This weekend was dynamic in my life in many ways. I took my almost ten year old daughter, a girl I mentor and her mom to an International Justice Mission Conference in Washington D.C. We saw the memorials, museums and rich history of DC ; surrounded by the political unrest of budget and economy circling around our visit (God is in control!) We attended the annual IJM Global Prayer Gathering and encountered worship with 1,000 prayer warriors and trained for awareness of how to be a local voice and impact our community. We prepared and learned how to lobby before Congress for Justice and the release of oppression!
1. When I got there I felt a little envious of all of the young professionals and lobbyists pursuing careers in political social justice. I remembered the ambitious college student that I once was as a political science major. I stood amazed at God's will by the end of the weekend. After I shared this time with my precious oldest and disciple, being reminded of the incredible gifts of my children are and how awesome my husband is! I was confident of a reaffirmed assurance of my calling in life. I returned home so thankful for my path and God's journey for me.
2. After hearing many stories and testimonies of children, families and women who have been enslaved, abused and oppressed, I was reminded of my own story. I knew that the only hope for them was Christ. I was strengthened by the truth that there is power in our testimony! Without shame, we are not products of our pasts, but results of a mighty God who takes our messed up lives, creates a beautiful work and makes it a message of His Good News!
So, joining in the freedom of the people who God has delivered through IJM:
- I was born by an unmarried teenage girl
-After being adopted, my parents divorced
-I am cuban and most of my family is white; I have always felt different
-My dad and mom have both died, leaving me an orphan once again at a very young age
- I made some really poor choices in college conforming to the world
Praise God he uses the foolish things of this world to confound the wise. 1 Cor.1:27
3. I met so many incredible kingdom and justice seekers who desire to live a life for Christ that leaves a legacy of love; I was reminded that we are not alone! I was empowered and encouraged at who God is and where he is at work globally. I saw Him in my daughter and student! I was blessed beyond measure. As we attended the training to lobby on Captiol Hill before congress for human trafficking; I deeply knew then and know now that what Satan means to destory; God uses for good!
4. Thinking of the brothel near the mission we are going to in Haiti...I was moved to pray and reminded of the power of prayer! - BROKEN - passionate about the purposes of Christ and his mission to seek and save the lost and set the captive free! Oh, that we may be a vessel that loves in such a way to heal broken hearts! Thank you IJM... Then, the weekend finalized by a confirmation that IJM is not yet called to go to Haiti. More heartbreak for a different reason...
Psalm 27:14 Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.
Psalm 33:20 We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield.
Psalm 37:7Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.
Psalm 38:15 LORD, I wait for you; you will answer, Lord my God.
Our God is good all of the time No matter what!
