Merry Christmas from the Hersheys!
This is our first Christmas together and celebrating with our families has been a joyful time.
For us Christmas tends to be a special time of year. We designate days to celebrate and simply be with family. I can’t tell you how many stories and memories that are shared and the blessing it is to have family who chooses to love and support each other regardless of the circumstances, the past, and the mistakes.
One of the biggest blessings we received for Christmas this year was a wedding video from my brother Ben. It captures perfectly the highlights of the day the Lord gave us. I wanted to share it with you, so you can have a chance to enjoy it too (See the bottom of page for the wedding video).
Thank you for following our journey, whether it has been just a couple months or years. We are so appreciative of your prayers, gifts, wisdom, and encouragement throughout the seasons!
Going into this next season of ministry, Emily and I want to be intentional with you and to update you on the journey.
One small word of encouragement going into this next year before we get into our life update. As I have had some time to read, Proverbs Chapter 4 has been a blessing for me. Here is what is says:
“My child, listen to me and do as I say, and you will have long, good life. I will teach you wisdoms ways and lead you in straight paths. When you walk, you won’t be held back; when you run, you won’t stumble. Take hold of my instructions, don’t let them go. Guard them, for they are the key to life.”
And then a little later in the Chapter…
“Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Avoid all perverse talk; stay away from corrupt speech. Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet, stay on the safe path. Don’t get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil.”
-Proverbs 4:10-13 & 23-27
There is so much going on in our world today. Being able to hear the Lord’s voice speak through these words have been a fountain of blessing. Picture the Lord sharing these with you and picture where He is leading you in 2021.
For Emily and I, we have a clear path set out for our feet. This includes starting our work with Adventures, transitioning to Georgia, and connecting and discipling youth pastors, students, and peers in living a life on mission with Jesus.
Keep your eyes focused on Him as you start this year. Know that His purposes for you are endless and following Him is a fast track to where He wants you to be. There is no stumbling, no being held back, but running free into the direction which He has set for you as you follow Him.
As far as our life update goes. Emily and I are getting closer to our transition down to Georgia.
Emily is starting to work part time in order to give us a little paycheck and keep us going. Adventures in Missions (AIM) is so excited to have us a part of their team. We have both done training and meetings with other AIM staff to better understand our role.
It looks like we will be leaving for sure the end of February. We still have 20% of our support to raise, but we are praying that the LORD would meet our needs by the beginning of February.
To be more specific with the finances we need $1,133.33 per month.
I know the Lord is moving and for those who have been led to give a one time donation, a yearly donation, or committed monthly – we want to say thank you so much!! From the bottom of our heart it is truly a gift from God to receive your partnership in ministry.
Maybe for those who have thought about it, would you consider praying for 3 days and ask the Lord if he might have you join our team. There is a lot of ways you can partner with us, weather it is organizing a gathering for us to come share, collecting change, being creative and using your gifts, or simply making a donation on our behalf. Know that it all makes a difference.
If you have any questions or want to hear more, please feel free to send us a text or give us a call. Feel free to comment bellow and or share our update with friends or family.
God bless you all and thank you for taking the time to read this life message!
Love,
The Hersheys
