I’m sorry to say that it has been sometime since my last post. I am back on the mainland and have been quite busy at AIM.
Hawaii was wonderful. I had a tremendous opportunity to disciple children from South Africa and was doubly blessed by being able to participate in many of the Discipleship Training School teachings and fellowship with missionaries from 43 Nations around the world. I made some marvelous friends and was able to spend some serious quality time with the Lord.
The biggest thing the Lord taught me while I was there is that I LOVE community. I have spent much time alone and while I do relish my quiet time, I have come to see that I have a need for people and relationships that I didn’t realize I had. Years of pain and hurt from various people and circumstances had caused me to put myself in my own “protective wall.” The Lord really worked on me and helped me to knock down some of the wall while I was there. (Still a work in progress!) I love being around people and being able to pour into them. These days I am able to receive much more of what people desire to pour back into me. It’s been a banner year of discovery, reflection and insight. While it is still difficult for me to cultivate new relationships and leave people behind, I can trust that God is going to care for all of us no matter where we are.
I have been receiving lots of emails and phone calls asking What’s Next? I will be in Georgia until the end of the year. I will go back to Africa in early 2010, and I will continue my efforts to mobilize the Black church to missions. Beyond that I have no idea. Many opportunities have been presented to me but for now I am waiting on the Lord to provide clarity.
He has met all of my needs and guided my steps thus far. I will trust Him to continue to do so. I want to go where I will be the most effective for the Kingdom and I am sure in time He will make the destination known. Please join me in prayer for the direction of my future.
AIM Friends and Staff Praying over my future ministry time in Africa
AIM celebrates 20 years
Portrait by Pastor Randall Popham – This was the backdrop of our Open Air Church Worship Service to celebrate AIM’s 20 years of ministry.
“Sermon Time”
Centerpieces from our Evening Celebration
Kelsey and I, Kelsey helped keep my head on straight during 20th planning!
Sad day all of the hard work is coming to an end. I love planning Special Events!
Nice Toya! You gals did a wonderful job! And these pics are great! You are a lean, mean planning machine.
I am so glad that all went well. Seeing the pictures makes me miss you and everyone soooo much. I miss it, especially these days….
love you!!