A Beautiful YES

My 8-year-old nephew blessed my socks off last week.

He's been excited about my upcoming trip to Uganda. He told me he has his whole class at school praying about it. He's given me tips on making immunizations less painful. He knows where Uganda is on a map. All of this has touched me, but he put a big cherry on top with this note he sent.


Is that about the sweetest thing you've ever seen?! What's more, the envelope contained not a dollar, but a five dollar bill. That's a lot of money for an 8-year-old!

But he's not the only one who's given like this. I've been completely overwhelmed with the way people have donated money toward this trip. For a while I felt burdened by the huge responsibility to anyone who pledged their hard-earned cash. I wanted to make the most of their sacrifice, you know? I asked God over and over and over, "How do I honor these gifts? What must I do to ensure they don't feel it a waste?"

The pressure brought me to tears. More than a few times. Why am I given this privilege? What will it require of me?

My smart husband and friends assure me people are only doing what God lays on their hearts to do, just like I did by agreeing to go. Giving their money is a way to be part of God's work, to be faithful to God's calling. It's their way to say YES.

That's beautiful, don't you think? Tons of individuals, young and old alike, each with a unique story, all saying YES to God. I am so humbled by that picture, and so proud of people, some of whom I barely know, who had the courage to write a check or put cash in cards. Surely God is nodding and smiling, pleased by the willingness to do what He says, to show the world, to show ME, what humble obedience looks like.

And I'm proud of you, Kaden, for hearing God whisper to your heart and being brave enough to trust Him with your money. You have given a very special gift. I can't wait to see what God has in store for your $5 in Uganda.