Aside from the challenge of scaling the many flights of stairs, my time in San Francisco was sweet.  I was able to connect with, talk to, and learn from many people who shared a common desire to serve God in a manner that is contrary to the mentality of progression at all costs that dominates our culture.  I met believers who were trained in economics, engineering, education, etc. who were dedicated to living out scripture in very practical ways (John 3:30, Micah 6:8).  I was totally humbled as they encouraged me and specifically prayed for me.  I learned a great deal from the InnerCHANGE team about the living out the love of Christ, the power of community, and the joy of serving Him in the hard places and in hard seasons of life.  This time in San Francisco was especially refreshing for me as I have been stressing over raising support because one person reminded me of Luke 6:20.  I’ve read this passage so many times, but never really thought that it referred to me.  Why was I so stressed about being taken care of financially when, “Blessed are the poor…”?  I know that God has never allowed me to truly be without the necessities of live (i.e. food, shelter, clothing, etc.), but it was comforting to know that, “Blessed are the poor…”

 

We arrived here in sunny (and hot) Miami Wednesday afternoon.  Laurie picked our team up at the airport and took us to fill our stomachs with delicious food.  When I arrived to my new home for the next six weeks, I was greeted by my new roommates, Liz and Jenny.  They have been so great in providing me with my own room in their comfortable home.

 

Now that I’m completely settled in, I feel like I’ve been here for weeks rather than for just a few days.  In our first full day here, I had to skip the “walking” tour of the neighborhood because my foot is broken.  It was too hot and too much of a challenge for me after our busy schedule in San Francisco … I was actually feeling 31 on that day.  The next day was more my speed, we took a “driving” tour of the city.  Before hitting the street, we heard the story of Urban Resurrection and the journey of the team from Chicago, to Africa, to Miami.  Miami is a very unique city in many ways.  The transition from neighborhood to neighborhood is pretty defined in that you could clearly see the change in the language on the signs and the people walking the streets and the style of housing.  I’m looking forward to learning more about this city as I live and serve the Lord here.

 

If you think on me, please pray that God would:

·       help me to think of creative ways of getting out into the neighborhood given the challenge of walking

·       show me the people who He wants me to connect with in the community

·       help my foot to heal

·       help me to find a place here in Miami where I could have my foot examined and cared for

 

Thank you to all who have been lifting up prayers on my behalf.  I am confident that I am in the place that God would have me be in this season of life.

 

Blessings!!

Kristy Wallace, Apprentice

Posted on June 13th, 2009 by Michael
Filed under: Community Development, Family & Friends, News, Ujima Initative