This week, I am in New Hampshire with a group of girls from my CGA class. We are on our capstone trip, a mission trip we planned where we can take what we’ve learned this semester and put it into practice.
We are working with the Hebert’s, a couple who coach for the World Race. One thing we are doing while we are here is hosting two Beauty for Ashes retreats for women in the area. My first experience with Beauty for Ashes was on the Race, and our squad went through several of the teachings and activities together. I also led 2 mini retreats with my team, one in Cote d’Ivoire and the other in Nepal. In March, our CGA class had the opportunity to attend a Beauty for Ashes facilitator training, which taught us how to host an event from start to finish. Little did we know, that Jen Hebert had been praying for a team to come to New Hampshire to lead an event. But the Lord knew, and He provided a way for us to use what we had learned to fill a need!
He brought us full circle.
Beauty for Ashes is all about sharing your story to bring freedom and healing. One of the first things God taught me when I attended training camp for the World Race 2 years ago was about the freedom I have as a believer. It has been quite a journey for me to realize that, settle it in my heart, and begin walking in that freedom. It is a journey I am still on as I constantly see new ways I can walk in greater freedom. But now I am teaching others about walking from bondage to freedom, unlocking their chains and throwing the key far away! In fact, my biggest prayer for this trip is that everyone we come in contact with will walk away a little more free than they were before.
He brought me full circle.
The little pieces of our journeys are all part of His master plan. We only see a tiny view through the window, but He sees the whole outdoors. My pain, my struggles, they are all worth it knowing God has a bigger purpose for them. Nothing is wasted.
He will continue to bring me full circle over and over and over again.
