If you have read our blog, than you know we are going to Central African Republic (CAR) for two and a quarter years. Going wasn’t a hard decision. When it comes down to it, Jesus laid out a pretty simple religion for us- love God and love others. For us that means going to CAR. Deciding to go was easy. Paying for it however, is a real challenge.
This is the part I hate the most. I hate asking for money! When I was little and had to sell Girl Scout cookies or wrapping paper, I only sold to my parents and I never won the bike. They refused to buy 250 rolls of paper with penguins on it! I can feel the embarrassment and panic rising just thinking about going door to door to convince someone to buy sunblock! I hate it so much that Josh and I were bound and determined to pay for all of this on our own, but this was pride speaking and not God. We have come to learn that we must humble ourselves and allow God to use others as well to minister to the people of CAR for this is not “Josh and Lori’s mission.” The word “missions” actually comes from a Latin word that means “the act of sending!” We are being sent to Central African Republic by God, but also by you.
2 Corinthians 8 talks about the Macedonian churches that begged Paul for the privilege of sharing in the service to the Lord’s people. They pleaded with Paul to let them give him money for his mission! They gave as much as they were able and some even beyond their ability.
You don’t have to beg us for the privilege of giving us wads of cash, we will gladly let you support us! (In addition to large bundles of cash, we also accept checks, all major credit cards, and live animals).
In all seriousness, we know that times are hard and not many people are looking around for places to throw their extra money. We are trusting that God will provide for us and we are also trusting that He will bless your generosity. I am not talking about a “Health and Wealth” Gospel in which I con you into giving to our ministry and then promise God will bless you with even more money, a big house, or a new sports car. I think God’s blessings are far more unexpected and satisfying.
I love The Message’s version of 2 Cor. 9:8-11:
God can pour on the blessings in astonishing ways so that you're ready for anything and everything, more than just ready to do what needs to be done. As one psalmist puts it,
“He throws caution to the winds, giving to the needy in reckless abandon. His right living, right-giving ways never run out, never wear out.”
This most generous God who gives seed to the farmer that becomes bread for your meals is more than extravagant with you. He gives you something you can then give away, which grows into full-formed lives, robust in God, wealthy in every way, so that you can be generous in every way, producing with us great praise to God.
God gives to us extravagantly so that we can give recklessly to others so that all can give praise to God. And in the end, we are all wealthy!
Did you know that most missionaries get more of their support from individuals rater than from churches or organizations? We need to raise 80% of $150,000 before we can begin language school and go to CAR. While any gift is appreciated, having regular steady donations (monthly donations), even in small amounts would help us budget and help us focus on the work God has called us to rather than money.
If you did not get a support letter and want one, let us know! Send your address to lorishinar@gmail.com
Please don’t make us sell smencils door to door
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