tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60738993913984377632024-03-14T04:33:51.341-07:00The heavens declare the glory of God... Ps. 19:1the declaration of the passions of a simple lover of Jesus.Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05357963037953334787noreply@blogger.comBlogger36125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-21513828371946498412012-02-28T07:49:00.001-08:002012-02-28T08:38:46.807-08:00It's been too long.While I could go on and on about not posting for so long and about all of the happenings of my life... I'll refrain from that for now. What I can say is that I have felt a stirring in my heart so strong about so many things lately that I can't help but want to share them and proclaim them to all who will hear.<br />
<br />
My journal entry today reads:<br />
<br />
For some reason I feel like today marks a beginning and a "freshness." I feel like God is going to do new things in my heart and in my life. He is up to something big and I sense a renewed desire to dive deeper into my relationship with Him. My time with Him has become static and routine and the fire needs to be rekindled. My knowledge of Him is so shallow and superficial and I desire a deeper understanding. I want to "rediscover" Him in silence and solitude. I want to fall more in love with Him and I want that love to consume every aspect of my being. I want my love for Him not to be an afterthought, but to be fierce and unyielding. I know the only way to deep, compassionate, and humble ministry to others is through an abiding and constant passion for God that can only be obtained through silence, stillness, and solitude with Him.<br />
<br />
God, set my heart on fire for You and then set it on fire for the lost and hurting world around me.<br />
<br />
<i>We need to find God</i><br />
<i>and he cannot be found in noise and restlessness. </i><br />
<br />
<i>God is a friend of silence. </i><br />
<i>See how nature - trees, flowers, grass - </i><br />
<i>grow in silence. </i><br />
<i>See the stars, the moon, the sun,</i><br />
<i>how they move in silence.</i><br />
<i><br />
Is not our mission </i><br />
<i>to give God to the poor?</i><br />
<i>Not a dead God, but a living, loving God.</i><br />
<br />
<i>The more we receive in silent prayer,</i><br />
<i>the more we can give in our active life.</i><br />
<i>We need silence</i><br />
<i>to be able to touch souls.</i><br />
<br />
<i>The essential thing is </i><br />
<i>not what we say,</i><br />
<i>but what God says</i><br />
<i>to us and through us.</i><br />
<br />
<i>All our words will be useless</i><br />
<i>unless they come from within.</i><br />
<i> <b> Words</b></i><br />
<b><i> which do not give the Light of Christ</i></b><br />
<b><i> increase the darkness.</i></b><br />
<br />
<i>-Mother Teresa of Calcutta </i>Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05357963037953334787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-58968179542471494722011-05-19T09:37:00.001-07:002011-05-19T09:37:32.029-07:00The latest...<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/> <w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/> <w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/> <w:OverrideTableStyleHps/> </w:Compatibility> <m:mathPr> <m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/> <m:brkBin m:val="before"/> <m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/> <m:smallFrac m:val="off"/> <m:dispDef/> <m:lMargin m:val="0"/> <m:rMargin m:val="0"/> <m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/> <m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/> <m:intLim m:val="subSup"/> <m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/> </m:mathPr></w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing">Dearest Friends, </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">I know it has been a while since I wrote to all of you but I am excited to share how the Lord has been moving in my life recently. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">In my last update I wrote,</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“I am in hopeful anticipation about this time in my life. Although so many things are uncertain and that can be scary at times, I know the Lord is going to refine me SO much. I have always had a plan, and now it is time for me to surrender my plans completely to Him.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The Lord has led me in a direction I never would have imagined the last time I wrote to you. Around the beginning of April, God began laying a desire to be back in my hometown so heavily on my heart. Needless to say, I fought it with everything in me. I love my hometown and I love my family and have missed them terribly over the past few years that I have been away, but for some reason I never imagined that the Lord would see fit to lead me back here. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">I also questioned why the Lord would lead me back here at this time in my life. Things were going incredibly well at Biltmore Baptist and I absolutely loved serving there. I was also relatively sure that it was His desire for me to attend Graduate school starting this summer. But after trying to pray my way out of and escape the desire for home He had placed in my heart, I decided to vocalize what I had been feeling. I shared my heart with those I was involved in ministry with at Biltmore and they were, of course, incredibly supportive. I also began seeing why He had me there and the incredible leaders He had given me the opportunity to invest in that were ready to take what the Lord was starting and run with it. Lastly, I prayed as I attended orientation for Graduate school that the Lord would give me clarity like I had never known before about whether or not He wanted me there… and He did. From the moment I walked on campus, as much as I have missed it, I just knew in my soul that it wasn’t right. Right then, I decided that I would stop fighting and choose to trust. That week I moved home and when my parents asked me when I would be going back, I said… “I’m not.” They didn’t believe me at first, but when it actually sank in they were so grateful to have me home. <span style="font-family: Wingdings;"><span>J</span></span> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">It’s been a roller coaster ride since I’ve been home… but a good one. God has given me some direction for ministry – which includes starting a young adult “gathering” in my community – and I believe He is leading me into a wonderful church community as well. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">I have been tirelessly searching for jobs since I have been home and God has yet to open a door. The words from my last update ring true and it is time to surrender my plans completely to Him. Finances, honestly, are extremely … extremely tight and I have no idea how the Lord is going to provide, but I know that He will. Please pray that a door will open soon and if any of you know of any available opportunities I would greatly appreciate it if you could let me know! </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">I have never been in a position like this before, but I know that God is at work. I can’t wait to write to you and let you know of how miraculously He has orchestrated my circumstances and placed me somewhere better than I could have imagined and where I can serve Him with everything in me. I have been studying the book of Ruth lately and God has used it to speak so much truth into my heart.<span> </span>Just when Naomi thought that God had taken everything from her… He was just getting started and putting into motion His plan of provision and blessing. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Stay tuned… </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">In Him,</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Shannon</div>Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05357963037953334787noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-67541654327703608202011-03-21T19:00:00.001-07:002011-03-21T19:00:24.691-07:00New Beginning.<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/> <w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/> <w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/> <w:OverrideTableStyleHps/> </w:Compatibility> <m:mathPr> <m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/> <m:brkBin m:val="before"/> <m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/> <m:smallFrac m:val="off"/> <m:dispDef/> <m:lMargin m:val="0"/> <m:rMargin m:val="0"/> <m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/> <m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/> <m:intLim m:val="subSup"/> <m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/> </m:mathPr></w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
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</style> <![endif]--> <div class="MsoNormal">Dear friends, </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Much has happened since the last time I wrote to you. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">First, I want to apologize that it has been so long in between updates. The Lord has taken me through a ton of transition over the past couple months that, although good, was definitely not anticipated. I hope that you can all forgive me and rejoice alongside me as I share with you what has been happening in my life. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">During the month of February, I literally felt as if my life went from a good and steady 45mph to about 100mph almost overnight.<span> </span>At the Hope House, we were going through the state licensing procedure which was extensive, we were beginning to get leads for more referrals for residents, and our outreach ministry, Rahab’s Hope, was gaining momentum at an incredible pace. At Biltmore Baptist, I began getting more and more involved with the College Ministry and was also invited to serve on the core leadership team for the Singles and College Ministries. God began growing a strong desire in my heart to be able to minister with and through my new church family more and more. Lastly, I learned that I had been accepted into the advanced standing Masters in Social Work Program at Western Carolina! The program starts in July and will end in August 2012. As exciting as all of these things were, I began wondering how I would have balance in my life and began questioning if the Lord really wanted me to have all of these things on my plate during this particular season of my life. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">As these things began unfolding I was surprised that the thing I felt my heart being pulled away from the most was my involvement with the Hope House. These feelings were confirmed recently through a situation that shed light on some differing views of how the ministry should operate. I also realized how extremely burned out I am from working in Residential Care in general. I felt a strong tug from the Lord to take a step back, rest, establish some boundaries, and start pouring myself out into some other areas of ministry. Therefore, I decided to resign from Hope House a couple weeks ago. The decision was mutual and we are all on good terms. I have also not lost my passion for serving victims of sex-trafficking at all and I hope to continue to pursue that and possibly continue to be involved with On Eagles Wings in some capacity in the future. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">I am in hopeful anticipation about this time in my life. Although so many things are uncertain and that can be scary at times, I know the Lord is going to refine me SO much. I have always had a plan, and now it is time for me to surrender my plans completely to Him. I know that I am supposed to be in the Asheville area and ministering in my church, so I am currently staying in the area because of the generosity and hospitality of a couple families, and looking for a job to support me while I minister to these college students. I may be starting Graduate School in July, but for right now, I know God is telling me to take a day at a time and trust Him to provide, so that’s what I intend on doing. Faith means living with uncertainty. Without a need there would be no reason to trust. Ultimately, I am grateful for such a tangible, obvious need and dependency upon Christ because I am going to learn to stand on Him as my provider and rock in ways that I never have before. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Thank you all for taking the time to read and for all of your love, support, encouragement, and prayers. I would love to continue to share what the Lord is doing in my life with you all and would love for you all to do the same with me! </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">In Him,</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Shannon</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Prayer Requests:</b> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">A Job</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">A stable living situation/good roommates</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">New relationships/friendships @ Biltmore Baptist </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Wisdom in ministering to the college women of Biltmore Baptist</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Clarity of vision for the College and Singles Ministry</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Unity among leadership </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Discernment for attending Graduate School</div>Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05357963037953334787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-86404363295455699662011-01-17T19:49:00.000-08:002011-01-17T19:49:48.906-08:00January Update.<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/> <w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/> <w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/> <w:OverrideTableStyleHps/> </w:Compatibility> <m:mathPr> <m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/> <m:brkBin m:val="before"/> <m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/> <m:smallFrac m:val="off"/> <m:dispDef/> <m:lMargin m:val="0"/> <m:rMargin m:val="0"/> <m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/> <m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/> <m:intLim m:val="subSup"/> <m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/> </m:mathPr></w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
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</style> <![endif]--> <div class="MsoNormal">Dearest Brothers and Sisters, </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Hello everyone! I hope that all of you had a wonderful holiday season and you are still keeping up with all of those New Year’s Resolutions! ;) </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">So many incredible things have happened this past month that I hardly even know where to begin! </div><div class="MsoNormal">I guess I will start with an update on Rahab’s Hope. Our strip club outreach went extremely well. We delivered gift bags to five strip clubs throughout the general western NC area and the interactions we had with club owners/managers/bouncers were very positive. We were received well and kept safe throughout the night and we are continuing to pray for the girls who received those that God would work in their hearts and that if they are being victimized they would be provided with a way out. Another area of Rahab’s Hope, our escort agency outreach, is also taking off. It was such a blessing to receive a grant that provided us with funding to purchase some new computers and phone systems to make calls to online ads on websites such as craigslist.com and backpage.com. We have been donated, completely free of charge, some office space in downtown Asheville and this will be the primary activity happening there. We are also having some software developed to keep up with all of the contacts we are making so that we can minister more effectively to these girls and so that if we run across any victims, which we inevitably will, we can turn over those leads to law enforcement who can then move forward in investigations. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">We are also still hoping to work with the client that I mentioned last month. Her situation is extremely unique and has brought more challenges than we expected but we are still hopeful for her and that God will continue to provide us with wisdom as to how to reach out to her. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">There are a couple things that I would love to ask for your specific prayer support in. First, God has been taking us through some transition as far as staff goes. It never gets any easier to have people transition in and out of your life, but I am confident and excited that God is putting the team together that He is going to use in mighty ways with this ministry. Please pray for our unity during this time and that we would lean on Him for our stability always! Secondly, Super Bowl 2011 is approaching very quickly! As exciting as the Super Bowl is… it is also one of the largest days for the business of sex-trafficking within the U.S. of the year. Hundreds of thousands of children will be trafficked into the Dallas/Fort Worth area for the purpose of being bought and sold for sex during this time. Teams are mobilizing and prevention and awareness surrounding this event is being raised but please remember to pray during this time. It is extremely heartbreaking to realize this is happening, but it is also an incredible opportunity to see a lot of victims rescued and a lot of perpetrators arrested. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Lastly, on a personal note, God has been revealing so much to me this month and pursuing me in so many ways. I attended the annual Passion conference in Atlanta, GA a couple weeks ago and it was absolutely mind-blowing. I got to spend four days with some incredible college students from Biltmore Baptist, listening to worship from people like Chris Tomlin, David Crowder, Kristian Stanfill, and Tenth Avenue North and hearing the Word delivered through people like Louie Giglio, Beth Moore, Andy Stanley, Francis Chan, and John Piper. I left Atlanta with a renewed passion for the Lord and a greater desire to make Jesus’ name famous than I have ever felt before in my life. I am so incredibly thankful that I got to attend and allow the Lord to speak into my life in so many awesome ways. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Also, I have recently been asked to serve as the Women’s Discipleship Leader for the College Ministry of Biltmore Baptist church. I will be leading approximately eight young women and hopefully, through the power of the Holy Spirit, will be able to help them experience Christ and authentic community in ways they haven’t ever done before. I am so excited and would greatly appreciate prayers as I move forward in obedience to the Lord and this new calling. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Thank you so much for taking the time to read about how I am doing and praying. If you have a chance, I would greatly appreciate it if you could respond in some way to let me know who all is making it this far. <span style="font-family: Wingdings;"><span>J</span></span> I hope that all of you are doing well and if there is anything I can do for any of you or any way that I can pray for you please let me know! I love you all so much and am so blessed to call you not only friends, but brothers and sisters. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Covered by Grace, </div><div class="MsoNormal">Shannon</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>Monthly Supporters:</b> </div><div class="MsoNormal">Don’t forget to send in your support for the month of January! <br />
Check to: On Eagles Wings PO Box 9737 Asheville, NC 28815 (“Shannon support” in Memo Line)<br />
OR<br />
Online: @ hopehousenc.com (“Shannon support” in box for extra information after you submit your donation) <br />
<br />
<b>Prayer Requests:</b> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Victims that the Lord would have to come to Hope House!<br />
Our current client – healing for her and wisdom for us<br />
Rahab’s Hope Outreach! – soft hearts of women who received gift bags during our strip club outreach and favor for our upcoming escort agency outreach</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Decision regarding relocating our facility</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Softened hearts for awareness of the issue</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Awareness and Intervention during the Super Bowl</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Transition and Unity among staff</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">New relationships/friendships/@ Biltmore Baptist </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Wisdom for new position as Women’s Discipleship Leader w/ College Women<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Contact:</b> </div><div class="MsoNormal">Facebook – www.facebook.com/shannonfromwelcome<br />
Group – Shannon’s Ministry Partners<br />
Blog - http://saoshano.blogspot.com<br />
Email - saoshano@gmail.com<br />
<br />
</div>Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05357963037953334787noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-46010402399011417272010-12-17T18:01:00.001-08:002010-12-17T18:01:18.426-08:00December Update!<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/> <w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/> <w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/> <w:OverrideTableStyleHps/> </w:Compatibility> <m:mathPr> <m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/> <m:brkBin m:val="before"/> <m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/> <m:smallFrac m:val="off"/> <m:dispDef/> <m:lMargin m:val="0"/> <m:rMargin m:val="0"/> <m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/> <m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/> <m:intLim m:val="subSup"/> <m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/> </m:mathPr></w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<div class="MsoNormal">Dearest Brothers and Sisters, </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">I hope this update finds all of you doing well and getting geared up for Christmas and New Year’s! It is so hard to believe that another year is almost finished. It is such a blessing to be able to spend time with friends and family throughout these weeks but I pray that each of you are finding time to spend with our Savior and to reflect on all of the ways that He has worked in your life this year. Most of all, let’s not forget to be thankful for the reason we have to celebrate in the first place… and I do not mean that in a cheesy “remember the reason for the season” way. I mean it in a, “God became flesh and chose by His own free will to leave His throne in Heaven to suffer rejection, humiliation, denial, and ultimately crucifixion to save the same people who caused Him to suffer those things in the first place” way. Praise the Lord… that is what we have to celebrate! </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Things have been going well at On Eagles Wings this past month. The Lord has continued to refine us and push us to trust in Him in many ways. He has also opened many doors for ministry! Finally, He has blessed us with a young lady that we have begun working with. She is such a joy to be around and is extremely motivated to work with us which, to be honest, is not really a typical attitude of these victims… but is greatly appreciated. Her situation is a little unique and therefore, we are only working with her a few days a week for a few weeks before we make a decision regarding her becoming a resident with us. We are excited about working with her in many ways, including home schooling, counseling, equine therapy, art therapy, life-skills and job training, and social skills. Please remember her and in your prayers as she begins this journey with us! </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">We are also right in the middle of our Christmas strip club outreach, which now has attained the title of “Rahab’s Hope.” Last night, a group of staff and volunteers gathered and assembled over 100 gift bags for dancers. Throughout the day Saturday we will be delivering those bags to clubs in Asheville, NC, Hickory, NC, and Greenville, SC. The bags were stuffed with nice bath and body items, Francine Rivers’ books, Bibles, and hotline numbers should anyone who is being victimized need a resource for help.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The Lord has also potentially blessed us with another property we may be re-located to within the next couple of months. Something that has been on our hearts a lot recently is to establish second home for victims over the age of 18 and to have both of these houses on a single property. The family of a dear friend and supporter of our ministry has offered to let us utilize a property they own for this purpose. It has 2 houses and a cottage, as well as over 30 acres of land situation on top of a mountain, right next to a river in western NC. It is absolutely beautiful and would be perfect for our ministry. We are in the process of zoning and getting approval from the county it is located in to use it for shelter for these victims and any prayers regarding that process and favor with the county would be greatly appreciated! </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Personally, the Lord has blessed me so much this month. Thanksgiving and the Christmas get-togethers I have already had with my family have been wonderful. I have a renewed thankfulness and appreciation for all of them. This year I got to attend a Christmas party for my Mom’s side of the family and I haven’t seen many of them in years. I have missed them so much and we had such a wonderful time! I have also had the absolute privilege of becoming an official part of the church family of Biltmore Baptist in Asheville, NC. I have made many new friends and have begun getting plugged in. I have never been so confident in a decision to be a part of a church and I am incredibly excited to see what the Lord is going to do while I am there! </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Thank you all so much for reading and for your continued love and support! I wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Blessed, </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Shannon</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Monthly Supporters:</b> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Don’t forget to send in your support for the month of December! <br />
Check to: On Eagles Wings PO Box 9737 Asheville, NC 28815 (“Shannon support” in Memo Line)<br />
OR<br />
Online: @ hopehousenc.com (“Shannon support” in box for extra information after you submit your donation) <br />
<br />
<b>Prayer Requests:</b> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Victims that the Lord would have to come to Hope House!<br />
Our current client – healing for her and wisdom for us<br />
Rahab’s Hope Outreach! – soft hearts and open doors to share the Gospel</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Decision regarding relocating our facility</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Softened hearts for awareness of the issue</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Victims who are separated from their families during the holidays </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">New relationships/friendships/opportunities at Biltmore Baptist <br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Contact:</b> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Facebook – www.facebook.com/shannonfromwelcome<br />
Group – Shannon’s Ministry Partners<br />
Blog - http://saoshano.blogspot.com<br />
Email - saoshano@gmail.com<br />
Phone - 336-596-5898</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div>Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05357963037953334787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-77154928314892827512010-11-22T18:30:00.000-08:002010-11-22T18:30:10.011-08:00The Defenders USA: A Call To Action For America's Truckers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5_9L7mkw0HQU8RX2dJGn_jKL71U8S3lyCdE9YO_lvgmMDBorZOIWxMWG1P8lFKFgwa3QNwcL1Ti2GJ1578lfkpT2TrlLdTV1rLMgjYG-y7FJDw-5mrMsnNRE_5bA66epzp8Xc0Qn4oQ/s1600/defenders.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5_9L7mkw0HQU8RX2dJGn_jKL71U8S3lyCdE9YO_lvgmMDBorZOIWxMWG1P8lFKFgwa3QNwcL1Ti2GJ1578lfkpT2TrlLdTV1rLMgjYG-y7FJDw-5mrMsnNRE_5bA66epzp8Xc0Qn4oQ/s320/defenders.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/> <w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/> <w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/> <w:OverrideTableStyleHps/> </w:Compatibility> <m:mathPr> <m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/> <m:brkBin m:val="before"/> <m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/> <m:smallFrac m:val="off"/> <m:dispDef/> <m:lMargin m:val="0"/> <m:rMargin m:val="0"/> <m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/> <m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/> <m:intLim m:val="subSup"/> <m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/> </m:mathPr></w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing">The Defenders USA (thedefendersusa.org), an initiative of Shared Hope International (sharedhope.org), is stepping up to the plate, and taking on an important role in the fight against the sexual exploitation of minors: calling men to action. While many seem to be taking on the project of victim services, this organization is getting down to the <i>nitty gritty </i>and cutting right to the source of the problem: demand. Without the buyer, which in most cases is a man, there would be no need to supply the product, which in most cases is a female child. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The Defenders USA is a group of committed men who are willing to challenge other men to oppose all forms of commercial sex. They understand the harsh reality that many of the people involved in the commercial sex trade are not willing participants, as many would like to believe, but are victims who are forced to perform such acts. Their goals are to, “<i>raise public awareness about the realities of pornography and prostitution, while offering restoration for victims of sex trafficking. Defenders also encourage public discussion and empower activists, political leaders, members of the media, civil society groups, faith-based organizations, and churches to stand against this harmful market.</i>” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">One of the initiatives of The Defenders USA is their Truck Stop Campaign. Minors are bought and sold under the control of pimps at truck stops daily. The trucking industry also provides a ready-made route along which to transport minors who are being trafficked from city to city throughout our country.<span> </span>Approximately two times a month, The Defenders USA hosts peaceful demonstrations at major truck stops throughout the country. Groups are assembled to display signs and banners, as well as to pass out information regarding domestic minor sex-trafficking to truckers who are interested. The Defenders USA’s goal for the campaign is to, “<i>encourage other men to join The Defenders USA’s cause</i>.” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">If you are a man who is appalled by this horrendous crime you can get involved! The Truck Stop Campaign is open for applications for team captains. All it takes to start the process is a desire to make an impact and a willingness to answer a few questions on the organizations website. Once you are approved, you can begin organizing a team of likeminded men and hit the streets! </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">For more information about The Defenders USA and their Truck Stop Campaign visit: <a href="http://www.thedefendersusa.org/truck_stop_campaign_sign_up.asp">http://www.thedefendersusa.org/truck_stop_campaign_sign_up.asp</a> </div>Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05357963037953334787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-53825605767006532552010-11-22T18:28:00.000-08:002010-11-22T18:28:25.010-08:00Exposing the "Lot Lizards"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCbMHDPiBUx2mKoGoNowVWYfj_dYE_KLN0W72PVd97nGZsJzmrKHxT29l6OoFqGVVV6SXoaQzsQuQiy_zsbt-GS5rUkX10z78oU3TaCIGyEhpM7YN7pfVJI_Ye-Do3LcTnS0k5ScMwkd0/s1600/no-lot-lizards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCbMHDPiBUx2mKoGoNowVWYfj_dYE_KLN0W72PVd97nGZsJzmrKHxT29l6OoFqGVVV6SXoaQzsQuQiy_zsbt-GS5rUkX10z78oU3TaCIGyEhpM7YN7pfVJI_Ye-Do3LcTnS0k5ScMwkd0/s1600/no-lot-lizards.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div>My dad is a truck driver. He has been a truck driver all of my life and for a while, he was a “long-haul” trucker. I vividly remember riding in the car with him one day when we passed a tractor trailer with a “no lot lizards” sticker displayed very obviously on one of the cab doors. “Dad, what’s a “lot lizard?” “Oh, it just means the hookers at truck stops.” <br />
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According to the renowned “urban dictionary,” a “lot lizard” can be defined this way: trashy, street-level, female prostitutes who frequent some truck-stop parking lots and rest areas at night. Most lot lizards openly "advertise" using CB radios; others boldly walk from truck to truck randomly knocking on doors.<br />
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Prostitution is not a new issue, not even close… especially prostitution surrounding the trucking industry. But, who are these women – really? Just a few minutes of perusal of the online community of truckers (such as http://roubdtable.truck.net) will give you their answer to this question. Some truckers aren’t shy about posting such opinions as, “…the Lizards are coming out of everywhere and infesting the parkin’ lots lets run over ‘em,” or “I’m envisioning a device modified from a TAZER that ZAPS the SKANK when she touches the mirror mount for instance.” It seems the prevalent opinion among truckers is that these women are simply a dirty nuisance. <br />
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It turns out, in fact, that the term “lot lizard” could easily be replaced with the term “victim.” What would happen if a trucker saw someone who was underage, abused, forced, threatened, and enslaved knocking on their window instead of someone who is a dirty, STD infested, smelly hooker just trying to earn a buck? The former is proving to be more and more of the case in our country. Many estimate that around 300,000 U.S. children are forced into sexual slavery in our country every year. They are recruited, manipulated, addicted, and used to meet the demand of buyers and feed the money hungry pimps who enslave them. And it happens every day, probably within a few miles of where you live. <br />
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Fortunately, this perception does not have to continue. Many are stepping up and speaking out among their communities about the reality of the lives of these victims. Agencies such as The Defenders USA (defendersusa.org) and Truckers Against Trafficking (truckersagainsttrafficking.com) are focusing on educating truckers and calling them to action. We can also be a part of this change by being aware and being a voice. Most of us know a trucker or know someone who knows a trucker. Talk to them. Educate them. If you suspect there is a situation happening like this near you, you can call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-3737-888. Together we can change the atmosphere.Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05357963037953334787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-65694715395951455632010-11-16T19:56:00.001-08:002010-11-16T19:56:28.234-08:00November Update!Dearest Brothers and Sisters, <br />
<br />
It seems as if every month I struggle with how to put into words everything that the Lord is doing here at On Eagles Wings and in my heart personally. I find myself desiring to tell all of you how wonderful it is to be serving the Lord and how He is using us and how blessed I feel but to be completely honest, that is not always the case. And I’m beginning to learn, that maybe it isn’t supposed to be. Don’t misunderstand… I am incredibly blessed to be here, through Christ, striving for this cause and working among such an incredible group of women. But I am realizing over and over again that God refines us through fire, not through long walks in fields of flowers as we sometimes hope He would. <br />
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As far as ministry here goes, we have had our trials this month, just like every other month I have written to you. But we have also truly been able to seek His face and be conformed more into His image through those trials. Recently one of our volunteers (who is actually really “staff” lol) went to a fundraising class for non-profit organizations and she said, “As we were taking turns sharing about our organizations, it was finally my turn and as I shared an obvious hush covered the room. Later, at a meal we had, it seemed as if no one wanted to sit by me. Finally, a gentleman came and sat by me and told me two things… 1. You’re subject is ugly. People don’t want to talk about that. 2. What you’re doing makes the rest of us feel like we don’t deserve any money.” He is exactly right… the work we are doing is ugly. People don’t want to believe this is happening in OUR country, to OUR kids. But, alas… this is reality and so we press on. <br />
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We are still reaching out and making contacts with multiple organizations and agencies across the country in regards to the space we have available for victims. Right now, we have 3 girls who we believe could be a really good fit for our program but their circumstances are preventing them from coming right now. Keep praying that we will be patient and that God will allow our paths to cross with the girls that He has for us in His timing. We are gearing up for one of our major projects of the year… our strip club outreach. On December 18th we will be delivering over 200 gift bags to strip clubs in Greenville SC, Asheville NC, and Hickory NC. These women are those that many in the church have labeled as “dirty” or “untouchable” but many do not realize the situations these women are in or to what abuse they are subjected t. Sometimes, we’ve learned, this can even be a form of or a tactic used in trafficking circles. In the past, we have had women who couldn’t believe that “Christians” would do this for them, which is such a sad commentary. Please pray for this event and that we would be able to shine a light into the darkness of this industry. Our speaking engagements and awareness raising endeavors have also continued to take off. The Lord keeps giving us opportunity after opportunity to shed light on this subject and we are so humbled and grateful to be used by Him. If you would like to request a speaking engagement or know anyone else who may be interested please let me know! <br />
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In our devotional time in the house we just finished reading through Job and this passage has been such an encouragement to me as it sometimes seems as if we are fighting a losing battle with this cause. It is an awesome reminder that no matter how big the mountains may seem, God has given us an eternal hope that we can rest in. <br />
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“For I know that my Redeemer lives, and AT THE LAST HE WILL STAND upon the earth. And after my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I SHALL SEE GOD, whom I shall see for myself, and my eyes shall behold, and not another. My heart faints within me!” – Job 19:25-27<br />
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Covered by His grace, <br />
<br />
Shannon<br />
<br />
<br />
Monthly Supporters: <br />
Don’t forget to send in your support for the month of November! <br />
Check to: On Eagles Wings PO Box 9737 Asheville, NC 28815 (“Shannon support” in Memo Line)<br />
OR<br />
Online: @ hopehousenc.com (“Shannon support” in box for extra information after you submit your donation) <br />
<br />
Prayer Requests: <br />
Victims that the Lord would have to come to Hope House!<br />
Continued discernment/direction for this ministry<br />
Trust in His timing<br />
Grace and open doors for our upcoming strip club outreach<br />
Softened hearts for awareness of the issue<br />
Victims who are separated from their families during the holidays <br />
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Contact: <br />
Facebook – www.facebook.com/shannonfromwelcome<br />
Group – Shannon’s Ministry Partners<br />
Blog - http://saoshano.blogspot.com<br />
Email - saoshano@gmail.com<br />
Phone - 336-596-5898Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05357963037953334787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-70277672044948728292010-10-15T18:15:00.001-07:002010-10-15T18:15:51.307-07:00October Update.Dearest Brothers and Sisters, <br />
<br />
I hardly know where to begin this month. <br />
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These past few weeks have been filled with ups and downs, hope and despair, anticipation and frustration. We are in a waiting season here at the Hope House and waiting seasons aren’t my favorite… not even close. The most obvious way this has manifested itself is that we are still waiting for residents. I know that I know that God is using this time to refine us and prepare our hearts for the work that lies ahead, but it is hard to rest and trust in that truth. We all know how much of a need is out there for these young ladies to be safe and have a place to thrive and grow in, but for some reason the Lord doesn’t have those girls here right now. We are reaching out to the community through other agencies, law enforcement, and social service organizations but yet… waiting is what we do. This waiting is especially difficult for me and feels so foreign after leaving Doulos, the land of hustle and bustle. This transition has tested me in many ways and it has been extremely difficult to refrain from questioning God… and myself. However, I am learning and growing, and He is sovereign over it all. <br />
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We have been using this time in many ways. We have first and foremost, thrown ourselves into our relationships with Christ. I believe wholeheartedly that God is using this time to prepare the soil of our ministry so that, in His timing, He can use us to glorify Himself through ministering to the victims He plans to bring to us. We have also had an incredible opportunity to evaluate, process, and seek His guidance in areas our ministry needs to grow and change in. We have been able to work together to nail down policies that will help us bring those changes to fruition and I am excited to see how they play out day to day. Awareness has also become a huge focus of ours during this time. We held a benefit concert with Joy Whitlock, Lara Landen, and Carolina Story which was absolutely incredible. All of their music is inspired and encouraging and if you have a chance to check it out, it will bless you! This weekend we hosted a mission team from a local university and today we organized a peaceful protest with them at a truck stop in Spartanburg, SC. We partnered with the R:12 project and Defenders USA and displayed signs with facts and information about domestic minor sex trafficking and passed out flyers to truckers passing through. It was an amazing day and it was exciting to shed some light into the darkness of this issue and to get to know some other fellow brothers and sisters. The next few days we have multiple staff members speaking at different conferences and throughout the next few weeks there will be many more to come! <br />
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Personally, the Lord has been growing a yearning inside of my soul for Him that I have never experienced before. This time is difficult for me, but He is constantly reminding me of His faithfulness and His sovereignty. I grow inpatient, but He remains steadfast. I know that He is up to something incredible; beyond anything I could imagine and I cannot wait to see more and more of Him and His plans for this ministry and for my life. <br />
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Thank you all so much for all of your love, prayers, and support. <br />
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Covered by His grace, <br />
<br />
Shannon<br />
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<br />
<b>Monthly Supporters</b>: <br />
Don’t forget to send in your support for the month of October! <br />
Check to: On Eagles Wings PO Box 9737 Asheville, NC 28815 (“Shannon support” in Memo Line)<br />
OR<br />
Online: @ hopehousenc.com (“Shannon support” in box for extra information after you submit your donation) <br />
<b><br />
Prayer Requests</b>: <br />
Victims that the Lord would have to come to Hope House!<br />
Continued discernment/direction for this ministry<br />
Trust in His timing<br />
Wisdom in how to utilize this time He has given us<br />
Softened hearts for awareness of the issue<br />
<br />
<b><br />
Contact</b>: <br />
Facebook – www.facebook.com/shannonfromwelcome<br />
Group – Shannon’s Ministry Partners<br />
Blog - http://saoshano@blogspot.com<br />
Email - saoshano@gmail.com<br />
Phone - 336-596-5898Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05357963037953334787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-5256562467222834222010-09-09T13:19:00.000-07:002010-09-09T13:19:30.129-07:00September Update!Dear Brothers and Sisters,<br />
<br />
Man, it feels like ages since I have written to all of you… even though it has only been a month! I guess transition has a way of making the time fly by. <br />
<br />
This past month has been filled with so much, I hardly know where to begin. <br />
<br />
As my time at home with my family began nearing its end and I began preparing to move once again, my heart became so sad. I have always been extremely close with my family and any time that I have to leave them is extremely difficult. However, I got everything organized and packed up and jumped in the car with my Mom and Dad and off we went. Immediately upon arriving at the Hope House, I felt so at home and at peace. I was welcomed with open arms and God just confirmed once again that this was where He wanted me to be for this season of my life. <br />
<br />
The first couple weeks at the Hope House were bittersweet. It was great to finally be getting settled in and to see this new dream come to fruition, but it was clear that there was a lot of work to be done. The resident that was here when I first arrived almost immediately developed a bad taste in her mouth for me. As it is so many times with victims of trauma, especially victims of sex-trafficking, change is extremely difficult and the reaction to it is pretty harsh. God provided me with a very quick reminder and reality-check that working with these victims is going to be no walk in the park. <br />
<br />
Unfortunately, that resident is no longer with us and we are continually praying for her safety and well-being. It was heartbreaking to see all of the staff’s reactions after she left our program. They had poured so much into her and they felt as if they failed in some way. It was again, a reminder from the Lord that we may not always see the fruits of our labor… but our labor is in no way in vain.<br />
<br />
These past couple weeks without residents however, have been somewhat of a blessing in disguise. We have been able to utilize this time to bond more as a staff, devote ourselves to prayer, and attempt to discern the will and direction God has for our ministry. We have been re-writing all of our policy and procedure manuals and restructuring a great deal of the overall program. It has been a ton of work but it is almost completed and I’m really excited to see how it is going to work! We have also booked several speaking engagements and are planning a benefit concert on October 9th. We’re also utilizing this time to get geared up for our Christmas Strip Club Outreach program. We will be gathering donations, making cards and gift baskets, and traveling to different strip clubs throughout the area to attempt to reach out and minister to the girls in that industry. <br />
<br />
The word has been put out that we are accepting victims and hopefully we will have some soon. We are praying already for those girls we already know the Lord is going to place with us! <br />
<br />
On a more personal note, I am getting settled in well and thoroughly enjoying being back in North Carolina and the mountains! I am finding myself becoming a little stir-crazy without residents, but am praying that God will allow me to rest and trust in His timing. I have found an incredible church and am praying for discernment as to if Lord would have me to join with them. Missio Dei is an Acts 29 Network church located in Asheville, NC. I will be attending membership classes over the course of the next few weeks and hopefully starting a small group in the beginning of October. Saturday, I am so excited that I have the opportunity to go to Myrtle Beach, SC for vacation with my family. This is a vacation my family takes every year, but I have been unable to attend for about the past 5 years or so due to college and job/location challenges. I can’t wait and am just praying that it would be a great time of fellowship with my family, rest, and some sweet time with the Lord by the ocean! <br />
<br />
Thank you all again SO much for all of your love, encouragement, and prayers! I could not be doing this ministry without you and it means more than you will ever know! Please let me know if there is anything that I can be doing for all of you and/or any prayer requests that you may have. <br />
<br />
By His Grace,<br />
Shannon<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Monthly Supporters:</b> Don’t forget to send in your support for the month of September! <br />
Check to: On Eagles Wings PO Box 9737 Asheville, NC 28815 (“Shannon support” in Memo Line)<br />
OR<br />
Online: @ hopehousenc.com (“Shannon support” in box for extra information after you submit your donation) <br />
<br />
<b>Prayer Requests:</b> Victims that the Lord would have to come to Hope House!<br />
Continued discernment/direction for this ministry<br />
Direction for which church community to be a part of<br />
Rest, Fellowship, Time with the Lord while on family vacation<br />
Doulos Ministries – still going through a lot of transition, need endurance!<br />
Continued realization of the depth of my own sin and the constant need for Christ’s amazing grace in my life.<br />
<br />
<b>Contact:</b> Facebook – www.facebook.com/shannonfromwelcome<br />
Group – Shannon’s Ministry Partners<br />
Blog - http://saoshano@blogspot.com<br />
Email - saoshano@gmail.com<br />
Phone - 336-596-5898Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05357963037953334787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-49213054250973199032010-08-03T12:20:00.000-07:002010-08-03T12:20:03.866-07:00August Update! :)Dear Brothers & Sisters,<br />
<br />
I hope this letter finds all of you doing well! First of all I want to say a huge thank you for your generosity and your willingness to partner with me through Christ in this ministry I am about to begin! God is so incredibly faithful in His provision for us and I am continually amazed by Him. I cannot express my gratitude enough and I am so incredibly excited for us to see God work in the lives of these girls through On Eagle’s Wings. I am looking forward to sharing this journey with you, with all of its moments of joy and excitement as well as its moments of struggle and trial… as I’m sure it will be filled with plenty of both! I am hoping to send out updates once a month, around the first Monday of each month. Even though I will be there directly working with these girls, you are all just as much a part of God’s work there as I am by enabling me to be there and I want you to be able to share in the awesome work that I know He is going to do through us. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you are expecting an update for the month and it hasn’t arrived… I would really appreciate the accountability! <br />
As for now, I have been able to spend a couple weeks at home resting, spending time with my family, and processing/preparing for this transition. It has been wonderful! I believe that sometimes we get going so fast in this life that our body doesn’t really have time to catch up and recuperate and I think that is where I have been for a while! Physically, I was in desperate need of rest and I am so thankful for the time I have had to do that. It has also been wonderful to catch up with my family and friends in North Carolina. I have so missed them! Being away from Doulos has been challenging, to say the least. The deep relationships I formed there these past few years are hard to come by and I have definitely missed those. Please pray for me that I will be able to be dedicated and set aside time to continue those relationships from a distance and also continue to lift that ministry up in your prayers as they continue the incredible work they are doing for the Lord! <br />
The most vital and needed blessing I have received these past few weeks has been more time to spend with the Lord. It amazes me how clearly His voice can be heard when we minimize all of the other voices around us. I have been spending a lot of time in Hosea recently and I am realizing all over again that it is one of those portions of scripture that you can only take in a little at a time. It is so convicting to realize the depth of our sin and how we look to so many things to satisfy us other than the only One who can. In the time of Hosea, it was false gods (Baals), today it is still false gods… power, money, family, friends, significant others, being married, having children… and the list is endless. But praise God for His faithfulness and constant pursuing of us, despite our unfaithfulness! Praise God that He loves us and that love is not dependent on anything we can offer to Him but only on His character! <br />
<br />
“I will make you lie down in safety. And I will betroth you to me forever. I will betroth you to me in righteousness and in justice, in steadfast love and in mercy. I will betroth you to me in faithfulness. And you shall know the Lord.” Hosea 2:18-20<br />
<br />
I would just like to leave you all with a quote by Michael Yaconelli from his book, “Dangerous Wonder.” It has resonated with me this week and I want to make it my prayer and hope that all of you will consider doing the same!<br />
<br />
“I want a lifetime of holy moments. Every day I want to be in dangerous proximity to Jesus. I long for a life that explodes with meaning and is filled with adventure, wonder, risk, and danger. I long for a faith that is gloriously treacherous. I want to be with Jesus, not knowing whether to cry or laugh.”<br />
<br />
<br />
Under His Mercy,<br />
Shannon<br />
<br />
Monthly Supporters: Don’t forget to send in your support for the month of August! <br />
Check to: On Eagles Wings PO Box 9737 Asheville, NC 28815 (“Shannon support” in Memo Line)<br />
OR<br />
Online: @ hopehousenc.com (“Shannon support” in box for extra information after you submit your donation) <br />
<br />
Prayer Requests: On Eagles Wings/Hope House – new staff members coming (lots of transition)<br />
My transition – Move in Sunday Aug. 8th, officially start Monday Aug. 9th<br />
Continued dedication to “keeping in touch” <br />
Doulos Ministries – lots of transition in Aug/Sep<br />
For continued support to come in – still in need of approx. $150/month<br />
Continued realization of the depth of my own sin and the constant need for Christ’s amazing grace in my life.<br />
<br />
Contact: Facebook – www.facebook.com/shannonfromwelcome<br />
Group – Shannon’s Ministry Partners<br />
Blog - http://saoshano@blogspot.com<br />
Email - saoshano@gmail.comShannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05357963037953334787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-31940288333475755062010-07-22T09:00:00.000-07:002010-07-22T09:00:07.230-07:00transition time.Hello all!<br />
One thing in life that I have learned to loathe... is transition, and it's that time again. However, I have high hopes and am pretty excited about this one. :)<br />
My last day of work at Doulos was July 18th, and Monday July 19th my Dad, my aunt, and I began the journey back to NC. It was incredibly difficult leaving Doulos. The deep relationships that I formed there through much struggle and joy will be something that I will greatly miss. I feel so blessed to have had that experience and for the things that God taught me through being there and through all of those incredible relationships.<br />
Right now, I'm just taking a couple weeks off to rest and spend time with my family. It is still surreal being home and feels like I am just here for a break and will be heading back to Kansas City in a few days... although I know that is not the case. I am hoping to process a lot and spend a lot of time with the Lord preparing for the next adventure He has for me.<br />
I will make the move to Asheville soon and will start at On Eagle's Wings on Monday, August 9th. I'm am nervous, because new things are always a little scary, but I am also hopeful and excited!<br />
Support raising is going well! God is so faithful in His provision. A few weeks ago, On Eagle's Wings actually learned that a grant they receive each year from Shared Hope International is increased this year... so they were able to put a lot of those funds toward raising salaries. Praise God! Thank all of you who have responded to my support requests so far! I am so excited to partner with you all as I work with this ministry. I do still need to raise a little more support to be where I need to be for this next year. I have raised almost $300/month, which is just $200 short of my $500/month goal.<br />
Thanks again so much for everything you guys do in supporting me as I labor for the Lord. Please continue to remember me during this transition, remember Doulos as there is a lot of transition happening there, and continue to pray for support to come in! I hope all of you are doing well!<br />
In Him,<br />
ShannonShannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05357963037953334787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-31342537190951751212010-06-17T14:51:00.000-07:002010-06-17T14:51:05.407-07:00Support Update & PayPalHello everyone! <br />
Just wanted to pass along the word that I just realized that there is a way to make support donations for me online! <br />
Go to : hopehousenc.com<br />
Click on : "do something" (left hand column)<br />
Click on: "PayPal" beside donate<br />
After you enter your information, on the next page there will be a section for "special instructions"<br />
Just write "support for Shannon" along with any other information such as whether your donation will be a monthly commitment or a one time donation and if you would like to receive any updates/etc. <br />
Also please include contact info if you would like and I'll keep you updated! :)<br />
<br />
Support Raising is moving along but still have a lot to go! <br />
I have total:<br />
$100 in One Time Donations <br />
and $70 in Monthly Commitments<br />
<br />
Keep Praying!<br />
In Him,<br />
ShannonShannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05357963037953334787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-68051993073531235672010-06-06T14:58:00.000-07:002010-06-06T14:59:22.945-07:00On Eagle's Wings - Support Letter :)Dear Brothers and Sisters,<br /><br />I pray that this letter finds all of you doing well. I feel so incredibly blessed to have such a faithful community of believers surrounding me to be able to share in the joys of God’s continued work. <br /><br />For the past 3 years I have been serving in ministry to young adults and hurting teenagers with Doulos Ministries. God has broken and then put me back together again in ways that I never could have imagined or expected. One of the ways He has done this is by opening my eyes and my heart to tragedy and injustice in the world that I was never before aware of. One of those that He has specifically laid on my heart is the industry of human trafficking, which could also be referred to as modern-day slavery. A venue in which this industry thrives the most is through forced sexual exploitation.<br /><br />All across the world, including the United States, children are being bought and sold daily for the purpose of sexual exploitation. In 2000, the U.S. Department of Justice estimated that there were 244,000 American children at risk of being sexually exploited. And in 2005, the approximate number of children being exploited in the commercial sex industry was a staggering 1 million. Children are coerced into the hands of criminals who view them only as an expendable resource. They are manipulated, threatened, and abused. They live in fear with no hope of ever being rescued or loved and many do so right under our noses… here in the United States.<br /><br />These truths are staggering and, at first glance, even unbelievable. I have, over the past few years, become more and more burdened by the Lord to somehow share His love with these victims… His beloved children. <br /><br />God has recently blessed me with the opportunity to do just that through partnering with a ministry called On Eagle’s Wings in Asheville, NC. One of their missions is the “Hope House,” which strives to, “provide seclusion, restoration, and healing for domestic minor sex trafficking victims (U.S. girls under the age of 18).” They have graciously invited me to serve as their live-in Resident Director for at least the next year. <br /><br />I am writing to you today to humbly ask for your partnership, both prayerfully and financially, with me as I begin this new journey. On Eagle’s Wings is a faith-based non-profit organization that operates solely on donations from fellow brothers and sisters like you. Therefore, they are only able to offer a small monthly stipend to their live-in staff. In order to maintain my current monthly expenses while serving in the Hope House, I need to raise approximately $400-$500 per month for the following year, beginning August 1, 2010, which comes to a total of $4,800 - $6,000. Would you prayerfully consider making a monthly commitment or a one-time offering to support me as I minister to these young women? <br /><br />However the Lord may lead you financially, please also continue to partner with me in prayer as I step forward into this new ministry. I know the only hope I have to offer anyone, including these young women, is that which comes through Christ and the only way that is possible is to be bathed in prayer. Thank you for taking the time to read and I will be praying for the Lord’s guidance in your heart as you consider these requests. Should you have any questions please feel free to contact me! <br /><br />On Eagles Wings: PO Box 9737 Asheville, NC 28815<br />Hope House: www.hopehousenc.com <br />Facebook: www.facebook.com/shannonfromwelcome<br /> Group: “Shannon’s Ministry Partners”<br />Blog: http://saoshano.blogspot.com<br />Twitter: shanowcu<br />Email: saoshano@gmail.com<br />Phone: (336) 596-5898<br /><br />Thank you and may the Lord richly bless you as you follow Him!<br /><br /> <br /><br />Under His Mercy,<br /> <br /><br /><br /> Shannon Reaves<br /><br /><br /><br />“I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living! Wait for the Lord; be strong; and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!” -Psalm 27:14<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br />Name _________________________________<br />Address _________________________________<br />Phone _________________________________<br />Email _________________________________<br /><br /> _____ I would like to support through prayer. <br /><br />$_____ I would like to make a monthly commitment of this amount. <br /><br />$_____ I would like to make a one-time offering of this amount. <br /><br /> _____ I would like to receive updates and prayer requests. <br /><br /> _____ I would like a receipt/s of my donations for tax purposes. <br /><br />Please return donation along with this form to: <br />On Eagles Wings Ministries, PO Box 9737 Asheville, NC 28815<br />Make checks payable to: “On Eagles Wings Ministries” Note: “Shannon Support” on memo lineShannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05357963037953334787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-80506754329443498302009-12-25T21:38:00.000-08:002009-12-25T21:55:23.695-08:00He who is mighty..."And Mary said, <br />My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name. And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts; he has brought down the mighty from their thrones and exalted those of humble estate; he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent empty away. He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his offspring forever." <br />-Luke 1:46-55<br /><br />Well... today I spent my very first Christmas away from my family. <br />I woke up around 10:30am, trying to convince myself that it was just like any other normal day and that I just have to make it through and I will get to fly home tomorrow. There were a couple big sisters and 3 girls here also that I got to spend it with. We opened presents and hesitantly watched the blizzard begin outside, and prayed that we would be able to make it out of the house to go spend Christmas with my mentor's family. On the way out the door I received a call from the airline notifying me that my flight home for tomorrow had been cancelled. It was all that I could do to keep from crying, but I called and thankfully... got it rescheduled for Sunday and even got my return flight pushed back a day later to make up for it. So it worked out alright, I just have to pray that the weather isn't still too bad Sunday morning for me to fly out. <br />But, we did make it to my mentor's house to celebrate Christmas and it was wonderful. We ate lots of good food and played game together and watched a movie. I felt so blessed to be a part of their celebration. <br /><br />This evening as I reflect on the day, I'm realizing that I spent most of it either anxious or angry toward God instead of celebrating Him. I definitely allowed the inconveniences of my circumstances to distract me from the many blessings he has bestowed upon me. I begin to remember that there are people throughout the world who don't even have a warm place to lay their head as this blizzard takes over the midwest; that there are people who won't receive one gift; and that there are people who have no friends or family to surround themselves with. And I become ashamed of how ungrateful I have been today. Not only do I have a wonderful family in North Carolina that are missing me and wishing I was there with them, but I also have a family here who I am so blessed to have been able to spend this day with. <br /><br />Let us rejoice as we remember the countless blessings that we have overlooked this year. Most of all, let us rejoice in the love of a Savior who gave up glory to redeem those who forget him. <br /><br />In Him, <br />ShannonUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-67151355829013741372009-12-19T14:48:00.001-08:002009-12-19T14:48:34.556-08:00Mobile blogging now... Maybe you guys will get a few more updates now :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-17963919851947519682009-11-19T08:23:00.000-08:002009-11-19T08:34:16.577-08:00But you were washed..."What I care for are the humble, broken creatures, who stand in awe of all I say." Isaiah 66:2 (MOFFATT)<br /><br />To ask God for a deeper realization of our own sin is a terrifyingly, wonderful prayer. <br />I prayed this prayer around a month ago probably, and I feel like my life and my relationship with the Lord have both been turned on their heads. It seems as if every time I turn around, I am being confronted with my own prideful, lustful, idolatrous heart. Initially when this began, I repeated my typical response to sin in my life... hiding. I have such an inclination to run as fast as I can away from God when I am confronted with my own sin, and that... I'm realizing, in itself... is sin. <br />I think I'm coming out of that pattern though, and only by the Lord's grace. <br />Here are some quotes/scriptures that the Lord has really used to minister to me lately...<br /><br />"Is not my word like a fire? And like a hammer that breaks the rock in pieces?" - Jeremiah 23:29<br /><br />"The meek man is not a human mouse afflicted with a sense of his own inferiority. Rather, he may be in his moral life as bold as a lion and as strong as Samson; but he has stopped being fooled about himself. He has accepted God's estimate of his own life. He knows he is as weak and helpless as God has declared him to be, but paradoxically, he knows at the same time that he is, in the sight of God, more important than angels. In himself nothing; in God, everything." -A.W. Tozer<br /><br />"Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the Kingdom of God. And such were some of you. BUT YOU WERE WASHED, YOU WERE SANCTIFIED, YOU WERE JUSTIFIED IN THE NAME OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST AND BY THE SPIRIT OF OUR GOD." - 1 Corinthians 6:9-11<br /><br />Lord, I want to stop being fooled about myself. I want to know both how weak and helpless I am but also how important I am in You. Thank you for washing me clean, through your Son.<br /><br />In Him,<br />ShannonUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-6102295983735392062009-11-02T18:44:00.000-08:002009-11-02T18:49:37.227-08:005 Family Weekends down... 1 to go.Hello all. <br /><br />Well, this past weekend we had our Shelterwood Family Weekend. I absolutely love them, but they are also pretty draining. Lots of high emotions and chaos with lots of people in small spaces. :) <br />But... they really do put a lot of what we are doing here into perspective again. It is incredible to just stop and look around at all of the amazing things God is doing in this place. It is easy to forget in the day to day hustle and bustle just what we are actually working for and sometimes it is easy to forget that there is a real world outside of here and that these kids aren't just isolated "troubled teens" but that they have families, moms and dads and brothers and sisters, at home who love them and care about them and are praying for them every single day. I am so thankful to the Lord that he has allowed me to be a part of something so grand that He is doing here.<br />Please continue to pray for our ministry here and for the Lord's continued work through us.<br />Pray that He would continually remind us that everything that we do is only through Him and that it is Him alone who transforms lives. <br /><br />In Him,<br />ShannonUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-37184631205554666452009-10-04T17:24:00.000-07:002009-10-04T17:29:25.989-07:00Meteor ShowerI know it has been a while since you guys have seen an update from me, but sometimes it's just hard to know what the heck to write about...<br />But! This weekend I had the opportunity to see an awesome show... Owl City. If you've never heard of them, you should change that. They are not a "christian band," but are "christian people," and this song is a song about Jesus...<br /><br />"I can finally see<br />that You're right there beside me.<br />I am not my own,<br />for I have been made new.<br />Please don't let me go.<br />I desperately need You."<br /><br />Our eyes are opened. He was right there all along.<br />We have no right to ourselves. We have been reborn. <br />Please, Jesus... keep holding onto me.<br />Desperation. We must realize our desperation.<br /><br />In Him,<br />ShannonUnknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-45184606765127534382009-09-13T20:18:00.000-07:002009-09-13T20:45:14.243-07:00Prayer is faith turned toward God.So, I think I have finally found a church home: Redeemer Fellowship, KC. (redeemerkc.org - check it out)<br />I think I should share with you guys some things from the amazing sermon this morning and maybe you'll understand why I'm choosing this place. <br /><br />The text was from Mark 9:14-29; i'll paraphrase the story...<br /><br />After Jesus comes down from the Mount of Transfiguration with his "A Team" disciples, Peter, James, & John, the run into quite the little situation at the bottom of the most amazing mountaintop experience of all time. A crowd is gathered around and there is a commotion going on around a man who has brought his heard of Jesus' miracles who has brought his demon-possessed son to be healed. Upon arrival, Jesus is not there, and to top it off, three of the most prominent disciples are missing in action too! So the rest of the disciples attempt to heal the boy and are unsuccessful. Jesus comes down, hears the man's desire, rebukes his "faithless" disciples, shows compassion toward the man, and casts out the crazy demon, that has attempted many times to kill his host, out of his son. Later, the disciples ask Jesus, "Why couldn't we do that?" Jesus answers them, "This kind can come out by nothing but prayer." <br /><br />Now, normally the intensity of the demon, the desperation of the father, or the father's statement, "Lord I believe, help my unbelief," are what catch my eye in this passage. But this morning i've learned to see it with a little different eyes. This morning the pride of the disciples is what cut me right to the soul, because way too often, I can be so similar to them. So, the disciples had already been commissioned to heal and cast out demons... so why the heck couldn't they do it themselves? I think Jesus answers that question in the last verse of this passage... "This kind can come out by nothing but prayer." The disciples must have thought, "Oh, we've got this one. We've seen Jesus do it a hundred times. All we have to do is stand facing this way, and speak in this tone, and lay our hands on the boy in this way... and surely that demon will come out. We have what we need to do this. We've got it covered." How prideful to think they could do it on their own! How ridiculous to think that they didn't need help! <br /><br />But this is just what they did... and this is what I am guilty of far too often.<br />Prayer is admitting that WE DON'T HAVE WHAT WE NEED. Prayer is faith turned toward God, not toward ourselves. We are saved not by the strength of our faith, but by the object of our faith... JESUS. Any strength that we have or any word or work that comes out of our mortal bodies is only through Him. How sinful and ridiculous for us to think any other way.<br /><br />Father, break my pride. Humble my confidence in myself. Strengthen my confidence in you.<br />Amen.<br /><br />ShannonUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-57005190603263160542009-09-12T20:43:00.000-07:002009-09-12T20:48:14.837-07:00once upon a time...once upon a time....<br />i made a blog, <br />and went for almost a year without ever updating it.<br />isn't that a sad story?<br /><br />well... i don't really know how in the world to fill ya'll in on everything that has happened throughout this crazy year other than to say it has been an adventure and God has been faithful. my first year as a house director passed by so quickly and now i'm beginning year number two. i am hopeful and excited about what the lord has in store this year here at doulos. our new leadtimer's are jumping in and getting their feet wet and they are doing an amazing job. our house director team is down to three, myself being the only female. this is a little overwhelming but the lord is so good at reminding me of his sovereignty when i doubt his plan. <br /><br />i want to keep this thing more up to date this year. the lord is teaching me so much here that not sharing it would be pretty ridiculous. please keep checking back and i hope that somehow you are encouraging through my ramblings. <br /><br />in him,<br />shannonUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-41988653156855660752008-10-26T12:19:00.000-07:002008-10-26T12:22:41.171-07:00The big KC...Hello all!<br /><br />I though it was about time for an update. :)<br /><br />So... i've moved to the big Kansas City for a couple years. I know I know, I can't really believe it either. It's a pretty drastic change from good ole' Welcome, NC. I'm still working with Doulos, as one of the girl's House Directors. I basically oversee, with one other house director, the "goings on" of the house and the safety of all of the Shelterwood residents. It is a challenging job, but I love it so far. I feel like it fits me pretty well and utilizes a lot of my strengths, which is incredible. So yea, there ya go. <br /><br />Hope all is well with you guys!<br />ShanUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-79345129487938524462008-02-25T19:35:00.001-08:002008-02-25T19:38:58.933-08:00So Many Options...Well, I think i'm at that point in my LeadTime year that it's time to start debating the question of what to do after this year is over. I had my placement meeting with the leadership this morning. This is where we all sit in a room and discuss my spiritual gifts and passions and toss around ideas and just... dream together. It was great. Here is my list of options so far.<br /><br />Southeastern Baptist Seminary<br />LeadTime Internship (1yr.)<br />Shelterwood House Director position (2yrs.)<br />Focus on the Family Institute<br />Internship/Position with the International Justice Mission<br />Continuing Youth Ministry at Oak Hill<br />Social Work (ie: "real") Job<br />Move to Atlanta and try to get involved with Northpoint and 7:22<br /><br />They're kicking me out... more to come :)<br /><br />In Him,<br />ShannonUnknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-28647354603881526932008-02-11T19:22:00.000-08:002008-02-11T19:33:06.632-08:00Changes/Where From Here?We had room changes Saturday...<br /><br />God has blessed me tremendously with my new room. The two girls I have right now are absolutely amazing. Honestly, I was really surprised when I found out what two girls I would be getting because I wasn't expecting them at all, but it's great. One of them has only been here for about a month and a half and she has some unique issues she's dealing with but she loves the Lord. She is very open about her past and her feelings, as well as her relationship with the Lord and she makes time to spend with Him daily. I'm really excited about being able to walk through these next few months with her, as these will probably be the most difficult of her time here. The other is a little that I was assigned to when I first came here and I didn't get the opportunity to know her very well then, so i'm looking forward to living with her and catching up. She is getting ready to graduate the program soon, so it's cool that i'll be able to finish up with her as her big again. :) <br />We're also going to be getting a new girl in on Wednesday that will be living in my room with me. I don't know very much about her other than she has a history of running away and she will be coming into our program straight out of juvie. She does know she is coming here and from her application, it seems that she is ready for the change and ready to work out her issues. If you guys could remember to lift her and her family up in prayer as they are making this step that would be wonderful. Also, that the Lord would give me the wisdom and discernment I need to minister to her in the way that she needs it and that I would be able to comfort her and help her be at ease here in this new and what can be a slightly overwhelming place. <br /><br />I've also really been debating and turning over in my mind what the Lord has for me after my year of LeadTime is over. Right now the options i'm praying over are seminary, staying here and applying for the internship and/or house director positions (which would mean another 1-2 yr. commitment to Doulos), or going home and working possibly at my church again and taking some time off. It's so overwhelming and I honestly have no idea where the Lord is leading me right now. I'm willing to follow Him, whatever direction He asks me to go in, but it's just a scary thing. Any input or prayers in this area would also be greatly appreciated.<br /><br />Thanks to any (if any) and all who take the time to read these. May God bless you!<br /><br />In Him,<br />ShannonUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6073899391398437763.post-32988641252709817832008-02-07T10:29:00.000-08:002008-02-07T10:50:28.533-08:00So we do not lose heart."But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed but not driven to despair; persecuted; but not forsaken; struck down but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies. For we who live are always being given over to death for Jesus; sake, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. So death is at work in us, but life in you. Sice we have the same spirit of faith according to what has been written, "I believed, and so I spoke," we also believe, and so we also speak, knowing that he who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with jesus and bring us with you into his presence. For it is all for your sake, so that as grace extends to more and more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God. So we do not lose heart. Though our outer nature is wasting away, our inner nature is being renewed day by day. For this slight momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal." -2Cor. 4:7-18<br /><br />We just started our new classes for the Spring a couple weeks ago, one of which is Inductive Bible Study. I have chosen this passage to analyze, write a paper on, and teach this semester. There are so many things about this passage that sum up my time here in Missouri so far. <br /><br />When I came here, I was ready to go. I felt like I had the knowledge and experience to take this place by storm and really make a difference in some kid's lives. I knew the Lord had led me here, but I felt it was because I was qualified to do it and I would enjoy it. Yea, I wanted the Lord to grow me, but I wasn't expecting all that I have learned and the challenges i've faced. I have to run for now, but hopefully i'll be able to share more about this passage and my time here within the next few days.<br /><br />In Him,<br />ShannonUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0