Who am I?

This morning's "Our Daily Bread" devotional was really good.

Years ago, world-famous evangelist Billy Graham was scheduled to speak at Cambridge University in England, but he did not feel qualified to address the sophisticated thinkers. He had no advanced degrees and he had never attended seminary. Billy confided in a close friend: “I do not know that I have ever felt more inadequate and totally unprepared for a mission.” He prayed for God’s help, and God used him to share the simple truth of the gospel and the cross of Christ.

Moses also felt inadequate when God recruited him for the task of telling Pharaoh to release the Israelites. Moses asked, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh?” (Ex. 3:11). Although Moses may have questioned his effectiveness because he was “slow of speech” (4:10), God said, “I will certainly be with you” (3:12). Knowing he would have to share God’s rescue plan and tell the Israelites who sent him, Moses asked God, “What shall I say to them?” God replied, “I AM has sent me to you” (vv.13-14). His name, “I AM,” revealed His eternal, self-existent, and all-sufficient character.

Even when we question our ability to do what God has asked us to do, He can be trusted. Our shortcomings are less important than God’s sufficiency. When we ask, “Who am I?” we can remember that God said, “I AM.”

Dear Lord, help me to remember that You are

with me, even when I’m unsure of my own

abilities. Give me the faith to believe that You

can help me to do anything You ask me to do.

You need not be afraid of where you’re going when you know God’s going with you.

You also can read it here: http://odb.org/2013/09/28/who-am-i-2/

But it made me think of my journey. Who am I? There are been times when I have heard the voice in my head telling you "you're just a veterinary technician lost in the world of veterinarians, what can you do?"

But I do know God has prepared me for this and called me to serve in long term missions. He also called me specifically to the region of the world, the tribe, and the team that I'm about to head off to join. 

I know who I am in Christ alone. So God is sufficient. What an important reminder. May we never forget that. And I'm telling that to myself as well as I continue with 65 more days of transition before I move. I would be lying if I said it was easy to leave everything I have ever known behind. But Jesus warned us numerous times that following His is not easy. But yet on the flip side I'm beyond excited to hop on that plane. I never knew you could have two drastically contrasting emotions at the same time.

Some people have been asking me lately what a typical day is going to look like for me. I can only reply with a chuckle because that is a great question. I have no clue. But God's got it all figured out so that's what matters, right?!

So are you called to something but letting the discouraging voice within yourself telling you that you inadequate? Please remember this devotional and lean in to the Truth of God's sufficiency!

Hey, I'm moving to Africa. It's definitely NOT because of me thinking I'm anything spectacular. It's because of He who has called me. And only because of Him. What has He called you to?

Hut-hold set up

So my airfare is bought to move to Uganda December 1st. Now to figure out what I need to live over there.

My tax-deductible set up donations for my move to Uganda only apply to things I purchase specifically for ministry or things that will stay in Uganda if I move back be it 3 years or 30 years from now. Such as my pick-up truck, my solar panels, my table, chairs, bed, and propane refrigerator.

I contemplated a gift registry but I'm looking for very specific items. I need things that are reliable and durable since I can't go to Walmart to replace anything. Plus, to reduce my preparation stress I hope to get these items all together shortly so I can weigh them and figure out how and when they are going to come to Uganda with me.

I have had several people express interest in helping out with this. So I have set this up to make it easier as everyone is spread out all over the place. I guess I have never had a bridal shower or baby shower. So I guess this is sort of a hut warming party :-)

I need tools, kitchen items, light sources, spices, personal care items, and other life necessities. One non-life necessity i will be taking is a Green Bay Packer flag to hang inside my hut to remind me of Wisconsin. Besides, the outside of my hut is green and gold!! I estimate the cost to be around $2,000-$2,500. Also, fortunately some of the items I will be able to purchase in Uganda saving the expense of transporting things over there!

Fundraising with GoGetFunding

Deputation Questions

This is my September 2013 prayer letter. But people have found the information useful so I want to share it here too...

As I'm nearing the finish line on my Deputation some still wonder what "Deputation" means. The dictionary defines it as "the act of appointing a person or body of people to represent or act on behalf of others." We are all part of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) and some of us GO while others SEND. I'm the person going to Uganda, but I'm there on behalf of many others. This Deputation process is people joining together and investing in one ‘deputy’ to go carry out the mission.

First, prayer is absolutely vital to what we do. There are people who have committed to daily prayer. Because the struggles of daily life, illness, spiritual darkness, and witch craft are still prevalent in this area, I wouldn't be moving there without prayer support. If you don't have one of my prayer cards yet, please contact myself or CVM. Feel free to ask for information on the other team members I'm serving with if you are interested in remembering them in prayer as well.

I still have many people asking me questions about financial support, so I'm dedicating this letter to answering the common questions. Please contact me or CVM with any other questions you have.

You can contact CVM by emailing info@cvmusa.org or calling 206-546-7569(Pacific Time).

If I want to send in monthly support, when do I start?

I need to have all of my monthly support coming in before CVM allows me to move, so right now is perfect.

Does this mean I shouldn't send in my one-time gift?

Not at all! They are a great blessing! Think of those gifts as a Christmas bonus to be put away for an unexpected expense and monthly gifts as a reliable salary.

Where does your one-time and monthly support go that is coming in right now?

It is going in to my account to be used when I move. I need solar panels for my hut, a pick-up truck, airfare, and reserves for unexpected expenses.

What if I don't want to send in every month?

I have ministry partners that send in annually, twice a year, quarterly, or every other month. Also I have ministry partners who prefer to send in a check monthly. Please inform myself or CVM of your intent because otherwise it's difficult for us to tally as committed support.

How long do I have to commit to this?

Your commitment can be as long as you are willing and able to make it, but I ask potential ministry partners to prayerfully consider what they can sustain for at least my first three year term. Many have committed to financial support for as long as God has me in Africa.

Is there a minimum amount I have to give?

Currently I have a ministry partner committed to $4/mo and there is no minimum. When I'm out speaking, people think nothing of handing me a $20 bill. That would be $1.66/mo. I'm also regularly handed a $100 check which would equal $8.33/mo.

Can I keep getting these letters even if I have no intention of ever supporting you?

Yes! I would love to have you as part of this journey. Feel free to send me a note some time. I would love to hear from you.

What ways can I send in financial support?

Electronic Funds Transfer, Personal/Business Check, or any major Credit Card. If you use your Credit Card with a rewards program you will be supporting this ministry with a tax deductible gift AND adding to your Amazon rewards, Air Miles, or whatever other rewards your card offers.

Does all the money go into your account?

Yes. I'm the field staff managing "Imperishable Seed." It's set up this way for tax and accountability purposes.

How does the money in your account get used?

All gifts given to my account will be restricted by CVM to my fund.  As I begin to serve, I will begin to pay a 17% overhead charge on my expenses.  This 17 % then serves as a reserve in case my own funding drops below the budget or the funding drops for another one of the CVM fieldworkers. This is a great way we can serve together to support God’s work through CVM staff around the world. CVM raises where most needed funds from veterinarians and other friends to cover the administration costs of the organization. Anything raised in excess of my budget is kept in a designated reserve fund for my work.

Can my support come out of my account automatically so I don't have to remember to send it in?

Recurring gifts by automated transfer are actually preferred but not required.

Can I send you things in Africa?

YES! I will detail that more in a future letter, including an address.

When you move, are you going to keep sending these letters?

Yes, although about 6 months after I move they will be reduced to every other month. If you have an email address and would like to get the updates I hope to send out, besides these official letters, please contact myself or CVM with your email address.

Recently I had a ministry partner call CVM and raise their monthly support by $5. They also contacted me to issue this challenge. I sent it out in an email, but here it is for everyone who I don't yet have an email address for: "Will you join us by raising your amount by $5 a month so Emily can finish her support and get to Uganda to start doing what God has called her to do?"

As I'm writing this there is only $475 more in monthly financial commitments needed before I move. That's only 10 monthly commitments of $50. So hopefully the next letter can be detailing my transition as I prepare to move?!

Please pray as I continue with everything that is involved with moving to the other side of the world. I recently completed my Will, Power of Attorney Papers, and Medical Exam!! However, there is still plenty to do before I board the airplane.

Blessings,

Emily

The first week of December it is!

That's right, God has provided like crazy and a year after I returned from my vision trip to Uganda my minimum monthly support is in so CVM told me to buy my airline ticket! I don't have an exact date yet but it will be right after Thanksgiving.

Since I was gone this weekend, my Africa regional director let me share this news with my church last Sunday. Here is a video of that...

Electronic Funds Transfer form

Because of CVM launching a new website, there are some links current dead at the moment. One is for the EFT forms for anyone wishing to set up ongoing ministry support with their checking account. So I put a copy on my Google Drive. Here is the link:

https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B3r6yKxoLhzbdERXMXZ2TUdjMHM/edit?usp=sharing

There is Hope!!

God has truly blessed with with the privilege of getting to know some amazing Godly people along this journey. A friend wrote and shared this poem with me. She is just beginning her journey of Freedom in Christ. With her permission I have placed it in one of my favorite pictures of a Karamojong sunrise from my trip last summer. It just speaks volumes. Volumes that I understand completely, though I'm almost a decade farther into my journey than her. But still on the same journey.

 It also comes on the heels of reading a blog post last week by another fellow Christian friend. She is also just starting out on this journey and touched on the unbiblical attitude towards missions that we had instilled in us from a young age. It was a good reminder that I needed. It was also encouraging to me to see how great God is and how far He has brought me over the years. Now I'm literally just a few short months away from moving to Africa.

You can read my friend's blog here:

The Bitter Belly Blog- "Another Gospel"

It just really blesses me and encourages me to see how God can really heal and redeem things that the enemy intended for destruction. What a privilege to travel this journey of faith with them and so many countless others!! Others who have discovered this hope we have in Christ.

I love the last part of Jen's poem:

A new joy sweeps over me. A flicker of hope, a resonating Light
 His love is real, it wipes away all of my tears from the cold dark nights
 This one thing I know and I know in my heart it is true
 That He has loved me and will eternally keep me. 
He will carry me through.

I also love the closing points in my friend's blog:

We drive past the homeless and the hungry.  When disaster strikes our thoughts are to the message believers only.  We cast off all of the other life that God has breathed into to say, it is only “birth pains” judgment upon them.  Where is our charity, the love that is the greatest of faith and hope?

God commanded us to love our neighbor as our self.  I highly doubt we even know their name.  You cannot close your eyes and pretend not to see the hurting.  When you are a new creature in Christ, saved by grace through faith, you cannot place it in a box for safe keeping.  You must pour it out and empty it, so He can fill you up again.

“And he will answer, ‘I tell you the truth, when you refused to help the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were refusing to help me.”- Matthew 25:45

So this is why I'm going where God has called me, to Africa. To offer others this hope found in the Gospel of Jesus Christ alone. And to love my Karamojong brothers and sisters, pouring myself out as God sees fit, to come along side of them in their need. I know that He loves me and will keep me and carry me through.

"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you HOPE and a future."- Jeremiah 29:11

We are all called to this. Not moving overseas per se, but sharing the Gospel and helping those in need.

Where/what is God calling you to? What are HIS plans for your future? Are you obeying His Call?

Fittingly this the Christian Veterinary Mission's theme for this year

Ps. Even Spiderman got it. I love this quote in the movie. It was even cooler when I discovered Luke 12:48 "...From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked."

"With great power comes great responsibility"

"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the POWER of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek." Romans 1:16

The Village

So apparently I've maintained a blog for 7 years now. I use it as a way of processing things that are in my mind. Though as of late it has been more geared towards my mission journey. Plus, the audience use to just be a few of my friends, now I really have no clue who reads this. So as I was pondering this post I almost decided not to write it. It has nothing to do with my mission work and it might seem strange to some of the new people who are now reading this. BUT this is still who I am and how I process life. I am a servant of the King called to Uganda, but I'm also still on this journey of Christian growth just like everyone else. It's a lifetime process that doesn't stop when someone enters the public eye. So here it is.

Last night I had a chance to hang out with our church youth group, The Forge. I really enjoyed this since I have been involved in leadership for almost a decade now. It's really crazy to think about. I have loved loving these teens, sharing joys and sorrows with them, and encouraging them to live their lives for Jesus. We have had serious times, paint fights, marshmallow fights, jumped off Canadian back country cliffs, done community service, slept in cardboard boxes, discipled new Christ followers, and many things in between. Though this past year I have been really hit and miss because of my travels, training, and speaking engagements. But last night I got to be me and hang out with the kids, eat junk food, throw a football around, and enjoy the annual outdoor movie.

*SPOILER ALERT*

So the movie that we watched was "The Village." I had never even heard of this movie before. I'm more of a cynic when it comes to 'scary' movies so I found myself laughing during most of it. But then on my drive home it really hit me. That was basically my life. (for those unfamiliar with the movie read the plot summary on Wikipedia)

I grew up in my own 'village'- a community of people that told stories of the scary world beyond the safe perimeter of our own community. There were things you didn't speak of and things you didn't question.

The village in the movie was run by a small group of people that had some sort of traumatic experience in the real world and wanted to separate themselves from it. So they developed this altered reality that they forced their kids to grow up in. Kids that in my opinion where suffering severe psychological abuse from the fear they lived in all of the time.

I see this within the leadership of the fundamentalist cult I grew up in. Many people came from mainstream churches but some how 'it never worked' for them. So they became embittered and this altered reality of rules and regulations works for them. Sadly, one can never assume everyone sitting next to you in church is a Christian. This is why it's important that the Gospel is presented at every opportunity.

These leaders ALWAYS try to censor the people they are leading. Don't look at the outside. Don't question. Don't doubt. I have even seen relatives distance themselves from their family so they aren't "tainted by outside influences." Parents limiting their children's friends, contacts on Facebook, or anything else.

But how big is God? I have always encouraged the youth group kids to read their Bible, seek God, question things, don't take their parent's word for it. Make their faith their own. I know that God is Truth and if they are seeking Truth, they will find it. Isaiah 55. I'm happy to say that within three weeks there are four young people heading out for Biblical and mission training. Plus myself heading to Africa soon. That is five young people heading to follow God's call on their life from a small rural Wisconsin church. I found a quote recently that said "The mark of a great church is not its seating capacity, but its sending capacity." — Mike Stachura

But I digress....

So what about these kids. In this group we were told to not even doubt our beliefs. Doubting would give a foothold for the devil. This reminds me of the creatures in the woods that you weren't to speak about in the movie. Or the kids who had to see the dead, skinned animals that 'the creatures' ravaged. Or hide in the safe cellar when the beasts outside were ravaging the village. I instantly thought about the stories of California falling in, marking the end of the world. So every time there was an earthquake you would wonder if the end was coming. Or we were told of the 'great and dreadful day of the Lord' and it was equated to World War III. So whenever there was a new conflict in the world, I would wonder if this was IT. But worse yet, was I good enough? Was I going to be raptured or would my parents go and I would to left to suffer? The night of the bombings on Baghdad that marked the beginning of the first Gulf War just about destroyed me. I snuck away so I wouldn't be questioned as to why I was throwing up from my uncontrollable nerves. But when I asked 'how do I know' that I'm good enough, I was told to just believe and not question. WHAT?

So in the movie the blind girl finally discovers some of the lies and control tactics that are being used. So she ventures out through the woods to the world beyond. Instead of being torn up by the ravages of evil she discovers a kind and helpful modern humanity waiting for her.

So when my many friends and I left this group we discovered Jesus. The Jesus of the Bible. The Gospel. Not the pit of hell ready to destroy our souls as we had been told. "Everyone who leaves for the world is a heretic destined to hell." This is a common fear tactic used. "You don't want to leave and end up like those people do you?

So who are those people? Yes, there are some that have left and at the moment want nothing to do with God. But I almost headed that direction, so I really understand where they are at. In May one of my friends who walked this path just came to Jesus!

But the majority of us really do want to seek Jesus. Jesus who is, who was, and who is to come. Not the Jesus we were taught in this group. We were taught the Gnostic Jesus. Jesus was just a man who came and God used the body to dwell in as basically His puppet from his baptism through the garden of Gethsemane. So he died just a man. Not fully man and fully God as the Scriptures really teach.

But the reality beyond these walls is we don't need some 'prophet' telling us the 'deeper revelations.' As people who have accepted Jesus Christ's free gift of salvation because of His death on the Cross, taking our penalty for sin upon Himself, we have the Holy Spirit leading and guiding us. Hebrews 1:1-2 even discusses that we just need Jesus not some mysterious prophet who thinks he's all it, "In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe."

So that's what's on my mind today and I'm still processing. I might need to watch that movie again. Though I need some time. I found myself frustrated and angry afterwards. Angry towards how some men can destroy the lives of so many others. Men like Joseph Smith, Jim Jones, William Branham, Charles Russell, Howard Camping, David Koresh, Warren Jeffs, and so many others. Men that all have their own "one true" safe villages set up. Men who have created fear that keeps their followers from discovering the Truth of God. But I was also sad. Sad for the people who really do want to live a full life but are trapped.

But the good news is... Jesus is waiting just outside those false boundaries. Waiting to give you medicine and heal you. All you have to do is have faith to step in to the unknown and SEEK THE TRUTH. So how do you begin?? Read your Bible, in context, without the extra biblical writings or teachings holding you back 'for your own safety.' It's been 12 years so I stepped into the woods with fear and trembling to see what was really beyond it. I'm soooo glad that I did!

Here is a great video that shares the Truth of what really lives beyond the walls of your village....

When you light people with legalism or with rules and regulations they're going to burn out because they'll always live in fear. But a person set afire with the love of Jesus will live in gratitude serving his Lord out of love and not out of fear. 

By Max Lucado, taken from "Walking with the Savior"

Challenge

Today I just had a ministry partner call CVM Donor Services and raise their monthly support by $5/mo. They also contacted me and asked me to issue this challenge: "Will you join us by raising your amount by $5 a month so Emily can finish her support and get to Uganda to start doing what God has called her to do there?" Will you join them and accept their challenge? "Sympathy is no substitute for action." — David Livingstone

Call CVM directly at 206-546-7569 (Pacific Time) or Email info@cvmusa.org If you are not a current monthly partner you can contact them to start today! If you donate monthly via a personal check and intend to increase your gift, please inform myself or CVM of your intent so we can adjust my projected support accordingly as we track when they can give me the green light to buy my airline ticket.

$550 in monthly support to go!

Click the button below to find out the different ways you can give.  Please designate account "Imperishable Seed" when giving online.

10...9...8...7...6...

So last week I was at $900. Now I'm at... well, we'll get to that in a minute.

This past weekend was great. I had the opportunity to meet many great people at the 8th Annual Field of Praise right here in Marion. The MC reminded me something I had almost forgotten. I was part of the very first planning committee and I helped run and organize the food stand for the first several years. Now here I am, on the stage. Interesting. Though the MC also reminded me that he knew me as a little girl still in a playpen and diapers. Ah, the joys of small town life in America. They warn me in Africa that everyone will know you and your business. While this may be a shock to those originally from major metropolises, it's pretty much life around here. Yes, I have even had it where something I was doing in town got back to my house before I did.

So it was fun getting out and connecting with so many community members this weekend. And being able to share with them about how God is taking someone from this small livestock based community in to another livestock based community. Plus, they had great homemade pie and ice cream there too!!

Dan Brandenburg, editor of the Marion Advertiser, also asked me to write a column every month or so while I'm in Africa to keep everyone not on my mailing list in the loop. I thank him for this awesome opportunity!

So... back to the mystery number of what I need for monthly support yet before I move. I enlisted the help of my pastor and his wife to share the news this week. They were the ones that lead me to the Lord on April 3rd, 2002. They are the ones that have helped disciples me, mentored me, and challenged me over these past 11 years. You can also tell they are ALWAYS serious, just like me :D

Karen is a Missionary Kid originally from Denmark. Her mom was an American that moved there as a single missionary with the Child Evangelism Fellowship. She met Karen's dad... and the rest is history. So in that aspect she has been a great encouragement in this part of the journey as well. Just this Sunday we were talking about something and she didn't know what it was. That gives me encouragement that even after decades I will still be learning my new culture...lol.

Soooooo... I'm getting closer! If you would like to be part of getting that number to $0 there is a link at the top of this blog. I would love to answer all of your questions that you might have as well. Feel free to contact me. Have a great week!!

Me? Really?

I know God wants me in Africa. I'm excited to move to Africa. I'm excited to start using my skills as a veterinary technician again... but really? I'm moving to Africa?

Some days this just hits me. It's almost surreal at times. Here I am living in rural northeast Wisconsin...for my entire life... a nobody in the grand scope of the 7 BILLION people that live on this globe. But then I have to go to check something out on my webpage. My official CVM webpage... that thousands of people visit. A webpage of an international mission organization. Pinch me, is that really my picture there?

I just completed a road trip meeting new people, speaking and even staying at stranger's homes. Tonight I speak at a local Christian Music festival... up on the elevated stage... in front of the grandstands.Who am I? What's going on?

The other day someone heard me on the radio. A radio station that I had forgotten had called me for an interview as I was on my way to Bible Study one night. Or the person that stops me in our small town to tell me the recognized me from a newspaper article. Or the 600+ people that receive my prayer letter monthly. Or the person I've never met on the other side of the globe that emails me and says they want to invest in my ministry. It's all crazy and so large in scale.

But I'm a Daughter of my Heavenly Father that has a willing heart to live the life He has planned for me. That's who I am. His dearly beloved. He will take care of all of the craziness. The people that were just a face to me in a crowd of 100 people at a church. Or someone who heard a radio interview or read a newspaper article. These people that come up to me to say how something I said impacted them. Yikes. This isn't about me so I don't have to worry about "being in control." It's about Him, my God, the Creator of the Universe. The Savior sent to pay the penalty for our sin. These people that I have the privileged to interact with are just like me. A nobody in the grand scheme of life, but an incredible force for the Kingdom if they seek God's calling in their life. And just as God has put people in my path, now He is putting me in other people's path. WOW.

So I'm moving to Africa. I will probably not sleep well the night before my trip.... or the week before. I know I will have long hard days in my future when reality of separation from my family and friends hits me like a ton of bricks and I'm overwhelmed with the cultural differences in my new home. But I think of God's promise engraved on my necklace, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 (NIV)

Wow... thank you God!

For now I enjoy the journey. I do like the chance to share with new people about how God is moving in Karamoja and how He has called me to be a part of this. Though I also do enjoy the Sundays when I'm not meeting new friends at new churches. The Sundays when I'm with my home church family. Where I'm just Emily... the country girl who loves Jesus, volunteers with the youth group, and bawls like a baby at sappy movies (thanks Jenny for pointing that out to everyone).

Some of my church friends reminding me that I only have
 19% of my monthly support to raise before I move.

What do missionaries wish they had known before they first went?

Some interesting things for me to remember. Please keep me in prayer as I continue to prepare jump in to this cross culture transition. I got this from http://www.askamissionary.com

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I would have gotten more cross-cultural training, especially focused on the culture to which I was going. I would have taken more time in language learning. But most of all, I needed realistic expectations. Working in a foreign field is the same as being in a war. I know. I've fought in both and the similarities are striking. There is not much glorious about warfare. It may look exciting on TV or in the movies, but in the trenches it's a lot of hard work. And the enemy has ambushes everywhere. Often you can't tell the enemy from the friendly. And your friends get injured and killed. It hurts.

The culture won't make a bit of sense and you'll even resent the people sometimes, or think how they do things is ridiculous. But you will learn how to live there. You'll learn new cultural cues. You'll begin to see how they do make sense in your new culture. And in the learning, you'll grow to love the people. So learn to laugh at yourself!

Don't give up! When you go, determine that you're going to stay. It's like God meant marriage to be. It won't always be easy, but make it work! Don't expect the other person to change. Change as you need to. And there's probably no better environment to promote change in us than working in another culture.

 Tim, who has served for twenty-five years with Wycliffe Bible Translators in Cameroon and the United States.

Boredom is real. I heard that before I left my home country. But now I have long periods of down time that I used to fill so easily at home. The first two months or so in a new place are the hardest, since you're establishing new friendships and a new pattern of life.

Knowing yourself is very important. I have been stretched a phenomenal amount, especially in the first months of my assignment. If you have any hidden personal issues, God will bring them to light. Be willing to deal with them as they come up; don't push them away. God needs to break you in order to use you.

Be teachable, and be a lifelong learner. It's easy to depend only on your ability to figure it out once you get there, since firsthand knowledge may seem more dependable than book knowledge and theories. It's not true. Know before you go.

It takes time to ease into the structure. At home, I had lots of energy to fill my day from early morning to late at night. But overseas, I tire so quickly. Realize that being stretched physically, emotionally, and spiritually as well as facing a new culture, language, and living situation wears you out. It's okay to slow down. Being a missionary is not about being superhuman and accomplishing a long list each day. Some days all you'll accomplish is a trip to the grocery store or a government office. It's about trust, obedience, and hearing the Master's voice.

Bethany, who is serving in the Middle East with the Assemblies of God.

Goer, Sender, Mobilizer-- Which are you?

I just read this great article from MissionNext. I thought it was worthy of sharing.

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For many people to be a Goer seems to be the highest calling. And if you can't go then perhaps you can fill a somewhat lesser role by helping to send someone, by praying for them or maybe by encouraging others to consider going.

But the question is not about a higher or lower role, it is about the right role for you at this time in your life. It is about fully engaging in the "good works" He has prepared for you today, not about waiting for some future role.

And roles change. Scriptural examples of God's servants show them in all of these roles at one time or another. Even the Godhead can be seen, each exercising each of these three roles at various times.

Last month we looked at being a Mobilizer and this month we'll consider the role of being a Sender. A simple definition would be: A person who uses their resources to assist Goers.

Are you a Sender, with a great concern for the lost of this world, a desire to use all you have to see that they hear the gospel, a willingness to learn to sacrifice in order that the good news of Jesus' love and redemption can be sent out around the world?

One of the patterns we see in scripture and down through history is that, through His people, God provides the resources His kingdom will need. Unfortunately, another pattern we see is that at times God's people decide those resources are primarily for their own use and the kingdom needs suffer.

The role of being a Sender is crucial to the proclamation of the message of the gospel throughout the world. God has provided the resources necessary and channels them through us. Those resources are monetary, goods, services, prayer and time. A Sender is intentional about investing these resources into the lives and ministries of Goers.

As with being a Mobilizer, we can all be Senders, regardless of the other roles we might be playing at any given time. If you resonate with the Sender role, I encourage you to engage fully in opportunities God is placing before you. There is great joy and satisfaction in discovering the "good works" God has prepared in advance for us to do. If being a Sender is one of your roles at this particular time in your life, do it well, do it fully and do it with all your heart, because it's the Lord you are serving, not just other people, as we see in Colossians 3:23.
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To learn more about my ministry and how you can get involved please visit www.cvmusa.org/imperishableseed

Only a little more than $1,000 in monthly support needed before I will be moving!

Does the Message of the Gospel change with popular opinion?

Because of the busyness of life I haven't had much time to blog like I use to. Yes, I have posted blogs, but they aren't in the same style as I use to. I miss that. My deep contemplative analytically mind misses that. Though I do have a new demographic of readers because of my involvement with the Christian Veterinary Mission and preparing to move to Uganda. That being said, I do have a blog that needs to be written.

*As with all things on the internet, the material published here reflects only the opinion of the author.

This is a recent status I posted on Facebook. It was read by many but the context was never explained because it does encompass every area of our lives. But when I wrote it there was a specific context in my mind...

"Jesus will always be King. The Bible is True. Changing worldviews and popular opinion will never change those facts, no matter how far the world declines. Are you going to follow a man, a popular ministry, or Jesus? Jesus transforms lives, no one else! Jesus redeems from sin, no one else! Sin is sin, it's definition never changes!"

Here is the article I had read previously...

Exodus International to Shut Down

and

Exodus Int’l President to the Gay Community: “We’re Sorry”

This is a ministry that has been around for 37 years. Their tag line is: "Exodus is the leading global outreach to churches, individuals and families offering a biblical message about same-sex attraction."

Though in the past 2 years there has been an odd switch within their ministry. Several leaders have broken off and started their own ministries. It seems that Exodus is starting to bend to the wind of changing popular world view opinion. Jesus is love and grace covers EVERYTHING is a theology that they are leaning towards to the extreme. It is sad to watch as so many have been helped by their ministry throughout the years. 

To say an entire ministry is evil because of some 'failure' then there should be NO ministry in business around the globe. Our enemy is always on the attack and wants to destroy the work of God.

Yes, Jesus is love. But He also is also never changing and JUST. He told the woman at the well to go and sin no more. Grace also does cover us, but it isn't a license to go and sin because WE CAN.

I Peter 1:13-16 is a passage that comes to mind "Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy."

So in watching the developments of this story and the reaction of the LGBT communities I have been saddened. Why limit the redemptive power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ? If we limit Him in this area and say He is incapable, than is there power in any area? It hurts to watch things continue to crumble away from True Biblical Christianity. As my Facebook status proclaimed...

"Jesus will always be King. The Bible is True. Changing worldviews and popular opinion will never change those facts, no matter how far the world declines. Are you going to follow a man, a popular ministry, or Jesus? Jesus transforms lives, no one else! Jesus redeems from sin, no one else! Sin is sin, it's definition never changes!"

So to those who say that Jesus accepts them living in an active homosexual lifestyle, loves them no matter what, and the Bible verses saying that the act of homosexual sex are irrelevant ("it was pagan temple prostitute sex", "the words are translated wrong", "that was under the Old Testament law", "they were heterosexuals that turned from their natural desires to homosexual desires"... etc etc). I have heard it all. But, that's what, six or seven Bible passages? The question I have asked numerous people but have never had anyone even attempt to answer is this: 

At what point in a homosexual relationship is sexual intercourse pure, holy, and honorable in God's eyes? Use in context scripture as your defense.

I can only find sexual intercourse being God honoring inside of a marriage covenant relationship between one man and one woman.

So yes, I agree, there are people out there that have done terrible things to the LGBT community. It breaks my heart. I have many dear friends and relatives that are actively living the homosexual lifestyle. I love them dearly and am there for them just like any of my other friends. They are human beings created with hopes, dreams, aspirations, value, and even hurts, no different from the rest of us. Why wouldn't I want to count them as a dear friend?!!

Sadly when people think of Christians and their attitudes towards the homosexual community, images of Fred Phelps and the Westboro Baptist Church come to mind. Unfortunately this group has missed the boat on Biblical Truth as well.

This Biblical Truth is we were ALL BORN THIS WAY.... SINNERS! Being gay, straight or anything in between isn't going to save us. Heterosexuals are separated from God by sin too.

Only a relationship with Jesus Christ, allowing Him to be the Lord and Saviour of our lives will save us.

God loves us and created us to have a relationship with Him, both physically and spiritually.

But this relationship was broken when Adam and Eve rebelled in the garden of Eden.

Rebellion in the Bible is called Sin. This comes from the Greek word, hamartia, which means to fail or miss the mark. It is a term used in marksmanship indicating you missed the bull's-eye. God's bull's-eye is perfection and holiness.

We've all rebelled against God, both actively and passively. We've all disobeyed Him.

1. Do not worship any other gods. 

2. Do not make any idols.

3. You must not misuse the name of the Lord your God. 

4. Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.

5. Honor your father and mother.

6. Do not murder.

7. Do not commit adultery. 

8. Do not steal. 

9. Do not lie.

10. Do not covet

Our sin separated us from Him (broken relationship). Romans 3:23 "For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard."

The payment for what we have done is death. Romans 6:23 "For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord."

You get a paycheck for your work, in the same way there is a payment for sin, physical and spiritual death.

God loves us and wants this relationship with us. But sin separates us from God. We can't restore this relationship on our own. Ephesians 2:8-9 "God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it."

"Good works" will ALWAYS fall short. Being nice to people, reading the Bible, going to church, loving everyone, trying to be a good person.... none of this is good enough. Not even my moving to Africa to do helpful things or Mother Theresa and all the positive she did in this world is worth anything outside of Jesus Christ.

The Good News is that Jesus Christ is the Bridge to God our Father to restore this relationship. I Peter 3:18 "Christ suffered for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but he died for sinners to bring you safely home to God."

So there are people that HEAR about Jesus. 

There are people that BELIEVE in Jesus. John 5:24 "I tell you the truth, those who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me have eternal life. They will never be condemned for their sins, but they have already passed from death into life."

But then there are people that RECEIVE.... John 1:12 "But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God."

......His gift of Salvation and Restoration. I John 5:11-12 "And this is what God has testified: He has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have God’s Son does not have life."

Here is a good illustration to this point that has been used for many years:

The great tightrope walker Blondin strung a wire from one side of the Niagara Falls to the other. A crowd gathered to watch him attempt to walk out over the deadly falls. The silent tension turned to cheers as they watched him walk out, turn and come back. He asked the crowd, “How many believe that I can walk to the other side and back while pushing a wheelbarrow?” To which they shouted, “We believe, we believe!” And, Blondin did in fact walk out and back with a wheelbarrow. Upon his return, Blondin asked, “Who believes I could push a man in this wheelbarrow while walking out and back on the wire?” Again the crowd responded with enthusiastic affirmation. “OK,” he asked, “Who would like to get in?” The crowd fell silent. 

Trusting Christ is not simply assenting to the facts of the gospel message, there is a decision that implies actually getting into the wheelbarrow.

So where are you at? Have you just HEARD about Jesus? Do you BELIEVE in Jesus? Or have you RECEIVED His gift of salvation and 'climbed in to the wheelbarrow?' The awesome thing is though... we don't have to go get a manicure, pedicure, new hairdo, makeup, shower.... etc etc. before we climb in the wheel barrow. We climb in as is.

I climbed in to the wheelbarrow on April 3rd, 2002. A scary decision at the time... but the best one ever. I didn't try to clean myself up before I came to Christ. I came as I was and trusted Him, taking Him at His word to transform my life. It's a slow process, but a great one! We are all at a different place on the journey. We need to be careful on judging each other. We are all in a different place, but we are all united in Christ.


I pray that those watching the events transpire with Exodus International will see that it isn't an organization, a human, or anything else that changes you. It isn't 'praying away the gay' or anything else. It's ONLY JESUS CHRIST!! He is powerful and we better not put human limitations on His power.

Here is a blog that I did find interesting addressing the Exodus announcements:

The Exodus of the Gospel From Exodus International

So in closing, love the gay community. They are great people just like you and I. As a matter of fact it drives me crazy to label them "the gay community." Why can't we all just be humans?! Love the neighbor in an adulterous affair. Love the neighborhood thief. Love the murderer. Love the drunk laying passed out on the street corner. Love those caught in false theology leading them away from the Truth of Jesus Christ. Love the drug dealer. BUT.... when given the opportunity don't be ashamed to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with them. It is the only thing that will save them from punishment for their sin, which is eternal separation from God in hell.

2 Thessalonians 1:9 "They will be punished with eternal destruction, forever separated from the Lord and from his glorious power."

So these verses are my comfort as I stand firm in Jesus Christ. On days it seems like everyone else around me is going crazy and throwing the Bible out the window. I know it's not true, there are plenty of Christians standing firm, but there are also many letting popular culture get the best of them.

2 Timothy 1:8 "So never be ashamed to tell others about our Lord. And don’t be ashamed of me, either, even though I’m in prison for him. With the strength God gives you, be ready to suffer with me for the sake of the Good News."

I Corinthians 1:18 "The message of the cross is foolish to those who are headed for destruction! But we who are being saved know it is the very power of God."

Joshua 1:9 "This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

30 Life Principles to Live By

I received this in the mail today in bookmark format and I thought it was worthy to share with everyone. I'm glad it's a high quality sturdy bookmark that looks like it will last awhile....

30 Principles to Live By*

1. Our intimacy with God – His highest priority for our lives – determines the impact of our lives.

2. Obey God and leave all the consequences to Him.

3. God’s Word is an immovable anchor in times of storm.

4. The awareness of God’s presence energizes us for our work.

5. God does not require us to understand His will, just obey it, even if it seems unreasonable.

6. You reap what you sow, more than you sow, and later than you sow.

7. The dark moments of our life will last only so long as is necessary for God to accomplish His purpose in us.

8. Fight all your battles on your knees and you win every time.

9. Trusting God means looking beyond what we can see to what God sees.

10. If necessary, God will move heaven and earth to show us His will.

11. God assumes full responsibility for our needs when we obey Him.

12. Peace with God is the fruit of oneness with God.

13. Listening to God is essential to walking with God.

14. God acts on behalf of those who wait for Him.

15. Brokenness is God’s requirement for maximum usefulness.

16. Whatever you acquire outside of God’s will eventually turns to ashes.

17. We stand tallest and strongest on our knees.

18. As children of a sovereign God, we are never victims of our circumstances.

19. Anything you hold too tightly, you will lose.

20. Disappointments are inevitable, discouragement is a choice.

21. Obedience always brings blessing.

22. To walk in the Spirit is to obey the initial promptings of the Spirit.

23. You can never outgive God.

24. To live the Christian life is to allow Jesus to live His life in and through us.

25. God blesses us so that we might bless others.

26. Adversity is a bridge to a deeper relationship with God.

27. Prayer is life’s greatest time saver.

28. No Christian has ever been called to “go it alone” in his or her walk of faith.

29. We learn more in our valley experiences than on our mountaintops.

30. An eager anticipation of the Lord’s return keeps us living productively.


*From intouch.org

Why I'm moving to Africa [Video] plus Upcoming Road Trip…

During Dr. Val's recent visit to Wisconsin she recorded an interview that answers many questions that people have been asking regarding my role as a Veterinary Technician in Uganda. She serves as the Team Advisor for our Ugandan Team. Please take a few moments to watch this interview to learn more about the Ethnoveterinary Medicine Program and my role as Research Assistant.




Praise:

My outgoing support budget has been met! This covers all of my moving expenses, training, purchasing my truck in Africa, etc.

Many new connections that have been made through meeting with new groups and speaking at various churches. Including the opportunity to have a booth at the local June Brunch on the Farm (June 23rd) that brings in over 4,000 visitors!

Prayer:

For more faithful prayer ministry partners.

For more faithful financial ministry partners to reach my budget quickly.

Peace as I continue to move forward through this time of transition with many things to do.

Prayer and Praise:

Friday I leave on a support raising road trip that will cover 9 states. Please pray as I connect with old friends and make new ones. On June 9th I will be speaking at a church in Chattanooga, TN. They are excited to learn more about how they can support our work in Karamoja. Praise God for the provision for a vehicle that gets GREAT gas mileage. Also, a friend just accepted Jesus Christ and I get to visit with them on this road trip!

To God Be the Glory,
Emily


Items needed to be covered yet before budget is reached*:

Vehicle Fuel, Oil, and Maintenance- $200
Housing Utilities (including propane for my refrigerator) - $105
Office Supplies (including fuel for generator)- $60
Internet Access- $50
Cell Phone Minutes- $50
CLIDE National Staff/Team Support- $350
Long Term Disability Insurance- $4
International Worker's Compensation Insurance- $141
Project Costs- $400
VISA/Work Permit -$50
Professional License and Fees-$41
Vehicle Road License and Insurance- $166
Retirement Allowance- $30
Uganda Christian Veterinary Mission Membership- $4

*as soon as all of these items are covered, I will be moving...TO AFRICA!!!

If you haven't already, would you prayerfully consider joining the 63 other ministry partners already supporting Imperishable Seed through a monthly commitment?!

Visit www.cvmusa.org/imperishableseed or call 206-546-7569 or email info@cvmusa.org to learn more today! To set up an Electronic Funds Transfer please use This Form.

Full video of Lomilo's Presentation at my church

Waffle and Dr. Val Lomilo recently visited my family and friends in Wisconsin. While they were here they enjoyed an evening with my church family. They had the opportunity to share about their work in Uganda and how I will be fitting in to it all. Here is the video of their entire presentation.

If you are interested in learning more, please contact me or CVM.

If you are interested in becoming a financial ministry partner there are several options. You can set up an electronic funds transfer through your bank account using this form... http://www.cvmusa.org/document.doc?id=3848 

Or there are several people who have set it up online using their credit card. https://www.cvmusa.org/cvm-mission-fundraiser-arndt?tab=3  

Or you can also call CVM directly with more questions... 206-546-7569 - Thanks for your interest!


Did you know that I'm very close to my month support goal. I only need

2 ministry partners at $200/mo


5 ministry partners at $100/mo


10 ministry partners at $50/mo


7 ministry partners at $25/mo


10 ministry partners at $10/mo

The Jesus Film in ngaKarimojong

Everything that we do in Karamoja has the purpose of sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ with the people. This includes sharing The Jesus Film in ngaKarimojong . Follow the link to see what it looks like and to hear the language that I get to learn when I arrive in my new home.

Meet the Lomilos- Second Promo Video

Because of my support raising travels I'm not at church to tell people about this event. So I'm using video instead. Then everyone else gets to enjoy them as well! Here is the second promo video with snippets of their story of their traditional wedding.

You and your friends are invited! Saturday, May 11th at 6:15pm Bethany Evangelical Free Church 264 North Main Street Clintonville, WI 54929 Come to meet Newlywed Ugandan Missionaries: Mr. Waffle and Dr. Val Lomilo serving with the Christian Veterinary Mission.

You and your friends are invited! Saturday, May 11th at 6:15pm Bethany Evangelical Free Church 264 North Main Street Clintonville, WI 54929 Come to meet Newlywed Ugandan Missionaries: Mr. Waffle and Dr. Val Lomilo serving with the Christian Veterinary Mission. Please RSVP by May 8th if you haven't already. If you don't RSVP but can come last minute, we look forward to seeing you. RSVP HERE Please enjoy this second promo video highlighting different aspects of their traditional wedding. If you missed the first video, it can also be found on my YouTube channel. The evening will start out with a traditional Ugandan meal. We will be sharing this meal with the Forge Youth Group who will be breaking their 30 Hour awareness fast. During the previous 30 hours they will have slept outside in cardboard boxes, completed various community projects, and raised support for World Vision.  Come hear about the Lomilo's three day long traditional Karamojong wedding and learn what God is doing in this region where I'm raising support to go live and work. I'm excited for my family and friends to have a chance to know this part of the team that I will be serving with in Uganda. Plus, they want to know me better too, so be ready with your favorite story! Dr. Val has lived in Uganda for over two decades working with the livestock and sharing the Gospel. The Community Livestock Integrated Development Consultancy is a direct result of her work in the region.

Meet the Lomilos in Clintonville, WI May 11th!

Saturday, May 11th at 6:15p you are invited to Bethany Evangelical Free Church to meet Waffle and Dr. Val Lomilo. I will be serving with them in Uganda. Dr. Val is coming to the area to meet my family and friends. So I hope that you can make it! 

We will be starting out the evening with a traditional Ugandan meal followed by an informal fellowship time where you can get to know them better. I'm excited that my friends will have a chance to meet some of the people that I will be serving with in Uganda.

Please enjoy this fun promo video. I can assure you there will be at least a couple more great stories told during the course of the evening. Plus you will learn more about the work that God is doing in Karamoja and how she sees me fitting in to it all.

Please let me know if you intend on coming. I know the people in charge of the food won't appreciate me telling them an attendance number of "1 to 200 people". Though if you are unsure if you can make it and don't RSVP... come anyway even if it's a last minute decision!!

RSVP HERE

Saturday, May 11th, 6:15pm

Bethany Evangelical Free Church

364 N. Main Street

Clintonville, WI 54929