pngbound

My new Address

2010-02-24T06:56:00.000-08:00

Here is my new blog address: www.mexicobound10.blogspot.com

Adios

2010-02-24T06:53:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone,
Sorry it's been so long since I last wrote on here. This is to say that I'm leaving this blog. I figure since I already went to PNG and 2009 has come and gone that perhaps I should make a new blog telling what I'm doing with my life and where I'm planning to go... Thank you all so much for sticking with me through my journey to Papua New Guinea. You are such blessings to me. We will see where the Lord leads from here.
"Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way. The Lord be with you all." 2 Thessalonians 3:16. God bless you all!

PNG Pictures Part 4

2009-10-15T13:23:00.000-07:00

I had the amazing opportunity to visit my friends, the Van Der Deckers on West Britain Island. I have written about this family before. They played a major part in my decision to go to PNG and have helped me immensely in my journey to go to PNG. I got to fly in a 9 passenger plane that was very fun. I spent 3 amazing days in Lavalus with the Van Der Deckers and the national believers there. We got to worship with the believers. I didn't understand a word once they switched from Pidgin to their tribal language. The service was maybe 2 hours and then we had a popcorn party and a christian singsing. On Monday we visited several literacy schools and the team went river tubing. The visit went way to fast but I'm so blessed and will treasure the memories forever.

PNG Pictures Part 3

2009-10-15T13:14:00.000-07:00

Here's my language helper, Uriso. This is her baby James. The girls are making a bilum which is a purse.

PNG Pictures Part 2

2009-10-15T13:06:00.001-07:00

Here are some pictures of the mumu we had with some nationals. We ate lamb, greens and sweet potato. It was cooked in a pit in the ground that had dirt piled on top of it. I also let a banana spider crawl all over me. It was a fun day and was topped off with a huge rain storm.

PNG Pictures Part 1

2009-10-15T12:36:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of my time in PNG. It was an amazing time for sure. I miss it immensely but know that I'm where God has me for now.

Facing my Greatest Fear!!!

2009-09-11T17:16:00.000-07:00

Hey,
So you all know that I am terrified of snakes, right? Well, I had 3 fears in going to PNG, my biggest being snakes. I was so scared that God would trap me somewhere where I wouldn't be able to run and He'd put a snake in with me and I'd be forced to get over my fear. Well, thankfully He didn't. Actually, I didn't see any snakes while I was Interface. But, toward the end of our trip, the team broke up into 3 smaller teams and went to different tribes in PNG. God worked it out so that I could visit the Van Der Deckers in Lavalus which is just a God thing because there'd have been no other way to see them unless He worked it out. So we got to Lavalus and I stayed with Nellie, an MK who's parents were in Hoskins for a few days. After I found out where I was sleeping she was like, "Oh, I hope you don't mind but I have a little pet..." Yes, it was a green tree python. So I had to sleep with that.... thing for 3 nights. On our last night at Lavalus, I was joking with the Van Der Deckers that I might hold the snake in the morning, not really believing I would. But I was thinking about it and I was like, why not? So I did and I'm still terrified of snakes but not as bad as I once was, Praise the Lord!

I'm Back!

2009-09-07T12:22:00.000-07:00

Ok,
I've been back for almost a month and am just now updating this thing! I'm bad... The trip was very good for me. I learned soooo much and grew alot in the Lord. I'm going to upload a video of my presentation soon so I won't be saying much right now. But the Lord is amazing. Oh-- I'm also doing college now. I'm taking Cell Biology, Environmental Chemistry, Spanish 102, and Algebra I so please pray for me. I'm having a hard time learning biology and I need good grades to get into the nursing program. Thanks so much!

Last Post

2009-07-01T06:53:00.000-07:00

Ok,
So this is gonna be my last post for awhile. I'm leaving in about 17 hours for the airport. So this time tomorrow morning I'll hopefully be on my way to LA. I can't believe this is the last day home for a month and a half! It seems so unreal to me. I'm finished with all my packing pretty much except for rearranging things so I can just concentrate on spending time with my family and friends today. Please pray for my team as they are all probably making last minute preparations too. I'm so excited to meet everyone but also really nervous. Please pray also that we will bond quickly and that everyone will get along well. Thank you all for praying for me all this time. I appreciate it so incredibly much! Have a great summer and don't forget to write me at: itf.abby.case@ntm.org.pg. Also, tell me about how your summer is going and what you're doing. Ok, this girl out for 5 weeks!

Fun with the Medinas

2009-06-27T19:53:00.001-07:00

Tonight we had the Medina family and Kristy over for a Mexican BBQ. It was delicious and we had so much fun! I'm posting some picures of the night. The top one is us girls and the boys being silly, then Jason "driving" the RV, then him with Gretchen, then me with Dominic and Gretchen, then Elizabeth and Jason on the trampoling, then a great picture of the whole family, then Elizabeth and the boys with Kristy, then Mom and me and Jason watching everyone jump, then Kristy jumping with the boys, and finally, Jose and Elizabeth who cooked us an amazing meal! It was a great night. God has been bringing new people into our lives and it's so cool to build new relationships! God is great for sure!

7 Days Away!!!

2009-06-25T09:21:00.000-07:00

Ok,
It's official: I'm freaked out right now because the trip that I've been waiting to go on for 7 years is now only 7 days away!!!! There's so much last minute stuff to do still. God is so good, though. He's guiding and directing me through all of this. The other day, I was reading in Philippians 4 and came across these verses:
"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
Those verses encouraged me so much. It's amazing how you can read a verse 1,000 times, but just when you need it most, God uses it to speak to you.
We have had a chance this week to reconnect with some missionary friends so that's been great fun. My sister Katy is coming home from training week at Lamoka camp tonight. I can't wait to see her! Please continue to pray for me and my team. Thanks so much!

11 Days!!!

2009-06-20T19:28:00.000-07:00

Wow-- it's getting closer and closer and closer!!! Sometimes I have to ask myself if this is really happening. Am I really going to Papua New Guinea for 5 weeks? I have been crazy busy trying to get things ready for my trip. Today I went clothes shopping and bought some much needed shirts. All I need to get now are some pictures to take with me and some yummy snacks to munch on the plane =)
Overall, I've been doing ok. These past few days I've felt extremely sick and haven't really eaten a whole lot. But today I'm feeling better. This trip has my emotions in a jumble for sure! But God is much bigger than my emotions and worries ever could be and He will take care of me!
I won't be traveling alone to LA which is a huge blessing since I've never flown before. Two heads are always better than one. It's so exciting to think about meeting my team! God will work amazing things in and through us this summer I think. Thanks so much for praying for me and please don't stop!!! My email address for the summer will be: itf.abby.case@ntm.org.pg. So if anyone wants to email me, I'd love to hear from you!

2 Weeks!!!

2009-06-17T11:33:00.000-07:00

So many emotions are running through me at this moment. My trip is in two weeks and there is so much to do. So much to think and pray about! I am surprised at my emotions and thoughts concerning this trip. I thought that I would be ecstatic and chomping at the bit to get out of NY and go to PNG. But as my trip gets closer and closer, I'm getting more and more nervous and aprrehensive. I want to go; there's no doubt in my mind that this is where the Lord wants me this summer. But things are going on at home that I don't want to miss either. My sister and 4 really good friends are all working at a christian camp this summer together. I feel that I won't fit in when I get back. That they'll have such incredible memories that they can share and remind each other of and I won't. I mean, I know I'm gonna make amazing memories but I won't be able to share them with others. I will, but not like they'll have experienced it. The devil is trying to get me down with these thoughts and it's not good. Please pray for me that I will not be depressed and worried about this trip but that I will be used by the Lord for incredible things.
Mom and I went shopping for my trip yesterday and bought almost everything I need. It's really exciting!! The guy I'm flying to LA with has never flown either so it should be interesting to see how we manage the airport together =)The countdown's getting closer!!! So exciting. Thanks for praying for me.

17 Days 'Til PNG!!!!

2009-06-15T18:18:00.000-07:00

Ok, my trip is getting really close! Only 17 more days!!! I got my itinerary and pictures of my teammates recently. It's so cool to see the people that I've been praying for. I'm departing from Buffalo, NY's airport on July 2 at 6:10 AM which means we have to be at the airport around 4:00 AM. Ugh! Then I'm flying to Atlanta, GA then to LA where I'll meet my team. We'll leave LA at around 11:00 PM that same night for PNG. A praise is that a college student from NY is flying with me so I won't have to navigate Atlanta alone. I've never flown before and get confused really easily so if you could pray for me that I'd get through the airports without any trouble. It seems so unreal to me that I'm leaving in less than 3 weeks! I've wanted to do this since I was 10, so why the apprehension? But the Lord is so faithful to me and He will take care of me and my teammates.
Onto other news. Well, not really news, just a recitation of what our family's been up to lately. This weekend was really busy. We had some friends over and went to a graduation party. We also cleaned up some of our church property that was really overgrown and even hung a swing up! Here are some pictures:

A Week With Colorado Family

2009-06-09T09:48:00.000-07:00

This week, our family from Colorado came out for a visit. We've had alot of fun. We went to Niagara Falls, Letchworth State Park, and did alot of jumping on the trampoline. I'm so thankful for my family! They're leaving tomorrow. Here are some pictures of their visit:

A Busy Weekend

2009-06-01T10:58:00.001-07:00

Hey All!
THis weekend has been packed with fun stuff. I attended a dear friend's graduation from high school Friday. Is was so sweet! THen some friends spent the night. We stayed up 'til 2:30 AM talking. Saturday, we went to the park and witnessed again. IT was very nice. Here are some pictures:

A Blog Tour

2009-05-28T14:37:00.000-07:00

Hey All!
I am very excited to be able to post some information about BJ Higgins.

About the Authors:

As an ordained minister and youth pastor, Brent Higgins continues the faith journey his son, BJ, began a few years ago. He currently serves as Vice President of International Operations for Awe Star Ministries, a Christian nonprofit organization committed to equipping believers for life, speaking to more than 25,000 people each year.

As an accomplished musician and elementary school music teacher, Deanna Higgins opens the next chapter of BJ's missionary work by serving alongside her husband to lead mission trips for Awe Star Ministries. Brent and Deanna now reside in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

About the Book:

(Tulsa, OK) - "It's an honor just to be nominated": familiar words for Emmy and Grammy nominees. Still, Brent and Deanna Higgins never believed the phrase would pertain to their family. Outreach magazine has recently honored the Higgins' book, I Would Die for You, with a nomination as Outreach Resource of the Year.

That nomination, however, came with a great cost. I Would Die for You chronicles the life and death of their young son, BJ Higgins; along with his faith; his passion for missions and his love for God. Compelling excerpts from personal notes, blog entries school assignments and journals reveal his clear calling and enthusiasm for sharing the gospel of Christ. BJ's challenging words and example combine to inspire readers of all ages.

After returning from his second short-term international mission trip at the age of 15, BJ became seriously ill. Six days before his sixteenth birthday, he died. His story lives on throughout the pages of his parents' book.

In spite of the inevitable grief , Brent and Deanna share their son's message of selfless sacrifice through both I Would Die for You and Awe Star Ministries, the nonprofit ministry that coordinated his mission trips. Their prayer? That countless others will embrace BJ's vision and give their all for the cause of Christ.

What Teenagers are Saying:

BJ was just a year younger than me, and in his short life he had such a full life and could die with no regrets. He had a sense of urgency in telling the story of the gospel and its transforming power to others. He didn't worry about what they thought or if he would be rejected.

--T. Buse

Bonus Content

The New Normal: Facing Life after a Child's Death

by Marti Pieper

"Dad, I know you're scared. I believe the Lord will deliver me through this. But if he doesn't, I'm going home to be with him, and that's okay with me."--BJ Higgins, August 5, 2005

Brent and Deanna Higgins clung to these valiant words throughout their son's six-week hospitalization. BJ became ill with a mysterious infection after he returned from his second mission trip to Peru. His death on September 26, 2005, days before his sixteenth birthday, ushered their family (Brent, Deanna, and two college-aged daughters) into what they called the new normal: life without their beloved son and brother. The new normal also meant life without one who served as a role model for many, including his own family members. BJ's story and message of passionate obedience to Christ are chronicled in his parents' best-selling book, I Would Die for You: One Student's Story of Passion, Service, and Faith (Revell, 2008).

How do Brent and Deanna survive the new normal? The Higgins point to their relationship with God as the key. "The level of intimacy one truly has in a relationship with Christ is often reflected through the time of pain, suffering, and loss," says Brent, now vice president for international operations for their son's sending agency, Awe Star Ministries. He and Deanna recommend that others who face the loss of a child draw near to God. "When you do, He promises to draw near to you," Brent explains.

Drawing near to other people is important, too, Deanna says. "It helped to talk to other people about him, to remember who he was. Initially, just holding onto the people around us helped a lot."

Today, the Higgins lead teams of young missionaries like their son to take the Gospel of Christ to people around the world. More recently, God has opened the doors for ministry to others who have lost a child. "No two losses are exactly alike regardless of similar circumstances," says Brent. "I encourage parents to seek the Lord because He always listens."

"Everyone goes through it differently," says Deanna. "We each grieve in our own way, but God can handle our anger. He can handle anything." She urges other hurting parents to recognize the hope beyond their pain. "If you look, you'll find ways He's showing you He cares. He's showing you He's with you through it."

God's presence doesn't eliminate loneliness, however. The Higgins both admit that their work with students often brings back bittersweet memories of their son. "Certain students remind me of BJ in their passion for Christ, their hunger to know more," Brent says. At times, both Brent and Deanna find comfort in their son's journals (excerpted in the book) as well as videos and pictures of him. Music, an integral part of their family life, also serves as a source of strength.

Connecting with God and with others, especially young people like their son, helps them cope. Deanna says the loss of her son has left her more open to see the potential of these young men and women. Brent adds, "Before BJ passed, the things I taught were less experiential and more intellectual. The things the Lord has allowed me to walk through since that time have increased my own intensity and passion for seeing students truly understand what God calls them to do."

As part of a passionate declaration in one of his journals, BJ wrote, "It's time to raise a revolution. God will give me the strength." For his parents, the new normal means a commitment to extend his legacy--even when it hurts.

Blog Tour Questions:

1. Describe how BJ became involved in short-term mission trips. How did these trips impact BJ’s faith?

BJ watched other members of our family participate in church mission trips. He couldn’t wait for his turn! When Brent led a team to Kentucky to serve in a school, BJ went along. At age fourteen, he learned of an opportunity to minister in Peru. He served there with Awe Star Ministries two consecutive summers and his heart broke over the world’s lostness. His mission service ignited a passion to see the Gospel reach the nations.

2. Even as a young boy BJ’s passion for God shone through in his life. How did you see that passion then and as he grew?

In his childhood, his passion sometimes came across as judgmental. When he learned to share out of love, his witness became much more effective. He was bold and unafraid to share the Gospel in any way possible. After his mission trips, his heightened passion led him to spend more time in the Word, in prayer, in fellowship, and worship. BJ could turn almost any conversation to the things of God because he genuinely loved others.

3. Share the story of BJ’s illness and the time when God called him home.

Three weeks after his 2005 Peru trip, BJ became critically ill. On the way to the hospital, he told Brent, “Dad, I know you’re scared. I believe the Lord will deliver me through this. But if he doesn’t, I’m going home to be with him, and that’s okay with me.” Friends began a blog we still maintain, http://www.prayforbj.com/. It received thousands of hits as people across the world prayed for our son. After a six-week battle with a mysterious infection, BJ went to heaven days before his sixteenth birthday.

4. How did BJ’s faith journey become the inspiration for the song, “I Would Die For You” written by MercyMe’s lead singer, Bart Millard?

Within a week of BJ’s hospitalization Bart (a friend from the band’s early years) called Brent. Our oldest daughter had posted some of BJ’s journal entries on our blog and Bart was amazed at his spiritual depth. He emailed fans encouraging them to pray. MercyMe grieved deeply when BJ died. Our son’s life and writings inspired Bart to put words to a tune he already had, now the final song on the “Coming Up to Breathe” CD.

5. BJ’s life and death have touched many people. Which of his qualities and/or experiences seems to impact others the most?

People didn’t realize it was possible to live a life as sold out to Christ as BJ’s. They’re amazed at the boldness he showed when God told him to witness to four Peruvian policemen carrying uzis. As he wrote, he was “mucho scardios,” but all four accepted Christ. His passionate declaration, “I will not be satisfied. I will not let my passion be hid in a bottle” still touches people in deep ways.

6. As you both continue to partner with Awe Star Ministries, what are your hopes and dreams for this ministry? For this book?

We hope to impact students’ lives, discipling and partnering with them in missions. We long for them to realize that surrender to Christ can occur without crossing borders. God calls us to live a missionary lifestyle within our own culture. Our hope for the book is not that our son be glorified but that God multiply his message. We pray that God draws those who read it to embrace their Savior and live for Him as never before.

7. Where can readers learn more about BJ and I Would Die For You? Where can they learn more about Awe Star Ministries?

http://www.prayforbj.com/ contains devotionals, complete archives, pictures, and BJ’s own words. Recently, we posted a video of his life at www.youtube.com/watch?v=gRNANk5rI2g. You’ll find I Would Die for You anywhere Christian books are sold. http://www.revellbooks.com/ contains a link for a free companion Bible study. Friend us on Facebook: Brent A. Higgins; Deanna Tucker Higgins.

Visit http://www.awestar.org/ to learn more about international missions opportunities. May God use you to extend BJ’s passion to reach the nations and “raise a revolution” in Him.

Parenting Tips from the Higgins

▪ Stay in the Word and in prayer if you expect your children to do so. Too many times, parents expect that the youth pastor is going to grow their children. You can’t expect your kids to live a lifestyle you’re not.

▪ Be sure you have a firm answer from God before you respond to your child about a request. For example, when BJ first wanted to serve overseas, our initial answer was “no,” but that was a knee-jerk reaction. Parents must be careful to hear from the Holy Spirit and not respond out of pure protectiveness or emotion.

▪ If at all possible, have a regular devotional time with your family. This should include prayer, not just rote prayer but significant time with God. This teaches kids how to pray and encourages them in their walk with the Lord

▪ Arrange to have dinner together as a family as often as you can. This gives you an opportunity to share as a family and also allows you to listen to your children. Kids won’t spill unless parents are willing to listen.

▪ Don’t be afraid to let your children fail. Sometimes kids need to try things and learn that failure is a part of life. They need all kinds of experiences as they move into adulthood.

▪ Encourage your children to be bold in their faith. Do activities as a family—mission trips and other projects—that require boldness. Encourage them to be involved in opportunities to share their faith.

▪ Listen, listen, and listen to your children. We say this humbly because we learned from our mistakes. Often your kids are telling you things by what they don’t tell you. (See the note about having dinner together above).

▪ When discouraging things happen, don’t remove your child’s opportunities to obey God. Your child’s relationship with God should never be used as a weapon. Opportunities for fellowship(youth group, etc.) shouldn’t be contingent on “good” behavior.

▪ If you make a commitment, follow through. If your child makes a commitment, help him or her follow through on it, too. The lesson here: your faithfulness sets an example for others.

Weekend Happenings

2009-05-23T18:09:00.000-07:00

This weekend has been so full of events both good and sad. On Thurday, Danny and I went with some friends go karting and stayed out 'til pretty late talking and laughing in the parking lot of the go karting place. Pretty fun! Then Friday, our we went to Night at the Museum 2 with the Ralstons and said goodbye for at least 2 years to the Ralstons. It was a bummer but I'm so happy for them. Please pray that their transition to Congo will be a smooth one. We got home around 2 PM and 2 friends were waiting for us. They spent the night and Cesar came over for dinner. He's going back to MExico for good in December. I'll miss him alot. Please pray for his salvation so he can take the Gospel back to Morelos. The stars were incredibly bright last night by the way! Then we went to the park today and took my graduation pictures. Scary, huh! We got to witness to some young teens at the park. It was really cool. We didn't really share the Gospel with them alot. We gave them some tracts and started building relationships with them. Please pray that the seeds that were planted today will blossom and bloom into full fledged relationships with the Lord Jesus Christ. Our God is amazing!

Bittersweet moments...

2009-05-17T17:58:00.000-07:00

Today was very emotional for me. Our friends are leaving for Congo this week and tonight was their last church service with us for 4 years! I was doing fine until the song "Pray for Me" by Michael W. Smith was played. That's when I totally lost it and sobbed my eyes out! That song gets me every stinkin' time I hear it! It's cool to see how the Lord has been working in the Ralston's lives since 2006. They are going to Congo, Africa to help with Pioneer Christian Hospital. Art will be the maintenance man and Danielle will be doing administrative work for the hospital. Please pray for them. I love them so, so much and am very happy to see them excited about leaving. It's killin' me though!

Monday Happenings

2009-05-12T06:19:00.000-07:00

As you all know, this past weekend has been incredibly draining for my family and extended family. Yesterday, we were at the Lutzes house. We were all having problems and us Cases had to leave at 3 PM. Well, the minutes were slipping by so Erik called us together and said that we should pray together. Jenny suggested that we all go around and say one thing that we'd like prayer for about the car accident. So we all went around and said what was on our hearts. When we got to Katy, she said she wasn't feeling good at all and could we please go home. She was very listless and could hardly sit up. So Erik prayed for her, then Mrs. Lutz, Cody, and Jenny took her to the ER. Danny, Erik and I just watched the van pull out then Erik prayed again. I felt so helpless and useless. So I went outside and prayed, then came and found Christy who was very upset and tried to comfort her. Then we all just waited around for about 2 1/2 hours for everyone to get home. Katy's doing fine now. Last night, all the emotions hit me at once and I felt so, so depressed. But a good friend and younger brother called and prayed for me. So today has been going so much better! Praise the Lord.

Sunday Happenings

2009-05-11T06:22:00.000-07:00

Sunday was so awesome!!! I attend a small (50-60 people) church. For years I've been praying that the Lord would grow our church with people, particularly teens and young kids. This past year, God has brought a family with 4 boys to our church, and also some other people! I've been praying for years for this, never really believing that God can do this. Why do I have so little faith all the time? For Papua New Guinea, I'm nearing the end of my needed support. But sometimes, I still find myself asking, "Where's the money now? I need more!" It's so wrong because the Lord has provided over $5,000 without me asking for a cent! Our GOd is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think --Ephesians 3:20. So, don't doubt God and trust Him for all your needs!

An Interesting Weekend

2009-05-09T15:40:00.001-07:00

This weekend has been very interesting for my family and friends. My 3 siblings and 4 friends were coming to my house yesterday and on the way had a 5 hour detour to the ER. They got in a car accident but aside from some bumps, bruises, and scratches, they're all fine. Praise the Lord!!! I wasn't in the car because I had to work but I still got to go to the ER and administer my comforting skills to everyone. God is so gracious to us! 2 weeks ago, 2 teens from my town were killed in a car accident. But my siblings and friends were spared. God would be good even if one or more people had gotten seriously injured or killed. But He protected my family! Jenny and Cody got to use their accident as a witnessing tool last night at Cafe Shiloh. I also got to talk to Jose for about 45 minutes about his life before Mexico, what he wants for his sons, and alot of other things. Really cool!!
So I'm just thankful that my family and extended family (the Lutzes) are ok. Again, PRAISE THE LORD!!!!

Go Karting

2009-05-05T09:37:00.000-07:00

Last night, Danny and I met with some friends and went go karting! I hadn't done it in years and had a blast. Today, I am incredibly sore. I think I pulled a muscle in my leg. I'm also bruised on my shoulder, knee, and back from getting slammed into quite a bit by certain people (Bethany). Then we ate ice cream and dinner. I got to practice my Spanish with everyone. I had a very good time.
Did I mention to everyone that I have been accepted to a community college? My sister and I are applying to physical therapy assistant and nursing programs so we'll get to take some science courses together. I didn't get into the nursing program this year, but hopefully next year I'll be able to. For this year, I'll be taking cell biology, chemistry, algebra, pyschology, 2 Spanish courses, english, sociology, and anatomy and physiology. I'm excited but nervous to leave my high school years behind and start into my college education.
It's so comforting to know that people are praying for me and my journey to PNG and to becoming a full time missionary. Please keep praying!

100%!!!

2009-05-04T10:41:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd tell you all that as of yesterday, I have all my money for PNG!!! God has been so good to me! He provided $5,300 for me without my ever asking anyone for a cent! Now I'm starting to work out small details for my trip like, what kind of luggage to use? I'm only allowed 50 lbs for my checked in bag. And I'm only allowed 1 bag. For my carry on, I'm thinking of taking a backpack and cramming alot into it! For the checked in, I'll probably end up taking a duffel bag. If anyone has a tip or 2 for me about luggage, I'd welcome them!
I can't believe that my trip is in less than 2 months! I'm so excited! Please keep praying for me!

New Look

2009-04-29T09:52:00.001-07:00

Hey All!
Katy accidentally changed my blog around so I have a new, butterfly-looking look (if that makes any sense whatsoever). It takes some getting used to but that's ok.
I have been enjoying this amazing weather lately! I think it's comical that people who have been complaining about the cold all winter have now started to complain about the heat :) Sometimes we humans are never satisfied!
I got an email yesterday about an opportunity to promote a book about BJ Higgins, the 15 year old who went to Peru and died of a disease 5 weeks after getting home. I'm really excited about this and pray that the Lord will use it to glorify Him. I'm supposed to post May 10 so it's not for a little bit.
School is...school. I have mixed feelings about graduating and going to college. I don't want to be a college student yet! I used to think 13 year olds were so old and to be 17 meant you were practically ancient! I'm finding however that I'm not as mature as I should be. God has been really showing me things about what to do with my schooling. As of now, I believe He wants me to go to a community college and get my RN degree before Bible school. He'll continue to guide and direct my steps for the future.
I mentioned about TO Every Tribe Ministries and they have a really cool missions program that is going to be 21 months beginning 2010. I got a magazine from them which has some really thought provoking excerpts from it. Here are some of them:

David Sitton, president of TETM says, "No aspect of mission is more bogged down with extra-biblical baggage than the 'missionary call'. The clear command of Christ 'to go' should be, by itself, sufficient to set you on your way to unreached regions. You can't go wrong by trying to go. Be agressive to go. THe Lord will direct your moving feet."

Here's a statistic that's really shameful from THe Traveling TEam: "According to the Bibles for All the World Prayer Map, American Christians spend 95% of offerings on home-based ministry, 4.5% on cross-cultural efforts in already- reached people groups, and 0.5% to reach the unreached."

Here's another statistic: "There are an estimated 6,400 unreached people groups worldwide, which still need missionaries to plant Christ's church among them."

Why is it that Jesus commissioned us to GO but here we sit? I realize that the Lord gives us ministries at home, but we need to be listening to His voice and be willing to go where He calls us. Ion Keith-Falconer said " I have but one candle of life to burn, and I would rather burn it out in a land filled with darkness than in a land flooded with light."
THere are so many ways to get involved in missions besides actually going! Get a list of your church's missionaries and PRAY! That is the most powerful thing that we can do. As always, thanks for listening to my heart. I pray you all have an amazing day!
Abby
Here is the website for TO Every Tribe Ministries if you want to learn more about their ministry: www.toeverytribe.com.

New Look

2009-04-29T09:51:00.001-07:00

Update

2009-04-20T18:38:00.000-07:00

Hey All!
Sorry it's been so long since I last wrote. All 3 of our computers crashed at the same time so we've been computerless for a while. But my family had a really nice Easter. Katy is doing alot better. She's on a strictish diet and that seems to be helping her alot. Praise the Lord!
I just had my wisdom teeth out last week. Other than swelling and bruising of my jaw, I've had a relatively good recovery.
A really awesome thing happened today that I'd like to share: I have been praying alot about going to a community college for nursing or just getting my LPN degree through a Boces program. I really don't want to go through a year of liberal arts then go to medical school. Anyway, I found out today that the next LPN program doesn't start until December 2010. I really don't believe the Lord wants me to waste 1 1/2 years not going to school so I might as well just go to the community college and get my RN degree. I've also been praying alot about going to To Every Tribe Ministries training program in September of 2010. It's an 8 month hands on training program. There are opportunities to go to Mexico and Papua New Guinea. I'm extremely grateful that the Lord answered my prayer!
On Friday, we were blessed to have a houseful of people. Our Mexican amigos and some other friends came over for dinner because our interpreter for the Bible study is in Mexico. Here are some pictures: The first picture is Jairo, Bethany, and Rudy; all very fun people to hang out with :) The next picture is Tirbercio, Cesar, Roy, and Erik. Cesar is learning guitar and Roy taught him a couple chords. The next picture is Katy playing Candy Land with young Cesar, Antonio, and Dominique. They are the cutest little boys ever!!!! I love them so much. They've been coming to Sunday School at our church for a few months now and are such a blessing. The last picture is their mom and brother, Elisabeth and Jason. All these people are so wonderful to be around. God is blessing our ministry to them in a marvelous way! Thanks for praying for me.

God is Great!

2009-03-24T09:59:00.000-07:00

WE have had a pretty interesting weekend as a family... Mainly Sunday night. My older sister Katy has been having some health problems and Sunday evening she was having alot of trouble breathing. So Dad, Mom, Grandpa Kelley, and Katy all went to Strong Memorial Hospital to get her a breathing treatment. It worked and she's home doing well.
It's neat how when we're experiencing trials, the family of GOd steps up with us... Through the "grapevine" 4 churches heard of Katy's predicament, and countless other people prayed for her... How cool is that!
Please pray that she would get better and that the doctors could figure out what's wrong with her. Thanks so much.

Passion Seminar Results

2009-03-22T13:46:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!
My younger siblings and I had an oppertunity this past weekend to attend a youth seminar in Marilla, NY. It was amazing! God worked in so many ways in our hearts... The pastor talked about our passion (or lack thereof) toward God and things of God. It's almost like a fire has been ignited in our lives to live for God. As I write this, my siblings are singing praises to the Lord. My younger brother especially is really changing which is an answer to pray! So I'm just praising the Lord for this past weekend. It was life changing for me!

A Great Opportunity

2009-03-12T18:19:00.000-07:00

I had a great opportunity last night to share my heart about my desire to go to PNG with our youth group. It was so neat to be able to tell my friends about my trip and how I got saved and everything that goes along with that. It blows my mind that I am saved! Why me? I wonder alot about that... I try not to dwell on it though. God is so awesome!!!! He has been growing our Mexican Bible study. I can't remember if I've written about that yet. We've been having an "amigo", Cesar, over for dinner for 2 years now. He sometimes brought his nephew, Adrian... Anyway, we've been trying to teach them English using the Bible. This past year, God brought a few people into our lives. Kristy has a degree in Spanish and has been translating for Dad into Spanish. Bethany is a lady who goes to our youth group and works with migrants. She's been bringing 3-4 amigos to our Bible study that we've been having every Friday night at Cafe Shiloh. So it's been amazing how God has grown our ministry to the Mexican population in our county. Please pray that more people will come to our Bible study... On average, about 6 men come every Friday night. Thanks for taking an interest in my life! Here's a picture of me and some friends in front of Cafe Shiloh.

Cap Ball

2009-03-09T08:59:00.001-07:00

I went to a Civil Air Patrol Ball this weekend. It was so much fun! I wouldn't call it enchanting, but it was definitely a blast! I went with my friends Jacquelyn and Laura. We had a really good dinner then danced the night away. It also gave us a chance to be beautiful and feel like princesses! Here are some pictures... The first picture is me and Katy. She did all our hair and makeup. The second one is Laura, me and Jacquelyn getting ready some more. The third is me talking to mom while Laura gets goofy. The fourth is me getting makeup put on which was torture :D then the last one is me dreaming about getting beautiful. The pictures are kind of switched around so you can see the finished product first! It was alot of fun and I'm thankful that Jacquelyn invited me.

Reflections

2009-03-01T17:32:00.000-08:00

Hey All!
Wow! It's been awhile since I last wrote (big suprise)! It's weird to think where I'd be if I'd taken a different path. Or in this case, a different missions trip. To Every Tribe Ministries is leaving for PNG tomorrow. As you all know, I first applied to TETM for this missions trip. But, through some events and God's leading, I am going with NTM instead. I'm sure the team would appreciate all your prayers for their safety and effectiveness. God is amazing and I'm sure He will work through this team. Now, I'm getting excited about MY trip, wondering who will be on the team, what I will learn, and what sights I will see. It'll be wonderful! Well, that's what was on my heart. I love to hear from people so please contact me!!! My email is: pngbound9@aol.com. God bless!

Happy New Year Late :D

2009-01-29T17:12:00.001-08:00

Hey Everyone!
Wow-- it has been so long since I updated this blog. For that I apologize. So much has been happening in my life. First of all, Happy New Year almost a month late! Our family had a wonderful holiday and are so blessed. New York has just been dumped with snow lately! Spring, please come quickly :)
I just found out tonight that my friend's dad hit a lady with his car yesterday while driving home in a snowstorm... She died this morning. Life is so short! In the blink of an eye, anyone's life can just be snuffed out! Jesus is Lord, and He hates suffering but because of our sin, there is death. "The wages of sin is death BUT, the gift of God is ETERNAL LIFE through Jesus Christ our Lord". Because of our sin, death entered the world. But Jesus came to take our place... so that we do not have to die and go to Hell. He died so that we can have eternal life with Him and His Father. How exciting is that!?!? It blows my mind that I was born into my family in this country where I have such access to God's Word. Why was I not born in Papua New Guinea, or Congo, or Brazil where people die every single day- every hour or less- without ever hearing about Jesus Christ? Peter Van Der Decker, a missionary to PNG, told a story about how when he and his team first went to PNG, this old man came up to them weeping, and asked them why they had not come sooner? He then pointed to some graves where his father and brothers were buried. He said that they had died without ever hearing "God's Talk". And here I sit in America, in my own comfort zone. I feel so helpless sometimes! It's like, I want to just GO tell tribal people about the LORD!! And I know that I should get Bible training and whatever before I go so that I can better tell the people about Jesus. But I just wish that I could just go RIGHT NOW to PNG and impact these tribal people!
So please pray for these matters:

* That I will be patient... Wait on Jesus to renew my strength

* That I will not be so focused on GOING that I forget about the people around me

Thanks so much for praying for me and my journey to PNG. I appreciate it so much! God bless you all tru!

Today is my physical Birthday!

2008-12-09T12:26:00.001-08:00

Today I am 17 years old! Where does time go? Before I know it, I'll be 18, then 25, then 40.... I guess the Lord is teaching me to live like I'm dying...
I got this book for my birthday called "I would die for You". It's about this 15 year old boy, BJ Higgins who went to Peru on a short term missions trip, got a rare disease, and died 6 weeks after he got home. I couldn't help but wonder why God chose to take him home? Then I got to thinking if I'm willing to die for my Savior. If I got a strange disease, or was captured by terrorrists, or any number of things, would I fight it? Do I consider my life so precious that I'd consider it more important to live, if God wants me Home? It's just gotten me to think about my calling to be a missionary and what people would remember about me if I did die? Would they remember my passion about Jesus? This book is very thought provoking and I recommend it to people who want to be missionaries!

Today is my Birthday!

2008-11-07T12:15:00.001-08:00

Today is my 6th birthday! You all might be going "huh"? so let me explain: 6 years ago today, I was born again. I still remember the night it happened. Let me start from the beginning: I was born into a strong christian family and have gone to church since I was a week old! So I don't have a dramatic testimony like, a reformed drug addict like my dad or a thief or anything like that. I've always been a "good" person. Well, in June 2002, my mom did something that rocked my world: she got saved! She was a pastor's wife, had gone to Bible school, and was good on the outside, but she had never gotten saved. So that really got me thinking about salvation and if I was saved. On November 7, 2002, I was getting ready for bed and scraped my foot really hard on a sharp corner of the bed. I started crying and even after the pain went away I kept sobbing and sobbing. I cried out to God to take away my sins and make me a new person on the inside. I praise the Lord that He so unselfishly died a terrible death on the cross for ME! It blows my mind! If anyone reading this is not saved or is not sure they are, examine yourself! Don't just think you are! Cry out to God for mercy and repent of your sins and believe in Jesus' Christ and His power to save you. You'll never regret it! Have a wonderful day!

It's about time to update this thing!

2008-11-03T06:00:00.001-08:00

Hey all!
I guess I should update this thing right? I can't believe it's November already! Where does the time go? So, November started off pretty interestingly: My sister Katy broke her foot riding Traveler! She was riding bareback up a hill and just slipped off onto her foot. She fractured the bone in the top of her foot! She's in alot of pain still so please pray for her. I have been really busy with school and work so there's not alot more to say that's interesting! I hope you all are doing great! Blessings!

Encouragement!

2008-10-26T10:40:00.000-07:00

Hi All!
So, I'm a part of this NTM mission trip group on Facebook and I stumbled across this guy's blog that is also a member. He went to Interface in 2007 and had the best pictures and movies of PNG. Needless to say, I am really getting excited about my trip! Here is the link to it:http://heretodayandgonetomorrow.blogspot.com/search/label/Interface. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do! I appreciate you all so much!

3 Praises!

2008-10-22T08:14:00.001-07:00

Ok,
so I have 3 really cool praises: First of all, it's snowing in NY right now! I know that is a different sort of praise, but I love this time of year. At work, the Christmas candy is starting to come in and looks so beautiful!
THe second praise is that one of my very dear friends is pregnant! She got married in July and is due in late April! I am so excited for her as you can probably tell:)
The third praise is that my official liscense came in the mail today! Now, I'm really in business! God is so good!
In my last post I was confused and sort of depressed. Now, I'm encouraged in Him! I have been exploring college options and came across a program at a Bible college near my home, Elim Bible Institute. They offer an International missions program with an emphasis on medical missions. During the 2 year program, you get your EMT certification, learn basic skills such as suturing,starting ivs,taking blood, helping with childbirth, disease prevention, and giving physical exams. You also take missions courses, study the Bible, and, one class I'm excited about, teaching English as a second language. An 8 week internship at a hospital in a developing country tops off the program. It sounds like an amazing program but I'm still praying about it and will most likely change my mind a couple times before I reach a decision!
I appreciate you all so much. God bless you all tru!

3 Praises!

2008-10-22T08:14:00.000-07:00

Confused

2008-10-19T13:23:00.000-07:00

Hey all readers!
I am so confused right now about my future as a missionary to Papua New Guinea. I have been so excited about Interface and can't help but wonder how it will change/impact my life! But what I'm confused about is where I should go to college and what path should I pursue: Bible school or nursing? I really don't want to go to a community college and be under the teaching of professors with ungodly views. It's all so CONFUSING!!!! Dad mentioned a verse today in his sermon that probably everyone of you will recognize: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto thine own understanding. In ALL thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6. I don't go to God first for all my concerns and fears and worries. He tends to be the "last resort". I often have the attitude of "Well, I can ONLY pray"! That is so wrong! I need to be seeking His face about my future first before I go to my mom or friends.So please pray for the following things:

*That I will know and be at peace with what GOd wants for my college years

*That I will always seek God FIRST

* That I will continue to trust Him for all my needs and wants

Thanks so much for praying for me! God bless you all!

I Passed!!!!

2008-10-09T12:56:00.001-07:00

Yes, I am now the proud owner of a driver's liscence! It is such a neat feeling to be albe to drive without my dad in the car with me. I totally bombed on parallel parking but that was the only mistake I made. How amazing is my God! So many people were praying that I pass which is a really cool feeling. So, needless to say, I am floating on Cloud 9! I still keep saying, "I can't believe I passed!" Where I took the test is very hard to pass your first time but the instructor was really lenient. He said if I'm anything like his mom, I'll just find a parking garage instead of parallel parking! Mi God i gutpela tru! Blessings to you all!

An Afterthought

2008-10-08T07:11:00.000-07:00

I forgot to say that the name of the movie is Changed, not Flight, although you can obviously watch that one too! Enjoy!

NTM - planting tribal churches : Video - NTM.ORG / VIDEO

2008-10-08T07:10:00.000-07:00

This movie is from New Tribe Mission's website and is what inspired me to check into the Interface program. I hope you all enjoy this as much as I have!
NTM - planting tribal churches : Video - NTM.ORG / VIDEO

My Prayer Cards

2008-10-06T14:06:00.000-07:00

Well, My prayer cards came in the mail today from New Tribes Mission. I am so excited as this is just one other reminder that God will get me to PNG if it is His will regardless of funds or other obstacles. If any of you want a prayer card, just email me at pngbound9@aol.com and I will try to get a card to you. I'm going to begin working on a bi-monthly newsletter about my progress and will probably start sending that out in January. Things are looking so promising! I love hearing from you all. And I have 200 prayer cards to give out so please don't feel shy about asking for one ( or more!). Thanks for your interest in my quest to PNG. I appreciate you all so much. Blessings!

Flying High!

2008-10-03T07:32:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd share a picture of me on Labor Day that Katy took of me jumping on our trampoline. This photo captures how I feel about PNG some of the time. The Lord keeps sending money to me. A pen pal of mine sent $30 recently and told me she is praying for me. How awesome is our God! When I least expect it, the Lord encourages me in some way! It is so weird how I am undecided about my near future. I have always been a girl that knows what I want and take steps to get it. I have wanted to be a missionary nurse to Papua New Guinea for a long time. I had not realized until I started thinking about missions trips and college how many options there are. I am not sure if I should stay for Internship after Interface or go home. I am applying to a community college that starts in August and if I stay for Internship, I will get back not even a week before school starts. Also, some missionary friends of ours are coming home for a few months this next summer and I want to see them. So many DECISIONS!!!!! But the Lord knows what is best for me and is taking care of me. I recently saw a picture with this quote: " Sometimes the Lord calms the storm around His child, but sometimes He just calms the child"! I think that is what He does for me.

Please pray for me:

*That I will continue to seek God's will concerning Interface and Internship

*That I will not worry about my future because God knows!

*I am still praising God for continued provision for my monetary needs. God is great!

Thanks so much for taking an interest in my life. I really appreciate your prayers!

PS. I am taking my driver's test on Thursday and am SO nervous! I'll keep you updated of how I do!

He Cares for me!

2008-09-22T09:17:00.000-07:00

Why do I feel discouraged sometimes! God know my every need and takes care of it in His time. Yesterday was Sunday. I was not feeling discouraged at all but God still chose to bless me in an amazingly awesome way! An individual handed me an envelope with my name on it before Sunday School opening. I didn't have a chance to open it then. After church, another individual pressed a wad of bills in my hand and told me this was their tithe! I didn't see how much that amount was either. So, about 5 hours later, I got to open up the envelope and look at the bills. The amount of money totaled $550! Is God amazing or what? I think my total support is up about $4,300, and I still have almost a year until the trip! Mi God i gutpela tru! Two different people this past week have asked me if I will stay on in PNG after Interface for a 2 week medical internship. I'm still undecided at this point. Yesterday encouraged me so much, though. God is great!
Please pray:

*That God will show me whether to stay on for Internship or go home

* That I will not doubt God's ability to provide my every need

* That, when I get discouraged, I will remember all that God has done for me

Thanks so much for taking an interest in my quest to PNG. I really appreciate it!

Conflict!!!!

2008-09-16T11:37:00.000-07:00

You probably are wary about the title of this post. Don't worry-- it's not what it sounds like!!!! I just want everyone's opinion on our horse's name. Do you like Jesse or Strider? Mom and I and all my coworkers like Jesse but Jenny and Danny like Strider. What do you think? Please post your opinion. Thanks!

Jesse our Horse!!!!

2008-09-15T12:11:00.000-07:00

Well, here he is! Our adorable new horse, Jesse Jay Case! Jesse is the best horse in the entire world!!! He is so loveable( although he is a bit of a pig!) Jesse is a 12 year old quarter horse gelding with a blondish mane and a beautiful tail! There he is in the top picture eating grass in his 4 acre pasture. The next picture is me and my horse. We all are part owners in him. The bottom picture is all us owners: Me, Danny, and Jenny. Katy doesn't own him but she'll still be able to ride him. I thank the Lord for sending Jesse into our lives. He is a perfect horse for us!!!! Thank You, Lord!

I love my job!

2008-09-14T14:19:00.001-07:00

My job at Lantzs is going exceptionally well. I am on my feet for 8 hours straight but it'll be worth it when I get my first paycheck! The Lord is so amazing about sending little things into my life to encourage me. Here's something that happened today: I was getting ready for church and wanted to listen to some music. I almost turned on a favorite tape but instead turned on the radio to my favorite station. All the sudden, my absolute favorite hymn came on: "His Eye is on the Sparrow"! The ironic thing is that I had just been humming that song minutes before! I don't know why that little incident so encouraged me but it did. It put a smile on my lips all through church. Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

The New Look

2008-09-08T13:04:00.000-07:00

So.... how do you all like my new look? Thanks to Katy, I have a beautiful blog. I appreciate her very much. I start my new job at Lantzs tomorrow. I'm so nervous! Please pray that I will be a good worker and not be too overwhelmed. Thanks alot!

The New Look

2008-09-08T13:03:00.001-07:00

Under Construction!!!!!!!

2008-09-07T17:24:00.000-07:00

I, Katy, am taking over abby's blog to custumize it for awhile so if things look a little weird don't worry :)
Later :)

A Plateau of Sorts

2008-09-01T09:26:00.000-07:00

Well, now that I've gotten accepted to Interface, I've reached a plateau of sorts. It doesn't seem that anything important is happening. Funds are starting to slow down for now, I'm not really in contact with anyone from NTM and the trip is almost a year away! But the Lord is as amazing as ever. I'm not complaining because I know that the Lord is moving in awesome ways. I just want to GO!! I guess I have ants in my pants as the expression goes:)
Please Pray:

* That I will be patient and continue to trust the Lord for my needs and wants

* That I will be in prayer about my future as a missionary nurse

Thanks so much! I appreciate your prayers. God Bless!

Darien Lake

2008-08-30T10:56:00.001-07:00

We had a full day at Darien Lake theme park Tuesday! Us Cases, Jacquie, and JD had a blast! The top picutures are Katy and Jacquie on a ride, and all of us eating a gummy snake. The bottom pictures are us eating dinner, and us kids after a LONG day! Katy, Jacquie and I got really sunburned. The picture was taken around midnight! I love Darien Lake and we saw lots of cool things and went on amazingly fun rides!

I'm officially accepted!!!!!

2008-08-21T12:35:00.000-07:00

Well, it's official-- I am now considered part of the Interface 2009 team to PNG! I'm so excited! All I need to do now is send in a scan of my passport and I'm good to go. God is so amazing. Please keep praying for the following things:

* That I will keep my focus on the Lord

* That I will trust and obey His leading

* That the Lord will keep providing for my trip

Thanks so much for praying. I really appreciate it!

My Facebook Badge

2008-08-14T11:10:00.000-07:00

Don't ask why I posted this on my blog because I have no idea:) I just got an account on facebook. It allows me to talk to people that I know but don't hang out with. I've also joined a NTM short term missions group. Maybe I'll be able to talk to people who are going. Which reminds me: I sent in my application to NTM. I'll have to see what the Lord does with it.

Almost Made My Decision!

2008-08-11T06:33:00.000-07:00

Ok, after much deliberation and prayer, I've almost come to a decision. I'm really leaning towards Interface. Just because I would be able to do intensive language study and learn alot about tribal missions from the classroom and from hands on experience. It's also 2 or 3 weeks longer for just a little bit more than TETM. Maybe I will go with TETM sometime later. But right now, I think the Lord is leading me to Interface. Some missionary friends of mine just gave me some great advice: They told me to use the "Red Light, Green Light" method. "Lord, as long as You give me a green light, I'll head in this direction. If You make it yellow, I'll slow down. If You give me red, I'll know You have something else for me." I think that's kind of what I've been doing all along. For ever so long, I've been praying, "Lord, is it Your will for me to go to PNG with TETM in 2009?" God does answer our prayers!

Here are some prayer requests:

*I'm sending out my application to New Tribes today. Please pray that God will continue to guide and direct me as to which direction to take.

* This Interface trip is a bit more expensive than TETM's trip. While I am only about $1, 500 short, I'm not worried because God has been amazing about providing me with money for 2 years. But, I'm human and I get worried. Please pray that I will totally trust in the Lord for all my needs.

*Please pray that I won't lose my focus on Jesus.

Thanks for everyone who prays for me. God bless!

Out of my Comfort Zone!

2008-07-31T12:47:00.000-07:00

Recently, my siblings and I went camping. Not with tents or sleeping bags; real camping. We had one blanket a piece, a sweatshirt to stay warm, and our duffel bags for pillows. As you can tell from the pictures, I am SO not a camping type of girl! The top picture is of our camp. I will admit, it was a pretty good shelter. The next picture is of me and Jen putting up the bathroom. It turned out really nice. The next picture is of us four kids posing by a log we all helped chop in half. We didn't actually use it for firewood, we just wanted to chop it up to say we did. And, the last picture just proves my point that I am not a camping girl. It was taken at around 5:30AM so give me the benefit of the doubt! (Did I mention I'm not a morning person either?) We all had a good time and the trip made me see that I can survive less than desirable conditions. Not that I like it. PNG will be a much bigger challenge than this trip, so I would like you to be praying that I will be able to get in shape before the trip, and not gripe about the conditions. Thanks!

Changed

2008-07-30T11:05:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking about alot of stuff concerning missions lately. I came across a movie from New Tribes Mission called "Changed". It really made me think. It's about a guy who went to NTM's Interface program and was totally changed. He said something that made me think: "It's not about what I want to be, it's about what I'm willing to become". That really struck a cord with me. Anyway... about Interface. It's a 6 week program in the highlands of PNG. It immerses you into tribal missions in the midst of tribes in PNG. In the mornings, classes are done focusing on evangelism and other things. Afternoons are spent in the local village practicing language and other stuff. So, it sounds really cool. I''m praying seriously about going with NTM instead of TETM this next year. It costs about the same.
Prayer Requests:
*Please pray that I will know what to do, in what direction to move, and what steps to take in reaching my goal.

*Please pray that I will keep trusting the Lord with my life. If it starts getting down to crunch time, I so often lose my focus. I don't want that to happen with this trip.

Thanks for praying for me. May the Lord be glorified through my life!

Specific Prayer Requests

2008-07-23T17:58:00.000-07:00

Well, I guess it's about time to post a new post. I have really been thinking about my future as a fulltime missionary nurse. The Lord has really been showing me that my heart's desire is to be a foreign missionary.... not necessarily to get a Bachelor's in nursing before I get to the field.
I'm really confused about my future right now. I'm fast approaching graduation from high school and don't really know what I'm gonna do after that. I know what I want to do, I'm just not sure if my plans line up with God's plans for me.*sigh*
The PNG trip is looking more and more real all the time. God keeps providing the funds. It's cool 'cause I haven't asked for a cent ( except to the Lord). Now, I'm asking that whoever reads this prayer for the following things concerning my PNG trip:

*The most pressing thing is that I will remain totally focused on Christ. That if or when things start getting down to crunch time, I will remember all the times God has been so faithful to provide for this trip.

*If another female student doesn't go on this trip, I will not be able to go. I really feel that the Lord has His hands on this trip, so I'm not that worried about this request....yet.

*The funds keep rolling in for this trip. Praise God!!!! (That's not a request but a praise).

A cool quote from Jim Elliot

2008-05-14T09:24:00.000-07:00

I came across this quote in my literature book and just had to write it on here. It describes my heart's desire. The quote came Shadow of the Almighty: The Life and Testament of Jim Elliot. Here it is:
"You wonder why people choose fields away from the States when young people at home are drifting because no one wants to take time to listen to their problems. I'll tell you why I left. Because those Stateside young people have every opportunity to study, hear, and understand the Word of God in their own language, and these Indians have no opportunity whatsoever. I have had to make a cross of two logs, and lie down on it, to show the Indians what it means to crucify a man. When there is that much ignorance over here and so much knowedge and opportunity over there, I have no question in my mind why God sent me here. Those whimpering Stateside young people will wake up on the Day of Judgment condemned to worse fates then these demonfearing Indians, because having a Bible, they were bored with it- while these never heard of such a thing as writing."
Wow! What a statement! The man who said this was martyred along with four other men in Ecuador. He sacrificed his life for the sake of the Gospel. I wonder, am I willing to give my "precious" life for Jesus Christ?
I want to go to the unreached peoples of the world. I want to introduce them to my Lord. Romans 15:20-21 describes my desire. It says "And so I have made it my aim to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build on another man't foundation, but as it is written: To whom He was not announced they shall see; And those who have not heard shall understand." So many people die every day without ever hearing the saving name of Jesus. In America, we use His name as a cuss word. Sometimes, I feel almost guilty to live in the USA where I have total access to God's Word. Why wasn't I born in the remote jungles of the Congo or on a mountaintop village in Papua New Guinea where there is no knowledge of Jesus? It boggles my mind sometimes. I am so thankful for my salvation. I can hardly wait to look some native in the eye and tell them in their language about my Jesus. What a glorious day that will be!

2008-05-12T11:14:00.000-07:00

Well, this is me and my best friend Gretchen. I suppose I should tell a little bit about myself and the main purpose for this blog. When I was little,like 5 or 6, I wanted to be a ballerina. When I found out I would never be able to do that, I turned my career interest towards being a missionary nurse. Ever since then, whenever I'd hear about other countries, my ears always perked up. In October 2002, a missionary family came to my church from Papua New Guinea. They have 4 boys whom I got to know really well. They told me to come to PNG and they would translate for me and we'd have a really good time. I was only 10 at the time so I thought that sounded like alot of fun. About a month after they left, on November 7, I got saved. Since then, I started focusing mainly on getting to PNG. People teased me that it was just for those boys, but it wasn't and God knew that. In 2005, I asked a couple from my church to get in contact with this family about getting me language materials for the trade language in PNG, tok pisin. THey were very happy to send me a little travel dictionary and over the next 2 years sent me a bigger dictionary, a newspaper and pidgin, and various language materials. I also got a Pidgin Bible which is one of the best presents I've ever received up to this point. In 2006, the missionary family came to our house again. God "called" our family to the missionfield. We thought we were going to PNG or Mexico, but God's ways are not are ways:) We started teaching some Mexicans down the road english via the Gospel. So that is our "mission field" for the time being. Anyway, a couple from my church started supporting me a little bit of money each month for what I call a "PNG Fund". I am now up to a little over $3,000 in support. I'm looking to go on a trip to PNG in 2009 with To Every Tribe Ministries. I've been seeking the Lord's will for a long time concerning this trip. If He wills, I will be going. So many people have supported me by giving money and by praying for me. I have such a wonderful church family. Please continue to pray for me. I will try to keep this updated!

Abigail

New Blog

2008-05-12T10:44:00.000-07:00

Hey!
My name is Abigail Margaret. I am 16 years old. This blog is dedicated to my steps towards a missions trip to Papua New Guinea in February 2009. The Lord has been so faithful in providing for me in tons of ways. I will try to keep this updated.