Prayer Journal (July 18)

Prayer Journal DAY 6 Read Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Prayer Lord, we give you all the praise for what you are doing in each teen’s life today. May your love flow through them; your grace be sufficient for whatever you bring their way. Patty’s Thoughts Monday and Tuesday were very reflective days for Dan and me. We still can’t quite believe the impact the trip has made on our lives. The faces of the children and mothers and the workmen still “haunt” us-knowing that we have shelter, food, and shoes on our feet is, frankly, overwhelming. We can still smell the dump and feel the dust and smoke on our skin. The young man that was high on glue-his red eyes-his disheveled hair-his lost look . . . these images have made lasting impressions. We believe we have been “placed” at Ginger Creek for a reason. We believe that one of the reasons was to experience Nicaragua and in some small way make an impact. We are blessed and we are better Christians because of this experience. God’s love knows no boundaries. He showed us His love countless times during our journey. I hope our experience and reflections of the trip encourages others to take the leap of faith to join the journey to Nicaragua in the future! Closing Prayer Lord, we marvel at how much you love us. You call us your children. And that is what we are. Adopted into your eternal family. We pray for each teen that their experience and reflection (yes, Lord, do cause them to reflect . . . a lot!) will encourage other teens to take the leap of faith to join the journey to Nicaragua in the future. And may this trip impact the teens to take a firm stand for Jesus when they go their separate journeys. Amen! About Patty Luessenhop My husband Dan and I went to Nicaragua earlier this year. We looked forward to the opportunity to serve the children and families in Nicaragua and work side by side with new friends from Ginger Creek. We believe God brought us to Ginger Creek for a reason, and we are now better Christians because of this experience. We’ve felt a strong connection to the church and its mission of serving others. I am currently an Executive Director of a large suburban senior retirement community and have built my life and my career around serving others. I’m a loyal Illini and continue to pray for another Rose Bowl or NCAA Basketball appearance in the next few years!