God taught me that when I’m having what we Americans consider a “bad day” be joyful in what we have and just praise God all day long.

This trip has got me on fire for God and I prayed there that it will never burn out. I’m still going strong but I need God’s help every day to keep that fire. Thanks to this trip and my new boldness for God I am getting baptized in August and I can’t wait!!

This trip was the best thing that has ever happened to me, I have countless other things that I have learned but I don’t think I could write about all of them. I love Uganda so much and I can’t wait to go back. I love the friendships that I made and friendships that grew during this trip. I love everyone that we met there, their country, and our team. I could not have asked for a better group of people to go on this trip with me. Thank you to everyone that has prayed and supported us! I love you all" J

Lauri's perspective change that only God could do!

One of the most encouraging people in my life is Lauri Carnahan.  She has stood by me and prayed for me when the pits seemed to want to swallow me.  She has encouraged me like crazy to keep going when ministry was so hard and exhausting.  Her and Dave have always supported Rebel with either sending their kids, themselves or their prayers.  I have taken several trips with her and hope to take so many more as God has taken us on quite a crazy road these past couple of years~! I love doing ministry with her and can't wait to see what God has in store for the years to come!

Lauri Carnahan:

 

My Uganda reflection takes me back to last July as John DeLine and I were discussing the materials I could use in my girl’s ninth grade Bible class. His wife Kathy, along with his daughter and grandson, had been to New Hope in Uganda that summer, and Kathy had a new passion to help the people of Uganda. She had also read the book, Kisses From Katie, an autobiography about how God used a young girl to change several villages near Jinja because she said YES to His work there for her. My daughter had also read and loved that book, so I thought it was a great idea to read it with the girls in my class.

Meanwhile, God was working on my heart. He continued to move me toward His plan for me involving evangelism, and I signed up for a class called Perspectives that was being held at my church. The purpose of Perspectives is to help the students see God’s mandate for the world to know Him and to glorify His name. Right now, there are still 3 billion people who have not heard the Gospel! Every day, 156,000 people die without Christ! God has called all Christians to evangelize the world, and Perspectives class gives students some tools and resources to be a part of His work for the world. “Evangelism is not an optional accessory to our life. It is the heartbeat of all that we are called to be and do. It is the commission of the Church which gives meaning to all else that is undertaken in the Name of Christ.” (from “The Master’s Plan” in Perspectives on the World Christian Movement text, p. 125)

Right after my Bible students returned to school following Christmas break, I had an assignment for them. Reading an article about the book, My One Word, I decided to have the girls choose just one word, along with a scripture passage, to be their focus for the year. As an example, I chose mine and shared it with them. My word was Perspective. Not only did I choose that word because of the class I had starting attending, but I also wanted to see the world more like Christ sees. I chose the verse: “Come and see what God has done, his awesome deeds for mankind!"  from Psalm 66:5. In choosing this word, I never expected to see all His amazing works that I have experienced!

Following the “My One Word” assignment, the girls and I began to read Kisses From Katie together in class. After reading, the girls were assigned reflection homework on each chapter. The more we read, the more I looked forward to reading their reflections. I couldn’t believe the way God was using this book to change their hearts! Soon, the questions began: “Mrs. Carnahan, do you think we could go to Uganda and help Katie?” “Could we go to Uganda on a mission trip?” At first, I downplayed the questions as spontaneous girls with nice dreams. However, the girls became more adamant with their suggestion, and I began to get emails saying, “Mrs. Carnahan, I really feel that God is asking us to pray about going to Uganda.” So, we started praying, setting aside lunchtime on Wednesdays, sometimes fasting.

I told several friends, including Lindsey Cowart and Tina Gerke, about the idea, and they joined us in praying as well as opening doors to see if we could work with Katie Davis’s ministry in Uganda. One day, Lindsey was talking with a friend from Georgia whose sister started a ministry in Jinja, Uganda, called Kupendwa. Their ministry had just sent out a newsletter with a huge front-page caption, “Servants Needed!” Just as the door had closed to work with Katie (she doesn’t take short-term mission groups), another door had opened. We were so blessed to be the answer to the prayers of Kupendwa Ministries! Our destination was finalized, and the work to raise the enormous funding of the trip began.
 

Another interesting God-thing was that JT King and I both happened to be in the same Perspectives class. I had mentioned to Lee Houtz, my worship pastor, that my Bible class and I were going to go to Uganda, and he told me that JT, his brother-in-law, had been there several times. Wanting more information and knowing that God had just directed me to a great source, I approached JT one night at class. He was so excited about Uganda and couldn’t wait to tell me more or help me share information with the freshmen girls’ parents. I praise God for giving us JT’s knowledge, prayer support, passion and friendship. He was such a huge asset to our group!

Gabrielle soon designed a beautiful shirt for our team. The back of the shirt really encapsulated our team’s motto, one that we had gleaned from Katie Davis: “God is making the impossible possible.” We would never have believed that God would bless us in the way that He has, helping us raise the needed funds to go to Uganda. In addition, we had people volunteer to make pillowcase dresses, crochet washcloths and baby blankets, gather supplies from the hospital, and give us time to share and pray for us. What a supportive and encouraging group we have in the body of Christ!

Arriving in Uganda was so exciting! I knew that God had chosen to send us, and I couldn’t wait to see what He would have us do, who we would meet, and how we would serve. We were able to develop relationships with the girls and their babies at the maternity home, tutor them and help with chores, have worship and devotions with them, teach in a primary school, talk and pray with ladies in the hospital and in home visits, be excited with children at kid’s clubs, encourage a congregation in an island church, repair a mud hut for an elderly woman, “dig” out the weeds in a woman’s garden, and paint and plaster a home of a woman caring for an invalid child. Our team incredibly was able to lead 23 people to Christ!

The one story that impacted me the most was a home visit to the woman that I sponsored through Kupendwa back in February. Her name is Nora, and she now has 3 children. Her husband is often gone as he looks for work, so she is alone to care for her family with very little money. Her home is in the slum village called Railways where she lives in a concrete compound about 8 x 10 with no windows. Nora is a believer, and she explained to us how often she prays and how much she loves God. She prayed to God to heal her baby because Nora could not afford to take her to the hospital. God healed her! When she has no money for food for her children, she prays. She told us, “If I eat, I glorify God. If I don’t eat, I glorify God.” What an amazing lesson in faith, gratitude and love for her Savior!

The relationships we built there will always be a part of my heart. In saying yes to God regarding serving in Uganda, God has changed my perspective! He has helped me to see the world, and it’s need for Him, in a way that I had never seen before. He has blessed me with more love, more compassion, and more passion for Him and for His people. I am excited to see what He has next for me and for the rest of our team. We were all changed...we will never see Him the same again.

 

LC...constant obedience lands her right where God wants her

If you haven't had the opportunity to meet our "LC" there surely is a piece of puzzle missing to your life.  She makes everyone smile and laugh and laugh and.....laugh.  She came from southern Georgia with an accent to match and fit herself right into this little community.  Her obedience to God is something that constantly makes me want to continue growing and seeking Him more.  Her story is awesome as she recounts the past 2 years of when God first started moving her.  You can so clearly see God's Hand moving her right where He wanted her.  We are all so thankful that it was here!  you see when the call came to go to Africa, LC immediately thought of her friend who had a sister who started a ministry over there...you guessed it, Amy Washington with Kupendwa!  and the rest is history.  Here is her perspective on God working in crazy ways for these past 6 months!

Lindsey Cowart (LC):

Looking back over 2013, I still can’t help but be amazed at the sovereignty of God. When this year began, I had no clue how God would use me to help others and then use others to help me. Through the relationships built and connections made with others, I see God piecing together His plan for the lives of His children! As I journeyed from Georgia to Jamaica and then to live with a family in Indiana and then onto Africa to work with Kupendwa Ministries with a team especially handpicked by God was all God’s creative orchestration! Yes, there were times of confusion, doubt, and frustration and questioning what He was doing or where He was in the doing, but just in His perfect timing, He confirmed His presence along the way! Through this whole adventure, He has taught me to trust Him more and more!

Why, the scripture Ezekiel 36: 25-27, “I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleanness, and from all your idols I will cleanse you. And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules” became so powerful and meaningful – especially in the two week missions trip in Africa!

Being with a team for fourteen days in a new environment and experiencing unusual circumstances can be a bit challenging. The places we went, the things we saw often seemed so overwhelming. We were often tired and our guard many times dropped as our own strength wore down. Upon seeing the brokenness and hurt all around us, I was reminded of just how weak and sinful my own heart is. However, it is still humbling to know that in the midst of my weaknesses and struggles, God still sees me fit to fulfill His purpose! Stepping onto the soil of Africa which is inhabited by so many young women who share story after story of the uncertainty of what they would eat, or how they could provide for their families continues to wrench our hearts. During moments when there was a loss for words, I would find myself crying out to God lifting up their situations or begging for some words of encouragement for our team to offer! The same scripture that reaches in and speaks of hope and light into even the darkest part of my life is the same that we had opportunity to share with many of the women and girls in Uganda. Knowing God’s word does not go void, I can rest assured that every encounter was a divine appointment.

I realize that I was there to assist others even though I had no idea how to be of much help. I only wanted to be used by God. My struggles were nothing in comparison to the hardships these beautiful women face daily. I was overwhelmed and really began to seek out God’s instruction for what my mission was there. I was struck with a deep sense of guilt for not having the grateful heart these people have. In comparison to them, I realize I have everything. I have God, my health, food each night, and a clean place to live. They have God and for this only were they filled with gratitude. I asked, “God why do I have so much more to be grateful for, but I am not as grateful as they?” Through this, I am able to see my sinfulness, wickedness, and hardened heart. I became very sad about the person I have become and saw a great need for change inside of my heart. My need, I realized was just as big as the people’s need who live in the African village. It is a spiritual hunger only God can fill. This trip to Africa has been a big stepping stone in my journey with God. I am able to see what all God has bestowed upon my life and be grateful, indeed. I thank God daily for showing this to me and allowing me to continue to grow from the realization. From this trip, God has cleansed my heart and renewed my spirit. I pray I may continue to walk uprightly with a willingness to serve others and to continue to grow spiritually as I serve Him!

Kayla Hess...A calling, An answer, A changed Life!

It was so great getting to know Kayla on this trip.  She was so great with all the girls in the home and I think even fell asleep with one of the babies while cuddling.  She worked without complaining even when heat overtook her!  Lucky her, she brought a little prize home from Africa (Malaria!).  Even during this trial, her smile was huge and you could see her just trusting God through it...here is her perspective:

Kayla Hess:

There are some things that God engraves on our hearts that we don't understand at the time, and six months ago, that was this overwhelming passion for missions work, specifically in Uganda, Africa. I had absolutley no idea why God was sending me to this third world country on this poverty stricken continent, but God knew exactly what He was doing, and He knew that He was going to use me to not only reach others, but also teach me things that I didn't know about myself. Leaving the United States and heading to Jinja, Uganda is quite the culture shock, and I think the thing that really made an impact on me was that everyone in Uganda, through all their troubles and trials, were some of the friendliest and most joyful people you will ever meet. They didn't have much, but what they did have they were beyond grateful for. They show their appreciation for everything people do for them. They are willing to give whatever they have, even if it's not much, just to show how thankful they are for you. I'm guilty of being ungrateful and unappreciative of everything I have, when in reality, I own far and beyond what I would ever need. I learned to be grateful, appreciative, and content with what I have. Looking back, I realize exactly why God sent me on this trip - to open my eyes to the world around me. I am beyond blessed, and I thank God everyday for finally showing me how blessed I am to live the life that I have. God is so, so good.

Haiti and when God says no...

Today was a crazy day.  It started with a  phone call from our travel agent stating that the team that has a flight from Miami to Port Prince, Haiti will no longer be able to go.  "Excuse me, did you just say what I think you said?"  She said that the flight was not only cancelled but was not rescheduled for days.  no problem...one or two days is not a big deal....NO, tina, I mean more like 5-7 days. 

What was crazy about all of this was there was never a panic moment...It was like God kept reminding me that HE knew, He orchestrated anyhow, and the change of plans on our end simply was His plan all along.  My heart immediately went to the team members whose hearts were set on Haiti.  But their reaction is one we only can pray will happen.  They were great.  I am sure there is some disappointment, but how they have handled it shows their true hearts to just go where and when HE says to. 

After talking with Kiley about options, Teresa Knoblauch (Kiley's Wife) and I decided to research some options...Jamaica was one and staying in Miami was the other.  Coming home was never one...let me assure you.  the peace that God has put this team together for a mission week of serving was still the calling and we were focused now on finding out what God had planned.  Jamaica looked favorable until we found out the tickets wouldn't transfer and it would cost a lot more to go.  Teresa had found several ministries but decided on who to call first.  It was just like God to give her favor on the first try!  I get a call that says that she talked to a lady who was awesome and was willing and able to help with housing and had ministry for them all week.  after looking at their website and getting chills, Teresa and I both felt strongly that this was going to be the place.  the no brainer came when we were informed that the community tht they would be doing ministry in was "LITTLE HAITI"  yes you just read that right!!!  And if they could get there by 3pm they could start today on the project that was going on.  Kiley texted and said that there was a possible flight tomorrow for Haiti that they might wait for.  I started praying that God would show him what to do, and just like that he texted and said that God was speaking to him and he was in tears and they were staying in Miami.  The airlines are honoring their trip home and the refund from the base in Haiti will be in full so that there will be no added expenses. 

I have to tell you that I am a bit jealous.  God's Hand has them so right where He wants them and they get this crazy awesome opportunity to see the immeasurable happen this next week.  Their obedience is just awesome!  These are the weeks we leaders pray and pray for!!  I am soooo excited to see how God is going to use them to build relationship and take the Word of Jesus to Miami!!!!  updates will follow of just how God rocks them and stories come in!!  Please keep praying for this!!

Pray also for Haiti (the real one) and Jamaica....the storm will hit both of them and so many people I love are on that Island (Jamaica)

Uganda from Megan's Eyes....

I was thinking today about how we have been home for 1.5 weeks already...It seems like a year ago, but at the same time, I still can remember the girls' excitement as we loaded up and headed to the airport.  as I got a chance to get to know them all so much better on the trip, there was one above all of them that gave me a run for my money.  Megan!  She was just as lippy as me and at times had such good comebacks, she made me speechless ;)  ... with all of that said, she was great to have on the team!  She got sick 2 of the days and fought back hard.  she loved on all the people there and was so much fun to have around...God has got a special place for her, and it will be incredible to see what and where in the next few years!

Megan Fisher:

This trip has opened my eyes to how much we need to show kindness. We don't know what people may be going through in their life and one mean or sarcastic thing you say/ do might change everything.
God is showing me how much prayer and reading the Bible is so important. He has been showing me things that I have never saw before and opening my eyes to things that I missed.
I'm so thankful to have had the opportunity to go on this trip with 12 other amazing people that all have impacted me in different ways and changed my life along with everyone that is involved with Kupendwa Ministries! So thankful to call you all family!

uganda from payton's eyes

There have been so many awesome things that have happened because of our trip to Uganda.  During the weeks there, our stories would have been about activities that we did, new places we saw, or food we ate.  It would have been about the experience in the here and now.  But now that we have had several days removed from that amazing environment, I asked everyone to tell me what God did to and through them and what impacted them the most, on this side looking back. 
Payton is one of our sophomore girls that got to go.  She has always grabbed my heart.  She is just a neat girl that has a heart for everyone.  She will fit into any group and from watching her on the trip, can be happy to be talking to whoever is close.  She is beautiful on the inside and out and I really can't wait to see what God does with her in the next few years!  Here is her account of the trip:



I think something that hit me the most on the trip was how much our love and Gods love can help and impact other people's lives in such a huge way! I mean just seeing how the kids faces would light up when they saw us is unforgettable! You could tell instantly which adults knew Jesus during home visits because they had a certain joy and sparkle in their eyes. Gods love is what gave them that!

Through all of this God really tugged at my heart in several ways. The most obvious way being - Spend more time with Me! Pray and talk to Me more, get in My Word, do daily devotions, build up your relationship with Me and make it stronger! God really laid all of those things on my heart. So that's what I have been trying to work on, building my relationship with Him and trying to transform the way I think, react, and view things at home. I want to be able to see things more through Gods eyes rather than my own. 

Back to Normal??

Back to normal...what does that even mean?  I have realized that Normal is something I probably will never be.  So to try to get back to it, impossible is the word that pops in my head. 

This week has been hard.  It hits in waves...usually not all at one time, but I have found myself staring off into space.  Or even more not engaging, but being content to sit and watch.  I can't quite seem to find where I fit.  I described it at the share night as a piece of puzzle that has been altered just enough so that the edges no longer click in place perfectly.  It looks right but a change has occurred that makes it off, just a little but enough to know that what used to be a fit no longer is. 

What I am coming to though is that it is ok.  God has been so faithful, and has never left me during the week.  He constantly reminds me of Who HE is and Who HE is making me to be.  During the making me to be process, there will be sifting, chiseling, pounding and whatever else He deems necessary.  My heart is pretty stubborn, and after this last trip, I want it humble...so here we go...

This next week, I hope to have everyone's perspectives on their own experiences. 
On Wednesday we have another team leaving for Haiti.  Please continue to pray for these guys and also for everyone back here that is fighting the battle! 

luv to you all!

in HIM
Tina <>,
Joshua 1:9

First week in uganda

Hey guys!  We have a few minutes with Internet access and u should see JT lauri and I scrambling to get messages out!  The Jamaica team couldn't access the blog so updates from them will have to come later.  As for us in Africa .... Holy cow!  God is moving in ways that can't possibly be explained in the time that I have.  Pictures don't do It justice but let me tell you that the stories we will be able to share and the pictures you will get to see will show a story of a God's Love so great and a pursuit of a people never forgotten and a group of 13 people from Indiana getting to witness it all.  Everyone is doing well...God is moving like some of these kids have never experienced.  With tears in many of their eyes I have witnessed what only can be the Holy Spirit moving and shaping and carving.  None of us will come home the same and we don't want to.  In fact I am begging God not allow it to happen.  Please keep praying as we r reaching a point where everyone is getting tired.  We are very excited to worship together on Sunday and be able to enjoy fellowship.  We love you all and can't wait to see everyone but at the same time not wanting to leave this place....God is soooo good and big!!  We r anticipating big things this next week and just as big when we get home!

in HIM
Tina for the Uganda team
Joshua 1:9

Travel days...

We r exhausted!  And only half way there...london was gonna b such an "awesome" place but quickly lost its awe as exhaustion took over...time change has been crazy and quite the experience.  Luvin how these girls are handling it.  And then they pass out again.

I am seriously in anticipation of God...i know ive said tht before but for real...the next two weeks are going to change us!!

Got a message from the jamaica team tht they did arrive but are having a hard time signing unto the blog...everyone is good thgh!  Thx for prayin them through and keep praying! Lookingfor chAnged lives there too!

Sorry for the short message..and typos too...runnin on fumes!

Luv to everyone!
in HIM
tina <><
Joshua 1:9

Uganda & Jamaica!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ok so crazy thing that happened;  God kinda just exploded Rebel Ministries!  Some days I want to scream and pull my hair out, some days I sit and cry in awe and most ... no...ALL days I can not believe that He chose Rebel to work through!

 

SURRENDER.  This is the word that we HAVE to live by.  I am learning over and over the impact our lives can make when that words is coupled with our Love for Christ! 

 

Ok so back to this explosion...

 

Jamaica and Uganda??....YES!!!!  Both teams are leaving tomorrow for mission trips to these areas.  We have a team of leaders going to Jamaica, for the first time without me.  Which all I can say for most of them is that this is so their time!  God has been preparing them all for this trip and in the future I am confident that God will give them many more chances to step up and lead!  Foreign, Domestic and local!  So proud of all of them!

 

Uganda is a two week trip made up of some amazing adults that I cannottttt wait to serve with and 6 young girls.  6 freshmen and my daughter Jessi. 

 

with both of these trips we are anticipating God...not sure what that looks like or how He will direct us, but isn't that right where we want to be anyhow :). 

 

We want you guys to pray like crazy for us...pray for our hearts to be softened, those we encounter to be softened, and for us all to have our eyes open to where He wants us to go, serve, talk, pray, etc.  I am beyond excited to get to witness to people that may have never heard about Jesus, or to help encourage those that have.  to be able to fill a need with organizations that are on the front line day in and day out and to just love each other like crazy!  We get the opportunity to serve beside brothers and sisters that look different, talk different, live different but love all the same!  how exciting to be able to connect to someone so far away that has the same daddy as me!!!  beyond words and extremely humbling!!!

 

please keep looking at this blog.  if wifi cooperates, we will hopefully be able to update for both the trips!

 

thanks guys...luv you all and thankful for the crazy support we feel through your prayers!!!!!

 

in HIM
tina <><

Joshua 1:9

Something about to Happen

First I want to start off with a video...be ready to be moved....http://youtu.be/BjSio8jur2Y

I am sitting at my desk with this crazy stirring in the pit of my stomach.  It feels like something big is about to happen.  It makes me not be able to sit still.  I can't concentrate.  It feels a whole lot like the Holy Spirit moving. 

I got to be with 41 ppl from Kansas and Missouri last week in Jamaica.  As I now reflect on that trip, I stand in awe of how God literally orchestrated me getting to be there with them.  I can't even tell you all the things that had to fall into place for it to happen, and He just did it.  He prepared the way, and in the end when it didn't look like any of us thought, we went away knowing that it was exactly How He thought.  I sometimes have to learn the hard way, but i am really starting to understand that God's ways, although totally foreign to this human brain of mine, are always better, especially when they don't make sense and in the end make perfect sense...(if that makes sense)! :)

That trip was the just the beginning of an awaking in my soul.  I mean I am feeling like i want to grab people and get them to realize that real life isn't about ignoring God, It's about living it fully with Him.  We so often choose to let everything and anything under the sun make us busy.  We have so many gadgets and this and that that take up our time.  But seriously...if we take a step back, can we not see that all those "things" are robbing us from the unmatchless and unlimited love of Jesus?  that THAT is the real LIFE that we need!

So often I hear people who just aren't happy...or want this or want that...who are constantly, like every day trying to fill that void in their hearts.  the result is usually just a busier life, or an addiction packed life.  A life filled with a love for other things...a life filled with idols.

I want u to read this post, but not stop there.  I want you to take a hard look at yourself and what has became "you".  What fills your days, your hours, your minutes?  If you are not happy with your answers, then you will be very disappointed to find yourself 10 years down the road in the very exact place.  IT IS TIME!  right now!  What do you beleive about Jesus?  what to beleive about His Word?  if you take it serious, then it's TIME...Time to choose...What are you afraid of..a Life with Him is ridiculously better than a life without!

You won't ever experience God big, if you don't allow Him to big in your life!  What are you NOT believing Him for?  What are you worried about?  What is distracting you from Him?  The battle is on and you are either gonna win or lose?  I want you to be standing with me in the end...get ready to fight, cause i am tellin you...there is something about to happen!

Alabama has come and gone!  What a whirlwind.  I am sorry for the lack of updating.  I quickly got annoyed with typeing out messages on my phone.  So next trip there will hopefully be a Mac along for the ride ;). 
I have sat down several times to try to journal my thoughts.  There is just a place I come to sometimes where there are so many jumbling together, I have a hard time sorting them out. 

Where to start...
Why not from the beginning...
Our original plans were for most of the group to travel ahead of my vehicle so that they could get there before dark and be able to unload and get settled without it getting too late.  Travel day is always exhausting and to be able to get a good night's sleep before church is a bonus!  My vehicle was going to stay behind to take some of our kids that needed to leave a little later.  When it become known that only one kid would need to stay, we decided to have the whole group stay so that my vehicle wouldn't need to go at all...saving a few hundred in gas.  Little did i know that the day before we left my trucks transmission started going out.  Had we still planned to take it, we would have been scrambling to get a different vehicle around.  God moment #1 ;)

We lose a hubcap on the way down...no biggie, the biggest headache were the small bladders and the big drinks that the kids had.  Next time i am pretty sure we are either going to bring depends or ban the drinks!  haha...in reality the trip went pretty fast...high pitched singing coming from the girls van, and you can only guess what was coming from the boys...

We made it there and met up with our 2 stragglers, Adam (from virginia) and Lindsey...aka LC (coming home from georgia)

A complete team finally, we begin our week.
Sunday starts off on a great note because we all gained an hour.  Gotta love that...church was great.  Worship in one word was amazing.  Our own Payton Lantz after worshiping the night before got up on stage and led everyone in a song of worship.  I tell her often, but it is true...she has such a gift of leading us to the throne!  I was in tears to watch all the youth in front of me belting out worship, raising their hands in surrender and closing their eyes in awe.  Jesus has that effect on you :)!

We had three people receive a really encouraging word from some of the members of the church.  It was a message that they will tell you came straight from God.  To see young men and older ones rocked to tears, and confirmation ringing in their eyes, you quickly stand in awe of what God is building. 

After having that service with people rocked,  on day 1, I had to ask God, What are we in for this week?"  I can't tell you how my heart starts hammering even just sitting here remembering!

We were studying 1 Timothy this week and every night there was a different speaker.  After we were done talking, the kids broke up into small groups to talk about the chapter or really anything else they wanted to talk about.  I know I know...it's hard to imagine them doing that ... you are probably thinking that they went to mess around...you couldn't be more wrong...the guys split up and went in their own groups and talked and talked and talked...i heard of some conversations lasting 3 + hours!  you wouldn't believe it!  The girls didn't have any trouble splitting up cause they chose from the beginning to stay together as one big group.  and that is what you saw wherever you went.  one unit.  So cool how a group of girls that didn't really hang out before become inseperable. 

Work day one started off in 4 different groups.  the girls went to scrape and paint and clean, boys to roof and other jobs that us girls wouldn't have a clue how to do.  (that's what they said at least).  it's hard to write about every day because so so so many things happened!  the unity was amazing...the kids work ethics were amazing...the people we all got to work for were amazing!  and at the end of the week, we all accomplished what we set out to do!  one home owner was crying as soon as we got there cause she didn't want us to leave!  Mama Miller...

New Years night was brought in with the kids circling up and worshipping...gotta luv them!  it was their idea too!  o and some went to the basement...they were pumped when they got home!

Work day 2 was slower cause it was Raining and raining and raining...but it was also new years day so to say we were a little slower would have been quite accurate.  We went out to eat after the work day and enjoyed the southern barbecue! 

on wednesday we got to enjoy more work, and also got to go to church with the elderly and enjoy a lunch made by them.  much to hannah's pleasure she found herself volunteering to mop up the overflowing toilet that made it's way out to the dining area in pretty much a tidal wave.  soaking everything!!!!!!!  her and tianna were great though...

in between all these days, little things were happening...kids are asking for prayer...we were learning so much about spiritual warfare and how to fight it...together!  hearing God's promptings and listening...i mean seriously, i can't even put it into words...God just was rocking...and changing hearts and confirming what some already knew to do and bringing light to new callings of ministry back home. 

There were definate confirmations for the ones who came that they were hand picked because He had something to show them...and show them He did!  For those that stayed back, I just can't tell you how thankful we were and are that you were battling for us on your knees!  O my word we needed it and felt it with the victory and favor that just kept sweeping over us!  every day there was some battle and every day there was some victory!  God is good and the body of Christ is so awesome!!

We are in our recovery week (it is still a culture shock coming home...have you heard LC talk ?)  jkjk...no but in all honesty we still covet your prayers!  we are coming home changed.  There is no way that anyone can witness what we did and come home the same.  NO WAY!  so where does that leave us?  right where God wants us.  surrendered...willing and ready to go and do and love when and where He says to!  Be patient with us as we might be grouchy, tired, or quiet.  It truelly was so much to take in and absorb in a week.  We all know that where we are right now is where God has us at least for right now...and where we are, there are others who need to hear about Him.  With our gifts and talents, we want to make a difference in the lives of our families, friends, neighbors, schools, work places, etc...  We want to be the vessel that God uses...Pick me Jesus!

Thank you all for your love and support!  Please be praying for our team that is in Africa right now, the Team forming to go to jamaica in june and haiti in july.  2014 trips are being formed too!  So many oppurtunities to step out and serve.  But even more to build disciples so that when they get back home, they will multiply!

We love you!

in HIM
Luke and Tina
and the alabama 2013 crew ;)
Joshua 1:9

Well i am embarassed to see that my last post was January of 2012.  We are SO close to January 2013!  All I can say is that I will TRY to do better ;). 

God has been going crazy with our ministry!  I actually have, several times, just sat in absolute awe of how and when and where HE is working!  I can not believe that we are where we are in our ministry.  He is exploding in and through people...

I got have an intern this year, one who earned the nickname, INTURD!  She was great and i LUV her!!!

I also got to get one of my best friends to move to Indiana just to help with Rebel!  She has been deemed our nanny one too many times, but really is my organizer in the office!  i can't tell you how great it has been to have her here helping do what should have been done months ago!  God has been good to bring LC to us!!

We have gone from one trip a year to 4-5 just in the first 6 months of next year!  We have added three leader groups besides just Luke and I. 

Matt and Amy Swartz
Leah Yoder
Kiley and Teresa Knoblauch

Kiley has been with us leading for the last couple of years, but Matt, Amy and Leah are new this year.  I am thrilled, honored and just plain pumped to see how many people are choosing to live as Rebels!  This area is seeing a revival happen!

Stayed tuned for updates on trips tht are getting ready to take off!

There is a team going to Alabama starting tomorrow morning at10am
and another team heading to Ethiopia on January 3rd! 
Pray for favor, traveling mercies, oppurtunities and miracles (not only for those we get to talk to but also those on the teams!)
We are anticipating great things...simply because we KNOW that the Holy Spirit is already at work!

in HIM
Tina <><
Joshua 1:9

CRAVINGS

Cravings

Cravings: a word that I am very familiar with. In fact, I would venture to guess that most people would say they understand fully what I am talking about without saying anything else. Am I right?

It's funny how cravings work. I have found that they are all different. They happen at different times, last for different periods, and take a different degree of commitment to satisfy. But with all their differences, there is one thing that is the same; they consume you.

With me, I don't crave everything I like; I crave things that I have deemed as "necessary to survive". Here are examples: chocolate (more specifically frozen M&M's), diet vanilla coke, and running/exercise. Now you may have chuckled over my list. It is not complete, I assure you, but it gives you an idea of what I am talking about.

Now let me describe what happens when a craving hits. I am going through my day doing a range of things: dishes, laundry, mentoring, book work, devotions, etc. It never fails, right in the middle of one of them, I have a small little thought enter my head, or I get a headache, or whatever. I literally go from a little thought to a NEED in 60 seconds. There are times when I get so consumed with my cravings that I feel that there is no option left except to abandon what I am doing and go satisfy it. I call them my "breaks" during the day. I just need a little break…ha!

I want you all to stop and think about what you crave during your day. Is it people, drugs, food, sex, basketball, coffee? That list is small, it really could be anything! But I want you to stop and think about the feeling you get when you just WANT something right now. What happens to your mind? Where does it wander? I also want you to recognize the items that were in the list I typed. It ranges from "normal" to serious. The reason I slapped some major topics in there is to show you that it doesn't matter the severity, they all have the same effect, DISTRACTION. Those of us that don't struggle with the more "heavy" topics listed just justify that what we do crave isn't bad because they aren't the "bad things". But the truth is this: anything that consumes us and controls us, even if it isn't all the time, is an idol. Period.

As I was thinking about how I obtained the cravings that I did, I realize that it wasn't overnight. Nope…I started slow at first. A first taste, you could say. I really liked it, so I continued to enjoy it, all the while not realizing that my body was becoming dependant on it. Slowly but surely, I find myself where I am now, needing them to get through my day or week. When put that way, it really is sad.

What makes me sad is the fact that many times we go through our day craving, giving into cravings and satisfying our cravings. We find ourselves always needing something else and something more, all the while not ever needing or craving Jesus.

Isn't it funny that we claim Him as King. We put our salvations in His Hand and proclaim that we are His and will be with Him for eternity, but when it comes to our day to day life, He isn't the one consuming our thoughts.

It says in His Word that He is the bread of Life. We are so confused. I am convinced that so many of us are starving spiritually. We don't recognize it for that of course; instead we see it as this emptiness that we just can't seem to be able to fill. So in our messed up human way of thinking, we try with everything we got to fill it with things that just become cravings, and addictions, and ultimately distractions away from the truth of the only thing that will fill the void that has become who we are.

Do we hunger and thirst for righteousness? Do we crave His Word? Do we get a small thought of Him and can't do anything else because it consumes us until we get our fill of Him? My guess is that most of us would answer no, if we were honest, even though we want our answer to be yes!

Let's step out of our confused state. Even though a withdrawal period is scary and hard, we can't be afraid of it! We need to rid ourselves of ourselves. We need to remember that we are bought…we are His. He is the only ONE that can fix us, forgive us, fill us to a capacity that is overflowing and keep us in a state where we do not need ANYTING else!

It's time! Do NOT think that you can live without cravings…just change what you crave. Taste and see that HE is GOOD! Him and Him alone!

Jesus. It's that simple.

The End ;)

what an incredible week!  I can't thank God enough for answering the prayers that have been sent up over the last couple of months and this past week!  Protection, unity, love, patience, growth and surrender are the words that pretty much wrap up this week!  We split into 3 different groups and went 3 different ways, but we all worked so hard and fell into bed exhausted every night. 
We started off the week with the word surrender and God just took it from there.  We ended the week writing what we needed and wanted to surrender on a rock and chucking it into the ocean.  as i stood back and watched the team take their turn, i was in awe.  it might seem like it wouldn't hit you hard to watch someone do that, but it did!  it was a very powerful time.  we ended that night singing, how He Loves us, and amazing Grace, amongst others. 

encouragement night is that finale of the week where every single person has a turn and people just get to tell them what they saw during the week that was awesome.  i squirm every time it's my turn but it is awesome to hear at the same time!  and with 32 people, it only lasted about 3.5 hours!!  but it was amazing!

i thank every one of you who prayed us through, i simply can't believe it is over!  it went so fast, as it always does!  now we are looking forward to what is next!

Alabama mission trip at the end of march with 30 people and jamaica again in july with 50 going!  what a year!  please keep praying for Rebel Ministries!!

in HIM
Tina <><
Joshua 1:9

Thursday

I'll start and end my sharing with one simple phrase: A simple journey can change a life. It has been a really awesome week to watch God work in the lives of our young people! We've just finished the evening here with listening to Pastor Watson for the second time this week. He has really challenged the young people to have a vision and passion for a life lived for Christ. Tonight, he ended his challenge with a passionate, "Be strong and courageous!" We will all be anticipating how Christ's words through him will take shape in their lives.
You would all be proud to see the physical work of your young people. Every one of them has been incredibly amazing! You would not believe they would work this hard at home. We look forward to finishing the week strong.
A simple journey can change a life....
In Him,
David


We were challenged in several ways today. First, it was a challenge to awaken to Hannah (on the top bunk of her bed) holding onto the table lamp. How she got it up into her bed, I'll never know! We had a fun time giggling in the early morning hours as I put the lamp back where it belonged. Since the sun was soon to rise and we were on KP duty, we all decided to stay up. Doing our morning devotions in this beautiful location is so special! Tina prepared a week's worth of devotions from the Old Testament. The story this morning was Noah's journey from Genesis 6-9. Out of all the people on the earth, he was the only one in which God chose to recreate the human race. "Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord." (Gen. 6:8) Is that how God sees us? What a huge aim!
After our breakfast, the next challenge came when we broke into three groups to go to our various worksites. One group went back to the "pit" - an outdoor mountain septic system built for one of the school families. Another went to the farm to clear land and turn it over for planting. A third team--mine--stayed at the base to do concrete work for an addition to the hotel. Since I haven't shoveled stone or sand for a while, and since lifting buckets ladened with wet concrete is not part of my usual things to do, I had a day of very hard work. Along with my team, we mixed by shovels and hauled fourteen 80 lb. bags of concrete in buckets all day.
Our last challenge was tonight with Pastor Watson. Pastor loves God's Word and God's call on our lives to tell those around us of His saving grace. His one desire is for us to live so passionately for Christ, that lives are changed and Christ is glorified.
I pray that I remember all three of these impacting events, so my heart will be ready for God's work, and He will find me a good and faithful servant.
God Bless!
Lauri


Today was by far the most challenging day for me and many others in our group. It was the fourth day in a row of hard physical labor and it had definitely taken a toll on me. The first challenge of the day for me was waking up even earlier than usual to do our KP duty which consisted of us making PB&J's for the whole team to have for lunch, and then serving breakfast. After this the day got off to a fast start and did not slow down. We got to the farm where my group was working and instantly noticed that it was going to be a much harder day of work. One thing I learned on this trip is that clay in Jamaica is no different than the clay back in good old Indiana, and with the rain that the farm got the night before it made it even harder. I thought it was amazing how well our group worked even though we were faced with fatigue and harder working conditions. Through it all our group did not whine, or complain. We simply worked hard for the entire time we were there, and this is something that I loved seeing the entire week. Our group was unstoppable. No matter what happened we kept on working. No complaining or anything. Even though it may seem like such a small thing, I found it as such a blessing to have a group who not only loved serving the people, but did it with such amazing attitudes. I think this is something that everyone can take back home and even you reading this can take away. A simple change of attitude can completely change the experience.
    In Christ...
          Colson Herman

Day Five

Over the rocks and through the trash to children's houses we went. Clinging to our hips, the children wept as we said good-bye. It was one thing working in the infirmary for the first two days, taking care of those who were seen as obscure; but when seeing our future living in conditions worse than poverty level and walking down the "street" praying with people who were desperate for the healing hand of God, the reality of what it means to truly depend on God was evident. What an honor to be able to be the hands and feet of Christ!
Keep praying! The Spirit is present!
Alitza

This is my first time in Jamaica and it has been such an amazing journey with my awesome team and God. He has taught me so much about myself and the Jamaican people. It's been really cool to spread God's love to the kids and the people at the infirmary and see their faces light up when they saw us :) I still can't believe I am in Jamaica and experiencing God in a whole new way. It's been such a great week and I don't want it to be over ;)
Jillian

Words cannot even describe how AMAZING my first trip to Jamaica has been so far! I have learned SO much and am so in awe of what God is doing. :) I love serving and helping others and absolutely LOVE visiting the infirmary. It has given me a completely new perspective and attitude! I am still amazed that I am here! God is good and I absolutely cannot wait to take what I've learned and apply it to my life not only for the rest of this trip, but also when I return home (even though I'm not quite sure if I'm ready to leave) ;)
Alexandra

This week has an infinite array of words to describe it but none that include ready to go home. Joy. Perseverance. Compassion. Guilt. All words that have affected me and my team over the last 4 days. We have visited the infirmary the last three days and I continue to hear this phrase repeated in my head, "God is good all the time." Those were the words of a schizophrenic, elderly woman who had nothing but the clothes on her back and lived in a place that would give the mindset of no hope. The people here in Jamaica have an amazing sense of community. Walking through the town of Homestead today people were always greeting you and waving as you passed by. We stopped by the homes of three sponsored children to socialize with their families and give them packs of rice for meals. The kids were shy at first but the families welcoming us and willing to open up to us. Even the security guards and staff of the base we are staying at have been very willing and open to share about the culture and learn about ours. You could see God coming through and teaching about his will even through the people and places you would least expect. God is good all the time. Easy to say. Easy to doubt. Easy to see when you open your eyes to what is truly surrounding you, even if it is a dirty, smelly infirmary, a poverty ridden town, or the place that we all call home. It is going to be very hard to get onto that plane on Saturday because I truly believe a piece of me will always be here, but it is good to know that God will be with me and joy can always be found no matter where I am and that it does not only include me but the people of my team and the people I am leaving here. 3 days in counting and cherishing every minute.
Jenna

Day #4

For all the folks back home, I thought I would let you know how it is going in Jamaica. We have had such an amazing experience already! I had the opportunity to work at the infirmary both days. To see the joy in those peoples hearts and their eyes as we arrived was so heartbreaking. I cannot wait to see what other activities God has in store for us throughout the rest week. I miss you Mom, Grandma, and Cooper!

Love, Court

While at the infirmary, the "screen team" was made up of Courtney, Brittan, Olivia, Lauren, David and Lauri. We were in charge of replacing all the old, broken-down screens with new screens. For two days, we worked hard to accomplish our goal of completing 57 windows in the women's side of the infirmary. We had a blast working together, and we felt great success after our long, hard work. In addition, the "screen team" loved helping people who could not help themselves.

Thank you for all your prayers! 

Love you and miss you,

Brittan

I honestly am still in awe that we are all here. I praise God for the incredible opportunity to get outside of the norm for a week and gain a greater perspective and understanding of God's heart for the world. Honestly, a year ago I could not have left the country because of my health. I have been so humbled to see how God has moved in my life this past year and has shown Himself faithful by providing me this blessing. The joy and attitudes of the Jamaicans have been both convicting and refreshing. People that have so little (at least from a worldly perspective) have such immense joy because they have learned to appreciate the little things in life. More importantly, however, many we have worked with have come to know Jesus as personal Savior--they have a hope that is eternal and a heavenly abundance that will last forever! So excited to see how else God is going to move here amongst these people and our team. Love and miss you all back home! Thanks for all the prayers. We sure can feel them!

In Him,

   Lauren W.

This week already has been incredible. We all started as individuals on this journey and now we are all united as one body of Christ. There is so many friendships being made, it is more than we could have hoped for. To talk a little bit about what my(Lauren B.) team did today, we were digging a pit toilet for one of the sponsor kids. This team consisted of Leah, Hannah, Laurel, Jill, Tina, Jacob, Austin, Colson and Jared. Leah got a new nickname this week. It is killer. Apparently her tattoos make her a scary hardcore killer. So of course if you all know Leah and I, They had to give me a nickname too. Mine was KA. Killers assistant. We had to carry rocks from the top of a huge hill to the bottom to fill in this pit we dug.  We also made cement to fill in the cracks of this pit. We had a really good system going of assembly lining it down the hill. Even though we all were drenched in sweat, and so tired we had a really good time! The jokes and laughs never stopped. I can say the pit did get finished in two days, which they didn't think would happen. The team did great!! We are all learning so much and the Lord is blessing us all so much. Everyone thank you for the support and prayers. We love you all.  Mom, Dad, Logan, and rest of the family and friends i love you and miss you guys! 

Love, 

Lauren B.