Off to Ethiopia!

I am really floored that November is already ending! Where has this fall gone?! For the past few months I have been planning for a trip to Ethiopia. This is my first mission trip and I’m so excited to serve the people of Ethiopia and meet the wonderful team of women that I will be serving with! If you haven’t heard of Soles for Jesus, I urge you to check out the website and learn about this amazing ministry!

So, on January 26th I’ll be heading on my way and will not be returning until February 3rd. It’ll be 9 days. I will definitely miss my 3 little children and my husband (My heart literally aches just thinking about being gone). But, I know that this is what I’m supposed to be doing and I’m so excited  to have this opportunity. For those of you who know me…. I strongly dislike planes. So, with lots of prayer (and after some nausea medicine and some music on my ipod, lol) I will get there. 😉

Why shoes?   (borrowed from Soles for Jesus)

We fully realize that the shoes are a mighty tool in the hands of our Lord.  Yes, they are an amazing gift to those who receive them in Africa—but finding Jesus is what makes this gift life-changing! Just as Jesus often met the physical needs of people before they realized their spiritual need, we desire to follow His example.

There is something life-changing when we wash, measure and put shoes on the feet of those who are so needy- all in the name of Jesus. We do not give away shoes every day on the trip.  Each day includes ministry of all kinds.  We will also feed people in remote villages, serve missionaries in their villages by home visits, etc.

 

I’ve been SO blessed by many friends and family in ways I never imagined. Encouragement, prayer and financial support. I trusted that God would provide for this trip financially, but its been amazing to see how generous people have been (in pretty difficult times themselves). The total trip cost is between $2700 – $2800 for airfare, in country: lodging, transportation, 3 meals daily, bottled water and an interpreter).  I only need about $800 or so more needed for the trip! Yay!

 

So thank you for all your encouragement, support and prayers. I pray that we will be mighty tools in the hands of God. That His purpose would be fulfilled while we are there. For Him to be with us while we travel and also with our children and families in our absence.

 

So…. if you have a minute, click on over to Soles for Jesus. The video that opens on the homepage speaks for itself! I’m humbled to be a part of this experience and I can not wait to share when I return!

With love, Jill