“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone.”- 2 Peter 3:9
Kevin T started the morning with a testimony of how God proved to be faithful in his life. Growing up getting good grades, becoming an Eagle Scout (only 4 in every 100 scouts achieve this rank), and being accepted into law school, Kevin thoroughly understood success through hard work and perseverance. However, after receiving a no pass on the bar exam, everything he was sure about, he suddenly doubted. Anxiety set in. He begin to question if law was the path that God was directing him, although he had previously prayed and received affirmation in the last. Through his Mom, he was urged to listen to the song, Thy Will Be Done. Listening to the song, he felt as if God was speaking. He broke down and realized how much anxiety he had about his future and how it was affecting him spiritually.
“During lunch I listened to the song and I started to weep… [I asked God to] give me peace so I don’t have anxiety anymore.”- Kevin.
From then on, Kevin worked to free himself from the stress of needing to succeed as he focused his perspective back on God. Thus, he is leaning on God and His plans rather than by his own strength and expectations.
“Don’t be discouraged if you missed your mark. Instead embrace [the disappointment]… and let His will be done.” -Kevin.
Shirley Home Update
We had our time limited at the house because we had to help out to raise the framing for the walls for the new build site. For three hours, we quickly, but safely without cutting corners, continued to finish as much as we could. We began to prepare the restroom to install the floors. Additional windows were added along with the trim. The tail end of the ramp was added. The scrape team continued to patiently finish the east side of the house. Since tomorrow is our last day, we hope to complete the top repairs.
- Finishing installing the sink, floor, toilet for the restroom.
- Paint the house.
- Complete the ramp.
- Complete the trimming for the windows.
Saying Goodbyes
We went to the new build site to help with the walls, then we had two bittersweet farewells. First, Lorin had to return back home two days early for personal family reasons. Then, we said goodbye to Jose and Serafin because there is a possibility will may not be coming back to OKC next year. We prayed for both of them, and the new build house. Please pray for a safe return for Lorin.
Devotional
Devotionals led by Brandon and Tommy (with Chris C at guitar for worship) commenced after a tasty dinner of pulled pork and chicken.
Brandon
1 Corinthians 1:36-31
Brandon shared how God wants us to admit our weakness to Him in order for us know God’s patience, his love, and power. We are all chosen to be here to be weak so we can show God’s strength. Through that, we can bless others. However, he revealed that showing weakness was not easy for him.
“I set myself pretty high standards and sometimes when I don’t meet those expectations I ask myself-am I doing enough?” -Brandon
God revealed a lesson for Brandon through his MSG’s message, but didn’t understand it at first. But by humbling himself and asking God about his purpose during the trip, he realized the point was the willingness to be used in whatever capacity-big or small.
“It wasn’t about what I want to do but how can the Lord use me for his glory and purpose for this trip… [I asked God should I] allow you to use me .. and He (God) said ‘Yes, that’s what I want you to do.’ ” -Brandon
Tommy
Tommy shared advice on preparing ourselves to have a blurb to share with family and friends. This was tip he learned from his daughter. It will help us with being concise and having something meaningful to share with others.
“He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, ‘Quiet! Be still!’ Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.” -Mark 4:39
He also reminded us about how the Lord does not prevent bad things from occurring, but it’s what our response is that is important. On the job site, it’s easy to get hurt if we are being careless. But sometimes, bad things do happen even if we do take every precaution. However, it does not mean God is uncaring. Rather, we must remember that Jesus is always there with us at all times. We were not created by God to be happy, but to be, rather, we are meant to be holy. By this, we can find ourselves closer to God, which leads to peace and joy.
“Ask yourself, are we looking for safety or are we truly seeking after holiness as God intends…”- Tommy
Enjoy today’s photo album here