Almost to $5,000 goal!

Let me tell you something. I hate fundraising. Or I thought I did. When the Lord told me I was supposed to go to the orphanage, I told Him, "I can't afford to go on what I'm making. I would have to raise support. I hate raising support. But I know you want me to go." He replied, "Then raise support. I'll give you the money." I was reluctant when I first started asking people to give. But God showed me through this experience that it truly is His will that I serve at Hogar de Esperanza.

What blows me away about it is that many of the people who gave barely even knew me. My close friends gave, but many of the people who gave hundreds only knew me casually. It just shows how amazing God is. He used the people I didn't even expect him to use! Plus, friends and family who don't even know the Lord gave.

When I saw that my newest roommate, Julie Lubinski, gave $300 today it really hit me how much God has blessed this fundraising experience. I just met Julie about a month ago and the Lord put it on her heart to give so much! With just $114 left to raise and 11 days before my departure, I am overwhelmed by Jesus' love shown through my friends and family. Every single dollar is a sign of support for the vision God gave me for this trip and I am looking forward to sharing all the great blessings He will provide this upcoming year. I'll leave you with this verse from Matthew 19 that Julie told me inspired her giving:

"And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life."

Jesus has shown me crazy love and it blows me away. I thank Him for every moment and opportunity.

Funds raised online: $1665
Funds raised offline: $2921
Total raised: $4886
Total needed: $114