Surprise- a brief emotional state experienced as the result of an unexpected event.

God has been surprising me left and right. I came back home in December with no plans of a job, uncertainty about the 'next step' in life, and some prayers (including Uganda) not really answered or moved towards any answer. I was praying that I'd get a job by the end of January, that a mentoring opportunity would happen, and that even though it seemed impossible, I'd get to go to Uganda.

After doing the usual 3 Christmases and traveling to see family members and friends, I went to Utah for a pre-getting a new job vacation. The first team meeting for Uganda was held while I was there and more people were interested than there were spots. That wasn't too encouraging, especially since I would be last pick. I kept praying about it until I knew for sure what the outcome would be.

Then I got the best voicemail ever and heard that a lot of people backed out of Uganda and there was room for me! I cried like a dweeb and was SO excited. Went straight into fundraising and have been so surprised by the responses from my family and friends. People I haven't talked to in YEARS are sending me the most encouraging emails and are willing to support me, even though I've failed them as a friend! Distant family friends, people from churches I've attended, CSM groups I hosted, friends who went to Utah with me, dance teammates, summer camp staff, Starbucks employees, etc. It is so cool to see the responses and to see 1) how many people have been brought into my life in different ways and 2) the body of Christ coming together! I know God will provide and I am dependent on him to provide, I'm praying for more and more surprises like that. :)

Also, I've been meeting with a HS girl for Bible study, coffee, prayer, etc. and it has been such a blessing. It is crazy that God would want to use me like that when I have no idea what I am doing. He's giving me the words and ideas though, and so far they have been working out great.

I love surprises. I like scary movies because they are full of (scary) surprises.....but in general I love all surprises. Notes, emails, texts, visits, etc. and God totally knows this and is loving on me so much! He is being gracious to me and exalting himself in it. MMMMM.

Newport Beach, 1.21.12