Summer Prayers...

Dear Friends,

Can you believe it? I leave for the Philippines in 13 days!!! I can’t describe my attitude towards this—its both nervousness and excitement combined. A healthy feeling to have, I think. I have so much good news to report!

First, thanks so the help of my great support team, I am fully supported (financially and in prayer partners) for this internship. WOW. In comparison to last summer, it was incredible to see how quickly people responded to my letter and how readily they gave. Maybe they’re just tired of getting my letters GET THIS INTERNSHIP DONE ALREADY! In all seriousness…each person that replied to my letter has had a very significant role in my life and faith. I was writing little notes to each of them and as I did, I remembered memories of them at different points in my life. It was such an encouraging time to reflect and see how God has built a circle of friends around me for times such as these. I am grateful for each person.

Second, many of you are aware that my father was recently diagnosed with cancer. What a time of prayer this has been for me and I have seen so many others surround myself, my siblings, and my dad in their own prayers. His most recent tests showed that the cancer is certainly not as bad as it could be and his doctors are hopeful that chemotherapy should take care of all of it. He begins his treatments today (the 27th) and will be in chemo for the next 18 weeks or so. Do pray for his strength and stamina. More good news is that I got to make a trip to see him the last three days. It was a short trip, but a delightful time to be with him and the family there. It was good for both of us to see each other before I left for the summer and he began this battle.

Finally, my sister (Amy) continues to do well with her pregnancy. The baby, our little Phyra Grace, seems to be happily situated for the time being, though her aunty (ME!) is hoping she’ll make her début before I leave. Amy is due June 1st and is radiant as ever. Continue to pray for her strength and rest as she prepares to deliver.

That’s all for now! Thank you again, dear friends, for your love and prayers.

Blessings,
Emily

FINISHED!

As of 9:15 this morning, my semester is complete! Praise the Lord...I never thought it'd all get done! Somehow, God gives just enough strength for the tasks He sets before us. Now onto the next thing.

I've been reading in Psalms for my devotions recently. Last night as I was sleepily reading through the chapters, I came across one that was very applicable to me as I go to the Philippines.

Psalm 16: The Hope of the Faithful, and the Messiah's Victory
A Michtam of David.

Preserve me, O God, for in You I put my trust.

O my soul, you have said to the LORD 'You are my Lord,
My goodness is nothing apart from You.'
As for the saints who are on the earth,
'They are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight.'

Their sorrows shall be multiplied who hasten after another god;
Their drink offerings of blood I will not offer,
Nor take up their names on my lips.

O LORD, You are the portion of my inheritance and my cup;
You maintain my lot.
The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places;
Yes, I have a good inheritance.

I will bless the LORD who has given me counsel;
My heart also instructs me in the night seasons.
I have set the LORD always before me;
Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved.

Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoices;
My flesh also will rest in hope.
For You will not leave my soul in Sheol,
Nor will You allow Your Holy One to see corruption.
You will show the path of life;
In Your presence is fullness of joy;
At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Legacy...

These moms have made a tremendous impact on my life and the lives of our family members. These women are amazing. Here's to my one-of-a-kind Mom and my four sisters.

Chicago in Bloom

On my walk home from church today...