The other week we went down to Lake Charles, Louisiana to do hurricane relief with a ministry called Samaritans Purse. I could go on and on about the work and the people that we came across down there, but that would end up becoming a whole book!

One man we came across was Mr. Ernest. When he arrived in the driveway of the home we were gutting out. I didn't give him much of a thought, but remained locked in on our work inside the property. He was the father of the homeowner whose house we were working on that day. When we took a lunch-break from the clearing of mold and drywall, and it was clear we were in for a treat with him. You must know that he is an energetic man in his eighties, dedicated to loving God. He is a pastor, story-teller, evangelist, carpenter, and a father to many. Joy and thankfulness are evident in him, and in all things, he looks to remember where the hand of the Father graced his life. During lunch, our team was blessed to hear from Mr. Ernest. He is a pastor to Gods people, and overflows hope to those around him. He truly is such sweet soul that is after the heart of our Father in Heaven and has been for years. His endurance is admirable. Myself and the team are grateful for well seasoned followers, like himself, who encourage us who are younger. May we seek their wisdom.

(Mr. Ernest below)

Each day, during breakfast, there would be a person from Samaritans Purse that would lead a quick devotional before heading to ministry that day. Late into the week, I heard a teaching that still resonates with me. We heard about coming to the Lord with our nothing. I sometimes get into this place of feeling like I have to come to God with something for Him to use me, but He reminds me time and time again that He is everything. The more I come to Him empty, the more I allow Him to be shown through my life! EMPTY ISN'T BAD! I also love that He gives us just what we need for the day and often times not a thing more, so that we don't rely on yesterdays supply. He is a Good Father who delights when His children come to Him hand outs and seeking only what He can provide. I am learning about my posture with the Father. Now coming before Him as an expectant son instead of as a works-based servant. Allow your nothingness to be known, so that He gets all the glory.

As I prepare to Squad Lead this upcoming World Race trip to Nicaragua, I am inadequate. I am not qualified for this position, but I am willing. I am willing to go and LEAD with a LIMP. I am willing to not know. I am willing to fail. I know it is going to be a beautiful season, but I only want to be a vessel. The Lord has done tons of things through people who were inadequate but willing to simply just do the thing. Those people weren't petrified to fail, but willing to. His power is made perfect in our weakness, our failures, our inadequacies. I am coming with my nothingness.

FUNDRAISING UPDATE:
I still have $1,160 to raise for CGA, and once that is completed, I will have a goal of $5000 for Squad Leading. During this time, it would mean more than you know if you would pray and ask the Lord if partnering with me financially would be something He would like you to do! Seek Him and if you have any questions, feel free to reach out!