From the Helm – Monday, November 02, 2009
I went to bed a bit bewildered last night. The financial obligations and challenges facing AMOR right now came to my mind rather intensely. This happens more and more frequently these days. The work taking place through AMOR in the Valley is, without question, beautiful, formidable, ongoing and humbling to be part of. The area that has always baffled me a bit is that of finances. Funds generally come in for specific projects which are much needed and appreciated. However, for the general operations required to administer our work, funding is sparse or much of the time, non-existent.
I ponder our finances as a matter of reality, not in questioning whether or not our work is or isn’t what God has directed us to do. He has never failed to provide for our needs and, in turn, the needs of those who help provide for our needs. I guess I just allow myself to become weary from time to time. Maybe it’s an act of futility – Maybe it’s a call for me to seek other ways and means of operating. I really don’t know the answer. I just know I get tired and relish in self-pity until I’m embarrassed with myself enough to stop….
I ask for the prayers of those who follow our ministry. Some days are just this way. I have to walk through them with a greater awareness of my limitations and dependence upon Him. Days that usually lead to greater ends than their beginnings seemed to promise…
The RBBI went beautifully last week. There were 44 lay-pastors and Itinerates present. They celebrated our 25th Anniversary of the Institute. I will post some pictures of the event over the next days. I am grateful for the gift of a friend that made it all possible. This person has made possible the last several RBBI’s. I know God sees and rewards him in ways unimaginable. It is because he seeks no reward at all that he will reap them, indeed.
The AMOR/Lori is still just under US$ 5,000.00 short of complete restoration. She is now sitting in dry-dock awaiting these funds to finish her. She will then be set for another 10 years (or ten minutes, as He so designates) of service. I look forward to seeing and traveling with her in December.
This morning came in beautiful fashion. The moon was setting behind the trees in my back yard - Orion’s Belt, high and bright. Thank You, Lord, for allowing me to gaze upon such things. Thank You for new beginnings each morning. Thank You for the comfort and peace You give me in all areas of this life I choose to relinquish to Your care and administration. Thank You for your provision, even when I momentarily question its certainty. I love You with all that I am…