Pastor Angie's In-Spire-ations November 2018


Thanksgiving is upon us and we truly do have much for which we are thankful.  People have asked why we needed to go out of the country when there is so much need right here.  In fact, I have been asked since our return.  I’m going to quote Erin Bloom to answer that question.  As we rolled back into Kendallville, she was looking out of her window and said, “It looks different.”  My heart was instantly full of gratitude.  She got it! 
When we leave our comfort zone and enter into a world so unlike our own, it causes us to see things differently upon our return.  I was in Peru on my second trip when I was struck with the realization that if people in Peru needed mobility assistance, then there were probably people in my own back yard who needed it.  I came home and spent the next year starting a mission at Ligonier UMC that is heading into its 10th year in 2019!  It’s called The Health Ministry Network.  Somewhere around 200 people have been helped by that program right here in Noble County.  The mission field in Peru inspired that mission at home.
A lady named Serafina who lived in horrid conditions in a tiny village in Peru inspired my life’s mission and from that I was encouraged and called into full time ministry.  My presence at Trinity is due in part to Serafina, the abandoned lady from Tuti.  Serafina means “winged angel” and that she was.
I am particularly thankful for YOU who gave so generously that children will not only have a well-watered food source, but will also learn how to grow and manage that food source for families of their own one day.  I am grateful for the team that made the trip possible…and by that I mean YOU in addition to those who went to Peru.  This is the first time I have gone to Peru and NO ONE missed a day in the field.  You prayed us through.
This is a season of thankfulness and giving, but I would challenge you to take the season with you throughout the year just as we bring our mission experience and relationships home with us.  We don’t want the mission to end in Peru and I hope your spirit of gratitude and giving will go with you throughout the year, as well.  What can you do to extend the heart of Thanksgiving?  Noble County is blessed with nonprofits who work all year long to help our neighbors gain strength and stability.  A monthly donation helps with budgeting and sustainability.  Do you love children or animals or have a heart for those who live in our skilled nursing facilities?  How about giving an hour or two of your time each month?  We are asked “why not right here at home?” and I would echo that question.  Why not get out of our comfort zones right here at home…all year long?  As you look into the new year, I am encouraging you to make a personal mission plan for each month of the year.  What will you do that is out of your comfort zone and off of your normal path? What would it look like if 150 Trinity-ites were on a mission every month?  That might just reach a few people for Jesus! 
God bless you and THANK YOU for your generosity and love and encouragement. 
Pastor Angie


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