A truth worth clinging to

iFasters ~

In my Bible reading this week, I've been reminded of a lesson I learned last year...the definition of compassion: to suffer with. I am overwhelmed again this week by how the Lord meets us in our suffering.

The truth is, I've been overwhelmed by suffering of this world this week. As I learn more and more about the horror of sex trafficking throughout the world I am overwhelmed by the horror. I am overwhelmed by the suffering. I wonder in my despair - where is He? And then I read scripture.

First, I came across the story of Lazarus. Mary and Martha thought He was late. He let Lazarus die. He knew He wasn't late. He knew the whole plan ~ yet when they questioned Him, he took their questions and he cried with them.

Then I read of His own suffering. John 12 says, “Now is my soul troubled. And what shall I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour’? But for this purpose I have come to this hour.28 Father, glorify your name.” While facing deep suffering, He chose to enter it for His glory.

Lastly, one only needs to read the Psalms to hear David's cries. He cries out in anguish and in desperation but always come back to one truth, His love is steadfast.

I am so comforted by these truths. For myself, for you guys and for those we are interceding for. He is there. In the midst of suffering, He has entered it. In the midst of my own personal struggles, He comes. In the midst of the hunger pains so many across the world face, He enters it. In the midst of the brothels young girls and boys find themselves trapped in, He abides there. His love is steadfast. Our world is full of horrors, both big and small and yet His steadfast love remains. He chooses to enter our suffering. His compassions never fail.

This week, I'll pray for those in extreme suffering that they will feel the presence of the Lord in the midst of their suffering. I'll pray for those who are serving them - that they'll feel his presence in the midst of their suffering. He is present and, I don't know about you, but that's a truth worth clinging to.

Many of us will be attending the Orphan Summit put on by the Christian Alliance for Orphans this week. Please pray with us for this conference. Over 1,000 people will be attending. Pray for open hearts for God's heart for the orphan and discernment for many on where He is leading them to be involved.

Remember the Poor:

Remember the Poor: Joshua 18:3 How long will you put off going in to take possession of the land, which the LORD, the God of your fathers, has given you? Praying to the Lord of the Harvest to raise up workers, that we will not delay in doing what the Lord has commanded us to do, in "taking possession of the land". Praying that without fear we will choose to move forward, believing the promises of the Lord to provide for our needs when we seek first His kingdom.

HopeChest:

Pray for CAFO and that our team makes great connections and finds new partners
Pray for our team going to Uganda May 5
Pray for our team going to Russia for a Business Development trip May 16
Pray for our upcoming launch in Ethiopia in Washington DC
Pray for our potential partner Indian Rescue Mission and the amazing work they are doing
Pray for our new launches in Moldova ministering to girls rescued from the sex-trade
Pray for our team going to India on June 20 - still need two more to step up and join that team
Pray for our staff in the US and abroad
Pray for orphans and the millions of vulnerable children being exploited worldwi

Orphan Relief and Rescue

- First, a big thanksgiving: we just got word last night that a particularly difficult/expensive and time-sensitive well has been funded for an orphanage of 37, and will be done in the next few weeks. Thank you Lord -- no small miracle, right on time (as always)!

- Transition: several key staff leaving the field, passing the baton; also new staff joining the field team. Please pray for reinforcements--passionate, qualified young people eager to let God use them in the impossible. Specifically an agriculture manager, a construction manager, and a media-saavy mogul to tell the stories.

- Rainy season: it's coming in full force and early this year, bringing with it the headaches, delays, sicknesses, etc. Pray for the kids as we roll out some creative new programs to keep them engaged while they're cooped up indoors this summer.

Caroline's Promise:

Praise for a wonderful team in Guyana. Things are going well and God is working! Relationships are being built with the local church and God is showing us all His dreams for His people. Please pray for continued safety and stamina for this team that will leave on Saturday.

Several our of supporters/volunteers are in the midst of adoptions - domestically and internationally. Pray for encouragement and for God to move the obstacles that keep these children from coming home.

Indian Rescue Mission

Pray for the rescue of Monisha, a 15 year old girl trapped in a brothel. They are planning her rescue in the next week.

Pray for Meenakshe, a 13 year old girl who was rescued from a brothel this morning. Pray for her healing.

Also we are working on a case where 6 parents are selling their daughters for Just 125 US Dollars

Join us tomorrow morning first thing for a time of corporate prayer. I promise, you'll be blessed!

Wednesdays 9:30 AM (eastern) at CALL IN # : 760- 569- 9000 ID: 968101 We are also adding a NEW CALL!!! This one will be at 1:30 (eastern) and will focus on prayer for those who are being trafficked into the sex trade. Join us! (please reply to this email if you'd like to be a part of this one!)

Thanks!

Brandi

NEW blog address:

www.BrandiLea.com