Monday, April 14, 2008

Ramblings on thankfulness. . .

Lately, I've just been basking in my thankfulness and joy. I'm just so thankful to our Lord. For so many months, I have been praying that God would clarify my role. At times, I just want to get on the next plane to Africa. But, I know that God has me here for a purpose. In fact, I believe that at this point, I'm more useful to Africa here than if I were there! It seems like lately, He has been making things clearer and clearer every day. And, I'm loving it!

For now, I believe that God has me researching great organizations that are already working in Africa. Then, I'm having a blast coming up with different campaigns to raise money and awareness. This is SO FUN! I'll share more of them with you as they get ready to launch, but we're working on a campaign for college campuses, one for Chick Fil A and other restaurants, one for birth kits in Uganda and then KidsLake for kids! I'm having a blast and am so thankful for the girls that God has brought beside me to brainstorm, pray and work. Wait till you guys see what my amazingly talented friend, Ann Marie came up with. Hint: she's a graphic designer who takes my silly ideas and makes them full on promotional campaigns!

I LOVE that God chooses to use us in what He's doing halfway around the world. Isn't He amazing? Already, 25 kids will be provided for in Uganda. This is above and beyond the WELL that they'll have! Thank you guys so muchf or being a part of God's crazy work to bless HIS people. With 25 kids, that's over 20% of the goal for KidsLake. And, I've had a school teacher email me. Her classes are going to do KidsLake as a project and she's trying to get the whole school involved!! One clarification: I've used the word "sponsored" a couple of times in reference to providing their school fees. This is NOT an ongoing sponsorship program (although you are MORE than welcome to give to Ruth and her ministry on an ongoing basis!). This is a one time gift to provide for the upcoming school term that costs $10 (4 months) and a uniform ($7) for a child. Does that make more sense? I hope so! Sorry if I was confusing some of you!

Remember to talk to your kids about Uganda. Pray with them for Ruth and her ministry and help them find creative ways to give, save or earn money to help other kids and at the same time change their perspective on their world and encourage their passion for others! Yeah!

Love you guys and thanks for listening to me ramble on again. . I'm just loving this!

8 comments:

Melissa said...

Brandi, I would LOVE to get invloved with the sending of birth kits. HOOK ME UP!!! I have wanted for a while now to get envovled with making birth safe for women, through training and supplies.

Melissa said...

Ok, so I saw after I pushed the publish button, that I am logged in under my son's non exsistant blog...so it's Melissa from pearls from Africa :) Hook ME up!

Anonymous said...

Brandi,
It is wonderful the way you are letting God use you and your talents here for Africa-a great example of "bloom where you are planted"-thank you for your example of living full out for our amazing God!
Julie L

missy said...

I'm so glad God isn't letting you go to Africa just yet, I would be sooooo jealous :o). You know, I am not a researcher or a leader or a spearheader, so I love people like you who are and give me a place to jump in without having to do all the hard stuff. Thanks!
Love you lots,
Missy

Misi said...

i know you are busy but i would LOVE to help, so when you get a chance e-mail me so when you can to let me know what i can do. also the total for Rapha is 17- for each kid right? let me know cuz my lil 5 year old wants to give to Rapha.... that means Healer did ya know that? talk to you soon.....

Misi said...

i know you are busy but i would LOVE to help, so when you get a chance e-mail me so when you can to let me know what i can do. also the total for Rapha is 17- for each kid right? let me know cuz my lil 5 year old wants to give to Rapha.... that means Healer did ya know that? talk to you soon.....

Amber G. said...

Awesome. I love how God has been clarifying your role the past few months! You are obviously RIGHT where he wants you in this season!! :)

Good talking with you tonight; I've missed touching base wih you. I hope you keep feeling better!

Love ya,
Amber

Jamie said...

I can just hear the contentment of you knowing you're smack dab in the middle of God's will... It's the BEST place to be, eh? This post brought a big smile to my face!
Love,
Jamie :0)