Preparation

Preparation. It is often the key to success, although in the hustle and bustle of life it can be rushed or pushed aside altogether. Paul and his journeys were filled with action and activities but we still see him take time to communicate with those praying for him and sending him and to prepare for future journeys.
Finals week at UK was last week and I have the pleasure of doing some of my own preparation for the summer to come. It has been fun to connect with ministry partners on the phone and in person. I have been training people in my church on how to share their faith, speaking in college classes, adult Sunday schools and Bible studies. Working to develop new financial support for the summer and for monthly needs for the next year. God is good. I am encouraged by the notes many of you have mailed and the conversations we are sharing.
Today I am 4 weeks from leaving for 6 weeks of ministry in New York City. Please pray for me and the team of 15 staff and 20 college students that will be joining me as we prepare our hearts and raise funds for the summer. This is often a crucial time for our students before they arrive. Some may not make it if they do not see the Lord provide the finances they need. Others might be living with family who are not believer and do not understand their decision to raise support and go to NYC to do ministry for the summer. Pray that these students are encouraged and persevere. Last year on of the girls I became closest to saw $3000 raised for her trip in the last 24 hours before her flight left for New York. Becca, also a student from last year, had the opportunity to share with her dad about the tools we would be using during out time in the city and after watching the Lord provide her financial support he PRAYED TO RECEIVE CHRIST. Preparation is key to effectiveness.
I have created a way that YOU can be involved in our preparation. It is call the "BIG APPLE" Tree. On it are 21 apples, 1 for each student attending the project and 1 for myself. They include a photo of each person, their school information, and prayer requests listed on the back. I will be passing them out as I meet with people and mailing them to you. Thank you for joining us in prayer. I am excited to see how God uses it in the lives of each of these students.