Recently a friend introduced me to a slew of new blogs. Today one of them talked about not remaining a student forever but moving in to the world and making theory practical and applicable. She ended by asking what each of us needed to do.
I didn’t have to think long. I know what I have to do. I have to work on partner development. Raising my support.
While I work for a fantastic organization, they don’t have my salary or my benefits budgeted. I’m responsible for finding ministry partners who will include my ministry with Third Culture Kids (TCKs) in their planned stewardship budget.
A year and a half ago the whole of maintaining partnerships that will provide my salary and benefits fell on me. It has been weighty. I love having ministry partners. I love knowing that people want to invest in helping missionary families be healthy and they see me and what I do as a good way to help that happen. I love that people pray for me and the kids I work with regularly. I love what I do. I get to work with some of the most fantastic people in the world– and their parents, too.
Asking for things—especially things for myself—has never been easy. I’ve grown to the point where I can ask for others, but asking for myself stretches me. I need to get over that and do it. I’ve been working with a Partner Development coach and my presentation is pretty much ready to go. I’ve got the tools. I just need the courage.
I know the verses—Luke 11:9—ask and you will receive. Really—it is rather difficult for people to know what you need if you don’t tell them and ask for their help. I get that. I Timothy 5:8—a laborer is worthy of his (her) hire. And many more . . . I just need to do it. I need to ask.
Anybody want to help? Anyone want to be involved in one of the greatest ministries on the planet—working with TCKs? Do you want to be part of something bigger than yourself? Anyone want to join God in what he’s doing in and through kids around the world?
Let me know. I can help you make it happen.
(That was pretty painless. Maybe I can do this!)
photo courtesy of lusi
3 responses to “From Theory to Practice”
YOU CAN DO IT!!!
Hey Sheryl!
What can I do to be involved. How can I help you to keep doing this really important work? I’m so glad that someone is thinking about the TCK’s, It must be a relief to the parents to know that they have a great resource like you!
Thanks, Steve. Being involved is quite easy. Just contact WorldVenture* and let them know you want to be one of my financial partners. You can sign on for a monthly, quarterly, or annual financial commitment. You can even have it deducted from your accounts automatically. If you want to work with me in another capacity, just let me know and I’ll help you make it happen.
*You can write to WorldVenture at 1501 W. Mineral Ave, Littleton, CO 80120 OR you can call and ask to speak to Michael Smith—(800) 487-4224. Looking forward to our partnership in TCK ministry!