Why I loved it {in 17 points}

I keep thinking I need to write something here. Anything. The problem though is that I just don't know how to summarize all that happened in a matter of 12 days into a brief yet descriptive, highly enjoyable, blog. I don't want to bore you with all the details, though in my personal opinion the details are what make the story. But I get it, not everybody is into that and that's ok. So how about this, I'll make a list and in that list I'll try to explain to you the awesomeness that was my trip to London.

1. Made it safely traveling by myself without cell phone service. Amazing!!!
2. Got to hang out with friends I met in St. Louis, but live in London. Visited the church plant they're working with and began to see their vision.
3. Made FANTASTIC friends with many but specifically 2 other solo women and 1 who came as a pair but was adopted as a solo.
4. Visited a temple, gurdwara, and mosque. Beautiful places with beautiful people who need Jesus as Savior.
5. Did book tables, prayer walks, and community surveys that I felt particularly awful at.
6. Had some points of questioning whether God had actually called me into missions. With every wave of doubt there came encouragement that indeed He has. This came through 2 high school students, new friends, scripture, worship, and prayer.
7. Had the most "random" encounter with a woman who was looking to do evangelism. She ended up joining us and is still working with the team. We communicate every other day now and I love her dearly, as though she's always been apart of my life. ( I guess she should have been added to #3 up there. So that makes 4 priceless friendships developed.)
8. Tried spicy foods. :( I still don't handle them well, but I'm continuing to try.
9. Toured the not so touristy parts of east and central London. Then saw some of the touristy places.
10. LOVED hearing the testimonies of people who now know and love Jesus Christ and want to make much of Him in the world.
11. Spoke with many of the missionaries to get an idea of what it looks like day to day. Had a panel speak to us about this and about singleness and marriage on the field. Interesting....
12. Began thinking about doing the apprenticeship program. 
13. Worshipped at one of the churches we helped. It was beautiful and made me think of New City Fellowship and how this is what the Kingdom looks like. Every tribe, nation, and language worshipping YAHWEH.
14. Cried saying goodbyes.
15. Interview with GEM was miraculously canceled.
16. I say miraculously because the night before the interview with GEM I prayed and asked others to pray because I was feeling a leading to apply with WHM and didn't know how I was going to make it through the interview without sobbing. So... I've now begun the application process with WHM to return to London.
17. Waiting to see how and where God leads.

This urinal looked like a phone booth.

Look at that. I condensed my story down to 17 points. That's pretty amazing. Now... if you want to hear all the good stuff and not just the facts let me know. Would love to share. But as I've told others it may literally take 2 hours. And I'm still processing.

Just missing Emily from Alabama.

Day 11

So I had this brilliant idea to keep y'all updated about the events of the day, everyday, so you knew how you could be praying specifically. In a perfect world I dream of writing daily and posting pictures. The reality is that for better or for worse I am a procrastinator (ex1. On my awesome 2 week countdown, I had planned to begin writing these like first thing. Instead, its the day I leave a few hours before I get picked up.) It just is what it is. Also, I really like the idea of actually being present in the moment. If I'm always thinking of how I'll share that moment I'll actually miss out on the moment itself. Know what I mean? So with that, I leave you a little prayer guide, scheduled to be posted daily right here on my little corner. Thanks for your support and prayers. And I mean that.


Because I don't actually have the brain power at this very moment to figure out when to schedule to post these so that you're actually praying for me the day the events occur I'm just going to post a day ahead of schedule. If that makes sense. (Just go with it.)

TUESDAY
Hello America. Traveling from Boston to St. Louis today.

• Pray for a happy flight. :) In all seriousness pray that I make my flight back home and don't oversleep!
• Pray that as I transition back home well as I go back to work Wednesday.
• Pray that I wouldn't be quick to file this experience away as a good memory but that I would really work through what the Lord has taught me and still desires to teach and show me.
• Also pray for the friendships that were built, that they would be of mutual benefit to each other as we seek to continue to honor God in the service He's called us to right now.

Thank you for walking with me through this in prayer. What a blessing you are!

Day 10

So I had this brilliant idea to keep y'all updated about the events of the day, everyday, so you knew how you could be praying specifically. In a perfect world I dream of writing daily and posting pictures. The reality is that for better or for worse I am a procrastinator (ex1. On my awesome 2 week countdown, I had planned to begin writing these like first thing. Instead, its the day I leave a few hours before I get picked up.) It just is what it is. Also, I really like the idea of actually being present in the moment. If I'm always thinking of how I'll share that moment I'll actually miss out on the moment itself. Know what I mean? So with that, I leave you a little prayer guide, scheduled to be posted daily right here on my little corner. Thanks for your support and prayers. And I mean that.


Because I don't actually have the brain power at this very moment to figure out when to schedule to post these so that you're actually praying for me the day the events occur I'm just going to post a day ahead of schedule. If that makes sense. (Just go with it.)

MONDAY
Closing time.
I realize I've written this days in advance but already as I type I know I will be so sad to be leaving this place. I trust that the Lord will have answered many of the questions I brought before Him this week. I anticipate sharing these things with you but it will take me awhile to process through them myself. If I'm not quick to go into all the details, do not fear, they will come. Slowly but surely.

• I have a meeting with a missions organization I'd like to consider going full time with in London for a few years beginning next summer. Pray that I am honest with myself and them. And pray that I ask good questions to get a good feel for the organization, to see if we're even a good fit.
• Pray also for traveling to Boston. That I can have some time on the plane to even begin to process the week.

Day 9

So I had this brilliant idea to keep y'all updated about the events of the day, everyday, so you knew how you could be praying specifically. In a perfect world I dream of writing daily and posting pictures. The reality is that for better or for worse I am a procrastinator (ex1. On my awesome 2 week countdown, I had planned to begin writing these like first thing. Instead, its the day I leave a few hours before I get picked up.) It just is what it is. Also, I really like the idea of actually being present in the moment. If I'm always thinking of how I'll share that moment I'll actually miss out on the moment itself. Know what I mean? So with that, I leave you a little prayer guide, scheduled to be posted daily right here on my little corner. Thanks for your support and prayers. And I mean that.


Because I don't actually have the brain power at this very moment to figure out when to schedule to post these so that you're actually praying for me the day the events occur I'm just going to post a day ahead of schedule. If that makes sense. (Just go with it.)

SUNDAY
Today is another day of street ministry but in a different community this time.

• Pray again for the Lord to use us as He has gifted us.
• Pray for clear and concise words and receptive hearts.
• Pray that God would be honored in our attitudes and actions towards each other and the community.
• And pray that God would give us eyes to see the work that He is doing in these communities. That we would be encouraged by the smallest sign of God's hand moving to draw people to Himself.

Tonight there will be dinner and dancing. I'm in the understanding that its traditional Indian dancing. Very FUN! I have a tendency when things are ending to want to withdraw to make leaving easier. Pray that I would not do this. Pray that I would stay and engage with the people that I've come to know and value as friends, even if that does make leaving in the morning a little more difficult.

Day 8

So I had this brilliant idea to keep y'all updated about the events of the day, everyday, so you knew how you could be praying specifically. In a perfect world I dream of writing daily and posting pictures. The reality is that for better or for worse I am a procrastinator (ex1. On my awesome 2 week countdown, I had planned to begin writing these like first thing. Instead, its the day I leave a few hours before I get picked up.) It just is what it is. Also, I really like the idea of actually being present in the moment. If I'm always thinking of how I'll share that moment I'll actually miss out on the moment itself. Know what I mean? So with that, I leave you a little prayer guide, scheduled to be posted daily right here on my little corner. Thanks for your support and prayers. And I mean that.



Because I don't actually have the brain power at this very moment to figure out when to schedule to post these so that you're actually praying for me the day the events occur I'm just going to post a day ahead of schedule. If that makes sense. (Just go with it.)

SATURDAY
Today we do door to evangelism. I'm in the understanding that this looks very different than what we might think of as door to door evangelism. South East Asians are relationship driven people (like most people actually) and respond better to the gospel message when in that context. This opportunity will be a time to build those relationships with people.

• Pray for genuine relationships to be built that are sustainable through regular contact through email or with people already serving this area.
• Pray for gentle boldness when asked pointed questions.
• Pray also that we would be aware of cultural norms and not be offensive in any way to the families we will visit. (ex. not touching dogs, not crossing legs, not putting bible on the floor.)
• Pray that many hearts would be stirred to seek Jesus Christ and be found by Him.

Day 7

So I had this brilliant idea to keep y'all updated about the events of the day, everyday, so you knew how you could be praying specifically. In a perfect world I dream of writing daily and posting pictures. The reality is that for better or for worse I am a procrastinator (ex1. On my awesome 2 week countdown, I had planned to begin writing these like first thing. Instead, its the day I leave a few hours before I get picked up.) It just is what it is. Also, I really like the idea of actually being present in the moment. If I'm always thinking of how I'll share that moment I'll actually miss out on the moment itself. Know what I mean? So with that, I leave you a little prayer guide, scheduled to be posted daily right here on my little corner. Thanks for your support and prayers. And I mean that.



Because I don't actually have the brain power at this very moment to figure out when to schedule to post these so that you're actually praying for me the day the events occur I'm just going to post a day ahead of schedule. If that makes sense. (Just go with it.)

FRIDAY
Today is a free day. Sightseeing and such.

• Pray that this would be a good time to engage with other group members and really get to cultivate lasting friendships.
• Pray that I find great deals in buying meaningful gifts!!!
• Pray for our safety as we use the transportation system.
• Also, pray that I would have time to ponder about what the Lord is doing in my heart and journal about it.

Happy almost Friday to you! Thanks for praying me through a whole week!

Day 6

So I had this brilliant idea to keep y'all updated about the events of the day, everyday, so you knew how you could be praying specifically. In a perfect world I dream of writing daily and posting pictures. The reality is that for better or for worse I am a procrastinator (ex1. On my awesome 2 week countdown, I had planned to begin writing these like first thing. Instead, its the day I leave a few hours before I get picked up.) It just is what it is. Also, I really like the idea of actually being present in the moment. If I'm always thinking of how I'll share that moment I'll actually miss out on the moment itself. Know what I mean? So with that, I leave you a little prayer guide, scheduled to be posted daily right here on my little corner. Thanks for your support and prayers. And I mean that.



Because I don't actually have the brain power at this very moment to figure out when to schedule to post these so that you're actually praying for me the day the events occur I'm just going to post a day ahead of schedule. If that makes sense. (Just go with it.)

THURSDAY
We're doing street ministry. I have NO idea what this includes, but I tell you I anticipate this day with fear and trembling.

• Pray that all 43 members of our team would have a distinct confidence in the gospel of Jesus Christ.
• Pray that where there is spiritual warfare God would protect and sustain us, girding us with the peace and power of His presence.
• Pray that seeds would be planted and in due time reap a harvest.
• Also, I imagine that I'll be missing my family a bit by day 6. Pray that the Lord would focus my heart on the work He's doing and and bring peace and comfort to potentially lonely places.

There is a concert of prayer in the evening. How great does that sound! Pray that hearts and minds would not be distracted from what the Lord desires to speak into during this time.

Day 5

So I had this brilliant idea to keep y'all updated about the events of the day, everyday, so you knew how you could be praying specifically. In a perfect world I dream of writing daily and posting pictures. The reality is that for better or for worse I am a procrastinator (ex1. On my awesome 2 week countdown, I had planned to begin writing these like first thing. Instead, its the day I leave a few hours before I get picked up.) It just is what it is. Also, I really like the idea of actually being present in the moment. If I'm always thinking of how I'll share that moment I'll actually miss out on the moment itself. Know what I mean? So with that, I leave you a little prayer guide, scheduled to be posted daily right here on my little corner. Thanks for your support and prayers. And I mean that.



Because I don't actually have the brain power at this very moment to figure out when to schedule to post these so that you're actually praying for me the day the events occur I'm just going to post a day ahead of schedule. If that makes sense. (Just go with it.)

WEDNESDAY
What! I've been here five days already! Today we're doing prayer and cultural exploration in an Indian community nearby.

• So I don't know what all this entails but I know we'll be in the streets just engaging in conversation with people. Pray that our group would not be a hindrance to the gospel. We Americans can be a little obnoxious sometimes and I pray that we don't turn people off or away from even wanting to enter into conversations with us.
• I suppose the prayer would more be that God would help us each to be uniquely who we are and use that to His glory even in the simple task of talking with people.
• It's super rainy and dreary these days. Pray that spirits would still be high and that I personally would have motivation. Rainy days make me want to cuddle up and escape the world a bit. Pray that instead I would be invigorated by the rain, having eyes to see those God would desire me to talk to.

Day 4

So I had this brilliant idea to keep y'all updated about the events of the day, everyday, so you knew how you could be praying specifically. In a perfect world I dream of writing daily and posting pictures. The reality is that for better or for worse I am a procrastinator (ex1. On my awesome 2 week countdown, I had planned to begin writing these like first thing. Instead, its the day I leave a few hours before I get picked up.) It just is what it is. Also, I really like the idea of actually being present in the moment. If I'm always thinking of how I'll share that moment I'll actually miss out on the moment itself. Know what I mean? So with that, I leave you a little prayer guide, scheduled to be posted daily right here on my little corner. Thanks for your support and prayers. And I mean that.


Because I don't actually have the brain power at this very moment to figure out when to schedule to post these so that you're actually praying for me the day the events occur I'm just going to post a day ahead of schedule. If that makes sense. (Just go with it.)

TUESDAY
Today we visit a Mosque and Gurdwara.

• Pray that similar to yesterday, my eyes and heart would be opened to see the the lost in this culture. That I would be moved so greatly by a deep love for them and a desire to see them know YAHWEH as LORD.
• We participate in classes during the day as well. Pray that God's word wouldn't fall on deaf ears as we learn how to serve Him among the various religions.
• Also, I know that Lord will be answering some MAJOR questions I have, would you pray that I have time to think, process, and journal through some of those answers. And that the day wouldn't escape me.

I hope your week is going well! Thanks so much for praying with and for me while I'm away!

Day 3

So I had this brilliant idea to keep y'all updated about the events of the day, everyday, so you knew how you could be praying specifically. In a perfect world I dream of writing daily and posting pictures. The reality is that for better or for worse I am a procrastinator (ex1. On my awesome 2 week countdown, I had planned to begin writing these like first thing. Instead, its the day I leave a few hours before I get picked up.) It just is what it is. Also, I really like the idea of actually being present in the moment. If I'm always thinking of how I'll share that moment I'll actually miss out on the moment itself. Know what I mean? So with that, I leave you a little prayer guide, scheduled to be posted daily right here on my little corner. Thanks for your support and prayers. And I mean that.



Because I don't actually have the brain power at this very moment to figure out when to schedule to post these so that you're actually praying for me the day the events occur I'm just going to post a day ahead of schedule. If that makes sense. (Just go with it.)

MONDAY
Today the rest of the team arrives and we visit a Hindu Temple.

• Pray that the team all gets here safely and able to function as they just jump right into LEAP week.
• Pray that as we visit the Hindu Temple my eyes would be open to see how I should be praying for these people and engaging with them in conversation.
• Pray that my heart would be burdened with them. That I would be moved with much compassion to desire to see them know the Lord.

Day 2

So I had this brilliant idea to keep y'all updated about the events of the day, everyday, so you knew how you could be praying specifically. In a perfect world I dream of writing daily and posting pictures. The reality is that for better or for worse I am a procrastinator (ex1. On my awesome 2 week countdown, I had planned to begin writing these like first thing. Instead, its the day I leave a few hours before I get picked up.) It just is what it is. Also, I really like the idea of actually being present in the moment. If I'm always thinking of how I'll share that moment I'll actually miss out on the moment itself. Know what I mean? So with that, I leave you a little prayer guide, scheduled to be posted daily right here on my little corner. Thanks for your support and prayers. And I mean that.


Because I don't actually have the brain power at this very moment to figure out when to schedule to post these so that you're actually praying for me the day the events occur I'm just going to post a day ahead of schedule. If that makes sense. (Just go with it.)

SUNDAY
Hey there! My flight arrives at 9 this morning and as luck would have it (actually such a mercy from the Lord) I don't have to take a cab or the bus, cause you know I would have been panicking about that as well, but I'm getting picked up by some new to me friends. I'm here a day early so today is light prayer day. :)

• Pray that I would adjust to the time difference well.
• Pray that I would also be able to enjoy this day and get to know these friends I've heard so much about!
• And not that it's ever hard for me because I love it so(!!!!) would you pray that I sleep well tonight so I'm ready for the adventure that begins tomorrow!
• Also pray that I would have some quiet time with the Lord to quiet my heart and mind before the week begins.

Thanks so much for praying along with me! I sooooo appreciate it!

~Ang

Day 1

So I had this brilliant idea to keep y'all updated about the events of the day, everyday, so you knew how you could be praying specifically. In a perfect world I dream of writing daily and posting pictures. The reality is that for better or for worse I am a procrastinator (ex1. On my awesome 2 week countdown, I had planned to begin writing these like first thing. Instead, its the day I leave a few hours before I get picked up.) It just is what it is. Also, I really like the idea of actually being present in the moment. If I'm always thinking of how I'll share that moment I'll actually miss out on the moment itself. Know what I mean? So with that, I leave you a little prayer guide, scheduled to be posted daily right here on my little corner. Thanks for your support and prayers. And I mean that.

Because I don't actually have the brain power at this very moment to figure out when to schedule to post these so that you're actually praying for me the day the events occur I'm just going to post a day ahead of schedule. If that makes sense. (Just go with it.)

Saturday

It's the big day. My flight leaves later this afternoon and I couldn't be more excited or feel less prepared in every way. The reality is though that I am prepared. I've packed well. I've prayed well. I've read what I need to. God's word has been perfectly timed to encourage my heart in areas I need it most. And now I go.
Here's how you can pray for me today:

• traveling alone eek! I fancy myself a pretty observant person but in an airport I feel I could get turned around easily. Pray that I would get to every place that I need to be smoothly and with time to spare. 
• pray for my anxiety as well! When I get super anxious (lots of potential for that today) I get hyper emotional (as though I'm not there already) and who needs a blubbering lost woman on their hands today. No one that's who!
• pray also that I would be able to sleep on the plane to transition to the time change better. Also that I'd be able to wake up easily from the sleeping aid I'll be taking. (I guess the sleeping part isn't what I need prayer for it's the waking up!)
• And then pray of course that my luggage, Mr. Prodi, arrives safe and sound. It's his last go around. (We found mustache duct tape. I mean, what else did you expect me to do with it. I needed to have my red bag set apart just a bit. Mission accomplished.) 

That's about it for today! Happy days to you!

~Ang