I would have never thought on our way to Santa Rosa, Costa Rica, that this would happen...

Today, I unexpectedly received words of truth from a lovely teen and sister in Christ, named Fiorella. We met at children’s ministry in Santa Rosa weeks ago, and I hadn’t seen her until today at the Santa Rosa park that Katy (my friend and team mate) and I have been in for a few hours. Literally like an angel... Fiorella appeared. 

We hugged, and we talked for sometime about her dreams for her future, and I felt God tell me to pray for her. After I prayed, there was this unexpected shift. Fiorella started ministering to me... and began to prophecy over me.

// That many people will be changed in meeting me, that I am woman of God, a strong woman of God, and that my heart is kind. That God gives me the strength to fight against sin. //

I was like, “whoa.....” These were words I didn’t expect to hear... and I was having a hard time receiving them. Why? Well, honestly, I think I’m usually in the give-give-give mode and do not expect to receive. I even told Fiorella I was trying to receive these words of encouragement... and she was like, “Yes... there is a time to receive.” 

On a mission trip and in life in general as you journey with Jesus, God shows you that as ministry is life and life is ministry, it’s not only about giving.

We prepare ourselves spiritually, emotionally, and mentally to give....

• our time,
• our words of encouragement,
• our talents,
• our physical strength for manual labor,
• and more.

There is so much beauty in giving, and there is so much beauty in receiving.

There is a time to receive.

There is a time to sit, and look into someone’s eyes, and receive the truth from the Lord that comes out of their mouth. Unexpectedly or not, there is time for it. There is a need for it.

I’m so thankful for how God speaks to us and through us, and allows us to give and receive.

Fiorella & I at Santa Rosa park, at 11:26am

It really is such a beautiful thing. What is God wanting you to give? What is God wanting for you to receive?! Until next time, 

J <3