Window-with-a-View? Coming right up!

Yesterday, I had my second official "church window" in Wisconsin. I'm still getting the hang of this whole itinerating-on-my-own thing. The main thing that I'm focusing on- technically speaking- is talking slower. I'm not really nervous talking in front of people, unless it's to people that I really know and haven't spoken in front of before... that's the most nerve-wracking. But yesterday I was at a church that I've been to many times, I am comfortable with the people, and I know them well enough not to be nervous! I don't get it, but that's how I am. . . Anyway, someone gave my parents some advice for me a couple weeks ago that I should take a deep breath, and slow down when I'm talking.. So I've been working on that- and not just when I'm standing up in front of a crowd- but also in my every-day life!

Anyway, I think it went well- at least I can sing and make people happy with that, hehe ;) I sang a song that I really felt LED to sing, but I wasn't sure it was really missions' oriented.. but turns out, it was! Talked about not going somewhere without God-- and not the idea that He isn't Omnipresent, because He is.. but rather that I want to be where He wants me to be--- because ultimately, I know He has the best plan for my life.. so I choose to seek and find that.

So that's what I'm learning :) And the Pastor (oh, he's my Uncle!) gave me some pointers that I think were good, so I'll keep on refining my "windows" and keep sharing when opportunities arise!

Speaking of opportunities.. Did you know that I am planning to go back to the Netherlands for more of a long-term "assignment".. and that I can't do that without your prayers, and without financial support? And that I'm willing to receive both from you!? :) So.. please think about investing in me and the ministry God has called me to do! And don't get trapped in the thoughts that "___" amount of money won't make a difference.. EverY.. yes, EVERY Bit Counts... Contact me anyway you'd like ok. Here, or "regular" email: aliciathomassen@gmail.com .. no matter what, You Are A Blessing To Me, and I Love You For It :)

Peace be upon you.. =)
~A

Prayer Cards Are Here!

This morning I woke up, and my Dad handed me a box that had come in the mail.. and in it were my business-prayer cards! That was quick! They look awesome, I'm quite happy with them.

I'm in shock though, looking at them.. it seems surreal. Not exactly sure why, but it's weird. And not in a bad way, it's just--- different! haha.aa.a. :)

I'll be speaking at my Uncle's church on Sunday- I've been there before, and they are such a welcoming church, and supportive in every way! I'd appreciate prayer for all of that, as I'm preparing, traveling there, for them to hear what God wants them to hear.. et cetera :)

OK, that's it- gotta keep goin'! Hugs allemaal :)

~A

This and That

I've been working on designing some prayer cards, and finally put the order in. My parents ordered something from the company, and I wanted to see how it turned out before I ordered anything- and their stuff turned out great! I'm glad to have that done with. Now just to wait- they'll be about a week in getting here..

Another thing that I've been working on is gathering paperwork for applying for my visa into the country. I have no idea how long of a visa I can get- and I know that it can be a challenge to even be approved for a visa! So please be praying as God leads for that!

I've been hearing great reports from my friends in NL about different activities the churches have been putting on- so very exciting to hear about! And somehow, my heart aches to be there and be a part of all that..

Yet, Isaiah 40:31 is a good reminder to me that God's timing is perfect, "Yet those who wait for the LORD will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary". (NASB). I know that my time here in the States is important in many ways, and I am so glad to be here. One reason that I am here is for refining- I think Hebrews 12 says it well, verses 10-11, "Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in His holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it". (NIV) I'm not ashamed or embarrassed to say that I have been undergoing some discipline here in these past few months- rather, I give glory to God that He sees it worthwhile to spend "time" on me, to invest in me so that greater things can come from all this! I am so thankful for His grace and mercy- and strength!

Blessings and Love to all. Be encouraged wherever you are at right now reading this.. that God is there too, even if everything around you says that He isn't. Hugs :)

~A