I’m sure God was grinning when I started reading this book in early 2018…
It arrived before I departed for a work trip, and I devoured it on my flights to and from California.
It resonated with me, deeply. Not only could I relate to Jamie’s story, but I also realized the freedom that comes from sharing our stories while proclaiming that Jesus is better than any of our past mistakes or current struggles.
God used this book to initiate what continues to be a season of change and growth for me.
I’m now working at Christ Community Church, and this spring, I had the honor of spearheading our Mother’s Day services, featuring … Jamie Ivey! I got to meet her and tell her how God used her book to change my life.
God is wild! I’m continually in awe of how he works, and it’s usually in ways that take me by complete surprise. He is mighty and strategic, and he is working powerfully in your life, as well, whether or not you realize it right now. Believe it, friend.
I cannot thank you enough for your support in the form of prayer, phone calls, finances, food, friendship, and much more over this last year.
So much has happened in my church residency journey, including a move from middle school to women’s ministry. The turning point for me involved a taco costume. (Yep. You can ask me about that next time we talk.)
It’s hard to believe I’m over halfway done with this program. I’ll continue at the church through summer 2020. Would you help me finish strong? Here’s how…
1. Prayer
Specifically, would you pray that God reveals what’s next for me? I’m not sure how this new chapter of my career will unfold. Yet I’m sure that I feel compelled to write, communicate God’s Word, and encourage others to move beyond casual faith and live creatively for Christ. I’m open to his plans; I know they’re better than my own.
2. Financial Support
Raising money for my salary has been one of the hardest and most humbling experiences of my life. I realize this is not normal for most people. Yet this is how God’s kingdom works. He calls us to be outrageously generous—with our time, our money, our energy—to bless others.
A monthly gift of $25, $50, or $100, or even a one-time donation, will greatly help us supplement some of our living expenses while I focus on finishing this program, which includes doing full-time ministry and earning a master’s degree. The church matches the first $400 I raise each month, so your gift will go even further. Plus, Joe and I are committed to giving to the church every month and supporting a 6-year-old girl, Annabelle, in Africa through Compassion International.
I’d also love for you to join my email community using one of the forms on this site. I’ll be in touch with my writing, helpful resources, and ministry updates.
Thanks again for your support this past year. I’m incredibly grateful for your partnership in prayer and giving as we invest in God’s kingdom together. He is writing an amazing story of redemption in each of our lives, one word at a time.
Love, Joe and Chelsea
P.S. Keep scrolling…
I want to leave you with one last thought, which stems from this podcast that includes three punchy imperatives:
- Do what you know.
- Finish what you started.
- Use what you have.
I’ve wanted to quit a few times this last year. I was tempted to turn back to what felt familiar and less foolish.
But God has not given me the green light. Nope. Instead, I need to finish what I started. And finish strong. With his help.
So let me ask you … What do you need to finish? Are you unsure of your next move? Worried you don’t have enough?
Consider the three calls to action above.
The truth is that God has given us everything we need to do what he’s called us to do. And if he’s called us, he will finish what he started.
And because I’m asking you to help me finish strong, know the offer goes both ways. If there’s anything I can do to help you, do let me know.
Let’s go!
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